Which action is an immediate response if a worker is exposed to a pesticide?

• A. Remove contaminated clothing
• B. Continue working
• C. Ignore exposure
• D. Take a break and walk away

Answer: (A)

Immediate action when someone is exposed to a pesticide is to remove contaminated clothing. This step directly reduces ongoing dermal exposure because residues cling to fabric and can continue to contact skin even after the exposure event begins. By taking off the dirty clothing, you cut off a major source of absorption and start the decontamination process, lowering the risk of symptoms developing.

After removing contaminated garments, rinse exposed skin with plenty of clean water and soap, and wash thoroughly. If there’s any possibility the eyes or skin have been exposed, flush those areas as well and seek medical guidance if symptoms appear. The other options don’t address stopping the ongoing contact: continuing to work would keep you exposed, ignoring the exposure is unsafe, and taking a break without removing the source of contamination doesn’t effectively reduce absorption.