Through which routes of entry are you likely to be exposed during pesticide mixing?

During pesticide mixing, exposure primarily occurs through inhalation and dermal routes. When handling pesticides, particulates and vapors can be released into the air, making inhalation a significant risk. This is especially true if proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is not used or if adequate ventilation is not present in the mixing area.

Dermal exposure is another critical risk because pesticides can easily come into contact with your skin during the mixing process. Accidental spills, splashes, or even handling of containers can result in pesticide residues adhering to the skin, leading to absorption into the body.

While ingestion can be a route of exposure, it is typically less of a concern during mixing when compared to inhalation and dermal contact. Similarly, while swallowing pesticides (which may lead to toxicity) is a significant concern in cases of accidental ingestion, it is not a primary route during the actual mixing process itself.

In summary, the focus on inhalation and dermal exposure during pesticide mixing highlights the importance of using appropriate safety measures to minimize contact with these harmful substances during this critical phase of pest control.