KENYA – In a move aimed at improving safety standards in agriculture, the Pests Control Products Board (PCPB) has introduced new Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for farmers across Kenya.
This initiative seeks to promote safer practices in crop handling, with the goal of fostering sustainable farming and ensuring the well-being of those in the agricultural sector.
PCPB CEO Fredrick Muchiri emphasized that the development of these PPEs aligns with government regulations and standards.
He highlighted the importance of safety in pesticide handling and reiterated the board’s commitment to ensuring that protective gear available in the market is both affordable and meets the required standards.
He further stated that the board would continue to collaborate with relevant organizations to provide training on safe pesticide usage and handling.
Collaboration and feedback
The new protective gear was developed in partnership with several organizations, including the International Center for PPE at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, BASF, and Syngenta.
As part of the development process, over 100 Kenyan farmers participated in a wear-study, providing valuable feedback on the comfort, durability, color, and other design aspects of the PPE. This feedback played a critical role in shaping the final product.
Anugrah Shaw, Coordinator of the International Center for PPE, noted that discomfort and heat stress are major reasons why farmers in tropical climates often avoid wearing protective gear.
He explained that the newly certified ISO 27065 garments aim to strike a balance between protection and comfort, making it easier for farmers to adopt safer practices.
The new PPE
The newly launched PPE is made from breathable and reusable textile materials, designed to provide comfort without compromising safety.
Certified under KS ISO 27065 C1, the gear meets the performance requirements for minimum protective clothing worn by operators applying crop protection products and for re-entry workers.
Business Area Head for East and Southern Africa, Given Mudenda, expressed pride in the development of the first Kenyan-made certified protective clothing. He pointed out that the new PPE enhances responsible crop protection handling and promotes a culture of safety among farmers.
Industry reactions
Farmers like Ambrose Kirobi have welcomed the new gear, emphasizing its importance in boosting sustainable productivity. He noted that when farmers use PPE correctly, they are more motivated and can deliver better outputs.
He also stressed the need for continued awareness and education on the correct usage of PPEs to maximize their benefits.
Gift Mbaya, Country Cluster Head of Agriculture Solutions at BASF East Africa Ltd., highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, stating that investing in personal protective clothing is a commitment not only to the health and safety of farmers but also to the sustainability and responsibility of agricultural practices.
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