Which fact is true regarding pesticide exposure routes?

Skin absorption can indeed be as toxic as ingestion when it comes to pesticide exposure. This is because many pesticides are formulated in ways that allow them to penetrate the skin effectively, potentially leading to systemic absorption and toxicity. The human skin, particularly when damaged or exposed to certain solvents, can allow significant amounts of chemicals to enter the bloodstream, similar to how ingested substances affect the body.

Various factors, such as the chemical structure of the pesticide, the concentration, and the duration of exposure, play a role in determining the level of toxicity through skin absorption. In some cases, certain pesticides can be more harmful via dermal exposure than through ingestion, depending on the specific properties of the substance.

Understanding this fact emphasizes the need for proper protective gear and safety measures when handling pesticides, as skin exposure can pose serious health risks comparable to ingestion. This is critical knowledge for pesticide applicators and users to ensure safe practices are followed in agricultural and non-agricultural applications.