Oklahoma Applicators License Core Practice Exam

What is the most common route of pesticide exposure for handlers?

1. Oral exposure

2. Inhalation exposure

3. Ocular exposure

4. Dermal exposure

The correct answer is: Dermal exposure

The most common route of pesticide exposure for handlers is dermal exposure. This occurs primarily through the skin when pesticides come into contact with the handler, which can happen during mixing, loading, application, or cleanup processes. Given that the skin has a large surface area and can absorb many chemicals, handlers are often most vulnerable to pesticides through dermal contact. Additionally, the nature of pesticide application often involves using equipment, handling containers, and being in close proximity to where pesticides are applied, which increases the risk of skin exposure. Understanding this route of exposure emphasizes the importance of using personal protective equipment such as gloves, long sleeves, and other protective clothing to minimize the risk of harmful effects from pesticide exposure. Other routes of exposure, while also significant, do not occur as frequently as dermal exposure in the context of handler activities.