What work habits are commonly associated with increased pesticide exposure?

Eating or drinking near pesticides is a practice that significantly increases the risk of pesticide exposure. When individuals consume food or beverages in proximity to pesticides, there is a greater likelihood that pesticide residues may transfer to their hands, utensils, or directly onto the food or drink itself. This can lead to ingestion of harmful chemicals, which is not only a health risk but also counterproductive to safety practices in agricultural and pest control settings.

In contrast, wearing protective gear and washing hands, staying indoors during application, and applying pesticides in calm conditions are all practices aimed at minimizing exposure. These methods are designed to protect the applicator and nearby individuals by creating barriers to exposure or reducing the likelihood of pesticide drift and contamination. Thus, they do not relate to increased exposure but rather to the efforts in ensuring safety when working with pesticides.