What is the primary function of air purifying respirators for pesticide applicators?

Air purifying respirators are designed specifically to protect individuals from inhaling harmful substances, including pesticides. Their primary function is to filter and/or absorb airborne contaminants, ensuring that the applicator does not ingest or breathe in dangerous chemicals during pesticide application. This function is crucial because pesticides can pose significant health risks if inhaled, emphasizing the importance of adequate respiratory protection in agricultural and pest control settings.

The other options do not accurately represent the main purpose of air purifying respirators. While comfort during use can be beneficial, it is secondary to the primary safety function. Enhancing visibility in low-light conditions and serving as a cooling device are not roles that air purifying respirators fulfill; these features pertain to entirely different equipment and do not contribute to the respiratory protection that applicators need when handling pesticides.