In tick habitat treatments, what PPE is typically necessary for the operator during application and why?

• A. Short sleeves, sandals
• B. Long sleeves, long pants, gloves, eye protection, and sometimes a respirator
• C. Gloves only
• D. No PPE required

Answer: (B)

PPE is needed to protect the operator from pesticide exposure during tick habitat treatments, since the chemicals can contact skin, eyes, and be inhaled from drift or vapors. The typical gear includes long sleeves and long pants to cover skin, gloves to shield the hands, eye protection to prevent splashes or dust from reaching the eyes, and, depending on the product and method, a respirator to guard the lungs from inhalation. The exact respirator depends on the chemical and label directions, but it’s included when inhalation risk is present. Wearing only short sleeves, sandals, or gloves alone leaves critical routes of exposure unprotected, and no PPE is unsafe. Always follow the product label for the required PPE since requirements vary with the chemical and application method.