What is a key factor in reducing risk during pesticide applications?

Wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) is a crucial factor in reducing risk during pesticide applications. PPE is designed to protect the individual applying pesticides from exposure to harmful chemicals. This includes items such as gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing, which create a barrier between the skin and the pesticides. By equipping oneself with the appropriate PPE, applicators minimize the likelihood of inhalation or dermal exposure, which can lead to health issues ranging from mild irritation to severe poisoning.

Using PPE is often mandated by safety regulations and product labels. It assists in ensuring that operators can perform their tasks safely, particularly when they are working in environments with potential chemical exposure.

While other factors, such as equipment maintenance and operational procedures, are important for overall safety and efficiency, they do not directly safeguard the individual from pesticide exposure in the same way that appropriate PPE does.