Compiled by J Fuls (Pr Eng)

The chemicals used in agriculture are intended to kill things. Some are made to kill plants and others to kill insects and other pests. Some chemicals can even kill humans and animals. This means that we are working with poisons and we need to know how to use and handle these dangerous agricultural inputs.

This month we look at the different warning labels on chemical packaging.

We thank the ARC – Agricultural Engineering in South Africa, who made this article available to the readers of ProAgri Zambia.

It is important that we know everything about the chemicals before we open the can or bottle to use it.

The label

Whenever you buy chemicals, make sure there is a label on the bottle or can. Often there is also an additional paper with information that should come with the chemicals. This label and paper convey very important information about the chemicals, and must not be lost. Store it in a safe place with the container. Always read the label and the paper, or ask someone to help you until you understand everything.

The label on the bottle has important
information about the danger of the
chemicals and how to handle it safely:

The coloured strip on the label

 

Each picture on the coloured strip also tells a story about how to protect yourself, as well as other safety information.

Pictures on the label

The pictures on the label have the following meaning:

Next month we shall look at the correct manner to handle chemicals.

Published with acknowledgement to the ARC – Agricultural Engineering for the use of their manuals. Visit www.arc.agric.za for more information.