How to store chemicals in the shed so they do not become a danger in your own home

Agricultural chemicals are used only a few times a year but stored all year round, so most of the risk lies in storage, not in use.

Five basic rules

1. Always keep the original labelled container

Decanting into soft drink bottles, fish sauce bottles or plastic bags is the most common cause of accidentally swallowing chemicals, especially for children and the elderly. If the original label has come off or faded, write the product name on the container clearly.

Do not store them in the kitchen, under a raised house where children can reach, together with seed grain that will be eaten, or near wells or household water tanks.

A lockable cabinet or room, in the shade, not too hot, and with ventilation. Heat makes containers expand and leak, and makes some substances deteriorate faster.

That way, if a liquid leaks it will not run down onto what is below. Do not place them directly on bare ground; use a tray or base that can contain liquid.

Chemicals have expiry dates. Products that have deteriorated do not just stop working; they become waste that has to be disposed of, which is more trouble than using them up on schedule.

Sand or sawdust for soaking up spills, clean water for rinsing eyes and body, a list of the products stored with their purchase dates, and emergency numbers posted where they can be clearly seen.

It is not only the sprayer who goes into the shed. Children who come to play, relatives who come to help and people who come to repair things can all get in if it is not locked. Locking it is not about being possessive; it protects people who do not know what is inside.
Important note
This article explains general safety principles. It is not a recommendation to use any particular chemical. Mixing rates, the crops a product may be used on and the waiting periods required differ by product and change with government notifications. Always treat the product label as the authority, and consult an agricultural specialist or our staff before deciding to use it.