It is important that pesticide chemicals and spray equipment be safely and securely stored. They should be stored in a separate shed or at least in a separated and locked part of an existing equipment shed. The shed or storage area must be well away from dwellings and must only be used for equipment and maintenance materials. It must never be used for food storage.
The storage shed should:
- be constructed of fire resistant materials
- be well ventilated
- be secure and lockable
- have water available
- have a floor that can be washed if spills occur. The floor area must have raised edges so that any water and spilled chemical can be contained
- have a drain system and disposal area with a pit nearby so that any excess or spilled materials can be washed down and drained away. This area can also be used for decontaminating equipment
- be labelled clearly on the outside that there are dangerous materials stored inside
- have high metal shelves for the storage of pesticides
Fig. 5.41: A pesticide storage shed.
Top of Page
There are rules which should be followed for the safe storage of pesticides in the shed:
- Pesticides should always be kept in their original containers. The outside of the containers should be kept clean and the labels kept in good condition so they can always be read.
- Containers should be checked regularly for leaks or corrosion
- Protective clothing and equipment should not be stored close to pesticides
- Spray equipment should be stored in the pesticide storage shed and should be hung up so that any water left in after washing will drain out