Lessons from flower industry in Tanzania

Introduction:  Tanzania is one of African countries which exports flowers to European market. In 2009 there were 20 flower farms of varieties of scale which employ more than 10,000 people. 82% of workers in the farms are women in the age group between 18–35 years. 68% of women in the sector are primary school leavers and perform core activities in the farms.    

Methods:  Data on OHS problems and solutions were collected through inspections and surveys since 1990s. The data were reviewed to identify major OHS related problems and solutions that have been applied to solve the problems. Also recently five flower farms were visited to assess current OHS situation and a checklist were used to collect the data.    

Results:  Major OHS problems that were documented are lack of poisoning surveillance system, illiteracy and inability to read chemical labels and instructions, low awareness especially at small farms; poor management of protective clothing especially during hot seasons, inadequate medical facilities, poor management of obsolete stock, etc.    Some of the efforts to improve OHS situation in the industry are enforcement by government agencies. other efforts are implementation of International Flower Programs.    Five farms that were visited showed that out 5 farms visited 3 of them had no OHS policy; 1 has no pre-employment medical examination; 2 had no periodical medical examination and 3 had no exit medical examination.    

Discussion:   The information supports the contention that these are various OHS problems in the industry that intervention measures need to be taken by various stakeholders to prevent and control those problems. Training and information on good work practices and effects of exposure to chemicals on overall health of the workers especially women who are in reproductive age should be disseminated. Also BOHS should be provided for all workers in the industry.