Which of the following statements identifies the primary route of pesticide entry?

• A. Inhalation
• B. Skin
• C. Ingestion
• D. Eyes

Answer: (B)

The main idea is how pesticides get into the body during handling. Dermal absorption, or entry through the skin, is the most common and significant route in field and occupational settings. The skin is the body's largest organ and is often exposed during mixing, loading, and application, especially if gloves or protective clothing are damaged or not used properly. Pesticides can pass through the skin with solvents and formulations that help them penetrate, so even small amounts contacted over time can lead to systemic exposure.

Inhalation can be important when creating aerosols or dusty vapors during spraying, but with proper ventilation and respirators, its contribution is often less than skin exposure. Ingestion relies on hand-to-mouth transfer or contaminated food or drinks, which can be prevented with good hygiene and not eating or drinking in treated areas. Eye exposure is a possible route, yet it tends to be less common than skin contact and is mitigated by wearing protective eyewear. Overall, skin contact is the primary route of pesticide entry.