DRAFT UGANDA STANDARD  
  DUS 1793  
First Edition  
2017 -11-24 
 
 
 Reference number  
DUS 1793: 2017  
© UNBS 2017   
  
The handling, storage and disposal of  pesticides  
 
 DUS 1793 : 2017  
ii © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 Compliance with this standard does not, of itself confer immunity from legal obligations  
A Uganda Standard does not purport to include all necessary provisions of a contract. Users are 
responsible for it s correct application  
© UNBS 2017  
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilised in any 
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without prior written 
permission from UNBS.  
Requests for permission to reproduce this document should be addressed to  
The Executive Director  
Uganda National Bureau of Standards  
P.O. Box 6329  
Kampala  
Uganda  
Tel: +256 41 7 333 2 50/1/2/3  
Fax: +256 41 4 286 123  
E-mail: info@unbs.go.ug  
Web: www.unbs.go.ug  DUS 1793:2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  iii 
 Contents  Page 
Foreword  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  vii 
1 Scope  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................  1 
2 Normative references  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................  1 
3 Terms and definitions  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  1 
4 Toxicity and other hazards of pesticides  ................................ ................................ ............................  3 
5 Regulatory compliance  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........................  4 
5.1 Material Safety data sheets (MSDSs)  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 4 
5.2 Health and safety  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 4 
5.2.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  4 
5.2.2  First -aid training  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 5 
5.2.3  Work -exposure records  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  5 
5.2.4  Minimum requirements for health surveillance  ................................ ................................ .................  5 
5.3 Labels  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  6 
5.4 Maintenance of a pesticide register  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 6 
6 Health facilities, emergencies and accidents  ................................ ................................ .....................  7 
7 Personal protective clothing and equipment  ................................ ................................ .....................  7 
7.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  7 
7.2 Overalls  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  8 
7.2.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  8 
7.2.2  Overalls for spraying operations  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  8 
7.3 Ponchos  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  8 
7.4 Protective aprons  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 9 
7.5 Eye and face protection  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  9 
7.6 Glov es ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  10 
7.7 Boots ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  10 
7.8 Head coverings  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 10 
7.9 Respirators  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  11 
8 Washing facilities  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................  11 
9 Requirements for household users  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 11 
9.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  11 
9.2 Storage of pesticides  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  11 
9.3 Preparation before application  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  11 
9.3.1  Volume of spray mix  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  11 
9.3.2  Dwellings and outbuildings  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  12 
9.3.3  Gardens and greenhouses  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  12 
9.4 Application of pesticides  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  12 
9.4.1  Dwellings and outbuildings  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  12 
9.4.2  Gardens  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  12 
9.5 Disposal  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  12 
10 Requirements for farmers  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  14 
10.1  Storage facilities  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 14 
10.2  Responsibilities  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 14 
10.3  Health precautions  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............................  14 
10.4  Work -exposure record card  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  15 
10.5  Preparation before application  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  15 
10.5.1  Warnings  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  15 
10.5.2  Spray mix  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  15 DUS 1793 : 2017  
iv © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 10.5.3  Animals  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  15 
10.5.4  Soil fumigation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 15 
10.5.5  Buildings  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  16 
10.6  Application of pesticides  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  16 
10.6.1  Application on crops and animals  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 16 
10.6.2  Buildings  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  16 
10.6.3  Outdoor areas  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 16 
10 Requirements for p est control operators  ................................ ................................ .........................  17 
10.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  17 
10.2  Storage facilities  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ . 17 
10.3  Preparation before application  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  17 
10.4  Application of pesticides  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  18 
10.4.1  Buildings  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  18 
10.4.2  Outdoor areas  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 18 
10.5  Disposal  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  19 
11 Requirements for manufacturers, formulators and pac kers of pesticides  ................................ .. 19 
11.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  19 
11.2  Washing facilities ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................  20 
11.3  Storage facilities  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ . 20 
11.4  Warning notices and symbolic safety signs  ................................ ................................ ....................  20 
11.5  Spillages and leaks  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................  20 
11.6  Fire precautions  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 20 
12 Requirements for pesticide distributors and any other traders in pesticides  .............................  21 
12.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  21 
12.2  Storage and display of pesticides  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 21 
12.3  Disposal of pesticides  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  21 
12.4  Fire precautions  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 21 
13 Fire precautions and action in the event of fire  ................................ ................................ ...............  22 
Annex A (Informative)  Relevant Ugandan regulations and statutory provisions  ................................ .... 23 
A.1 Acts  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................  23 
A.2 Other publications  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............................  23 
Annex B (normative)  First aid  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  24 
B.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  24 
B.2 Requirements for untrai ned persons  ................................ ................................ ...............................  24 
B.2.1  Immediate action ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ . 24 
B.2.2  Routes of poisoning and action to be taken  ................................ ................................ ....................  24 
B.3 Requirements for trained persons  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 26 
B.4 Requirements for medical practitioners and nursing staff  ................................ ............................  26 
B.4.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  26 
B.4.2  Gastric lavage  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 26 
B.4.3  Induction of vomiting  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........................  26 
B.5 First -aid kit  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  27 
Annex C (normative)  The storage of pesticides in a storeroom  ................................ ................................  28 
C.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  28 
C.2 Local authority approval  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  28 
C.3 Construction  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  28 
C.3.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  28 
C.3.2  Ventilation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  28 
C.3.3  Shelves  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  28 
C.3.4  Lighting  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  29 
C.4 Electrical equipment  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  29 
C.5 Security  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  29 
C.6 Warning notices and symbolic safe ty signs  ................................ ................................ ....................  29 
C.7 Fire protection and emergency planning  ................................ ................................ .........................  29 
C.8 Personal protective clothing and equipment  ................................ ................................ ...................  30 
C.9 First aid  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  30 DUS 1793:2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  v 
 C.10  Record keeping  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 30 
C.11  Emergency training  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................  30 
