Which step is essential for protecting yourself when applying pesticides?

Wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when applying pesticides because it significantly reduces the risk of exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. PPE acts as a barrier between the applicator and the pesticides, safeguarding against skin contact, inhalation, and other routes of exposure that can occur during the application process. This equipment typically includes gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing, which are designed specifically to protect against the types of pesticides being used.

While other steps, such as having a colleague document the application, ensuring adequate lighting, and securing application equipment, play important roles in a comprehensive safety strategy, they do not directly mitigate the risk of chemical exposure to the applicator themselves. Documenting the application and ensuring a secure location are more about procedural and operational safety, while good lighting helps with visibility and accuracy but does not provide personal protection. Therefore, prioritizing the use of proper PPE is fundamental to safeguarding the health and safety of the pesticide applicator.