Farmers' behaviour in pesticide use: A key concept for improving environmental safety

Chemical pesticides are an integral part of modern agriculture that may have serious side effects on human health and the environment. Assessing contribution of pesticides to potential environmental problems requires studies on eco-toxicological aspects of the pesticide products as well studies on the behavioural variable of the pesticide applicator, which can be critical for an accurate risk assessment, albeit often neglected. The study of human behaviour, i.e., the actions or reactions of an individual to external or internal stimuli, is a key prerequisite for improving environmental safety in pesticide use. The level of awareness and knowledge of pesticide risks among farmers is essential for improving safety in all aspects of pesticide handling, but knowledge is connected with deep understanding and sense of a concept, whereas awareness does not necessarily entail a deep understanding. Occupational safety and health studies show that safety behaviour among farmers can be affected by many factors, with perceptions, attitudes, and self-efficacy playing a major role.