Annex D (normative)  The storage of pesticides on farms  ................................ ................................ ..........  32 
D.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  32 
D.2 Local authority approval  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  32 
D.3 Site location  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  32 
D.4 Construction  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  32 
D.4.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  32 
D.4.2  Frame  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  33 
D.4.3  Floors and spillage containment  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 33 
D.4.4  Walls The walls shall be of brick or concrete  ................................ ................................ ...................  33 
D.4.5  Roof ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................  33 
D.4.6  Doors  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  33 
D.4.7  Windows  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  33 
D.4.8  Shelves  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  33 
D.4.9  Ventilation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  34 
D.5 Electrical equipment  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  34 
D.6 Security  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  34 
D.7 Separation and segregation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  35 
D.8 Warning notices, symbolic safety signs and product labels  ................................ ..........................  35 
D.8.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  35 
D.8.2  Warn ing notices  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 35 
D.8.3  Symbolic safety signs  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........................  36 
D.8.4  Product labels  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 36 
D.9 Responsible persons  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  36 
D.10  Record keeping  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 37 
D.11  Fire protection and emergency planning  ................................ ................................ ..........................  37 
D.11.1  Fire protection  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 37 
D.11.2  Emergency planning  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  37 
Annex E  (normative)   The storage  of pesticides in distribution stores  ................................ ....................  39 
E.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  39 
E.2 Local authority approval  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  39 
E.3 Site location  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  39 
E.4 Construction of a distribution store  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 40 
E.4.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  40 
E.4.2  Frame  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  40 
E.4.3  Floors and spillage containment  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 40 
E.4.4  Walls  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  41 
E.4.5  Doorways and emergency exits  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  41 
E.4.6  Fire doors  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  41 
E.4.7  Doors  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  41 
E.4.8  Roofs ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  41 
E.4.9  Windows  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  41 
E.4.11   Ventilation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  42 
E.4.12   Electrical equipment  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  42 
E.5 Storage technology  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................  43 
E.6 Distribution stor e management  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  43 
E.6.1  Security  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  43 
E.6.2  Receipt and dispatch  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  44 
E.6.3  Separation and segregation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  44 
E.7 Warning notices, symbolic safety signs and product labels  ................................ ..........................  44 
E.7.1  Warning notices  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 44 
E.7.2  Symbolic safety signs  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........................  45 
E.7.3  Product labels  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 45 
E.8 Respons ibilities of the distribution store manager  ................................ ................................ .........  45 
E.8.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  45 
E.8.2  Record keeping  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 45 
E.9 Fire protection and emergency planning  ................................ ................................ ..........................  46 
E.9.1  Fire protection  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 46 DUS 1793 : 2017  
vi © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 E.9.2  Emergency planning  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  46 
E.10   Hygiene and personal safety  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  47 
AnnexF  (normative)   Fire fighting procedures  ................................ ................................ ...........................  48 
Annex G  (normative)   Warehousing of pesticides  ................................ ................................ .....................  50 
G.1 Local authority approval  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  50 
G.2 Site location  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  50 
G.3 Warehouse construction  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  51 
G.3.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  51 
G.3.2  Frame  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  51 
G.3.3  Floors and spillage containment  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 51 
G.3.4  Walls  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  52 
G.3.5  Windows  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  52 
G.3.6  Doorways and emergency exits  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  52 
G.3.7  Roofs  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  53 
G.3.9  Ventilation, air conditioning and heating  ................................ ................................ .........................  54 
G.3.11  Electrical equipment and installations, other than for lighting  ................................ .....................  55 
G.3.12  Racks , shelving and warehouse storage technology  ................................ ................................ ..... 55 
G.3.13  Means of impeding the progress of a fire  ................................ ................................ ........................  56 
G.4 Storage facilities for fla mmable substances  ................................ ................................ ...................  56 
G.4.1  Storage facilities for flammable liquids  ................................ ................................ ............................  56 
G.4.2  Storage facilities for flammable solids  ................................ ................................ .............................  56 
G.5 Warehouse management  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  57 
G.5.1  Warehouse controller  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........................  57 
G.5.2  Security  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  57 
G.5.3  Receipt and dispatch  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  57 
G.5.4  Segregation and separation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  58 
G.5.5  Hygiene and personal safety  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  58 
G.6 Warehouse storage systems  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  59 
G.6.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  59 
G.6.2  Block storage without racks  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  59 
G.6.3  Block storage with drive -in racks  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 59 
G.6.4  Block storage  with through -racks  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 60 
G.6.5  Rack storage with movable racks  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 60 
G.6.6  Rack storage that uses forklift trucks  ................................ ................................ ..............................  60 
G.6.7  Narrow -aisle rack storage  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  61 
G.6.8  High -rack storage  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............................  61 
G.7 Forklift truck s ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 61 
G.8 First aid  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  62 
G.9 Fire protection, emergency planning and emergency training  ................................ ......................  62 
G.9.1  Fire protection  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 62 
G.9.2  Emergency planning  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  63 
G.9.3  Emergency training  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................  63 
Bibliography  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  64 
 DUS 1793:2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  vii 
 Foreword  
Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) is a parastatal under the Ministry of Trade , Industry and 
Cooperatives established under Cap 327 , of the Laws of U ganda , as amended .  UNBS is mandated to co -
ordinate the elaboration of standards and is  
(a) a member of International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and  
(b) a contact point for the WHO/FAO Codex Alimentarius Commission on Food Standards, and  
(c) the Nationa l Enquiry Point on TBT  Agreement  of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).  
The work of preparing Uganda Standards is carried out through Technical Committees. A Technical 
Committee is established to deliberate on standards in a given field or area and consist s of key stakeholders 
including government, academia, consumer groups, private sector and other interested parties.  
Draft Uganda Standards adopted by the Technical Committee are widely circulated to stakeholders and the 
general public for comments. The co mmittee reviews the comments before recommending the draft standards 
for approval and declaration as Uganda Standards by the National Standards Council.  
