Raising awareness of farm chemical safety - Farm Safety Week

🌾🚜 22nd – 26th July 2024 is Farm Safety Week and we’re showing our support to the Yellow Wellies Farm Safety Foundation by emphasising the importance of proper chemical use on farms.  

Mishandling chemicals is one of the top contributors to agricultural-related injuries, and a lot of accidents can be easily avoided if the correct care is taken in the first place. Lodi UK are leading manufacturers of pest control chemicals, with safety and education being topics we're extremely passionate about. To help you avoid any unnecessary accidents, we’re sharing our 5 top tips for safe chemical use & handling on farms: 

1. HANDLE WITH CARE  Read and follow label instructions carefully to ensure proper use of chemicals. Exercise caution, prepare only the amount needed for application and use the proper equipment, securely closing containers after use. If you have any doubts always contact a professional or the product manufacturer. For more information on general health and safety when using hazardous substances visit https://www.hse.gov.uk/agriculture/topics/pesticides.htm 

1. SAFETY FIRST  When handling chemicals always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, coveralls and proper footwear, in some cases a respirator may be required as inhalation of fumes can be toxic. It is important to wear PPE whenever you may come into contact with chemicals, including the mixing, application and clean-up stages. You never know when spillages or leaks might occur, so wearing suitable gear is vital, thoroughly rinsing and washing personal protection equipment after use. 

1. LOCK & KEY  Store chemicals and related materials in a designated and secure location, locked cabinet, isolated room or separate building. Restricting access and using appropriate signage will warn others of hazards. To prevent contamination, keep chemicals away from food, water sources and livestock, out of reach from children and pets. Store in the original container which is visibly labelled and regularly check the products to ensure no leaks or damage have occurred.  

1. BRING IN THE PROFESSIONALS  If ever unsure or under qualified, always seek professional help and employ a qualified pest control contractor to undertake a comprehensive. When it comes to rodent control, ensure you are following the CRRU Code of Best Practice https://www.thinkwildlife.org/code-of-best-practice/crru-code/ 

1. THINK WILDLIFE  When it comes to chemicals it’s not just human health and wellbeing that needs to be considered. Chemicals and baits used in the control of rodents and insects commonly found on farm, are in most cases poisonous. Dangerous and in some cases lethal if not used correctly, they are potential sources of contamination to wildlife and environments. After use, chemicals should always be disposed of correctly or stored appropriately.  

We all have a responsibility to protect the world that we live in. On the environment front line, Farmers and landowners are primary custodians of the UK landscape and its wildlife. A huge stewardship responsibility for which they receive insufficient recognition. Controlling pests without putting wildlife and their livelihood at risk is an essential part of their everyday job, and one of the ways to do so is by implementing an Integrated Pest Management Strategy (IPM). Described by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, as “A sustainable approach to managing pests by combining biological, cultural, physical and chemical tools in a way that minimises economic, health and environmental risks.” An effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices and chemical control. Using chemicals can be done so safely when precautions are taken and users are correctly educated. 

Part of one of Europe’s largest family-owned manufacturers of pest control chemicals, Lodi UK are leaders in farming pest control. Our expert team are always on-hand at the end of the phone to support farmers with any questions or queries about the safe handling & correct application of pest control products on farms. Lodi UK offers an extensive range of products for insect & rodent control, stored grain protection, ground-care and amenities. Proud to support British Agriculture and champion the UK Farming Industry with sustainable solutions.