Presentation
Occupational Risk of Farmers in Trinidad & Guyana: Qualitative Study with Farmers & Agriculture Ministry
SessionPoster Session 1
DescriptionPesticide misuse poses a significant occupational hazard for farmers in low- and middle-income countries. This qualitative study explores the perceptions of occupational health and safety among farmers and officials from the Ministries of Agriculture in Trinidad and Guyana—two countries where farmers often feel excluded from agriculture-related policymaking. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 64 participants using purposive sampling, including both farmers and ministry officials. Through thematic analysis, seven key themes were identified, highlighting a disconnect between institutional and field-level perspectives. While agriculture officials attributed safety challenges to traditional mindsets and lack of compliance, farmers emphasized practical barriers such as discomfort with protective equipment, insufficient training, and weak enforcement mechanisms. Contrasting views also emerged regarding chemical safety, training adequacy, and the role of policy. Both groups acknowledged systemic shortcomings, particularly the absence of crop insurance and quality control. However, farmers stressed immediate vulnerabilities, whereas officials focused on long-term reforms. The findings underscore the need for a participatory, context-sensitive approach to agricultural safety. We recommend strengthening stakeholder engagement, policy enforcement, and farmer education to bridge the gap between policy and practice. A coordinated, inclusive safety culture—grounded in mutual understanding—can support the health, livelihoods, and sustainability of farming communities in Trinidad and Guyana.
Event Type
Poster
TimeTuesday, October 14th5:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
LocationRiverside East
Similar Presentations