What safety precautions should be taken when performing a pesticide application?

Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is critical when performing pesticide applications to ensure the safety and health of the applicator. This includes items such as gloves, respirators, protective eyewear, and long-sleeved clothing that can help prevent skin contact and inhalation of harmful chemicals.

Avoiding wind drift is equally important, as pesticides can be carried by the wind to unintended areas, which could harm non-target organisms, contaminate water sources, or affect human health. Implementing measures to minimize drift, such as applying pesticides under favorable weather conditions, helps in managing potential risks.

Furthermore, calculating distances from sensitive areas, like water bodies, residential zones, and habitat for beneficial insects or wildlife, is essential to mitigate the chances of exposure and contamination. Proper planning ensures that pesticide applications are made safely and responsibly, adhering to legal and environmental guidelines.

The other answer choices do not align with recommended safety practices. Wearing sandals and light clothing lacks the necessary protection against pesticide exposure, and relying solely on gloves or avoiding PPE altogether exposes the applicator to significant health risks.