The committee responsible for this document is Technical Committee UNBS /TC 10, Management and 
services , Subcommittee SC 4, Pest control services . DUS 1793 : 2017  
viii © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 Introduction  
Although strict safety measures apply in factories where pesticides a re manufactured and formulated, 
members of the public in general should be made aware of the measures to be taken to ensure that t heir 
actions, whether out of ignorance or out of inconsiderateness, do not result in harm to themselves or others, 
or to the environment. The various risks associated with the handling of pesticides have been the subject of 
many discussions and publication s. Pollution of the environment has recently become a very sensitive issue, 
publicity of which often incites the public against the use of all pesticides. Pesticides, whether used in public 
health, in agriculture or in animal husbandry, are used to the ben efit of man. The public should be reassured 
that, if pesticides are used in accordance with the instructions on the label and if the warnings on the label are 
heeded, contamination of the environment and the possibility of poisoning can be avoided. The pre vention of 
poisoning is easier than its treatment. The aim of this standard is to supply general guidelines to all users of 
pesticides on how to minimize the risks involved when pesticides are handled. All users of pesticides should 
nevertheless be knowled geable about basic first -aid measures in case of suspected poisoning.  
 DRAFT UGANDA STANDARD  DUS 1793: 2017  
 
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  1 
 The handling, storage and disposal of pesticides  
1 Scope  
This Draft Uganda Standard specifies the procedures and requirements for the handling, storage and disposal 
of pesticides by h ousehold users, farmers, pest control operators, distributors, manufacturers, formulators 
packers and re-packers to ensure the least risk to health and safety  to property and the environment.  
First-aid actions to be taken in the case of an incident , and fi refighting procedures,  are also covered.  
2 Normative references  
The following referenced documents referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content 
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cit ed applies. For undated 
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.  
US 1792 -1, Classification of pesticides and stock remedies — Part 1: Pesticides for sale and handling.  
US ISO  7010,  Graphical symbols  — Safety colours and safety signs  — Registered safety signs  
US ISO  7159, Fire fighting  — Portable fire extingushers  — Performance and construction  
US ISO  11602 -2, Fire protection  — Portable and wheeled fire extinguishers  — Part 2: Inspection and 
maintenance  
US ISO 7240 -14:2013,  Fire detection and alarm systems -Part 14: Design, installation, commissioning and 
service of fire detection and fire alarm systems in and around buildings.  
US IEC 62305 -1:2010, Protection against lightning – Part 1: General principles  
3 Terms and definitions  
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.  
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:  
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://w ww.iso.org/obp  
3.1  
agricultural remedy  
any chemical or biological, or any mixture or combination of any substance intended or offered to be used  for 
the destruction, control, repelling, attraction or prevention of any undesired microbe  (fungi and bacteria ), 
algae, acarina,  nematode s, insects , plant s, vertebrate s, invertebrate s, or their effects   
 
3.2 
agriculture  
raising of plants or animals for economic use;   
2 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 3.3  
decontamination  
removal of detectable traces of pesticide from containers, equipment and co ntaminated surfaces, by washing 
them with detergent or with any other cleaning solution prescribed by the manufacturer, or by chemical 
degradatio n 
3.4  
disposal  
intentional burial, depositing, discharging, dumping, placing or rele ase of pesticide waste mate rial into  or on 
any air, land or water in a specified facility (for example near surface or geological repository), or direct 
discharge of effluents into the environment without the intention of retrieval in accordance with the relevant 
national regulation s and local regulatory requirements  
NOTE  See annex A.  
3.5  
dust  
finely divided solid particles of diameter ≤10 μm, usually generated by the processing (crushing, grinding, etc.) 
of materials  
3.6  
gas proof  sheet  
sheet that prevents significant loss of gas or vapour to the atmosphere  
3.7 
handling  
any conditioning, transferring, dividing , transporting and applying of the pesticide  
3.8  
intensive handling  
handling of pesticides on a regular or routine basis  
3.9 
mist 
airborne liquid droplets of negligible  volatility  
3.10 
occasional handling  
infrequent handling of pesticides by persons who do not handle pesticides as part of their daily work  
3.11  
operation area  
area where pesticides are handled or disposed of, as relevant  
3.12  
operator  
person handli ng pesticides  
3.13 
pest 
any form of plant or animal life or any pathogenic agent, other than a beneficial organism, capable of directly 
or indirectly injuring any plant material or beneficial organism, and includes weeds   
 
3.14 
pesticide  
a chemical which , by virtue of its poisonous properties is used to kill pests  
 DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  3 
 3.15 
pest control operator  
operator registered in terms of the relevant  local and national regulations  
NOTE  See annex A.  
3.16  
salvage packaging  
special packaging into which damaged, defecti ve, or leaking or non -conforming dangerous goods packages, 
or goods that have been spilled or leaked, are placed for purposes of transport for recovery or disposal  
3.17  
segregation  
positioning of pesticides of different classes or divisions in separate areas within a pesticide store or 
warehouse  
NOTE  The concepts "segregation" and "separation" are subject to widespread misinterpretation in industry; 
considerable differences in usage exist, and there is no universally accepted set of definitions of these  terms. 
The onus is nevertheless on the person(s) responsible for a pesticide storeroom or store, and on a pesticide 
warehouse controller, to ensure that pesticides are stored in  a safe and responsible manner at all times.  
