R&D on “Developing and Promoting a Protective Behavior Approach Among Tobacco Growers” is being carried out in collaboration with the Faculty of Communication at İzmir University of Economics. The goal is to ensure that farmers comply with occupational safety regulations and adopt behavioral changes to use personal protective equipment through the involvement of behavioral scientists in defining action processes.

It is well known that agricultural activities can have short- or long-term effects on human health. For instance, poisoning from agricultural chemicals and respiratory issues are among the primary threats. To address these risks, sector stakeholders, such as professional organizations worldwide, recommend precautions like wearing masks, gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. However, workers often resist using personal protective equipment for various reasons.

This study aims to provide process improvement options that can offer solutions to health-related challenges encountered during the application of agricultural chemicals for Oriental and Flue-Cured (SCV) tobacco, as well as during the harvesting stage of Flue-Cured (SCV) tobacco.

The project is ongoing and is scheduled for completion in December 2024.