Protective clothing for pesticide work: the minimum is a long-sleeved shirt and long pants to guard skin

In South Carolina, handling aquatic herbicides isn’t just about hitting target weeds. It’s about staying healthy while you work and keeping waterways clean for everyone who relies on them. The starting point is protective clothing—the kind that keeps skin out of harm’s way when pesticides are involved. So, what’s the minimum you should wear? It’s a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Simple, right? But there’s more to the story than a simple rule.

Why skin protection matters

Pesticides can irritate or penetrate skin, especially if you’re moving around, sweating, or there’s a splash. Even a small drip or a momentary contact can lead to absorption through the skin, and that’s not something you want to gamble with. The skin is the largest organ you’ve got, and it acts like a gateway. The more coverage you have, the better your body’s defenses stay in place.

That said, the minimum clothing is just that—the minimum. It’s not a blanket you wear and forget about. Think of it as the first piece of armor in a broader safety toolkit. The goal is to reduce dermal exposure to the chemical, not just to check a box.

What to wear for the minimum

• Long-sleeved shirt: Look for fabrics that resist splashes and keep you covered from wrist to neck. Breathable materials help you stay comfortable during long shifts, but you still want that barrier between your skin and any stray droplets.

• Long pants: Full-length coverage protects your legs, ankles, and the lower torso. Again, comfort matters, but protection comes first.

Beyond the minimum: other PPE you might need

Clothing is the foundation, but many pesticides come with label-specific requirements. Depending on the product, you may also need:

• Gloves: Chemical-resistant gloves that fit well and cover wrists. Nitrile or neoprene options are common choices, but check the label for compatibility with the active ingredient.

• Goggles or a face shield: Splash protection for your eyes and the delicate skin around them is important, especially when you’re mixing, loading, or dealing with drift potential.

• Footwear: Closed-toe, chemical-resistant boots or shoes with socks that stay dry are a solid idea. If you’re wading into shallow water or working in wet conditions, consider waterproof options.

• Respiratory protection: Some products require a respirator or a specific type of mask, particularly when vapors or aerosols are possible, or when ventilation is limited. Always follow the label and SDS (Safety Data Sheet) guidance.

• Coveralls or an apron: In some cases, an additional layer—like a disposable coverall—can offer extra protection if you’re dealing with concentrated formulations or heavy drifts.

Choosing the right gear for aquatic work in SC

South Carolina’s climate adds its own twist. Heat, humidity, and sudden rain can make PPE a challenge to wear for long stretches. Look for breathable but protective fabrics, and consider moisture-wicking bases under your outer layers to keep you comfortable without sacrificing safety. When you’re in or near water, footwear that’s slip-resistant and quick-drying becomes more than a perk—it’s a safety feature.

Material matters, too. You’re not aiming for fashion; you’re aiming for protection that holds up to chemical exposure. If you’re unsure about a material’s compatibility with a particular herbicide, check the product label and SDS. Manufacturers often list the recommended protective materials and any limitations for their formulations. And if you’re doing multiple tasks throughout the day, you might switch between lighter clothing during calm midday windows and more protective gear when you’re mixing or applying.

Practical tips to stay safe on the water

• Treat clothes like a second skin. If you suspect splash or spill, change promptly. Don’t wear contaminated clothing back into the truck or home.

• Keep hands clean and dry when you’re not wearing gloves. That goes a long way toward avoiding accidental transfer.

• Inspect PPE before each use. Look for tears, flaking, or degraded seams. A torn glove isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a risk.

• Read the label and SDS. The protective equipment section will tell you exactly what’s required for the active ingredient you’re using. If a respirator is listed, wear the right cartridge and follow fit-testing guidance.

• Calibrate equipment with safety in mind. When you’re setting up sprayers or drift-control devices, make sure no unintended leakage or mist escapes toward you or bystanders.

• Think waterway stewardship. You’re applying near or in water, so minimal drift matters. Position yourself to minimize exposure to non-target areas and stray spray.

A quick reality check: common mistakes

• Wearing shorts or sandals: It may feel cooler, but it’s a fast track to dermal exposure. If you wouldn’t go outside without proper protection, don’t work with pesticides that way either.

• Skipping gloves or eye protection: It’s tempting to save time, but a few minutes of extra protection now saves days of skin irritation or more serious consequences later.

• Ignoring weather and wind: Wind shifts drift. If wind is strong or changing direction, step back, re-evaluate your setup, and adjust your PPE as needed.

• Forgetting to wash up after work: Pesticide residues can linger on skin and clothing. A thorough wash, a fresh set of clothes, and safe disposal of contaminated gear help break the cycle.

Real-world habits that make a difference

• Pre-work routine: Take a moment to inspect your PPE, check for any wear, and ensure you have a dry, clean workspace for donning gear. A calm start reduces the chance of rushing and forgetting something essential.

• Post-work routine: Shower, wash your clothes separately, and store protective gear in a clean, dry place. Simple steps keep residues from migrating to other areas of your life.

• Hydration and breaks: The South Carolina heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can affect your concentration and safety. Short, regular breaks help you stay alert and maintain proper form when you’re working with chemicals.

Connecting to the bigger picture

Protective clothing isn’t just a checkbox on a form; it’s part of a larger culture of safety that protects you, your coworkers, and the environment. Aquatic herbicide work intersects with water quality, wildlife, and recreational spaces. When you commit to wearing long sleeves and long pants, you’re taking a tangible step toward minimizing exposure and reducing unintended impact on the waterway ecosystem you’re trying to protect.

What to keep in mind as you move forward

• The minimum is a baseline, not a limit. You may need more protection depending on the product, your task, and environmental conditions.

• PPE choices should be practical as well as protective. Breathability helps you stay focused, not distracted by discomfort.

• Always rely on the product label and SDS for guidance. If anything seems unclear, ask your supervisor or consult the safety resources provided by your state’s regulatory agency.

A final thought, with a touch of Southern practicality

Think of your protective clothing like you do a good pair of rain boots. It’s not the most glamorous part of the job, but you’ll be glad you chose protection when a shower of spray hops your way, or when you’re out there for hours, sweating, leaning into your work. The goal is simple: stay comfortable, stay safe, and keep the water you care about clean.

If you’re exploring guidance for South Carolina Pesticide Category 5 tasks and the land- and water-based work involved in applying aquatic herbicides, remember this: the right outfit is your first defense. Long-sleeved shirt and long pants give you that initial shield, and the rest of your PPE builds on it to create a safe, effective workday. Always pair good gear with careful practices, and you’ll protect yourself and the places you’re helping to manage.

A quick recap you can carry with you

• Minimum clothing: long-sleeved shirt and long pants.

• Add gloves, eye protection, and appropriate footwear as needed.

• Check label and SDS for specific PPE requirements.

• Prioritize comfort and breathability without compromising safety.

• Maintain clean habits before, during, and after work.

If you want more practical tips on staying safe around pesticides in aquatic settings, look for resources from regulatory agencies, local cooperatives, or university extension programs that focus on SC-specific guidelines and environmental stewardship. The path to safe, effective work starts with the basics—and the basics are within reach every day you step into the field.