QAL Laws & Regulation Practice Exam

What is the most frequent route of pesticide exposure?

1. Inhalation

2. Skin contact

3. Ingestion

4. Eye contact

The correct answer is: Skin contact

The most frequent route of pesticide exposure is indeed through skin contact. This is largely due to the nature of how pesticides are applied and the environments in which exposure occurs. Many pesticides are designed to be absorbed through the skin, and individuals can come into contact with these substances during handling, mixing, or applying pesticides. Farmworkers, gardeners, and agricultural workers are particularly at risk, as they often do not use proper protective equipment, which leads to higher incidences of exposure through skin absorption. Additionally, when pesticides are sprayed or applied, they can easily settle on surfaces or be transferred to the skin through touch, further increasing the likelihood of dermal exposure. While inhalation, ingestion, and eye contact are also significant routes of pesticide exposure, skin contact remains the most common method, especially in occupational settings. Understanding this can help in implementing better safety protocols and protective measures to minimize exposure risks in handling pesticides.