From fuels to pesticides to fertilizers, working with chemicals is essential to any farming operation. Understanding the effects these chemicals can have on our bodies is essential to keeping ourselves safe and healthy. “When it comes to chemicals, farmers need to ask three questions: How can this chemical harm me? How can I protect myself? What do I do in case of exposure?” says Nicole Sherman, Health and Safety Consultant with WSPS.

In addition to the core farming activities, there are often other types of work being done on the farm to support its operations. “For example, we have to remember that many farms also have machine shops onsite where repair and maintenance work is done. This work involves chemicals as well, such as solvents, lubricants and compressed gas for welding purposes,” explains Nicole.

The most common way for a chemical to enter the body is through inhalation; however, ingestion, absorption, and injection are other routes of entry. “When you take a drink from your coffee cup after it has been exposed to chemical particulate that is airborne, or you eat something without washing your hands after you have been handling chemicals, those chemicals easily find their way into your body,” says Nicole. Symptoms can range from headache, coughing and shortness of breath to dizziness, vomiting, and unconsciousness. “Chemical burns are also a possibility,” says Nicole. “Depending on the chemical, death can occur in minutes and possibly seconds,” she says, emphasizing the potential severity of exposure and explaining why awareness and training are so important.

Training, awareness, and due diligence

“Everyone should be aware of the hazards associated with exposure to common chemicals such as propane, solvents, and lubricants. These are widely used for so many things, so people are likely to come across them, which means everyone should understand the risk of exposure,” says Nicole. “Some chemicals, such as pesticides, require certification to administer, so not everyone is going to use them. Those who administer them must be trained and certified in how to use them safely,” she notes.

Whether you work directly with a certain chemical or not, awareness is very important. A farm worker may not require training on how to safely use a particular chemical because they will never use it; however, they must be able to recognize it if they come across it. This is why training on chemicals and proper storage matter.

Ontario Regulation 860 – Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) does not apply to farming operations; however, employers need to ensure they are taking every precaution reasonable in the circumstances to protect the worker, as outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act 25(2)(h). Nicole recommends that farm operators provide training that allows workers to recognize, use, handle, store chemicals, and respond in an emergency if exposure occurs.

When you see a chemical hazard symbol on a product label, you need to know what it means so that you are aware of the hazards associated with the product. You also need to understand how to read the product’s safety data sheet (SDS) to learn how to safely handle and store the product. “The safety data sheet will outline what type of PPE is needed. For example, it will state the type of glove required to handle the product or the type of respirator if applicable,” explains Nicole.

“Providing chemical training supports your due diligence when you have chemicals present in the workplace,” says Nicole. “Keep training up-to-date and documented.” Doing so will allow you to demonstrate the steps you are taking to protect workers from injury or illness.

Reduce your exposure to chemicals

In addition to providing chemical training to all those working with or near chemicals on your farm, Nicole offers these tips to help reduce everyone’s risk of exposure to hazardous chemicals.

1. Site-specific chemical training—complete site-specific chemical training that focuses on the specific chemicals used at your farm, where they are stored, how to use them safely, and how to respond in an emergency.
2. STOP – THINK – ACT—Use this approach to assess the hazards associated with certain chemicals and develop procedures that will reduce the risk of exposure. Stop before starting a task that uses a specific chemical. Think about how you can reduce your risk of exposure and read the SDS to learn the best way to protect yourself. Act on what you have learned and take the necessary steps to perform your task safely.
3. Labelling and storage—Always store chemicals in proper containers with clear labels. “Chemicals can easily end up in the hands of children when proper precautions are not taken—particularly if they are not in proper containers, labelled, and sealed,” says Nicole, as she recalls seeing chemicals temporarily stored in drinking bottles.
4. Inspection and maintenance—Regular inspection and maintenance of personal protective equipment will help ensure you always have equipment on hand when you need it. Train farm workers to perform inspections before each use.
5. Good ventilation—Ensure storage areas are well ventilated to avoid an unexpected build-up of fumes or gases.

How WSPS can help

Consulting

WSPS’ agriculture health and safety experts can help you address the chemical hazards present on your farm and develop training for workers.

Training

• Hazard and Risk: Identify, Assess, Control, and Evaluate (eCourse, 3 hours)
• Due Diligence in Occupational Health and Safety (eCourse, 1 hour)
• JHSC Certification Training – Part 2 Agriculture (online instructor-led, 2 days)
• WHMIS: Awareness for Agriculture (online instructor-led, 2 hours)

Resources

• Chemical Safety (video)
• Safety First Tips for New Workers | Chemical Safety (video)
• New Worker Orientation: Seasonal Agricultural Workers (video)
• Farm Safety: Do you know your chemical safety symbols? (poster)
• Chemical Handling 4 Control Your Chemical Handling Risks (video)
• Farm Safety Roundup, Ep 8: Staying safe when working around and handling chemicals (podcast)
• Guide to Occupational Health and Safety for Farming Operations (MLITSD resource)

The information in this article is accurate as of its publication date.