The survey conducted by the Sustainable Agriculture and Environment Development Association (SAEDA) provides insights into the safety practices of farmers in Xieng Khouang Province, Laos regarding pesticide application.
Out of 985 respondents, a significant majority, 79% (776 individuals), reported wearing protective clothing when applying pesticides. In contrast, 14% (142 respondents) indicated that they do not use protective gear, while 7% (67 respondents) did not provide an answer to the question.
The reported 14% of farmers who do not wear protective clothing raises concerns about their exposure to harmful chemicals, which could lead to acute or chronic health issues. Therefore, ongoing education and training on pesticide safety and proper protective equipment are essential to ensure the well-being of farmers and to promote sustainable agricultural practices in the region.