How does a polymer film coating contribute to reduced operator exposure?

• A. It traps the active ingredient and reduces dust generation during handling.
• B. It increases dust generation.
• C. It erases all pesticide residues from seed.
• D. It makes seeds heavier and harder to plant.

Answer: (B)

Polymer film coating on seeds acts as a barrier that traps the pesticide within the coating, keeping most of the active ingredient held in place on the seed surface. This containment means less pesticide becomes airborne as dust when seeds are handling, loading, or bagging, which directly lowers operator exposure. The coating’s purpose is to minimize loose particulates rather than to release more dust, so statements claiming that it increases dust or erases residues don’t fit how these coatings work. While residues may remain on the seed, their potential to become dust is reduced because the film keeps much of the active ingredient encapsulated and less prone to becoming loose during handling.