Which protective measure is mandatory when handling pesticides?

The use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a mandatory protective measure when handling pesticides because it serves as a crucial barrier between the user and hazardous chemicals. Pesticides can pose significant health risks, including skin absorption, inhalation, and eye exposure. PPE, such as gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing, is designed to minimize these risks and ensure safety while handling potentially toxic substances.

Wearing appropriate PPE is not only a personal safety measure but also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions to protect workers and the environment. It helps prevent acute poisoning and chronic health issues associated with pesticide exposure, thereby promoting safer handling practices.

Other methods mentioned, like professional training and testing, regular inspection of equipment, and environmental monitoring, are indeed important for overall safety and efficacy in pesticide management, but they do not directly act as barriers to chemical exposure in the way that PPE does. Hence, while they contribute to the safe application and management of pesticides, they do not provide the same immediate protection as Personal Protective Equipment.