What is a potential risk of wearing inadequate footwear when handling pesticides?

Wearing inadequate footwear when handling pesticides can indeed present a significant risk of spreading contamination to the skin. Proper footwear, such as rubber or chemical-resistant boots, serves as a protective barrier against spills and splashes of harmful chemicals. If the footwear does not offer adequate protection, it may allow pesticides to make direct contact with the skin, leading to potential toxicity, irritation, or adverse health effects.

In addition, appropriate footwear is designed to keep the worker safe from physical hazards, as well as to ensure that contaminants do not spread beyond the immediate area where pesticides are being handled. By being mindful of the type of shoes worn during pesticide application, applicators reduce the likelihood of experiencing harmful effects from pesticide exposure.