What is the primary purpose of personal protective equipment in pesticide application?

The primary purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE) in pesticide application is to prevent exposure to harmful substances. Pesticides can pose serious health risks to individuals who handle or apply them, including skin irritation, respiratory issues, and long-term health effects. The use of PPE, such as gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing, creates a barrier between the pesticide and the applicator, significantly reducing the risk of direct contact and inhalation of harmful chemicals during the application process.

While other options may seem relevant to the process of pesticide application, they do not directly address the protective function that PPE serves. For example, increasing application efficiency or ensuring correct product application relates more to the method and technique of pesticide spraying rather than personal safety. Although complying with state regulations is important, the primary concern of PPE is health and safety, making the prevention of exposure the foremost reason for its use in this context.