Farmers’ Pesticide Using Behaviors: A Case Study on Pistachio Farms in Kerman, Iran

Background: Improper use of pesticides has become a serious in regard to human health in recent years. Overlooking safety regulations, using pesticides creates many problems and health hazards for people.

Objectives: This paper aimed to investigate the use of pesticides by pistachio farmers in Kerman, Iran.

Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Chatroud County, Kerman Province, Iran. A total of 278 respondents were enrolled in this cross-sectional study to investigate pattern of pesticide use among pistachio farmers. An ANOVA test and Pearson coefficient correlation were used to compare the score of function in applying pesticide and the correlation between quantitative variables.

Results: Most of the farmers were illiterate or low-literate (completed primary school) (82%). About 58%of the interviewees had used at least one item of safety equipment during their work with pesticides. The mean score of practice showed a reverse correlation with working years. (r = 0.37, P < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between poisoning and the role of children in spraying (r = 0.31, P < 0.001).

Conclusions: The low level of farmers’ education resulted in the improper use of pesticides. It is necessary to introduce appropriate methods for using pesticides to this group and to train them accordingly.