Always read the pesticide label for specific storage requirements. The chemical and the container in which it was purchased must be maintained in good condition. This is necessary to ensure that the material remains useful and to avoid environmental or human health hazards. Your pesticide storage area should meet the following requirements:
- Easy to lock
- Well-ventilated
- Properly lighted when in use
- Dry - protected from flooding and high humidity
- Protected from extreme heat and freezing
- Spacious enough to allow for separation of herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and fertilizers, if all these types of materials are to be stored
- Enclosed in such a manner that leaks and/or spills can be contained and cleaned without compromising the soil and water quality in the vicinity
Also be sure to properly manage the chemical storage area.
- Cleanup materials (absorbents, water) must be readily available.
- Keep chemicals in their original containers with a legible product label attached.
- Do not store chemicals with or near food, medicine, or cleaning supplies.
- Do not store chemicals with or near seed or animal feed.
- Organize products in storage so they are accessible and visible.
- Mark all containers with the date of purchase. Keep an inventory and use older chemicals first.
- Routinely inspect your storage area. Check containers for damage or leaks.
- Dispose of unwanted or outdated material according to the label recommendations.
- Flammable materials, such as fuels and paints, should be stored at a low level and away from other materials, so they can be effectively cleaned up if spilled. Special storage cabinets made for flammable materials can be used to store these materials safely and without creating a fire hazard within your structure.
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