When should personal protective equipment (PPE) be used?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals who handle or apply pesticides. The correct answer indicates that PPE should be used whenever handling or applying pesticides because this practice serves as a critical barrier between the user and the potentially harmful chemicals found in pesticides.

Using PPE during all stages of pesticide application protects against exposure through skin contact, inhalation, or accidental ingestion. Pesticides can have varying degrees of toxicity, and even low concentrations can pose a risk. Wearing proper PPE—such as gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing—reduces the chance of adverse health effects and ensures compliance with safety regulations.

The other options suggest scenarios that may not provide adequate protection. For example, waiting until the end of the application means that the individual would have been exposed to potentially harmful substances for the majority of the process. Relying solely on supervisor instructions may lead to inconsistencies in safety practices, as conditions may vary based on the specific pesticide and application environment. Finally, limiting the use of PPE to indoor applications overlooks the fact that outdoor applications can also present significant risk, depending on environmental conditions and wind patterns.