Which substance requires protection mainly from skin and eye exposure?

Nerve agents are a class of chemical warfare agents that can be extremely toxic, primarily affecting the nervous system. The reason protection is crucial from skin and eye exposure is that these substances can be absorbed through the skin or enter the body via the mucous membranes, leading to severe health consequences. Nerve agents are specifically designed to disrupt normal neurological functions, creating an urgent need to prevent any contact with these toxic substances.

In contrast, while radiological materials can pose significant risks through inhalation or ingestion and may require protective measures, the primary concern is not exclusively skin and eye exposure. Viruses and pathogens, on the other hand, typically require protection to prevent inhalation or ingestion, and while they can affect the skin and eyes, the emphasis on immediate protection often focuses on a different route of exposure. Therefore, in the case of nerve agents, the immediate need for protection specifically from skin and eye contact highlights the unique characteristics of their toxicity and the rapid onset of symptoms following exposure.