The Royal Thai Government (RTG) has been proactive in the management of hazardous chemicals by issuing and enacting its primary legal instrument, Hazardous Substance Act B.E. 2535 (1992) amended B.E. 2544 (2001) and B.E. 2551 (2008) (HSA), to control the use of chemicals and reduce chemical exposures and any related hazards and risks. Examples of hazardous chemicals being regulated under the HSA are corrosive and explosive substances, flammable chemicals, toxic substances, pathogenic substances, radioactive materials, and pesticides. According to the current report, there are 1,233 chemicals being regulated by the HSA (Danutra, 2004).
In this paper, we review pesticide management in Thailand. The benefits and limitations of the current regulatory processes in Thailand as well as specific health risks that may result from insufficient regulatory oversight will be discussed. Our intent is to highlight areas where improvement can be made to facilitate better management and use of pesticides in Thailand.