Pesticides help keep crops healthy, but storing them the wrong way can put people, animals, and the environment at risk. That’s why every Saturday for the next five weeks, Food For Mzansi will share practical tips for farmers and farm workers. First up: how to store pesticides according to the law.
Your pesticide store isn’t just a shed. It’s a safety hub. CropLife South Africa reminds us that the law says it should be above the 50-metre floodline (ideally above the 100-year floodline) and at least 500 metres away from water sources, homes, schools, and clinics.
If it’s part of a bigger building, it must be separated by a firewall, and all flammable vegetation within 50 metres should be cleared to reduce fire risk.The structure of the store is critical. Floors should be sealed concrete, walls made of strong brick or steel, and doors lockable steel. Windows should not open. They only need to let in enough light to read labels and safety signs.
Ventilation — either natural, such as air bricks, or mechanical, like extractor fans or whirlybirds — is essential to keep fresh air flowing and prevent toxic fumes from building up indoors. Electrical installations must be flame-proof, LED type, and certified according to SABS standards by a qualified electrician. Cutting corners here is not an option; safety is the priority.
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Stack smart, store right
Organisation inside the store is just as important as its structure. Stack herbicides below insecticides and fungicides to avoid accidental crop damage. Solid formulations like powders or granules must be kept separate from liquids.
Nothing should be stored directly on the floor or against walls. Use pallets, racks, or shelves depending on the product size. Restricted products, also known as group 1, category B or highly hazardous pesticides, must be double-locked and kept under strict control. Food, inorganic solid fertiliser, and animal feed should not be stored in the pesticide store as they can absorb emitted fumes.
Following the FIFO (first in, first out) principle ensures that older stock is used before expiry, reducing waste and risk. Detailed records should always be maintained, and a responsible person assigned to manage inventory.
Knowledge protects everyone
Proper signage, fencing, and security are crucial to keep both people and animals out of harm’s way. Bilingual warning signs must be displayed at entrances and clearly list emergency contacts, including the farm owner or manager, local clinic/hospital, 24hr poison information centre, local SAPS, local ambulance and fire services.
Inside the store, symbolic signs should show where fire equipment, first aid kits, and personal protective equipment are located. Training employees on what these signs mean is essential to prevent accidents.
A well-organised, compliant pesticide store protects your crops, your team, and the environment. Safe storage isn’t complicated. It’s all about following the rules, being organised, and keeping everyone informed.
- Next Saturday, we’ll dive into tips for transporting pesticides safely, so stay tuned for more practical advice you can use on the farm.
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