Chemicals are an integral part of agricultural operations, used to aid in the production of high-yielding crops, pasture, and livestock. Farmers use an extensive range of chemicals in their everyday work to increase productivity and grow quality produce. Unfortunately, many of these substances can be hazardous to people, animals, and the environment. Therefore, they must be handled, used and stored with care. 

Since farming is regarded as one of the riskiest occupations, safety information and best practices are crucial in improving farm safety. This is where safety Ag training in Toowoomba comes into the picture. It gives farm workers the awareness and information they require to reduce safety hazards.

Risks and hazards in farms

As we have mentioned earlier, farmers have to deal with hazardous substances. That translates to a lot of risks and hazards in the workplace. This is why it is essential to check the label and SDS of all chemicals to learn:

• If the substance is toxic and how toxic it is
• The impact of the substance on the environment 
• How to protect themselves, and other workers 
• How to prevent them from impacting the environment 
• About first aid

Farm safety: a brief overview

Farm safety is a fundamental part of managing a farm. Working on a farm is a rewarding experience with many opportunities. However, it also comes with learning how to stay safe, identify and reduce danger.

Agriculture safety training gives farmers and contractors the information and knowledge required to reduce workplace hazards and avoid fatalities. For example, the Chemical safety training course provided by Country Co enables you to identify the risks and dangers of handling pesticides & chemicals such as herbicides, fungicides and insecticides.

What is chemical accreditation?

When individuals or businesses work with chemicals to ensure their safe application, transport and storage, they need chemical accreditation training. For example, if you are a herbicide user, you must have your chemical accreditation and potentially your ACDC licence when you use chemicals in the following areas:

• Local government
• Parks & gardens
• Mining and gas 
• Weeds control
• Sewerage works
• Hospitals, schools and nursing homes
• National parks and Zoos

Why are training and certifications necessary?

Farmers must be aware of the chemicals they use on the farm and their risks. In addition, they must be trained to handle them. According to the Agricultural Chemicals Distribution Control (ACDC) Act, farmers and contractors must be certified to use chemicals on the farms. 

Agricultural training helps you hone the skills and knowledge needed to be an approved chemical handler. Various training providers offer formal training to meet the standards set out by the laws.

Countryco offers various educational courses and training on ensuring farm safety and handling agricultural emergencies. Please be sure to refer to the information mentioned on the website. Register yourself in the right course and obtain a licence to become an approved professional working in the agriculture & veterinary domain.