Which of the following would be considered a proper safety measure during pesticide application?

Using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during pesticide application is crucial in ensuring the safety of the applicator. PPE is designed to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals and includes items such as gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing. By wearing the correct PPE, an individual reduces the risk of skin contact, inhalation, or accidental ingestion of pesticides.

This safety measure is especially important since pesticides can contain hazardous materials that can lead to health issues, both acute and chronic. The proper use of PPE helps create a barrier between the pesticide and the individual, significantly reducing the likelihood of exposure and its potential negative effects.

In contrast, wearing sunglasses or ensuring children are nearby does not contribute to the safety of pesticide application. Sunglasses provide minimal protection against the chemicals involved, while having children nearby actually increases risk due to their heightened vulnerability to toxic exposures. Additionally, applying pesticides during the hottest part of the day can lead to greater evaporation of the chemicals, potentially resulting in increased inhalation risks and reduced effectiveness. Thus, focusing on the use of appropriate PPE is essential for safe pesticide handling and application.