List three items of PPE that might be required when handling aquatic pesticides.

• A. Leather gloves, sunglasses, and a watch
• B. Ear protection, noise-cancelling headphones, and a scarf
• C. Boots, shorts, and sunscreen
• D. Chemical-resistant gloves, splash protection (goggles/face shield), and a protective apron or clothing; respirators if required by label.

Answer: (D)

Protective gear when handling aquatic pesticides is all about preventing contact with skin, eyes, and the air you breathe. The best choice includes chemical-resistant gloves to stop skin absorption, splash protection such as goggles or a face shield to shield the eyes and face from splashes, and a protective apron or clothing to keep the rest of the body from contact. If the product label indicates inhalation risk, a respirator must be used as well. These components address the main hazards: skin contact, eye exposure, and breathing hazards.

Other options fall short because they don’t provide the necessary chemical protection. Leather gloves offer limited chemical resistance and aren’t suitable for many pesticides. Sunglasses don’t protect against splashes or vapors, a watch offers no chemical protection, and casual items like a scarf or sunscreen don’t guard skin or eyes. Shorts and typical everyday clothing leave large areas exposed, and sunscreen isn’t a substitute for chemical PPE. The label of the product guides exactly which PPE is required, including whether a respirator is needed.