What is the most common route of pesticide entry during spray applications?

• A. Inhalation
• B. Ingestion
• C. Dermal absorption
• D. Ocular absorption

Answer: (C)

Dermal absorption is the most common way pesticides enter the body during spray applications because skin contact with spray droplets and residues is virtually unavoidable in the field. When spraying, arms, hands, neck, and any exposed skin—and even contaminated PPE or gear—can come into direct contact with the product. Pesticides can begin to pass through the skin quickly, especially with repeated exposure, longer spraying tasks, or when skin is damaged or the formulation enhances absorption. Wearing appropriate protective clothing, gloves, and barrier measures, along with prompt decontamination and hand-washing, dramatically reduces this route of entry.

Inhalation is a real risk as well, particularly with fine aerosols or highly volatile formulations, but it tends to be less common than skin exposure during routine spraying. Ingestion exposure mainly occurs if contaminated hands touch the mouth or food, which is possible but typically less likely than dermal contact during active spraying. Ocular exposure can happen from splashes to the eyes, but it is less frequent than skin exposure. So, the dominant route for entry during spray applications is through the skin.