Which protective clothing item is essential to minimize skin exposure during pesticide application?

• A. Long sleeved coveralls
• B. Gloves
• C. Suntan lotion
• D. Short-sleeve shirt

Answer: (A)

To minimize skin exposure, you want clothing that covers as much of the skin as possible and provides a barrier against chemical contact. Long-sleeved coveralls do that by covering the arms and much of the body, often providing full-body coverage when used properly, which greatly reduces the chance of pesticide on the skin from splashes, drift, or contact. Gloves are important but protect only the hands, leaving much of the arms and body potentially exposed if worn alone. Suntan lotion offers no protection against pesticides and can actually give a false sense of safety, while a short-sleeve shirt leaves the arms exposed. So, the long-sleeved coveralls are the best single item for minimizing skin exposure during application.