The most common cause of pesticide poisoning to the applicator is through

• A. Dermal exposure
• B. Inhalation exposure
• C. Ingestion exposure
• D. Ocular exposure

Answer: (A)

Dermal exposure is the most common route because skin contact with pesticides happens routinely during mixing, loading, applying, and cleanup. Pesticides can transfer from containers, equipment, and contaminated clothing onto the skin, and the skin can absorb active ingredients through contact or through small breaks in the skin. The hands, forearms, and face are especially at risk, and residues on work clothes can keep contacting the skin even after the initial exposure.

To reduce this risk, wearing appropriate PPE (chemical-resistant gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and eye/face protection), keeping skin covered, and washing promptly after handling are crucial. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling, and wash contaminated clothing separately. While inhalation, ingestion, and ocular exposure can also cause poisoning, dermal exposure tends to be the most frequent cause for applicators because skin contact is so common in daily pesticide work.