Description of pesticides and personal protective equipment used in floriculture in Santa Ana Ixtlahuatzingo, Estado de México.

Currently, the number of pesticides used is high and their composition is varied. The toxic and environmental effects are diverse. Floriculturists are the agricultural group with the highest risk of exposure to pesticides, they apply them three times a week and in mixtures. In the town of Santa Ana Ixtlahuatzingo their main economic activity is floriculture, to contribute to the pesticide use pattern in floriculture, was documented and described the use and type of pesticides, as well as the hygienic habits and personal protective equipment of 50 volunteer floriculturists in this community. 86% of them spray directly, while 14% use watering. The pesticides used were 36% Captan, 20% Dichlorvos, 20% Carbofuran, 12% Chlorothalonil and 12% (Iprodione, Metazachlor, 2,4-DB, Aldrin and Aldicarb). The most frequent mixture was Dichlorvos plus Captan (28%). Only 10% of floriculturists shower daily. 66% wear waterproof boots, 62% a mask, 32% waterproof apron, 12% gloves, 10% hat and 8% waterproof romper. 28% do not use any personal protection equipment. The flower growers are unaware of the official regulations, so it is necessary for the competent authority to promote and supervise the use of pesticides and the working conditions are in accordance with the agricultural regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]