Abstract:
This exploratory study was undertaken in an attempt to analyse how safe working habits of
the handling of pesticides by manual workers in foliage farms in Sri Lanka affect work
motivation and to propose strategies to improve work motivation. The study was conducted
on five foliage plant exporting companies located within the Negombo area in Sri Lanka and
the sample consisted of ten executives and hundred manual workers. Data were collected
using questionnaires administered through structured interviews and by observations. Work
motivation has been measured indirectly through workers’ attitude, degree of happiness and
satisfaction. Independent variables of the study were existing working conditions, safety
precautions taken in the use of pesticides and workers’ attitude towards handling pesticides.
Six other factors contributory towards work motivation were also studied. The study proved
that work motivation has a relationship with three independent variables. Strategies of
reinforcement of safe working habits and strategies on other aspects of working were
recommended to improve work motivation.
