Internationale Zeitschrift für öffentliche Gesundheit und Sicherheit

Pesticide Use and Risk Factors among Pest Exterminators and Farmers in the Greater Accra Region, Ghana

Abstract

Kekeli Kodjo Adanu, Stanley Attoh and Selase Kofi Adanu

Spraying of chemicals is essential as weapon for destroying pests, insects and diseases that are inimical to crops, animals and human beings as they destroy people’s fortunes. While protecting the food system and properties, exposure to chemicals often impact negatively on the health of farmers and pest exterminators when precautionary measures are not taken seriously by pest applicators. In this regard, the objectives of this study were to: identify hazards faced by farmers and commercial pest exterminators; assess conditions that increases the risk of pesticide exposure on the part of farmers and pest exterminators; and examine the health hazards associated with spraying chemicals. Findings of the study identified different types of hazards such as itchy eyes, skin irritation and heavy breathing when protective equipment is not worn by farmers and pest exterminators. The study concludes that pesticide risks are high when protectives are not used in enclosed environments over long hours of spraying.