Which individuals are required to hold a Junior Operator's certificate?

The requirement for a Junior Operator's certificate pertains to individuals who are involved in the application or handling of pesticides in situations where there is a risk of exposure. This includes those who apply or handle pesticides not in completely closed containers and are potentially exposed to pesticide drift or are assisting a supervisor in pesticide application tasks. The certification ensures that these individuals have received appropriate training and understand the necessary safety procedures when working with pesticides, which can pose health risks if not managed correctly.

In this context, those who are applying pesticides safely in closed containers do not require a Junior Operator's certificate due to the reduced risk of exposure. Similarly, individuals using protective gear are already operating within safety guidelines, and those solely responsible for equipment maintenance do not directly handle pesticides in a manner that necessitates this specific certification. Thus, option C accurately identifies the group of individuals who must obtain the Junior Operator's certificate because they are involved in activities with a higher potential for pesticide exposure.