Use and Handling of Agrochemicals in Family Farmers and Rural Workers of Five Argentine Provinces

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In Argentina, agriculture requires large quantities of agrochemicals, which have different degrees of toxicity. In general terms, there are currently not enough researches addressing practices of agrochemical use by rural workers and family farmers. The objective was to describe and understand how rural workers and family farmers use and handle agrochemicals, especially focusing on the potential health risks. METHODS: A multiple case study with a qualitative approach was performed in rural areas of the provinces of Buenos Aires, Corrientes, Formosa, Misiones and Santiago del Estero. A total of 78 interviews with extension workers, agents of the health system, family farmers and rural workers were conducted, and then transcribed and analyzed. RESULTS: Agrochemicals are bought, stored and used in an insecure way in most cases, which leads to serious health risks. This is a complex social problem, encompassing individual practices as well as institutional and contextual factors. CONCLUSIONS: Intersectoral actions are required to address the incidence of agrochemical poisoning in rural workers and family farmers