Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Pesticide Use: Selection, Use, and Legal Requirements [fact sheet]

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Using personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly can significantly reduce the risk of pesticide exposure, though it does not eliminate it entirely. Individuals who apply, mix, load, or enter areas recently treated with pesticides—collectively known as pesticide handlers and early-entry workers—are required by law to follow the PPE instructions provided on the pesticide product label.
 

This guide explains the key types of PPE, how to interpret label instructions, and what considerations should guide selection and proper use.

The Importance of the Pesticide Label

The pesticide label is the primary legal document for determining required PPE. It contains binding instructions that must be followed by:

• Applicators, mixers, loaders: PPE requirements are listed under the Precautionary Statements section.
• Early-entry agricultural workers: PPE requirements are found under the Agricultural Use Requirements section, which falls under the Worker Protection Standard (WPS) as regulated by 40 CFR Part 170.

For example, a label may require long-sleeved shirts, long pants, waterproof gloves, socks, and shoes for applicators and mixers/loaders. Additional PPE, such as a respirator, may also be required for those mixing or loading the pesticide. If you are tank-mixing multiple pesticides, always follow the most restrictive PPE requirements listed among the products.

When the Label Does Not Specify PPE

If a pesticide label does not list any specific PPE requirements, applicators should still take precautions to minimize exposure. As a general guideline, wear:

• Long-sleeved shirt and long pants
• Chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile or neoprene)
• Closed-toe shoes with socks
• Protective eyewear (especially during mixing or when handling concentrates)
• A hat or head covering when applying overhead 

In addition to this minimum PPE, consult the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which often provides more detailed information, including recommendations for respiratory, eye, and skin protection. When in doubt, follow the “better safe than sorry” principle—especially during high-exposure activities such as mixing/loading, aerial spraying, or applying pesticides in enclosed spaces like greenhouses.

Labels may also include directions for cleaning PPE and handling contaminated clothing. Pesticide-exposed clothing should always be washed separately from household laundry, and heavily saturated garments should be discarded.

Types of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Gloves

Hands and forearms are among the most exposed body parts during pesticide handling. Proper gloves are essential. Label instructions may specify:

• Waterproof gloves: Blocks water-based substances but may not protect against oil-based solvents.
• Chemical-resistant gloves: Specifically tested to resist pesticide penetration and degradation.

Some pesticide labels refer to EPA chemical resistance categories (A–H) to help users select gloves made from materials such as nitrile, butyl rubber, neoprene, or Viton. Never use gloves made from absorbent materials like cotton, canvas, or leather.

Body Protection

Most labels require basic protective clothing, such as:

• Long-sleeved shirts and long pants

For higher-risk products or concentrated formulations, the label may call for additional protective items, including:

• Aprons: Made of chemical-resistant material, ideal when mixing or transferring pesticides
• Coveralls: Durable, full-body coverage made from Tyvek, polyester, or similar materials
• Chemical-resistant suits: Provide maximum protection but are not breathable—monitor for heat stress

Footwear

Footwear requirements vary by product. Some labels only require shoes and socks, while others mandate chemical-resistant boots. Avoid leather footwear, which can absorb pesticides. Instead, choose boots made of rubber, nitrile, or other chemical-resistant materials. Tuck pant legs over boots to prevent pesticide entry.

Eye Protection

The label will specify the required form of eye protection. Options include:

• Safety glasses with side and brow shields
• Chemical splash goggles for enclosed eye protection
• Face shields that extend below the chin and wrap around the face
• Full-face respirators, which provide both respiratory and eye protection

Ensure the equipment meets ANSI Z87.1 standards, which should be indicated on the product or packaging.

Respirators

Some pesticides—particularly fumigants, dusts, or volatile chemicals—require respirators. These devices prevent inhalation of harmful airborne substances and must meet NIOSH certification standards, often indicated by a TC number on the label.

Types of filters include:

• N filters: For non-oily particulates
• R filters: Some resistance to oil
• P filters: Fully oil-proof
• HE filters: High-efficiency filters for powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) 

Before using a respirator, users must:

1. Complete a medical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider
2. Undergo fit testing using an irritant, odor, or taste-based test
3. Receive training on proper respirator use, care, and maintenance
4. Perform a seal check before each use

Annual fit testing and retraining are required, and employers must keep records for at least two years. Always follow manufacturer guidance for storage, cleaning, and replacement schedules.

Key Takeaway

Wearing more PPE than the label requires is allowed and often advisable, especially in high-risk situations. However, wearing less PPE than specified is both unsafe and a violation of federal law. Careful PPE selection—guided by label instructions, SDS information, and EPA standards—is essential to reducing pesticide exposure and protecting workers’ health.