Which of the following practices helps in minimizing pesticide exposure?

Wearing gloves during pesticide application is essential in minimizing pesticide exposure because it provides a physical barrier between the skin and the chemicals being applied. This reduces the likelihood of skin absorption, which can lead to potential health risks. Pesticides can be harmful if they come into contact with skin, causing irritation or even more serious health issues. By wearing gloves, applicators can ensure a safer application process and protect their health.

The other practices do not contribute to minimizing exposure effectively. Applying pesticides regardless of weather conditions can lead to drift or runoff, increasing environmental exposure and potentially impacting non-target organisms. Rinsing equipment after use is important for equipment maintenance but does not directly reduce personal exposure during application. Storing pesticides in a non-ventilated area can lead to the buildup of harmful vapors, increasing the risk of inhalation exposure for individuals nearby. Therefore, wearing gloves is the most effective means listed to minimize pesticide exposure.