Structural Pest Control Applicator Practice Exam

When must you always wear a respirator?

1. Anytime you apply pesticides indoors

2. Whenever mixing or filling highly toxic pesticides

3. Only when you choose to

4. When handling pesticide containers

The correct answer is: Whenever mixing or filling highly toxic pesticides

Wearing a respirator is essential when mixing or filling highly toxic pesticides because these activities can generate significant amounts of pesticide dust or vapors that could be inhaled. The active ingredients in highly toxic pesticides often have low exposure limits and can pose serious health risks if inhaled, including respiratory issues or systemic toxicity. Respirators are designed to filter harmful agents from the air, providing a crucial layer of protection for applicators during these processes. The use of a respirator is part of following the safety guidelines outlined in labels and safety data sheets (SDS) that ensure the applicator minimizes exposure to hazardous materials. This requirement reflects an understanding that the risk is heightened during the mixing and filling process due to the concentrated nature of the chemicals involved. In comparison, while wearing a respirator is also advisable in other scenarios, such as applying pesticides indoors or handling containers, it is particularly critical during the mixing and filling stage with highly toxic pesticides because this step poses an elevated risk of exposure.