Attitudes and behaviours regarding use of crop protection products-A survey of more than 8500 smallholders in 26 countries

Current practices and attitudes and behaviour of small-scale farmers towards the use of crop protection products were determined using a questionnaire in 26 countries. The survey of at least 250 users per country of portable equipment, predominantly knapsack sprayers with various types of pesticide, aimed at revealing the extent of safe use knowledge attitudes and behaviour. This can then be used to target specific gaps by future training programmes particularly where problems existed. The vast majority of users were aware of the need for personal protection and the simple steps for avoiding exposure. The extent of wearing appropriate personal protective clothing did vary with some due to their attitude to the risk of poisoning and the lack of availability or cost of suitable personal protective equipment (PPE). Relatively few incidents arising from the use of pesticides were reported, and those that required hospital treatment were largely following the use of organophosphate insecticides. Overall, most small-scale users of pesticides had a working knowledge of the requirements for safe use and a high proportion of them were able to achieve this as indicated by the low numbers of incidents affecting their health. Key areas for further training include the provision of secure stores and improvements in disposal of used containers.