Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Which of the following pesticides would generally present a higher risk of skin absorption?

1. Aqueous solutions

2. Water-based solutions

3. Oil-based solutions

4. Granular formulations

The correct answer is: Oil-based solutions

Oil-based solutions would generally present a higher risk of skin absorption due to their chemical composition and properties. Pesticides formulated as oil-based solutions can penetrate the lipid (fat) layers of the skin more easily than water-based or granular formulations. This is because oil is more compatible with the oily components of human skin, which can facilitate the absorption of active ingredients into the bloodstream. In contrast, aqueous or water-based solutions primarily consist of water and may not readily penetrate the skin, as water and skin composition are inherently different. Granular formulations are typically larger in particle size and designed for slow release, making them less likely to be absorbed through the skin compared to liquids. Hence, the property of oil-based solutions to unify with skin lipids increases the potential for skin absorption, presenting a higher risk to applicators.