SAFE WORK PROCEDURES

FERTILISERS
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: A current MSDS for the product or substance must be available in areas where fertilisers are stored, handled or used.
Task sequence
Identified hazards in task
Key processes to be followed
Precautions / PPE required
1. Storage
Toxic gases
Store fertilisers tightly sealed in cool, dry, well-ventilated storage, away
Check regularly for leaks or spills.
from oxidising agents and foodstuffs.
Keep packages dry at all times.
Store bagged fertilisers under cover and out of direct sunlight.
Store in open for short period only
Store away from other chemicals, e.g., insecticides, fungicides & herbicides. May be incompatible with
May release toxic gases when heated to decomposition.
oxidising agents.
2. Handling and use
Exposure to chemicals
Read product label and refer to MSDS before use.
Follow manufacturers safety
Avoid contact of fertilisers with eyes and skin, and avoid inhalation.
instructions for handling and use.
Prohibit eating, drinking and smoking in areas where fertilisers are stored,
No smoking in work areas.
handled or used.
Wash hands after work.
Observe good personal hygiene. Wear long sleeves and trousers, and launder Wear eye (dust proof goggles)
work clothes separately to reduce contamination risk.
and hand protection (rubber or
Do not inhale dust use only in well-ventilated areas.
PVC gloves or gauntlets).
Provide mechanical extraction in poorly-ventilated areas.
Wear P1 particulate dust mask.
Wash hands and skin thoroughly with a mild soap after handling or use.
3. Precautions for use
Toxic effects
Some products (ureas, etc) can be toxic to livestock, pets and wildlife.
Immediate treatment required in
Keep animals out of treated areas until absorbed into ground.
cases of livestock poisoning.
Environmental risk
Fertilisers can stimulate weed and algal growth in static surface waters.
Do not allow fertilisers to enter
Nitrate can contaminate surface and ground water sources.
drains, dams or watercourses.
4. Disposal
Environmental risk
Ensure product is covered with moist soil to prevent generation of dust and
Dispose of waste correctly.
dispose of at approved landfill site.
5. First Aid
Eye contact
Flush eyes with water for minimum 10minutes.
Seek medical advice if irritation
Skin contact
Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water.
occurs or if symptoms persist.
Inhalation
Remove patient to fresh air.
Ingestion
Seek medical advice if any abdominal symptoms occur.
PRECAUTIONS:
The following precautions are to be observed, and suitable
safety signs as indicated displayed in areas where these
procedures are carried out.

SWP266 Version 1.2

ASSA Pty Ltd

ThisSafeWorkProcedurewasgeneratedon29/11/2013byASSAPtyLtdforuseonlybyCityofDarwin.

www.assaohs.com.au

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