What is a primary safety consideration when handling pesticides?

Wearing protective gear is a primary safety consideration when handling pesticides because it directly protects the individual from potential exposure to harmful chemicals. Pesticides can pose health risks through skin absorption, inhalation, or ingestion, so donning appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, masks, goggles, and long-sleeved clothing minimizes these risks and ensures safe handling.

While using pesticides only indoors, mixing with water before use, and applying only during daylight hours are relevant practices, they do not directly address the immediate personal safety of the applicator as effectively as wearing protective gear does. These practices may contribute to safer application conditions or effectiveness but do not provide the same level of direct protection against pesticide exposure.