Farming doesn’t end when the spray tank is empty. Proper cleanup is essential. CropLife South Africa shares tips on cleaning equipment, disposing of containers, caring for PPE, and personal decontamination.
Pesticides are essential for keeping crops healthy, but the job isn’t done when the spray tank is empty. Every Saturday, Food For Mzansi shares practical tips for farmers and farm workers. This week, we’re covering the critical steps to follow after a day’s work in the field. Safe cleanup protects people, crops, and the environment.
One of the biggest mistakes on farms is not properly cleaning spraying equipment. Leftover herbicides, insecticides, or fungicides can contaminate the next day’s tank, ruining crops and wasting money.
Always use the right quantity of chemical, and when the tank is empty, decontaminate the system.
Many suppliers recommend using a tank cleaning agent. Fill the tank halfway with water and flush the system, including pipes, gauges, and pressure components. Spray this rinse water over farm roads or areas where it can safely break down under sunlight.
Follow with a clean-water rinse to ensure the tank is ready for the next day. Never leave spray tanks or backpacks in direct sunlight. Heat and UV light can damage plastics, rubber, and seals. Store equipment in a cool, shaded place.
Triple rinse your containers
Empty pesticide containers must be handled responsibly. The triple rinse method ensures safety and maximises chemical use:
- Drain the container over the spray tank for 30 seconds.
- Add one-quarter volume of clean water, shake for 30 seconds, and pour back into the tank.
- Repeat this two more times.
After rinsing, puncture the containers so they can’t be reused, then store them safely until a CropLifeSA-certified recycler can collect them.
This keeps plastic out of the environment and supports the circular economy, where recycled containers can become items like furniture, piping, or plastic wood. Never bury or burn containers — it’s illegal and hazardous.
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Disposing of obsolete pesticides
Sometimes pesticides become obsolete due to crop changes, weather, or regulations. These are hazardous substances and must be disposed of properly. Contact CropLifeSA to create a legal disposal plan.
Obsolete pesticides are incinerated at licensed facilities, and farmers receive a certificate of disposal. This prevents environmental contamination and protects human health.
Care for PPE and yourself
After spraying, wash all PPE thoroughly, repair or replace damaged items, and store them in the assigned locker. PPE should never leave the farm and must not be worn for unrelated work.
Personal decontamination is also key: take a cool shower with gentle soap. Cool water keeps pores closed, reducing pesticide absorption. Hot or warm water can open pores and increase risk.
Knowledge protects everyone
Following these steps after a day in the field keeps your crops, your team, and the environment safe. From tank cleaning to container disposal, PPE care, and personal hygiene — the small actions after spraying make a big difference.
- With this, our five-week series on practical pesticide tips wraps up. Remember, safe farming is smart farming.
READ NEXT: Safe pesticide storage: Protect your farm, people and planet
