What is the primary reason for using a respirator while applying pesticides?

Using a respirator while applying pesticides is primarily aimed at avoiding the inhalation of toxic fumes. Pesticides can release harmful vapors that pose serious respiratory risks, which can lead to short-term health effects and long-term complications if inhaled. The lungs are particularly sensitive to chemicals, and respiratory protection helps to filter out harmful particles and gases.

While other protective measures are important, such as preventing skin contact and protecting against splashes, they do not address the specific risk of inhaling toxic substances that the respirator is designed to mitigate. The primary objective is to ensure the applicator's safety by preventing any inhalation of airborne contaminants, making the use of a respirator an essential component of personal protective equipment during pesticide application.