SEDL / STP / STP1273-EB / STP19914S

Protective Clothing for Workers in Pesticide Manufacturing Plants in India: A Needs Assessment Survey

Shaw, A
University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, Maryland

Khetan, S
New Delhi,

Pages: 8    Published: Jan 1997

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Abstract

Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) reduces pesticide exposure, enhancing the health and safety of individuals. A needs assessment survey was conducted to assist in the development and evaluation of protective clothing that will meet the needs of workers in India. A mail-in survey and follow-up interviews were conducted to obtain information regarding: types of pesticides manufactured, types of clothing worn by workers, laundering procedures, and socio-psychological and economic factors affecting the type of clothing used by workers in pesticide manufacturing plants. Results of the study indicate that cotton and cotton/polyester fabrics are used for pants/shirt and coveralls worn by male workers in pesticide manufacturing plants. Generally, females are not employed in pesticide manufacturing units. A majority of the respondents stated that protective gear is issued by the company to the workers. However, the extent to which they are actually used is questionable. A majority of the companies use on-site and/or contractual laundering facilities. Most of the respondents rated the need for protective clothing for workers exposed to pesticide as high or very high.