KENYA – The Pest Control Products Board of Kenya (PCPB) has launched a new Personal Protective Equipment for farmers aimed at enhancing safe crop handling practices.

PCPB is a Statutory organization of Kenya Government mandated to regulate the importation and exportation, manufacture, distribution and use of pest control products.

The launch of the ISO 27065-certified personal protective garment in Kenya represents a significant milestone in promoting safe agricultural practices, fostering a culture of safety among farmers and contributing to the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.

The products were produced in collaboration with the International Center for PPE at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, BASF and Syngenta.

PCPB CEO Fredrick Muchiri said the PPEs were developed in alignment with government regulatory bodies and standards. The PEEs are made of breathable and reusable textile materials.

“As a board entrusted with regulating pest control products in the country, we remain committed to ensuring PPEs used in the country meet the right standards, are affordable and are available in our markets,” he said.

During the launch, more than 100 farmers in Kenya participated in a wear-study and gave feedback on comfort, durability, colour and other design preferences.

Muchiri added that the PPEs are comfortable, cost-effective, which are an essential component of safe crop protection handling practices. He further explained to the farmers that handling and using pesticides should be done with adherence to safety measures.

“As the adoption of this protective gear upsurges, it will inspire a broader shift towards prioritizing safety and responsible practices for Kenyan farmers, their communities and the environment,” Muchiri noted.

Anugrah Shaw, coordinator of the International Center for PPE said heat stress and discomfort are some of the issues causing farmers to not wear PPEs.

“This is a bigger issue in tropical climates. Our approach with the new ISO-certified garment is to balance protection and comfort,” Shaw said.

Gift Mbaya, country cluster head of agriculture solutions, BASF East Africa Ltd, clarified that by investing in personal protective clothing, it is not only protecting the health and safety of farmers and the communities.

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