Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What are the three primary routes by which pesticides can enter the body?

1. Inhalation, Absorption, Contact

2. Dermal, Oral, Inhalation

3. Ingestion, Injection, Absorption

4. Contact, Ingestion, Exposure

The correct answer is: Dermal, Oral, Inhalation

The three primary routes by which pesticides can enter the body are dermal, oral, and inhalation. This means pesticides can enter through the skin (dermal), be ingested (oral), or be breathed in (inhalation). Dermal absorption occurs when pesticides come into contact with the skin, which can happen during application or handling of chemicals. Oral ingestion refers to when pesticides are swallowed, which can inadvertently occur if hands are not washed after handling chemicals before eating or drinking. Inhalation occurs when chemical vapors or aerosolized particles are inhaled into the lungs, which is particularly applicable during spraying. Understanding these routes is essential for implementing proper safety measures and minimizing exposure risk to individuals who apply and handle pesticides. The other options provided contain terms that either do not accurately represent the correct modes of exposure or introduce routes that are not classified as primary entry points for pesticides.