Evaluation of the Knowledge and Attitude of Using Personal Protective Equipment among Rubber Farmers in Southern Thailand

Abstract

The objects of this study were to assess the knowledge and attitude toward using personal protective equipment (PPE) among 307 farmers who own rubber wood plantation in Southern Thailand. The data were collected by using questionnaires and then the descriptive statistics were analyzed using the SPSS program. The results showed that 187 farmers were male (60.9%) and 105 farmers (34.2%) were 41-50 years old. 120 farmers (36.5%) graduated from primary education. More than half of the farmers have an average monthly income lower than 500 U.S. dollars and 148 farmers (48.2%) handle rubber wood plantation of 1.61-3.20 hectares. The results concerning the farmers’ knowledge of PPE demonstrated that 222 farmers (73.31%, x ̅ = 86.05, S.D. = 15.13, P≤0.01) had a good level and most farmers know that long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wing caps can protect the body from scratches and exposure to sunlight. Indeed, 220 farmers (71.66%) showed a moderate attitude level of PPE use and farmers agreed that they do not need to cover their mouths and noses while fertilizing or spraying pesticides due to using a small amount of chemicals. However, the overall attitudes of the participants in using PPE is concerned with the fact that it can protect users from accidents, animals, mosquitoes, and insects. These results should enable the development of a PPE handbook for rubber farmers who need to serve their plantation following the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).