Farmers' understanding of pesticide safety labels and field spraying practices: a case study of cotton farmers in northern Cote d'Ivoire

This study was carried out in cotton zones of northern Cote d'Ivoire to assess farmers' understanding of pesticide safety labels, pesticide handling and spraying practices that might potentially expose them to chemical hazards. Data was based on a stratified random sample of 165 farm households using structured interviews, multiple-visits, and direct field observations. Results showed that 50% of farmers have accurate understanding of pesticide safety labels shown to them, 17% partially understood but 33% misunderstood the labels. But their understanding of the potential negative effects of pesticides on the environment was limited. Although they interpreted the pesticide safety labels reasonably correctly and knew about the potential health risks, the precautionary measures taken against exposure were inadequate. In over half of the cases (53%), pesticide applicators did not wear any protective clothing during spraying. Efforts to reduce potential health risks from chemicals through improved farmer training will be important, but this alone does not offer a panacea because some poor pesticide practices engaged in by farmers were rooted in other reasons (cost of pesticides and procurement of protective clothing) rather than lack of knowledge alone. The study recommended integrated approaches including IPM, as a strategy for continued cotton production with minimal risks of exposure to chemicals.