According to EPA criteria, what type of respirator must you wear when applying liquid pesticide products from Toxicity Class I?

The correct answer is based on the specific requirements set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the protection levels needed when handling pesticides classified under Toxicity Class I. These pesticides are considered highly toxic, necessitating stringent protective measures for applicators.

Using a NIOSH-approved respirator equipped with an organic vapor (OV) cartridge or canister ensures that the respirator can effectively filter out harmful organic vapors associated with many liquid pesticide formulations. The inclusion of any N, R, P, or 100 series prefilter enhances the respirator's ability, providing additional protection against particulates that may also be present during application.

This setup allows for a dual filtration system: the OV cartridge addresses the gaseous and vapor components of the pesticide, while the prefilter provides an extra layer of protection against solid or liquid particulates. Employing this combination is crucial for safeguarding operator health from exposure to toxic chemicals in the air.

Other options may suggest different forms of respiratory protection that are either less specific or not suited to the nature of the pesticides in question. For example, while a self-contained breathing apparatus or air-supplying respirator might be suitable for environments with severe airborne contaminants, they are not necessary for situations where a properly fitted organic vapor