3.18  
separation  
physical separ ation of different pesticide groups, either into separate stores or warehouses or by means of 
separating elements such as a wall that has a specific fire resistance and that is used between divisions, 
occupancies or tenancies in a building  
NOTE  See the no te to 3. 17 
3.19  
toxicity  
ability of a substance to cause damage to living tissue, impairment of the central nervous system, severe 
illness, or, in extreme cases death, when ingested, inhaled or absorbed by the skin  
3.20  
triple -rinse  
allow the containe r or the measuring vessel that is being emptied to drain into the spray tank or mixing tank for 
30 s after the flow has slowed to a drip, then rinse it three times, each time using a volume of the normal 
diluent equal to at least 10 % of the capacity of th e container, and adding the rinse liquid to the spray mixture 
or disposing of the rinse liquid by a method suitable for the disposal of the pesticide  
3.21  
waste disposal site  
site that is licensed for the disposal of hazardous waste under the relevant na tional regulations and  local 
regulatory requirements  
NOTE  See annex A.  
4 Toxicity and other hazards of pesticides  
4.1 Hazard ous conditions such as corrosiveness, flammability, combustibility, toxicity or danger to the 
environment  (or a combination of th ese) might be present when a pesticide is handled. Certain solvents and 
fumigants might cause a fire when they are used in the presence of naked flames or other sources of ignition, 
for example an electrical wire. If a warning to this effect is given on th e pesticide label, care shall be taken to 
ensure that no appliances are left in operation and that all pilot flames are extinguished before application 
operations are started.   
4 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 NOTE   See US 1792 -1 Classification of pesticides and stock remedies — Part 1: P esticides for sale and 
handling . 
4.2 Unless adequately protected, no person shall be allowed near an area that has accidentally been 
contaminated with pesticides. Failure to take this precaution endangers both the person and emergency 
rescue personnel . It shall be borne in mind that, at first approach, hazards such as flammability, corrosiveness 
or toxicity, or any combination of these, might be present.  
4.3 During handling, decontamination and disposal procedures, the appropriate protective clothing and 
equipment described in clause 7 shall be worn.  
4.4 Information about the toxicity of, the symptoms produced by, and the treatment of, poisoning by a 
pesticide is obtainable from the manufacturer of the compound(s) in question by means of a material safety 
data sheet ( MSDS) (see 5.1).  
4.5 An empty pesticide container shall never be re -used for any purpose other than to hold the same 
product. If not re -used in this way, an empty pesticide container shall be triple -rinsed (see 3. 20) and disposed 
of immediatel y as indicated in the relevant clauses  of this standard.  
4.6 Pesticides shall not, under any circumstances, be poured into utensils which are used for (or are 
intended to be used for) food preparation or drinking water, or for the containment of any other  drinks or food.  
4.7 If a medical station  and personnel  is not provided, a stocked first-aid kit, in accordance with B.5, shall 
be kept on hand at all times and information regarding the nearest medical facility provided with trained 
personnel when pestic ides are being handled.  
 5 Regulatory compliance  
5.1 Material Safety data sheets ( MSDSs)  
5.1.1  Every supplier, manufacturer, importer or distributor of a pesticide intended for use in the workplace 
shall, as far as is practicable, provide the party receiv ing such a pesticide with a MSDS, free of charge.  
5.1.2  Any new information on the pesticide that becomes known to the supplier, manufacturer, importer or 
distributor shall be forwarded to the recipient of the MSDS, free of charge.  
5.1.3  A MSDS need not be supplied when a pesticide, offered or sold in the retail trade, is furnished with 
sufficient information to enable users to take the necessary measures with regard to the protection of health 
and safety. However, a MSDS shall be supplied at the request of any interested or affected person.  
5.1.4  A manufacturer, importer or distributor of a pesticide should provide the relevant authority  with a copy 
of the MSDS for each pesticide he provides . 
5.2 Health and safety  
5.2.1  General  
5.2.1.1  With regard to h ealth and safety, the relevant national regulations  and local regulatory 
requirements (see annex A) shall be adhered to. The threshold limit values promulgated in terms of the 
regulations shall not be exceeded, unless adequate personal protection is suppli ed to the operators involved.  
5.2.1.2  If relevant, the health precautions prescribed by the medical policy of a national or international 
company shall be followed.  
5.2.1. 3 For each team of operators engaged in the handling of pesticides, a supervisor sh all be appointed 
who has adequate knowledge of, and experience in, the application and hazards of pesticides. Knowledge of 
basic first aid is mandatory.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  5 
 5.2.1. 4 For work involving exposure to pesticides, only operators who have been medically examined and  
found to be fit shall be employed.  
5.2.1. 5 All operators shall receive practical training  and shall not be allowed to handle pesticides unless 
they know the risks involved and the precautions to be taken.  
5.2.1. 6 A pesticide shall not be used on humans,  animals or the environment  unless it is stated on the 
label that the pesticide can safely be used for this purpose.  
5.2.2  First -aid training  
At least two members of each team of operators shall be trained in the application of basic first aid in 
accorda nce with annex B.  
The pesticide dispensers shall endeavor to sensitise home and farm users about the basic first aid given 
incase of accidents/emergencies  
5.2.3  Work -exposure records  
5.2.3.1  An employer shall keep medical records and records of exposure information for every personnel  
exposed to pesticides. The contents of the medical records shall be accessible only to an occupational 
medical practitioner, the personnel , and any other person nominated in writing by the said worker.  
5.2.3.2  An employer s hall keep record of the investigation of each incident by completing the relevant 
form(s) as stipulated by the national department that deals with labour issues. The personnel  involved is 
entitled to have a copy of such an investigation and the record shal l be open for inspection by an inspector of 
the said national department.  
5.2.3.3  All records shall be kept for a minimum period of 30 years. If the employer ceases activities, the 
records of all the workers shall be handed over, or forwarded by registere d post, to the relevant regional 
representative of the national department  that deals with  labour issues.  
5.2.4  Minimum requirements for health surveillance  
5.2.4.1  An initial health evaluation shall be carried out by an occupational medical practitioner 
immediately before employment, or within 14 day s of commencement of employment. The health evaluation 
shall comprise the following:  
a) an evaluation of the operator's medical and occupational history;  
b) a full physical examination; and  
c) any other examination (for example blood tests) which, in the opinion of the occupational medical 
practitioner, is desirable in order to do a proper evaluation.  
