When handling pesticides, what aspect do personal protective equipment (PPE) address?

The focus of personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling pesticides is primarily on health and safety. PPE is designed to protect individuals who are applying, mixing, or coming into contact with pesticides from exposure to potentially harmful substances. This includes a variety of gear such as gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing, all aimed at reducing the risk of skin absorption, inhalation, or contact with the eyes.

While environmental impacts are a crucial concern in the overall use of pesticides, the specific role of PPE is centered around ensuring the safety of the individual handling the pesticides. Additionally, crop growth and pest identification, while related to the use of pesticides, do not pertain to the protective measures taken by a handler. Thus, the correct answer highlights the importance of maintaining health and safety standards in pesticide handling through appropriate protective equipment.