What personal protective equipment is essential when handling pesticides?

When handling pesticides, safety goggles are essential personal protective equipment because they provide crucial protection for the eyes against splashes, sprays, or harmful chemical exposure. Pesticides can be highly toxic and can cause severe irritation or damage to the eyes, which makes shielding this sensitive area a top priority. Safety goggles are designed to fit snugly around the eyes and prevent any potential contact with chemical substances, ensuring that users can handle pesticides safely and effectively.

While other protective gear like surgical masks and aprons can also be beneficial, they serve different purposes. Surgical masks primarily protect the respiratory system from airborne particles, but they may not provide sufficient filtration against chemical vapors. Aprons can be used to protect the skin and clothing from spills, but they do not offer the specific eye protection that safety goggles do. Flip-flops are inadequate footwear for pesticide handling, as they do not provide any protection from spills or sharp objects, making them inappropriate in environments where hazardous materials are present. Thus, safety goggles are the most critical piece of equipment among the options listed for maintaining safety during pesticide application.