Safety around chemicals vital

With many farmers preparing for winter spraying, whether for gorse or weed control in lucerne stands, it’s a good time to review health and safety planning around agrichemical use.

“Exposure to pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers is a common health hazard on farm,” WorkSafe New Zealand Agriculture Lead Al McCone says. “There’s considerable evidence that long-term, low-level exposure to agrichemicals can be toxic to the nervous system – affecting mental processing and memory and increasing the risk of anxiety and depression. It’s a good idea to review your chemical use and talk to your supplier about what products may be available that are less toxic to people and the environment.” Research among New Zealand agricultural workers found 63 percent had come into contact with pesticides but only half used gloves. The numbers for using safely goggles or a respirator were lower still. “Everyone working with agrichemicals should be provided with the correct PPE,” Al says. “Training should be provided by a suitably experienced person or industry courses are available. For some very hazardous chemicals, you will need to be certified to use them. “Even if you’ve already gone through the processes with workers around using PPE and applying chemicals safely, it’s good to provide a refresher – to remind them why it’s important to use their PPE and read instructions on product labels and safety data sheets (SDS) before using agrichemicals. They also need to be reminded to change their overalls, put them in the wash, clean PPE and wash themselves thoroughly, immediately after spraying work.” Proper training around correct use of equipment for spraying, along with being aware of weather conditions that are most suitable for spraying – or when application should be avoided – will help minimise the risk of spray drift. “That will also be economical, because agrichemicals drifting out of the area they’re intended for isn't going to benefit your business," Al says. “It’s also important to ensure that others on-farm, or people in neighbouring areas are aware that spraying is being done and could potentially be affected by spray drift. Let people know when you plan to spray and also put up signage to flag areas where spraying is underway or which have recently been sprayed. You should also be aware of local authority regulations around spraying in certain areas. Many regions will require you to have a property spray plan. “If you are using contractors to do spraying, have a chat with them beforehand to ensure the person doing the work is fully trained and they know everything they need to about risk areas for spray drift on your land. “Last but not least, before setting out to do spraying, think about the best vehicle for the job. Serious and fatal accidents have occurred when towing spraying equipment. For instance, if you are thinking of using a quad bike or ATV to tow spraying equipment, then check the manufacturer’s instructions around weight limits. If it's looking too heavy, switch to the tractor instead.”

Article supplied by WorkSafe

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