What protective equipment should be worn when handling pesticides?

When handling pesticides, it is essential to wear the appropriate protective equipment to minimize health risks. The correct choice emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to personal protective equipment (PPE). Gloves are necessary to protect the hands from skin contact with hazardous substances, while goggles shield the eyes from splashes or airborne particles that may irritate or damage vision. Respirators are crucial for ensuring that harmful vapors, dust, or sprays do not enter the lungs, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Long-sleeved clothing provides additional coverage to prevent skin exposure beyond just the hands. This layered approach significantly enhances the worker's safety and is a best practice in the pesticide application field.

The other options lack adequate protection. For instance, wearing shorts and sandals does not provide any barrier against pesticide exposure. Option C, which suggests only gloves and a mask, overlooks essential protection for the eyes and skin, making it insufficient for safe pesticide handling. Lastly, stating that no protective measures are necessary fails to acknowledge the health hazards associated with pesticide exposure, which can lead to serious health issues. Therefore, the selection of gloves, goggles, respirators, and long-sleeved clothing aligns with recognized safety standards for handling pesticides effectively.