What is the appropriate initial step for cleaning pesticide application equipment?

The appropriate initial step for cleaning pesticide application equipment is to rinse thoroughly with clean water. This action is critical because it helps to remove any residual pesticide chemicals from the equipment before any further cleaning steps are taken. Rinsing with water effectively dilutes and washes away the concentrated formulation that may be left on the sprayer or application tools, thereby minimizing the risk of contamination and ensuring that no harmful residues remain that could affect future applications or harm the environment.

In general pest control tasks, it is essential to start with this thorough rinsing process to ensure safety and prevent cross-contamination. After this initial step, additional cleaning procedures can be applied to ensure that all components are completely free from any pesticide residues.