Coshh - The Use Of Pesticides In The Agricultural Industry

There are a number hazardous products used in the agricultural industry which can be damaging to employees health.

Such substances include:

Dusts from plants, animals and compost materials

Pesticides and feed additives

Silage making products

Fertilisers

Animal diseases

Vehicle exhaust fumes.

Pesticides are a particular hazard to human health and will be examined more closely in this article. In contrast with industrial chemicals, pesticides are solely developed to act on living tissues. Their purpose is to protect plants and it does this by killing and deterring animals. Pesticides include herbicides (weedkillers), fungicides, insecticides or bird and animal repellants. Anyone involved with the agricultural industry must ensure they store and transport pesticides carefully.

There are strict guidelines imposed by CoSHH law with regard to the use of pesticides. It requires employers to carry out CoSHH risk assessments to examine and control the hazards associated with pesticides by eliminating exposure to them, controlling any necessary exposure and monitoring the health of those who use pesticides.

It is very difficult to eliminate all exposure, thus employers should try and look for an alternative substance to use. Alternatively, employers should examine how to use pesticides in a safe manner. For example, it may be possible to replace a powdered pesticide with a less dangerous liquid equivalent.

There must be controls in place if an employee is exposed to pesticides. Good ventilation is crucial, as are sufficient washing facilities and the use of personal protective equipment (gloves, masks etc).

Sufficient training and information should be given to employees. Part of the training process for the use of pesticides should include reading the product's label for instructions on usage. Cheap alternative pesticides should not be used. DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) or HSE (Health and Safety Executive)officially approve pesticides and their number will be on the product label.

Health surveillance is also part of CoSHH legislation. Workers health needs to be monitored if they are using pesticides.

The transportation of pesticides is another key area for consideration. Pesticides should not be transported on self-propelled equipment or in a tractor cab. They should however, be stored in a locked container and carried on the outside of a vehicle. The container should be labelled appropriately and needs to be leak proof.

There are also strict guidelines covering the disposal of pesticides. There are a number of Codes of Practice and Guidance in place to help employers meet their obligations.