Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What protective measure should be taken when a person inhales poison?

1. Wear gloves and a mask

2. Use an air-supplied respirator

3. Close all windows

4. Remove all clothing

The correct answer is: Use an air-supplied respirator

When a person inhales poison, the most effective protective measure is to use an air-supplied respirator. This type of respirator provides a safe, clean air supply, effectively protecting the individual from inhaling toxic substances. It is especially crucial in situations where the concentration of harmful particulates or gases is high, as it ensures that the user is not ingesting any of the hazardous chemicals present in the environment. Using an air-supplied respirator can significantly reduce the risk of acute poisoning or respiratory damage that could occur from exposure to airborne toxic agents. In contrast, gloves and masks may offer limited protection but are inadequate for dealing with airborne contaminants and do not supply clean air. Closing windows would not sufficiently mitigate exposure in a contaminated environment, and simply removing clothing does not address the inhalation risk. Therefore, the air-supplied respirator stands out as the proper safety equipment for protecting against inhalation of poisons.