Storage & Safety Data Sheets


Safety Data Sheets


Safe Handling and Storage of Fertilizers

Storage

Good storage and house-keeping practices are always important to ensure a safe workplace.  Where possible, fertilizers should be stored in a closed, secure storage place to protect the product from the weather (sun, rain etc.).

Ideal storage conditions include:

  • A clean environment, free of dust/dirt.
  • A dry, well-ventilated and sheltered place with the bags on pallets.
  • Protected from moisture, which can cause lumps and dust, influencing dissolving capabilities.

Spills

Opening fertilizer product containers, measuring amounts, and transferring fertilizer to the delivery system involves some level of risk from spills. Secondary containment should be used for fertilizer stock tanks routinely; spill clean-up materials should be used for liquids (e.g., absorbent materials) and solids (e.g., shovel, dust pan, broom and empty and/or buckets) should be available within the general area.


Safety Measures

Wear Gloves. Prolonged skin contact may cause some irritation.

Wear Masks. High dust concentrations of air-borne material may cause irritation of the nose and upper respiratory tract with symptoms such as sore throat and coughing.

Wear Goggles. May cause eye irritation following contact.

Always wear chemical goggles and adequate skin coverage.

Inspect equipment before each day’s work and correct any abnormal conditions.

Wear protective gloves when handling big bags.

Bags should not be re-used after emptying. Dispose of them in an approved waste processor.

Clean up any spills immediately and make sure that no spilled product ends up in the water or sewage system.


First-Aid Measures

Skin Contact

  • Wash the affected area with soap and water

Eye Contact

  • Flush/irrigate eyes with copious amounts of water for at least 10 minutes.
  • Obtain medical attention if eye irritation persists.

Ingestion

  • DO NOT induce vomiting.
  • Drink water or milk.
  • Obtain medical attention if more than a small quantity has been swallowed.

Inhalation

  • Remove from source of exposure to dusts.
  • Obtain medical attention if ill effects occur.

Personal Protection

  • Wear suitable gloves when handling the product over long periods.
  • Use suitable dust respirator if dust concentration is high.
  • After handling product, wash hands and observe good hygiene practice.