If exposure occurs, how long should you rinse skin with water?

If exposure occurs, how long should you rinse skin with water?

• A. 5 minutes
• B. 10 minutes
• C. 15 minutes
• D. 30 minutes

Answer: (C)

When skin is exposed to a pesticide, the goal is to remove as much of the chemical as possible to reduce absorption. Rinsing the skin with clean running water for about 15 minutes accomplishes this effectively. Fifteen minutes is long enough to wash away residues but not so long that it delays other important steps, like removing contaminated clothing and seeking further medical guidance if needed. After the rinse, continue with cleaning the skin with soap and water if available, and monitor for irritation—seek medical attention if symptoms persist or if the chemical is known to be highly toxic.

When skin is exposed to a pesticide, the goal is to remove as much of the chemical as possible to reduce absorption. Rinsing the skin with clean running water for about 15 minutes accomplishes this effectively. Fifteen minutes is long enough to wash away residues but not so long that it delays other important steps, like removing contaminated clothing and seeking further medical guidance if needed. After the rinse, continue with cleaning the skin with soap and water if available, and monitor for irritation—seek medical attention if symptoms persist or if the chemical is known to be highly toxic.