Description
Pesticides have been a national issue of concern for some
time. A study to assess the knowledge, awareness and behaviour
in relation to pesticides was carried out using personal interviews
for sheep farmers and self-completion of questionnaires for
apple growers. Responses were obtained from 40 sheep farmers
(82%) and 12 apple growers (40%). There were marked deficiencies
in the knowledge about health risks and apart from wellington
boots and leggings, 50% or less of sheep farmers wear the
recommended protection. Apple growers in our sample appear
to take better precautions. Of the sheep farmers using pesticides,
20% reported symptoms they related to pesticide exposure.
A programme to improve farmers knowledge on health risks
of pesticides and safer working practice should be developed.
