Final answer:
To increase safety when applying pesticides, a protective suit or coveralls made from chemical-resistant materials like Tyvek can be worn over clothing. These measures, similar to those taken by firefighters and lab workers, help prevent pesticide exposure and the associated health risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
To provide additional protection for clothing such as long pants while applying pesticides, a pesticide applicator might consider wearing a protective suit. Similar to precautions taken in hazardous work environments, such as BSL-4 laboratories or firefighting, special protective gear can significantly decrease the risk of pesticide exposure.
For instance, a suit with its own air supply and one that maintains positive pressure would ensure that in the event of a leak, air would flow out rather than contaminants flowing into the suit. In agriculture, options include using coveralls made from materials resistant to pesticides, which can be worn over regular clothing to provide an extra layer of protection.
Common materials for these protective garments include Tyvek or other nonwoven fabrics that resist penetration by chemicals. These coveralls can be disposable or reusable, depending on the manufacturer's specifications and the specific requirements of the pesticide application.
It's important for applicators to also use other personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks or respirators, and protective eyewear, in addition to protective clothing, when handling pesticides. This comprehensive approach minimizes the risk of both acute and chronic pesticide illnesses, which can occur from various routes of exposure such as inhalation, dermal contact, or ingestion.