Analysis of the Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Its Implications for Farmers in Nigeria

Abstract

Occupational hazards in the agricultural sector, have posed serious risks to both workers’ lives and agricultural productivity. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for safeguarding farmers’ health, safety and well-being. However, only a few studies in Nigeria have specifically examined the challenges that small and medium scale farmers face when adopting PPE for agrochemical use. This paper interrogates the challenges that small and medium scale farmers face in adopting PPE for agrochemical use and the health implications of their inability or failure to adequately make use of PPE when handling agrochemicals. In other words, the paper examines the barriers to PPE use among these farmers, utilizing secondary data while beingguided by the Fundamental Cause Theory. The paper underscores the need for increased awareness of the health risks associated with agrochemical usage in farm management. The paper concludes that the socio-economic status of farmers, has a significant effect on the use of PPE, and consequently affects the health status of the farmers in different ways. The paper recommends targeted interventions by both governmental and non-governmental organizations through a comprehensive education on the need for the use of PPE, good regulatory measures, as well as the alleviation of poverty among rural farmers through financial assistance, among others, to ensure that they can afford necessary safety equipment to mitigate the health risks associated with agrochemical usage.