Chemical hazards

Many different chemicals are used on a farm including pesticides, herbicides, animal medications, fuel, acids and solvents. How dangerous these chemicals are depends on the type of substance, what it is made of, the way it enters the body, and the amount of substance that enters the body.

Examples of chemical hazards:

• Spraying in a strong wind and the spray drifting over a dam or the farm house.
• Washing spray equipment and the water running into open drains, collecting in puddles, or running into stockyards or dams.
• Containers or chemicals left lying around. Empty containers lying in a heap.

Some ways you can reduce the risk of hazards from chemicals are:

• Use personal protective equipment such as respirators, waterproof clothes, rubber gloves and waterproof footwear.
• Make sure chemicals are safely stored and cupboards locked.
• Never spray chemicals on days when there is a high wind.
• Know first aid procedures.
• Keep a list of all hazardous substances used on the farm.