Assessing Factors Affecting Adherence to Safety Precautions in Pesticides Use among Cocoa Farmers in Nigeria

Abstract

In addressing the problem of ill-health and risks associated with the use of pesticides, health and safety practices were advocated among cocoa farmers in the area. The study was therefore conducted to investigating safety options the farmers were aware of as well as the factors influencing their adherence to the safety precautions. Descriptive statistics and Ordered probit model were used to analysed data collected from 480 respondents using multi-stage sampling technique. Descriptive statistics revealed that the average age of the farmers was 54±12.5years. Farmers were aware of the use of eye glasses, nose mask, mouth cover, protective clothing, protective boot, hand glove as well as washing/bathing after application and disposing off chemical container but adopt only the protective boot, protective clothing and wash/bath after application. Farmers’ adherence to safety practices in the area was influenced by age, number of extension contact, cocoa income, livestock income as well as level of education. It is therefore important for development organisations and relevant government agencies to put in place policy thrust that would improve extension service, educate farmers as well as encourage them on the need to strictly adhere to Safety Precautions in Pesticides Use for efficiency and health of farmers.

Key Words: Farmers, adherence, precautions, pesticides, cocoa, ordered probit