Which indoor practice is not recommended during pesticide applications?

• A. Leave food surfaces uncovered
• B. Ensure proper ventilation
• C. Remove or cover food/contact surfaces
• D. Restrict occupant access

Answer: (A)

During indoor pesticide applications, the goal is to minimize exposure to people and pets and prevent contamination of food. Leaving food surfaces uncovered creates a direct pathway for pesticide residues to reach food items, risking ingestion after application. Safer practices include ensuring proper ventilation to reduce inhalation risk, removing or completely covering food and any surfaces that contact food, and restricting occupant access to the treated area until it is safe. These steps protect health and help the pesticide dry or settle without leaving hazardous residues. Therefore, leaving food surfaces uncovered is not recommended.