Model development to reduce pesticide risk behaviors among rubber farmers in Khogyang Community, Trang, Thailand

Pesticide exposure is one of the most important occupational risks in Thailand. A specific community based participatory model to reduce pesticide risk behaviors among rubber farmers in the Southern of Thailand remains limited. The study objectives were: (1) to develop community based participatory model to reduce pesticide risk behaviors among rubber farmers; and (2) to evaluate their knowledge, health beliefs and behaviors related pesticide use. Data collection from seventy one rubber farmers in 8 villages of Khogyang community was completed by focus group discussions, observation, and in-depth interviews. This study was conducted in Khogyang community, Trang, Thailand between December 2012 and March 2013. The contents of the Khogyang community based participatory model included: (1) pesticide safety education delivery at home; and (2) community-based participatory action activities addressed pesticide safety behaviors (pesticide safety behaviors drawing contest; pesticide safety community forums; and Khogyang advisory committee engagement). New materials, such as pesticide safety picture booklets, and posters were developed using ideas from the Khogyang community participants. The results showed that knowledge of rubber farmers on pesticide use was 11.82 + 3.33, observed at low level. The score of belief regarding pesticide use was 3.57 + 0.40. Behavior of farmer participants on pesticide safety was 2.87+0.42. Positive statistically significant correlations between belief and behavior (r = 0.47) was found. To sustain the intervention program, collaboration with the Khogyang community partners and the Khogyang authorities is needed. It is necessary to monitor changes of knowledge, belief, and behavior related pesticide use in next six months. © 2013 European Journal of Research on Education by IASSR.