Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Farm Workers Regarding Pesticide Use in the Souss Massa Region of Morocco

The use of pesticides is a critical aspect of modern agriculture, with significant implications for both human health and the environment. Farm workers, in particular, are among the high-risk groups exposed to these chemicals. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of farmers regarding pesticide use in the Souss Massa region. To gather comprehensive data, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 132 farmers using a structured questionnaire. The findings revealed that farmers had a moderate level of knowledge, with 65.9% of participants acknowledging the serious health risks associated with pesticides. However, 12.1% were uncertain and unaware of the symptoms that could result from pesticide poisoning. Only 16% of participants recognized the environmental impacts of pesticides. Furthermore, practices varied significantly, with some farmers engaging in risky behaviors. For example, 21% of workers did not use any personal protective equipment (PPE), and 32% reported working in the fields during pesticide spraying, failing to respect the pre-harvest interval. Our study also highlighted how sociodemographic factors influenced farmers' practices. Women, older farmers, more experienced farmers, and those with higher education levels were more likely to prioritize PPE usage and adopt protective measures. Additionally, men and farmers with higher education levels demonstrated a greater understanding of pesticide use and its risks. This study underscores the need for targeted educational programs to improve pesticide safety practices among farmers, contributing to healthier agricultural practices in the region.