What are the four primary routes through which pesticides can enter the human body?

The four primary routes through which pesticides can enter the human body are dermal, oral, inhalation, and ocular. This means that when working with pesticides, it's crucial to understand how they can be absorbed into the body.

Dermal exposure occurs when pesticides come into contact with the skin, which is a significant route of entry, as many compounds can penetrate the skin barrier. Oral exposure involves ingestion, either intentionally or accidentally, which can happen if hands contaminated with pesticides are used to eat or if food items are improperly washed. Inhalation is another significant route as airborne particles can be inhaled into the lungs, allowing the chemicals to enter the bloodstream quickly. Lastly, ocular exposure refers to pesticides entering the body through the eyes, which can happen accidentally during application processes or if proper protective equipment is not used.

Understanding these routes is essential for anyone involved in pest control, as it informs safety practices and the importance of personal protective equipment to minimize exposure risks.