Why should you avoid walking or driving through the spray mist during pesticide application?

Avoiding walking or driving through the spray mist during pesticide application is crucial primarily to reduce exposure to the pesticide. Pesticides can be hazardous to human health, and inhalation or dermal contact with the spray mist can lead to adverse health effects. By staying clear of the spray area, individuals minimize the risk of inhaling airborne particulates or getting the chemical on their skin or clothing, which helps ensure personal safety and compliance with health regulations.

The other options focus on aspects such as application speed, equipment integrity, and pesticide effectiveness, which, while relevant to pesticide application practices, do not address the primary health concern associated with exposure to pesticides. Therefore, the emphasis on reducing exposure aligns more closely with safety protocols pertinent to pesticide handling and application.