Analysis of occupational safety and health practices in pesticide handling, and health risks among Catha edulis farmers in Embu County, Kenya

Abstract

Catha edulis farming in Embu County, Kenya, is highly dependent on pesticides for pest and disease control, resulting in significant health and environmental risks. This study aimed to assess the pesticide use among C. edulis farmers, their extent of awareness and application of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) practices, the reported adverse effects of poor OSH practices, and their possible mitigation. In this cross-sectional study, 397 randomly selected farmers were surveyed (63 % response rate) using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics at α = 0.05 to examine pesticide-use patterns, awareness and adoption of occupational safety and health OSH measures, reported health effects, and mitigation options. Although 89 % of respondents used pesticides, only 26 % consistently wore personal protective equipment (PPE), and many used none at all. Education level significantly improved label comprehension and safe-handling practices (p = 0.0307). Unsafe behaviors such as improper storage, inadequate disposal, and activities such as smoking while spraying was widespread. Seventy-three per cent of farmers reported acute symptoms (headaches, dizziness, nausea) following exposure. Organophosphates were the most commonly applied pesticides (36 %), followed by avermectins (23 %), carbamates and pyrethroids (14 % each), with other classes making up 13 %. All are classified as hazardous by WHO/FAO (2015). Moreover, 75 % of farmers had never received formal training in pesticide safety, compounding the risks. These findings underscore the urgent need for locally tailored education and extension programs to improve OSH practices, safeguard farmworker health, minimize environmental contamination, and support Kenya’s sustainable agricultural development goals