5.2.4.2  An operator who handles pesticides on a regular or routine basis shall undergo a medical 
examination at inte rvals not exceeding two years, or more often as indicated for the particular pesticide and at 
the discretion of an occupational medical practitioner.  
NOTE  Operators who handle pesticides on a regular or routine basis include pest control operators, farm w orkers 
and companies whose trade involves pesticides.  
5.2.4.3  An operator involved in the handling of pesticides shall be under medical surveillance if the 
exposure to any pesticide is such that an identifiable disease or adverse health effect can be rela ted to the 
exposure.  
5.2.4.4  An operator who is suffering from any ailment, or who is taking medication, that would aggravate 
or suppress the symptoms of poisoning  by a pesticide shall not be permitted to handle such a pesticide or  
6 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 another type of pestici de unle ss prior approval  (endorsed on the operator's work -exposure record card) has 
been obtained from an occupational medical practitioner.  
5.2.4.5  If any symptom of illness or discomfort is experienced (for example headache, dizziness, 
vomiting, diarrho ea, difficulty in breathing or tightness of the chest) or if abnormal behaviour becomes 
apparent after a pesticide has been handled, an occupational medical practitioner shall be consulted 
immediately.  
5.3 Labels  
5.3.1 Each container and each bulk packag e shall bear in prominent, legible, and indelible marking with the 
following additional information:  
a) common name as ‘pesticide’;  
b) manufacturer's name and physical address;  
c) net mass of the material when packed;  
d) instructions for use and disposal;  
e) warnings;  
f) country of origin  
g) storage recommendation;  
h) batch identification number/code;  
i) date of manufacture and  
j) date of expiry.  
5.3.2 Each package shall be marked with appropriate safety symbols as specified in US ISO 7010 . 
5.3.3  The sale, acquisition, use and disposal  of a pesticide other than in a container and with a label as 
approved by the relevant n ational authority  are strictly prohibited , unless:  
a) the pesticide is applied for the purpose of conducting trials, and  
b) prior approval has been obtained from the Registr ar.  
5.4 Maintenance of a pesticide register  
5.4.1  A pesticide register  shall be kept at every warehouse, store, outlet and depot for pesticides classified 
as danger group I (a) or danger group I (b) pesticides in terms of US 1792 -1  
5.4.2  The pesticide re gister  poison register shall be printed or be in  electronic format, and shall contain at 
least the following information:  
a) name of the product;  
b) batch number;  
c) date of manufacture;  
d) date of expiry;  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  7 
 e) date of receipt;  
f) name and address of the supplier;  
g) quanti ty received and dispatched ;  
h) quantity used;  
NOTE  This applies to all pesticides that have been drawn from the store or warehouse.  
i) balance after dispatch or use;  
j) name  and address  of purchaser or user; and  
k) purpose for which the product is to be used.  
NOTE This applies to all  pesticides that have been drawn from the store or warehouse  
6 Health facilities , emergencies  and accidents  
6.1 The locality of the nearest hospital or  health facility , the hours of attendance and telephone numbers of 
the local emerge ncy services shall be determined. Transport to take a poison victim to the nearest medical 
practitioner or hospital shall be available and within easy reach. In the case of field work, communication 
equipment shall be available to summon help when necessar y.  
6.2 The nearest health facility shall routinely be supplied with information about the products being handled 
and the antidotes required, to ensure that the correct procedure and antidotes are available should an 
emergency arise.  
7 Personal protective  clothing and equipment  
7.1 General  
7.1.1  All protective garments shall be thoroughly washed with soap or detergent and water at the end of 
each operation.  
7.1.2  When a pesticide is being handled, the instructions  on the MSDS or the label (as applicable ) shall be 
followed, taking cognizance of all special precautions concerning protective clothing and equipment, 
irrespective of occasional handling or intensive handling, and irrespective of the quantity of pesticide used.  
7.1.3  All operators shall clearly  understand that, even tho ugh protective clothing and equipment are used, 
great care shall still be taken.  
7.1.4  All protective clothing and equipment shall be collected at the end of each day or at the end of each 
operation, as applicable. No used protec tive clothing or equipment shall be worn unless it has been thoroughly 
washed or decontaminated.  
7.1.5  An employer shall ensure that no worker removes dirty or contaminated clothing or equipment from 
the premises. Dirty or contaminat ed clothing or equipme nt to be disposed of, or washed, or decontaminated 
outside the premises, shall be treated as hazardous chemical goods in accordance with the relevant national 
regulations and local regulatory requirements (see annex A).  
7.1.6  Provide for separate rooms fo r changing and storage of both “protective” and “personal” clothing  
Separate "clean" and "dirty" change rooms shall be available if pesticides are used to such an extent that they 
could endanger the health of persons outside the workplace   
8 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 7.2 Overalls  
7.2.1 General  
7.2.1. 1 Cotton is one of the most effective, durable and comfortable materials for an overall. A cotton 
overall shall be made of 100 % cotton with a mass per area of 110 g/m 2 and should preferably have 
elasticized cuffs and no pockets. Alternat ively, an overall shall be made of lightweight synthetic material 
specifically developed for the protection of operators working with pesticides.  
7.2.1. 2 An overall shall:  
a) be impervious to pesticide formulations,  
b) be durable,  
c) give splash and droplet prot ection,  
d) be comfortable,  
e) be light in weight, and  
f) be light in colour so as to permit visual identification of contamination.  
7.2.2  Overalls for spraying operations  
7.2.2.1  An overall for spraying operations shall be a two -piece garment consisting of a j acket with a hood 
and trousers, or a one -piece garment with a hood so desi gned that the: 
a) hood closes round the gas mask,  
b) sleeves close at the wrists with elasticized cuffs,  
c) trousers have elasticized closures round the ankles and the waist, and ; 
d) jacket h em of a two -piece garment seals on the hips.  
