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Storage site
Table 3. Storage of agrocheniicals.
Most families stored agrochemicals in their living quarters, particularly in the
eaves of the roof (Table 3). Although such places are out of reach of children,
the practice facilitates their spread as air-borne dust and fumes, especially
when agrochemicals are loosely packed in secondary containers. Much exposure
takes place during the night hours of sleep. Among the 1 797 households,
only 35.3% had pesticides stored in their original containers; 64.7% could not
produce an original container. This made it difficult for researchers to identify
chemicals on sight.
Those who produced original agrochemical containers with chemicals in them
claimed that they understood the instructions on the labels and followed them
when spraying. However, when asked to read the labels, more than 60% of the
respondents were unable to make sense of them. There is no doubt that many
of the farmers were literate, but the instructions were sometimes too technical
for them to understand.
Half the farmers used domestic containers, such as cooking pots or water
containers, for mixing chemicals; the rest used empty agrochemical containers.
The residues in these containers probably contaminate food and, in one
way or another, come into contact with members of the family. Almost all
empty agrochemical containers were converted to domestic use. Judging from
the poor degree of protection against exposure, storage patterns, and the
community's general attitude toward agrochemicals, most respondents were
probably not fully aware that pesticides are dangerous to their health.
The level of education of the subjects was correlated with method of preparation
of chemicals and attention to the instructions; use of protective clothing
whilq spraying; and caution when handling chemicals (Table 4). About 69%
of the respondents stated that they take precautionary measures when handling
certain chemicals and pesticides, among them malathion, Difola tan, and
Roundup.
In 1987, there were 35 cases of organophosphate poisoning at Kiambu District
Hospital (Fig. 1). Of these victims, 21(60%) were 21 years of age and over.
Similarly, in 1988, organophosphates caused a large majority of poisonings
treated at the district hospital. However, the number of cases decreased
notably from 1987 to 1990. Most of the victims were adult males. Typically,
111
Number of
respondents %
Living area (where family sleeps) 1120 62.3
In food storage area 258 14.4
In separate shelter 172 9.6
Other places (underground, in cage, etc) 247 13.7
Total 1 797 100.0