What is the primary cause of pesticide poisoning for applicators?

The primary cause of pesticide poisoning for applicators is skin contact. This is because most pesticides are designed to work effectively on plants and pests and can be absorbed through the skin of those applying them. Applicators often handle pesticides without adequate protective gear or may accidentally spill them on their skin during application, leading to significant exposure.

While inhalation of pesticide fumes is also a risk, particularly in scenarios where applicators are in close proximity to aerosolized pesticides, the skin is a more prominent route of exposure. Eating contaminated food and improper storage of pesticides are important factors but do not directly result from the actions of applicators in the same way that skin contact does during the process of handling pesticides.