Chemical pesticides have to be stored carefully, in particular those of high toxicity, because they can cause fatal poisoning if not. This article discusses some of the guidelines for storing chemical pesticides.
Pesticides that are high in toxicity
Many products available today are classified as having low toxicity and may be stored without special precautions as long as they’re carried out of the reach of children and pets. In contrast, some materials are high-toxicity pesticides, which means that they pose a serious risk if ingested or even touched. Examples include herbicides such as 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) compound and metolachlor; insecticides such as carbaryl, chlorpyrifos and diazinon. These materials can be highly toxic if they’re ingested. They can also cause harm through skin contact, inhalation of the vapors or eye contact with the solution. The almacenamiento de pesticidas conditions for these materials vary, depending on the route of exposure.
All of these materials must be stored in tight containers, with tightly-sealed lids. They can also be stored in a cool and dry area, away from direct sunlight. High-toxicity pesticides should not be transported in vehicles where they could easily get into anyone or anything. Only a few drops of the material should be added to insecticides or disinfectants before they’re placed inside special containers designed to prevent leakage.
Pesticides that are flammable
Some products are flammable, and this is particularly relevant for those materials that fall into this category. Any storage of these products must be carefully planned, using fire extinguishers specially designed for use with flammable chemicals. Pesticide labels must also indicate the presence of a fire extinguishing agent.
The safest option is to keep flammable pesticides inside a protective container. This container should be made of metal or hard plastic and kept in an area that’s well-ventilated but not subject to drafts. Equipment and containers used for storing flammable materials must be cleaned carefully, and all traces of the material must be removed from surfaces before other chemicals are stored nearby. Extinguishers that contain carbon dioxide or aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) are ideal for fires involving these types of materials.
Pesticides that are corrosive
Some chemicals such as chloropicrin, chlorine and hydrochloric acid are highly corrosive. They can cause severe skin damage if they’re splashed onto the body. They also pose a risk if they’re swallowed or breathed in. These materials must be stored in a non-metal container, which should be made of glass or plastic. The lids should be strong enough to withstand any pressure that might develop inside the container when the material is under high pressure.
