IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Using PPE to prevent skin exposure to pesticides: identifying factors facilitating and hindering the use of skin protection clothing by Québec apple producers

Abstract

Agricultural workers may have significant skin exposure to pesticides in most types of farming. Consequently, skin protection clothing must be worn for a wide range of tasks. However, literature data show that such equipment is not used systematically. Moreover, the equipment proposed for agricultural use was developed for industrial use.

The purpose of this research is to document the usual practices of farmers, as well as factors facilitating and hindering the use of skin protection equipment in cases of heavy pesticide exposure.

The findings will provide insight into work practices and OHS in the use of agricultural pesticides. They may also be useful for designing the content of training and awareness raising on skin exposure to pesticides and the use of protective equipment.