Which practice is essential for reducing pesticide exposure risks?

Using larger spray droplet sizes is essential for reducing pesticide exposure risks because larger droplets are less likely to become airborne and drift away from the target area during application. This helps to minimize the potential for pesticide particles to be inhaled or to contaminate off-target surfaces and areas, thereby reducing exposure to both the applicator and the surrounding environment.

In contrast, applying pesticides during windy conditions can lead to significant drift, increasing the likelihood of unintended exposure to people, animals, and non-target plants. Neglecting the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) directly increases the risk of pesticide exposure to the applicator. Similarly, working without safety training means that individuals may not be aware of the best practices and safety measures necessary to handle pesticides safely. Thus, the focus on larger spray droplet sizes significantly contributes to minimizing risks associated with pesticide application.