The PEX (Pesticide Exposure) project provides an information service for those affected by, or concerned about, pesticide exposure.

We are all exposed to low levels of pesticides in our environment: they can be found in food, in the soil, water and air around us, and in our bodies.  People living in agricultural areas are at risk of higher levels of exposure from spray drift from adjacent farms.  Pesticide users are not currently required to warn residents before spraying or to leave ‘no spray’ zones.  There is also no requirement to provide information on the pesticides being used, although in March 2007 the Pesticide Safety Directorate (PSD) launched a pilot study on public access to farm spray records

Many pesticides are linked with health problems in humans.  Some are acutely toxic; others may cause longer term health problems including cancer and reproductive problems.  Many people who have been exposed report severe allergies and chronic conditions such as ME.  Some of these health problems are rare, but extremely distressing and debilitating for sufferers.  Chronic conditions are difficult to trace conclusively to a particular chemical.  This is one reason why PAN UK believes that understanding of pesticide toxicity is imperfect, and current safeguards inadequate.

The PEX project provides information for people affected by pesticide exposure, and links them with sources of further advice and help.  The project also collects case studies to support PAN UK in advocating for policy change in relation to increasing access to information about pesticide use, and to reducing pesticide use and exposure.

• The PEX Briefings provide information on what to do if you have been exposed to pesticides, how to report the incident, and where you can go for further help and advice.
• The PEX Newsletter provides regular updates on relevant issues
• Read about how PAN UK is challenging UK policy on pesticides
• Links for further information and help
• You can also call the Project Information Officer on 020 7065 0905 or email
  ruthbeckmann@pan-uk.org