Which of the following protective equipment is essential when mixing or loading pesticides?

Chemical resistant gloves are essential when mixing or loading pesticides because they are specifically designed to provide a barrier against harmful chemicals. Pesticides can contain a variety of toxic substances that can be absorbed through the skin, leading to serious health risks such as skin irritation, systemic toxicity, or long-term health effects.

Chemical resistant gloves are made from materials that prevent permeation by these substances, ensuring that the handler is protected from contact with potentially hazardous chemicals. Unlike simple gloves or leather gloves, which may not provide adequate protection against chemical exposure, chemical resistant gloves are a critical part of personal protective equipment (PPE) in pesticide handling.

Using specialized equipment, such as yoga gloves, would be entirely inappropriate in this context as they do not offer any protection against the potentially harmful effects of pesticides. Proper PPE is crucial not only for the safety of the handler but also for preventing contamination of the surrounding environment.