During which phase should protective gear be worn when handling pesticides?

Protective gear is essential when handling pesticides to ensure the safety and health of the applicator. The correct answer is that protective gear should be worn before and during application. This approach is necessary because the process of handling pesticides includes various stages where exposure can occur.

Before application, wearing protective gear helps prevent any potential contact with the chemicals during mixing, loading, or preparing the pesticide for use. This is critical as many pesticides can be harmful if they come into contact with skin or are inhaled.

During the application phase, protective gear continues to play a vital role in shielding the applicator from any drift, splashes, or spills that may occur while the pesticide is being applied. This phase can pose a significant risk, as the applicator is directly interacting with the pesticide in environments where spray drift or residue can lead to exposure.

By ensuring protective gear is worn at both stages, the risks associated with pesticide handling are minimized, supporting safe practices in pest management.