8261794 Work and work exposures in sugarcane farming in eSwatini, Southern Africa

<h3>Objective</h3> This study described smallholder cooperative farmers’ exposures and work practices in eSwatini. The farmers were pesticide applicators who were permanently hired or sugarcane cutters who were subcontracted. <h3>Material and Methods</h3> Wet bulb globe temperature monitoring and repeated field observations were used to gather data during the mid-harvest period. Pesticide applicators (125) and sugarcane cutters (267) were interviewed using questionnaires. The length of the sugarcane row cut during the workday was used to define each worker’s work output and to calculate their monthly compensation. Musculoskeletal risk exposure was evaluated using the Quick Exposure Check. Practices of handling pesticides were described, concentrating on personal safety practices. In order to estimate workload and core temperature, 20 pesticide workers’ heart rates were also monitored. <h3>Results</h3> In general, sugarcane sites where the farmers worked did not provide for shaded rest areas. Few study participants had access to drinking water. Hence, they either used their containers or drank from the irrigation system. The average amount of water consumed during the workday was only 1.4 L. Most employees (87%) reported that their jobs were physically demanding. The observed daily average maximum WBGT of 28.6°C was higher than the NIOSH recommended exposure limit (REL) of 26°C for workers involved in high workloads (cane cutters). Although a small percentage of the applicators had access to appropriate PPE, such as chemical gloves (17%), air respirators (4%), and chemical dungarees (21%), their protective gear impeded heat dissipation, which exacerbated heat stress. <h3>Conclusion</h3> We conclude that workplace interventions are necessary to safeguard the health and safety of smallholder cooperative farm workers. <h3>Funding</h3> Supported by the La Isla Network and the Swedish Research Council, under Grant [2021-04421.] In-kind support was provided by the University of Gothenburg, Sweden and the University of Birmingham, UK.