What precautions should be taken to protect yourself when applying pesticides?

Wearing protective clothing and following label instructions are critical precautions when applying pesticides. Pesticides can contain hazardous chemicals that may pose health risks through skin contact, inhalation, or accidental ingestion. Protective clothing is specifically designed to reduce these risks; it may include items such as long sleeves, pants, goggles, masks, and gloves made of materials that resist chemical penetration.

Following label instructions is essential because it provides detailed guidelines on how to safely handle and apply the pesticide. The label often includes necessary protective equipment required for handling the product, specific recommendations for the safe application method, and information about the environmental conditions suitable for use, which is crucial for minimizing health risks and preventing environmental contamination.

Casual clothing may not provide protection against chemical exposure, and standard gloves may not be sufficient if they are not designed for the specific chemicals being handled. Additionally, applying pesticides in high wind can lead to drift, increasing the risk of exposure to the applicator and surrounding areas. Therefore, the combination of wearing protective clothing and adhering strictly to label instructions ensures the safest possible application of pesticides.