What item should be worn to protect the head when handling pesticides?

Wearing a wide-brimmed hat without cloth or leather sweatbands is the most appropriate choice for protecting the head when handling pesticides. This type of hat offers shade and helps prevent direct exposure to sunlight, which is beneficial for working outdoors. Additionally, the design of a wide-brimmed hat minimizes the risk of pesticide residues coming into contact with the skin and hair, especially when using products that can be harmful. The absence of cloth or leather sweatbands is vital as these materials can absorb pesticides, potentially leading to contamination that could pose health risks to the individual.

Other options do not provide the same level of protection. A baseball cap, while it may shield the face from sun and some debris, does not offer full coverage or adequate protection against pesticide exposure. A helmet is typically used for protection against physical impacts, not for chemical exposure, and is unsuitable for pesticide handling. A headscarf offers limited protection and does not provide the necessary shielding from pesticides, especially in terms of coverage and risk of material absorption.