Under what circumstance are pesticide handlers exempt from wearing eye protection while handling pesticides?

The correct answer is based on specific safety protocols outlined in California's pesticide regulations. Pesticide handlers are exempt from wearing eye protection when they are working in an enclosed cab. This exemption acknowledges that an enclosed cab serves as a barrier between the handler and potential pesticide exposure, thus reducing the risk of eye contamination or injury.

The design and operation of enclosed cabs typically include ventilation and a filtered environment that minimizes the handler's direct exposure to pesticides. Therefore, when they are properly shielded within an enclosed cab, the requirement for eye protection is waived because the risk associated with pesticide handling is significantly mitigated.

Other scenarios, such as handling only solid pesticides, applying pesticides at night, or having a medical exemption, do not provide similar levels of risk reduction or protective conditions that justify exemption from eye protection. Each of those situations still poses the potential for risk, thereby necessitating the use of appropriate safety gear to prevent injuries.