Pesticide Storage, Transport, and Disposal

Improper storage, transport, and disposal of pesticides poses serious risks to human health, livestock, and the environment. South African law (Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act 36 of 1947) sets out specific requirements for pesticide management.

Storage Requirements

The Pesticide Store

• •Dedicated, lockable building; not attached to housing or food storage
• •Well-ventilated with natural or forced ventilation
• •Concrete floor with a sealed impermeable surface (no drains to groundwater)
• •Fire extinguisher and sand bucket available at the entrance
• •Eyewash station nearby
• •Warning signs on all doors and windows
• •Emergency contact numbers posted

Storage Conditions

• •Store pesticides in original containers with labels intact
• •Keep separate from food, feed, seed, and fertiliser
• •Separate highly hazardous products from less hazardous ones
• •Store flammables away from ignition sources
• •Do not store in direct sunlight or extreme heat (>40°C)
• •Keep dry — moisture can degrade product and damage packaging

Security and Access

• •Store must be kept locked at all times
• •Only authorised, trained personnel should have access
• •Maintain a stock register (product, quantity, date received, date used)

Transport Safety

• •Transport in original, sealed containers
• •Never carry pesticides in the passenger compartment of a vehicle
• •Secure containers to prevent movement; use dedicated bins with lids
• •Keep transport vehicle well-ventilated
• •Always carry the product MSDS/SDS during transport
• •Do not transport with food, feed, or people without separation

Disposal of Empty Containers

Triple rinsing (mandatory before disposal):

1. •Fill container ¼ full with water; replace lid and shake for 30 seconds
2. •Pour rinsate into spray tank
3. •Repeat three times
4. •Puncture the container to prevent reuse (pierce the bottom)
5. •Return rinsed containers to an authorised collector or designated disposal site

Never:

• •Burn pesticide containers
• •Bury containers
• •Dump in rivers, dams, or stormwater drains
• •Reuse containers for food or water

Disposal of Unused Pesticide

• •Contact the supplier or manufacturer for guidance on outdated or surplus product
• •Many suppliers have take-back programmes
• •Never pour excess pesticide down drains or onto the ground

Emergency Spill Response

1. •Contain the spill with sand or absorbent material
2. •Prevent spill from reaching water bodies or drains
3. •Wear full PPE before attempting clean-up
4. •Collect absorbed material in sealed containers for proper disposal
5. •Report significant spills to local environmental authorities