During what activity are you most susceptible to pesticide exposure?

Mixing pesticides is the activity during which individuals are most susceptible to exposure. This step involves the preparation of pesticide formulations, where concentrated chemicals are combined with water or other solvents before application. During mixing, there is a higher risk of spills, splashes, and inhalation of chemical fumes, leading to potential direct contact with the skin or inhalation of vapors. This hands-on interaction with concentrated pesticides makes it crucial for technicians to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and respirators, to minimize exposure risks.

Transporting, selling, and spraying pesticides also carry risks, but these activities typically expose individuals to lower concentrations of the chemicals as compared to the mixing process. When transporting, individuals may be exposed primarily to container surfaces or emissions. Selling involves minimal physical contact with the product, and spraying, while it can lead to exposure through drift or accidental contact, generally occurs after the product has been mixed and is typically performed with better protective measures in place. Hence, the mixing stage is inherently more hazardous regarding potential pesticide exposure.