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Fundamentals for safe chemical storage on the farmFundamentals for safe chemical storage on the farm

For the Health of It: Here are some critical safety guidelines for storing chemicals properly on your farming operation.

January 17, 2025

3 Min Read
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SAFE STORAGE: Chemicals are a part of modern farming practices for many operations, but keeping those chemicals in safe storage to protect family, farm workers and animals is crucial. Curt Arens

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By Ellen Duysen

Take a walk through your barns and shops, and you will see a wide range of chemicals, including pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and cleaning agents. Improper storage of these chemicals can lead to accidents, environmental contamination and health risks for your workers, family and animals. Taking time to understand how to handle and store chemicals safely can reduce these risks and protect both people and the environment.

Know the chemicals you’re using. Before storing any chemicals, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specific products on hand. Read the labels and the safety data sheets to understand each chemical's hazards, handling instructions and recommended storage conditions. Different chemicals may require different storage environments, such as temperature controls or ventilation, to ensure they remain stable and safe. Remember that “the label is the law.”

Choose an appropriate storage location. Storage locations should be isolated, secure areas that are not easily accessible to unauthorized personnel, children or animals. A chemical storage area should ideally be:

  • Well-ventilated. A well-ventilated space, such as a separate storage shed or building, is essential to prevent the buildup of toxic fumes.

  • Dry and cool. Heat and moisture can degrade chemicals, making them less effective or even dangerous. Keep chemicals in a dry, cool location away from direct sunlight or sources of heat.

  • Away from food and water sources. To prevent accidental contamination, chemical storage areas should be located far from areas where food or drinking water is stored or used.

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Use proper containers. All chemicals should be stored in their original containers with intact labels. If you must transfer a chemical to a different container, ensure that it is properly labeled with the chemical name, hazard information and any special handling or disposal instructions. Use only containers designed for chemical storage to prevent leaks, corrosion or reactions.

Segregate chemicals. Different chemicals can react in dangerous ways if stored together. Some pesticides and fertilizers can create hazardous fumes or explosions if mixed. Group chemicals based on compatibility — store acids separately from alkalis, and keep oxidizers away from flammable materials.

Install secondary containment. A secondary containment system is a critical safety measure in case of spills or leaks. Use spill-containment trays to catch any accidental drips or leaks, especially for liquid chemicals. The containment system should be able to hold at least 110% of the volume of the largest container in the storage area.

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Label and record. Every storage area should have clear, visible labels indicating the types of chemicals stored within. Labeling chemical storage is essential for the safety of firefighters in case of a fire.

Regular inspections and maintenance. Regular inspections of your chemical storage area should be conducted to ensure that containers remain sealed, labels are legible and secondary containment systems are intact.

Train and educate employees and family. Ensure that all workers handling or storing chemicals are adequately trained in safety procedures, including how to respond to spills, leaks or exposure. Ensure that chemical storage areas are off limits to children.

Proper chemical storage is a fundamental part of maintaining a safe farming or ranching environment. By selecting the right location, using appropriate containers, segregating chemicals and implementing safety systems, you can reduce the risks associated with chemical use on the farm.

Duysen is a research assistant professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health and is coordinator of the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health.   

For the Spanish-version pdf of this same article, download the document.

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