What to do in the event of an emergency

Emergency management is about being prepared and knowing what to do in the event of an emergency.

Emergencies can be triggered by fire, spillage, poisoning, earthquake and flood. They can happen on your property, in the field or in the spray shed or on public roads.

If you are ever faced with an emergency involving hazardous substances, try to remember to follow these seven steps:

1. Check that you are safe
2. Raise the alarm: get help before you take action
3. Secure the area: make sure that emergency services will be able to reach the area
4. Approach with care: e.g. keep upwind of any fumes
5. Identify the substances involved e.g. check the chemical manifest
6. Assess the situation and what needs to be done
7. Respond – follow the emergency response plan

Be prepared

Always have on hand a first aid kit containing basic items, plus those specifically required for the treatment of agrichemical poisoning.

• Check the agrichemical’s label or SDS for instructions on the correct first aid treatment for that product.  
• Familiarise yourself and your staff with the signs and symptoms of poisoning and the recommended actions to be taken in the event of an accidental poisoning, including where to obtain medical assistance.

If a spill occurs:

• remove the contaminated clothing
• wash your skin immediately with cold water. (Soap and water should be available at the storage area/loading site and on the spray rig, to allow prompt washing of exposed areas if skin contact occurs.)
• if you get chemical in your eyes, flush immediately with clean water.

More info
Refer to Product Safety Cards or HazNotes for threshold values for emergency plans.
The Emergency procedures: stop, think, act is a useful aid that may be adapted to suit your business.