What personal protective equipment is recommended for pesticide application?

The recommendation for using a respirator and gloves during pesticide application is based on the significant health risks associated with pesticide exposure. Pesticides can contain toxic substances that pose various hazards through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. Therefore, it's critical to implement safety measures to protect the applicator.

Respirators are essential because they protect the lungs from inhaling potentially harmful particles and vapors released during the application process. These respiratory masks can filter out harmful chemicals and enable the applicator to breathe safely while applying pesticides in environments where exposure levels may be high.

Gloves are equally important as they provide a barrier against skin contact with pesticides. Many pesticides can be absorbed through the skin, leading to systemic toxicity. Wearing gloves minimizes the risk of absorption and protects the skin from irritation and burns that some chemicals may cause.

In contrast, relying solely on gloves or goggles does not offer comprehensive protection, as each piece of equipment addresses only a specific route of exposure. Furthermore, stating that no equipment is required overlooks the essential measures needed for safety when handling hazardous materials. Hence, the combination of a respirator and gloves is the recommended safety practice for pesticide application, prioritizing the health and safety of the applicator.