Structural Pest Control Applicator Practice Exam

You should wear a respirator when mixing soluble or wettable powders.

1. True

2. False

3. Only when using aerosols

4. Only for granular pesticides

The correct answer is: True

Wearing a respirator when mixing soluble or wettable powders is essential because these products can produce dust particles that may be inhaled, posing a risk to the respiratory system. The active ingredients in these powders may be toxic or harmful, and the particles can linger in the air, making it crucial to protect yourself from inhaling them. A respirator can filter out harmful substances, ensuring that you maintain proper respiratory health while handling pesticides. The other options are less applicable to this context. For instance, not all situations require a respirator when working with pesticides; however, it is specifically crucial when dealing with powders that can create airborne dust. Limiting respiratory protection to only aerosol applications or granular pesticides does not account for the risks posed by wettable powders and soluble forms, which can still present significant inhalation hazards. Therefore, wearing a respirator is a standard safety precaution that should be taken whenever there is a possibility of inhalation exposure, especially with powders.