Development and validation of the pesticides label (pictograms and color codes) questionnaire: A pilot study of farmers’ understanding and practices in Lebanon

Farmers' comprehension of color codes and pictograms of pesticides is crucial for ensuring the safe and effective use of these agricultural chemicals. These visual aids provide essential information about hazards, proper handling, and application methods. This understanding helps prevent accidents, protect health, and promote sustainable farming practices. This study aims to develop and validate a Pesticide Label Questionnaire (PLQ) qualitatively and quantitatively using psychometric measures to evaluate farmers' comprehension of pictograms and color codes as well as the technical sign-related practices in Lebanon. The questionnaire, consisting of 29 statements, was generated and developed by experts in the field of agriculture, chemistry, environmental health, public health, and statistics. Face, content, and construct validity were assessed, and psychometric properties were examined for data validation. Internal consistency and reliability were measured using Cronbach's alpha (α) and Guttman's Lambda Coefficient. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 27) and RStudio (Version 1.1.456, Inc., 2009-2018). The Construct Validity analyses demonstrated strong reliability and coherence within the questionnaire, with an overall Cronbach's alpha of 0.873. Section I ("Pictorial and Color Code Comprehension") achieved a Cronbach's alpha of 0.849, while section II ("Technical Sign-related Practice Assessment") showed moderate reliability at 0.667. Factor analyses revealed a well-defined structure, with five components explaining 62.03% of the variance in section I and three components accounting for 61.81% in section II. These results highlight the questionnaire's robust construct validity and its ability to capture key dimensions of comprehension and practice related to pesticide labels. The results of this study indicate that the 29-item PLQ is a valid and reliable tool for evaluating farmers' understanding of pictograms and color codes along with technical sign-related practices.