What is the most common route of chemical exposure when treating a property?

The most common route of chemical exposure when treating a property is skin exposure, especially during the handling and mixing of undiluted chemicals. This is due to the direct contact many applicators have with chemicals when preparing solutions or applying them. Skin exposure can occur not just through accidental spills but also from handling equipment and materials that have come into contact with chemicals.

In many applicator scenarios, proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is not always consistently used or is improperly fitted, increasing risk. Additionally, certain chemicals can be absorbed through the skin, leading to systemic absorption and potential health effects.

While inhalation is also a significant route of exposure, particularly for volatile substances, and ocular exposure can happen through splashing, the nature of mixing and handling inorganic chemicals usually leads to more frequent skin contact, thereby making it the most common route in practice. Direct ingestion, such as drinking, occurs far less frequently and typically happens due to human error rather than as a standard or routine exposure route.