NYS PCO NYS PCO Professional Level Exam 3

Question 1

Which route of pesticide exposure is generally the most common for professional applicators?

Accepted Answer

Dermal (through the skin)

Answer

Skin contact accounts for the majority of occupational pesticide exposures, especially on the hands and forearms.

Question 2

When mixing a concentrated pesticide, at which stage is the applicator at greatest risk of exposure?

Accepted Answer

Handling the undiluted concentrate during mixing and loading

Answer

Concentrates are far more toxic than diluted spray, making mixing and loading the highest-risk task.

Question 3

An applicator experiences pinpoint pupils, excessive salivation, and muscle twitching after using an organophosphate. These are symptoms of what?

Accepted Answer

Cholinesterase inhibition poisoning

Answer

Organophosphates and carbamates inhibit cholinesterase, producing the classic SLUDGE symptoms and pinpoint pupils.

Question 4

What is the FIRST action an applicator should take if a pesticide concentrate splashes into a coworker's eyes?

Accepted Answer

Flush the eyes with clean running water for at least 15 minutes

Answer

Immediate and prolonged flushing with clean water is the standard first aid for ocular pesticide exposure.

Question 5

Which piece of information must an applicator provide to a physician or poison control center in a pesticide poisoning emergency?

Accepted Answer

The product label, including the active ingredient and EPA registration number

Answer

The label identifies the active ingredient and first aid statements doctors need to select the correct treatment.

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