Knowledge and Use of pesticides by small scale farmers in Ikorodu Local Government Area, Lagos State.

Abstract

This study determines the level of knowledge of farmers on contamination mechanisms by pesticides, health problems associated with, related to pesticides exposure, to describe the practices and patterns of use of pesticides by small scale farmers in Ikorodu LGA and to find out if farmers need training on safety and use of pesticides.

The technique of Multi stage sampling was used to obtain data for this study in Ikorodu, LGA. The Ikorodu LGA is divided geographically into five Local Council Development Area (LCDA) namely Ikorodu West, Ikorodu North, Igbogbo, Ijede and Imota. Majority of farmers (82.6%) were not aware that there are banned pesticides in Nigeria. Almost all the farmers (99.0%) knew about Personal Protective Equipment. Majority of farmers (96.5%) knew what ways one can be contaminated with pesticides. About 80% of farmers indicated that there were health problems associated with pesticide exposure.

Almost all farmers checked expiry date, read the recommended dosage on the container, follow the instruction of the agro dealer and the label safety advice in the container. All farmers store pesticides in a good place, keep pesticides away from children, animal and food stuff. Almost all the farmers wash their hands after spraying pesticides which is a very good practice. Majority of farmers (94.2%) used PPE. Males were more educated than females and had better knowledge of pesticides than Females.

Key words: Pesticide use, Farmers knowledge