Pest Control Aircraft Pilot Practice Test

Where do a large number of reported pesticide illnesses and injuries occur in California?

1. During transportation of pesticides

2. During pesticide application activities

3. During pesticide handling activities

4. During storage of pesticides

The correct answer is: During pesticide handling activities

Pesticide illnesses and injuries often occur during pesticide handling activities due to the nature of the tasks involved. Handling pesticides includes mixing, loading, and preparing the substances for application, which can expose individuals to various hazards. This exposure can lead to health issues if proper safety precautions are not followed, such as wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) or adhering to recommended safety protocols. In California, where agriculture is prevalent, the handling of pesticides is a critical point of concern. Mismanagement during this phase can result in spills, splashes, and accidental exposure, contributing significantly to the number of reported incidents. It's essential to recognize that while incidents can and do occur during other stages like application or transportation, the majority of cases emphasizing illnesses and injuries are linked to the handling of pesticides.