P-509 ASSESSMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS IN FARMING

Introduction Pesticides are chemical products widely used, mainly in agriculture. They can be responsible for health effects, whether acute or chronic. Our aim is to qualitatively assess pesticide exposure and its impact on workers’ health. Methods This is a descriptive, cross-sectional epidemiological survey of 54 employees in 4 agricultural enterprises. Results The study population is relatively old (49 ± 7 years) and almost exclusively male. Average seniority was 23 ± 10 years. The most exposed positions were those of multi-skilled workers (35 employees) and drivers (12 employees).The inventory of pesticide products handled revealed 67 active ingredients of varying effects, risks and severity. Working conditions are generally unsatisfactory. Lack of individual and collective preventive measures, poor general hygiene and non-compliance with handling and waste management rules are at the top of the list.Exposure assessment is summarized in the form of three levels of risk, taking into account the mode, frequency and duration of exposure. The medical study revealed the importance of chronic toxic effects linked to pesticide exposure (respiratory, cutaneous and neuropsychic). In particular, organic psycho-syndrome was found in 7 employees. Discussion The level of risk associated with pesticide used is high as exposure increases. However, the lack of adequate preventive measures is an aggravating factor. Conclusion The adoption of a prevention strategy is therefore an extreme necessity in order to reduce the level of risk and limit the health, environmental and socio-economic impact of pesticides.