2.3 Safety handling of chemicals

1. Core Safety Principle

All chemical inoculants must be treated as hazardous agricultural inputs—even at low doses.

Never assume “plant chemicals are safe for humans.”

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – MANDATORY

Minimum PPE

  • Nitrile or rubber gloves
  • Face mask or respirator
  • Safety goggles or face shield
  • Long sleeves and long pants
  • Closed shoes or boots

High-Risk Situations (mixing, windy conditions)

  • Double gloves
  • Full face shield
  • Respirator if fumes or fine mist are present

3. Safe Handling Procedures

Before Handling

  • Read label and SOP
  • Prepare measuring tools (no hand-pouring)
  • Ensure clean water is available
  • Work in a well-ventilated area

During Mixing

  • Add chemical to water, never water to chemical
  • Use only clean, dedicated containers
  • Measure precisely—never estimate
  • Avoid splashing or shaking violently
  • Do not mix with:
    • Unknown products
    • Fertilizers
    • Pesticides
      (unless protocol explicitly allows)

During Application

  • Apply only to intended inoculation points
  • Keep face away from injection site
  • Avoid leaks and dripping
  • Do not over-inject
  • Stop immediately if PPE is compromised

After Application

  • Seal containers tightly
  • Wash tools with soap and water
  • Remove PPE carefully (gloves last)
  • Wash hands, arms, and face thoroughly

4. Chemical Storage Rules

  • Store in original labeled containers
  • Keep in a cool, dry, shaded place
  • Do NOT store near:
    • Food
    • Drinking water
    • Animal feed
  • Lock storage area if possible
  • Keep away from children and animals

5. Transport Safety

  • Transport upright only
  • Use secondary containment (plastic box)
  • Never transport inside passenger cabins
  • Do not expose to heat or sunlight

6. Spill & Accident Response

  • Small Spill
    • Wear PPE
    • Absorb with soil, sand, or sawdust
    • Collect and seal waste
    • Wash area with water
  • Skin Contact
    • Wash immediately with soap & water
    • Remove contaminated clothing
  • Eye Contact
    • Flush with clean water for 15 minutes
    • Seek medical help
  • Inhalation
    • Move to fresh air immediately
    • Seek medical attention if symptoms persist
  • Ingestion
    • Do NOT induce vomiting
    • Seek medical assistance immediately

7. Disposal Guidelines

  • Never pour chemicals into:
    • Soil
    • Rivers
    • Canals
  • Neutralize or dilute only if instructed
  • Triple-rinse empty containers
  • Puncture and dispose according to local DA / DENR guidelines
  • Never reuse containers

8. Environmental Protection

  • Do not apply near water sources
  • Avoid application during rain
  • Prevent runoff
  • Use only recommended dosage
  • Rotate inoculation points

9. Training & Authorization

  • Only trained personnel may handle chemicals
  • Maintain application records
  • Follow BarIno SOP strictly
  • No improvisation

One-Line Farmer Reminder

Wear protection, measure correctly, and never rush chemical handling.