7.2.2.2  An overall for  spraying operations shall:  
a) be impervious to pesticide formulations,  
b) be durable,  
c) give splash and droplet protection,  
d) be comfortable and light in weight, and  
e) be affordable.  
NOTE  Lightw eight synthetic materials have been developed specifically for the protection of operators during 
spraying operations.  
7.3 Ponchos  
7.3.1  A poncho is a one -piece garment with a hood made of impervious nonwoven material.  
A poncho shall be worn when pestici de containers are being filled or when pesticides are being decanted and 
during the spraying of pesticides classified as danger groups II, III and IV (colour code yellow, colour code 
blue and colour code green respectively). A poncho is open at the sides t o allow movement of air. This type of DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  9 
 garment has the specific benefit of providing additional protection against leaking sprayers and can be worn 
over work clothes or the two -piece cotton overalls.  
7.3.2  A poncho shall  
a) be impervious to pesticides,  
b) be durable,  
c) allow movement of air,  
d) be comfortable, and  
e) be light in weight.  
7.4 Protective aprons  
7.4.1  A protective apron gives additional protection against spills and splashes during the mixing and 
loading of pesticides. A protective apron shall be made  of impervious nonwoven material. It shall cover the 
front of the body from the top of the chest to below the knees and shall also wrap round the sides of the body 
and legs. A light colour, which allows for visual identification of contamination, is prefer able. Disposable 
aprons can be used as an alternative.  
7.4.2  An apron shall be: 
a) impervious to pesticides,  
b) durable,  
c) comfortable, and  
d) affordable.  
NOTE  Lightweight synthetic materials have been developed specifically for the protection of operators durin g 
spraying operations.  
7.5 Eye and face protection  
7.5.1  A face shield  shall not be worn  during  the application of pesticides that emit toxic vapours or low 
boiling - point organic solutions  
7.5.2  A face shield made of clear transparent material is a com fortable form of eye and face protection. A 
face shield offers protection against splashes and is less likely to mist over than industrial goggles. If eye 
protection is needed, and a face shield is not available, a pair of safety goggles is an acceptable a lternative. 
The material of the shield  shall be impervious to a wide range of pesticide formulations.  
7.5.3  The head band of the face shield shall be made of  solvent -resistant foam plastic. The foam plastic 
shall not absorb spray droplets and shall be non -irritant to the skin.  
7.5.4  The face shield shall be of height approximately 150 mm and of width approximately 300 mm in order 
to give full face protection. The top of the face shield shall be curved or shall be flexible to fit the face and shall 
be of s ufficient width to keep the shield clear of the face. The shield shall be held ag ainst the head by an 
adjustable strap.  
7.5.5  A face shield shall be: 
a) transparent,   
10 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 b) impervious to solvent and pesticide vapours,  
c) non-misting,  
d) durable,  
e) light in weight, and  
f) non-reflective.  
7.6 Gloves  
7.6.1  Immediately after use and before being removed from the hands, the gloves shall be washed with 
soap and water. Contaminated gloves shall not be touched with bare hands when being removed. The gloves 
shall be turned inside  out and shall be washed again, and rinsed and allowed to dry completely before being 
put away.  
7.6.2  Protective gloves are available in a variety of materials and designs. Gloves shall fit the hands 
comfortably and shall be flexible enough to grip a pest icide container and other equipment firmly. Gloves shall 
be long enough to cover a minimum of 90 mm above the wrist. Gloves made of nitrile rubber offer good 
protection against a wide range of pesticides and shall be of light colour so as to permit visual identification of 
contamination. PVC, neoprene and butyl rubber are suitable alternative materials. Lined gloves are not 
recommended, since pesticide contamination can accumulate in the lining material.  
7.6.3  Disposable polyethylene gloves or plastics bag s may be used as temporary hand protection, but shall 
be used for one operation onl y, and shall then be discarded.  
7.6.4 Gloves shall be  
a) durable,  
b) comfortable,  
c) flexible,  
d) non-slippery, and  
e) light in colour so as to permit visual i dentification of contami nation.  
7.7 Boots  
7.7.1  Boots shall be washed inside as well as outside at the end of each day's work and shall then be 
allowed to dry before being put away.  
7.7.2  Rubber boots shall be used because they give protection against the widest range of pestici des, 
whereas leather footwear is unsuitable because it absorbs some pesticides and leather cannot be 
decontaminated.  
7.7.3  The rubber boots shall be at least calf -high and shall be unlined. Trousers shall be worn outside the 
boots to prevent any spills or  splashes  from entering the boots. To prevent injury when large steel drums are 
being handled, boots with steel toecaps shall be worn.  
NOTE  It is advisable boots are worn with stocks.  
7.8 Head coverings  
7.8.1  A lightweight cotton hat with a brim shall be worn for field work in hot climates and as protection 
against spray drift. During overhead spraying, a waterproof hat and cape shall be worn.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  11 
 7.8.2  A hood (with a built -in respirator) to cover head, neck and shoulders for total skin protection shall be 
worn during the application of irritant powders.  
7.9 Respirators  
Respirators shall comply with the requirements of SANS 10220 .(refer to a Uganda Standard in OHS)   
8 Washing facilities  
8.1 Soap, clean towels and clean water shall be available near the oper ation area, but shall be so located 
as to avoid contamination by pesticides. When contamination has taken place, a safety shower (which, in the 
field, could consist of an elevated punctured water container) shall be within easy reach. There shall be no 
interchange of towels, soap or water between operators. Compressed air shall not be used to remove dust 
from the body.  
8.2 Where possible, running water shall be used for washing. When running water is not available, each 
operator shall be provided with sepa rate, clearly marked containers for washing of the body and of protective 
clothing and equipment.  
8.3 Each operator shall wash  or shower at the end of each operation or shift.  
8.4 Contaminated washing water shall not be disposed of into any water source,  including rivers, ground 
water sources and sewerage systems.  
