When handling pesticides, what is the recommended action regarding gloves?

• A. Replace them after every hour of use.
• B. Wash and reuse gloves indefinitely.
• C. Replace them yearly or more often if they become cracked.
• D. Never use gloves to avoid contamination.

Answer: (C)

Protecting skin from pesticides relies on a reliable barrier between the hands and chemicals. Gloves can wear out or become damaged over time due to chemical exposure, heat, and regular use, which can allow pesticides to reach the skin even if they look fine. Because of this, the best practice is to replace gloves on a routine basis and more often if there are signs of damage. Replacing them yearly or whenever you notice cracks helps ensure the barrier remains intact, reducing dermal exposure risk.

Choosing to replace after every hour is impractical and doesn’t account for how glove material withstands the specific pesticide; washing and reusing indefinitely can allow contamination to accumulate and reduce protection; never using gloves is unsafe and increases exposure risk.