What is a key reason to wear personal protective equipment when applying pesticides?

Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) when applying pesticides is fundamentally important to prevent exposure to harmful substances. Pesticides often contain chemicals that can pose significant health risks if they come into contact with skin, are inhaled, or are ingested. PPE, which may include gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing, acts as a barrier between the chemical agents and the applicator, thereby significantly reducing the risk of exposure and ensuring safety during application.

This practice not only protects the applicator's health but also contributes to safer pest control operations overall, helping to mitigate potential environmental contamination and negative impacts on non-target organisms. The emphasis on preventing exposure is critical in maintaining both human health and adherence to safety regulations in pest control practices.