What is the most common cause of pesticide poisoning for applicators?

The most common cause of pesticide poisoning for applicators is through the skin. This mode of exposure occurs because many pesticides are formulated in ways that allow them to be absorbed through the skin upon contact. Applicators often handle pesticides directly, and if proper protective gear is not worn or if there are breaches in safety protocols, the skin can easily come into contact with toxic substances.

Skin absorption can happen even with minimal or inadvertent contact. Given that the skin can be a significant pathway for chemicals to enter the bloodstream, it's crucial for applicators to be mindful of personal protective equipment, such as gloves and long sleeves, to minimize this risk. This risk is higher compared to ingestion, inhalation, or eye exposure because skin contact is more frequent and can often go unnoticed until symptoms arise.

Inhalation would generally involve a higher concentration of aerosolized particles entering the respiratory system, which can occur in certain environments but is often controlled or limited with the use of masks or respirators. Similarly, eye exposure may cause immediate symptoms but is often avoided with proper safety goggles. Ingestion is typically less common for trained applicators due to awareness and safety protocols in place to avoid consuming pesticides, although it can still occur due to negligence or accidents.