What is a disadvantage of using leather or fabric gloves when handling pesticides?

Using leather or fabric gloves when handling pesticides presents the disadvantage of absorbing pesticides, making them unfavorable for this type of work. Leather and fabric materials are porous and can soak up liquids, including harmful chemicals found in pesticides. This means that once these materials absorb the pesticide, they become a source of contamination, which can pose a risk to the handler if they come into contact with the skin after the residue is absorbed.

In comparison, gloves made from materials specifically designed for chemical protection, such as nitrile or neoprene, offer a barrier that does not absorb pesticides, thereby ensuring a higher level of safety for the user. This characteristic of leather and fabric gloves is crucial to consider when selecting appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for handling pesticides.