What are commonly recognized routes of pesticide exposure for humans?

The commonly recognized routes of pesticide exposure for humans include inhalation, dermal absorption, and ingestion. Inhalation occurs when a person breathes in pesticide particles or vapors, which can happen during application or from contaminated air. Dermal absorption involves the pesticide making contact with the skin, potentially leading to absorption into the bloodstream, particularly if protective gear is not used. Ingestion may occur accidentally, for example, if hands are not washed after handling pesticides and then food is consumed.

These routes are critical to understand because they are the primary ways humans can be exposed to pesticides, which can lead to various health risks. Knowing these pathways helps in implementing appropriate safety measures to minimize exposure during pesticide use. The other options may refer to indirect aspects related to pesticides but do not encompass the primary direct routes of human exposure as thoroughly as inhalation, dermal absorption, and ingestion do.