9 Requirements for household users  
9.1 General  
9.1.1 Cognizance shall be taken of the hazards involved in the use of pesticides as noted in clause 4.  
9.1.2  Suitable protective clothing shall  be worn, even if  a relatively small quantity of pesticide is to be 
handled.  
9.1.3  Only the operator(s) involved in the handling of  a pesticide shall be present in the operation area.  
9.2 Storage of pesticides  
Pesticides and pesticide application equipm ent shall be protected from  unauthorized access (see C.5) by 
being kept in a cool, dry cupboard or in a pesticide storeroom (see annex C) under lock and key and well 
away from foods, feeds, and food -processing and eating utensils  away from the reach of chi ldren . Empty 
pesticide containers shall similarly be protected until they can be disposed of safely (see 9.5).  
9.3 Preparation before application  
9.3.1  Volume of spray mix  
9.3.1.1  The size of the area or the number of plants  or animals to be treated sha ll be determined. The 
instructions on the pesticide label shall be followed and just enough formulation for one single application shall 
be mixed.  
9.3.1.2  The measuring vessel (and, if the pesticide container is empty, the container) shall be triple -
rinse d (see 3. 20) and the rinse liquid shall be added to the mixture before it is made up to volume.  
9.3.1.3  Household users  shall observe the above condition carefully to solve the problem of having to 
dispose of surplus spray mixture. Metered quantities of p esticide are available to solve this problem.   
12 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 9.3.2  Dwellings and outbuildings  
9.3.2.1  Foodstuffs , pets and other livestock shall be removed from the area to be treated.  
9.3.2.2  If the pesticide intended to be used is flammable, all naked flames within the area shall be 
extinguished and all sources of ignition shall be switched off.  
9.3.2.3  Care shall be taken to ensure that the formulation can safely be used on textiles (such as carpets 
and curtains) and that it shall not stain painted or varnished sur faces.  
9.3.3  Gardens and greenhouses  
9.3.3.1  Plants to be treated for pest infestation shall where applicable  be well watered the day before 
treatment, since wilted plants can be susceptible to phyto  toxicity.  
9.3.3.2  All entrances to a greenhouse shall  be kept closed to maintain the prevailing temperature and 
humidity.   
9.4 Application of pesticides  
9.4.1  Dwellings and outbuildings  
9.4.1.1  All doors and windows shall be kept open to ensure adequate ventilation when indoor plants are 
treated with a pes ticide. Starting with the plants furthest from the exit door, the pesticide shall be applied in 
accordance with the instructions on the label. The room shall be vacated and shall not be re -entered until the 
re-entry  period stipulated on the label has expir ed.  
9.4.1.2  The control of household pests shall be strictly  in accordance with the instructions given on the 
label.  
9.4.2  Gardens  
The instructions given on the label shall be followed. When large trees are treated, the pesticide shall always 
be applied  from an upwind direction. Care shall be taken not to contaminate susceptible plants when a 
herbicide is applied.  
9.5 Disposal  
9.5.1  When pesticide waste and empty pesticide containers are being disposed of, the relevant 
instructions appearing on the lab el(s) shall be followed.  
9.5.2 To alleviate the problems of the disposal of pesticides, household users shall adhere to the following 
procedures:  
a) the quantity bought shall be limited to what shall be needed per use ;  
b) only as much pesticide as shall be nee ded at one time for a specific application shall be prepared, 
and it shall be used strictly in accordance with the instructions on the label;  
c) when a dilution of a pesticide concentrate is being prepared, the container(s) or other vessel(s) used 
to measure  out the required quantity of the concentrate shall be well drained and then triple -rinsed 
with the relevant diluents , and the rinsing  shall be added to the pesticide formulation before it is made 
up to the final volume for application; and  
d) if all the for mulation prepared for a single application is not used, any  excess mixture of the pesticide 
shall be disposed of by being sprayed on to the soil between plants that have been treated with the 
mixture, and then by being dug into the soil.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  13 
 e) pesticides shal l be protected from unauthorized access (see D.6.1) by being kept in securely closed 
containers and stored under lock and key (see annex D). Empty containers shall be similarly protected 
until they can be disposed of safely and correctly.  
9.5.3 Empty aeros ol dispensers shall never be punctured or heated. Empty aerosol dispensers are not 
recyclable and shall be disposed of by landfill in a waste disposal site together with general waste.  
9.5.4 Empty containers, other than aerosol dispensers, shall be triple -rinsed with water and then shattered 
(in the case of glass containers), punctured (in the case of plastics and metal containers), or so otherwise 
rendered unserviceable as to prevent re -use, and then deposited in authorised places . The rinsing  shall be 
disposed of by being sprayed onto the soil between plants that have been treated with the pesticide, and then 
by being dug into the soil.  
9.5.5 In the case of residents , it is advisable that they shall consult their  health and  local government  
authorities f or advice on the safe disposal of pesticides.  
9.5.6 Pesticides shall under no circumstances be  dumped or disposed of into any sewerage system.  
9.5.7 All used pesticide containers and empty pesticide containers shall be closed securely and shall be  
stored  under lock and key until they can safely be disposed of (see 9.5.3 and 9.5.4).  
9.5.8 Combustible containers shall not be burned. It shall be borne in mind that when herbicides volatilize, 
the resulting vapour can damage nearby crops. Herbicides and defol iants that contain chlorates can explode 
when heated or when brought into contact with organic materials such as wood, sawdust and paper. Where 
no disposal organization operates in a farmer's district, the farmer shall consult the manufacturer about the 
disposal of surplus pesticides. Empty pesticide containers, other than aerosol dispensers, shall be triple -rinsed 
with water and then shattered (in the case of glass containers), punctured (in the case of plastics and metal 
containers), or so otherwise rende red unserviceable as to prevent re -use before being disposed of as 
described in 9.5.9. 
9.5.9 Livestock dipping tanks on farms shall be cleaned out by the owner or by another responsible person 
(see 10.2.3) from time to time, as follows:  
a) the level of the d ip shall be reduced as far as possible by the normal dipping of animals;  
b) the remaining liquid in the dipping tank shall be removed by either being pumped or baled out over a 
large area of the surrounding ground (which shall be so fenced off as to keep out  animals, children, 
etc.). Care shall be taken to ensure that dams and rivers in the vicinity are not contaminated; and  
c) sludge shall be removed from the bottom of the tank and shall be deposited in a pile on the ground 
within a safe, fenced -off area or, w here possible, ploughed into the ground.  
9.5.10 Pesticide waste and empty containers should preferably be returned to the local supplier or sent to a 
registered disposal company. Alternatively, triple -rinsed empty pesticide containers (with the exception of 
plastics drums that previously contained a pesticide) can be sent to a registered reprocessing company. 
However, pesticide waste and empty punctured containers (see 9.5.7) may be disposed of in a waste disposal 
site on a farm, provided that  the site is registered as a hazardous waste landfill site with the national 
department that deals with waste management and disposal.  
9.5.11 Empty triple -rinsed pesticide containers (especially plastics containers) that have been rendered 
unserviceable (see 9.5.7) could be considered for processing (recycling) into other products such as building 
construction materials. Thermal destruction shall only be carried out in a facility authorized by the national 
department that deals with waste management and disposal.  
9.5.12 The geology of a site intended as a waste disposal site for pesticides shall be taken into account. A 
farmer shall ensure that such a site is situated on ground that is relatively high and flat, or on ground that 
slopes gently away from any surface or s ubsurface water supply, and is at least 100 m, and preferably 1 000 
m, away from any water source. The waste disposal site shall be identified and securely fenced off, and 
trespassing on the site shall be forbidden.   
14 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 9.5.13 The waste disposal site shall be  excavated to  a depth of at least 1 m and, depending on the type of 
pesticide to be disposed of; lime shall be spread over the bottom of the excavation in a continuous layer of 
thickness approximately 10 mm. The pesticide shall be diluted to at least the m inimum dosage (lowest 
concentration) recommended on the label, and then poured evenly or sprayed over the surface of the lime. 
The deposited pesticide shall immediately be covered with a layer of ash and a layer of soil or other covering 
material of thickn ess at least 450 mm.  
9.5.14 An aircraft landing strip on a farm from which the aerial application of pesticides is carried out shall 
be made secure from approach by livestock and by persons not actively involved in the aerial application of 
such pesticide s, and should preferably have a concrete slab with a suitable drainage system into which 
aircraft spraying tanks can be emptied.  
10 Requirements for farmers  
10.1 Storage facilities  
A pesticides store on a farm shall be organized and maintained as describ ed in either annex C or annex D, 
depending on the volume of pesticides to be stored.  
10.2 Responsibilities  
10.2.1  Farmers  shall adhere to the relevant national regulations regarding occupational health and safety, 
and basic conditions of employment (see clause 5 and annex A).  
10.2.2  All farm workers shall be aware of the hazards involved in the use of pesticides (see clause 4), 
especially in connection with empty pesticide containers.  
10.2.3  A supervisor shall be appointed who has adequate knowledge of,  and experience in, the application 
and hazards of pesticides (see 5.2.1.3).  
10.2.4 The supervisor and at least one other farm worker shall be trained in the application of basic first aid 
(see 5.2.2 and annex B).  
10.2.5  If work involves regular exposure  to pesticides, only persons who have been medically examined and 
found to be fit shall be employed (see also 5.2.1.4).  
10.2.6  The exposure limits as laid down in the relevant national regulations (see 5.2.1.1 and annex A) shall 
not be exceeded.  
10.3 Health precautions  
10.3.1  Farm workers who are engaged in the handling of pesticides on a regular basis shall undergo a 
medical examination at intervals as stipulated in 5.2.4.2.  
10.3.2  If a farm worker is involved in an incident or becomes ill, the medical  practitioner in at tendance shall 
be provided with the: 
a) farm worker's work -exposure record card (see 10.4),  
b) label, or at least the name of the active ingredient, of the pesticide involved, and  
c) MSDS of the pesticide, if available.  
10.3.3  A farm worker wh o, on medical grounds, has been advised to abstain from working with a particular 
type of pesticide  shall not be permitted to work with another type of pesticide unless prior approval (endorsed 
on the farm worker's work -exposure record card) has been obtai ned from the medical practitioner (see also 
5.2.4.4).  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  15 
 10.4 Work -exposure record card  
Subject to any restriction or further requirements in terms of the relevant national regulations and local 
regulatory requirements (see 5.2.3 and annex A), a work -exposu re record card shall be kept for each farm 
worker engaged in the handling of pesticides.  
10.5 Preparation before application  
10.5.1  Warnings  
10.5.1.1  Time ly warnings shall be issued to the following government department or persons (or both) 
about the n ature and date of a proposed pesticide application:  
a) the national department(s) that deal(s) with water and environmental affairs (see foreword) if 
agricultural remedies are to be applied to pests whose habitat is water -related, for example water 
hyacinth,  and birds  nesting along the perimeters of dams;  
b) farm workers not involved in the handling of pesticides, ordering them to keep away from the 
operation areas; and  
c) all persons on the farm and on neighbouring farms, ordering them to refrain from collecting  and 
consuming poisoned birds and other animals.  
10.5.1.2  If severely toxic pesticides are to be applied, warning notices shall be placed on the gates that 
give access to the fields where treatment is intended. The warning notices shall be in one of the o fficial 
languages and in at least one other language indigenous to the region. The height of the letters shall be at 
least 75 mm.  
10.5.2  Spray mix  
10.5.2.1  The size of the area or the number of animals to be treated shall be determined and the 
instructio ns on the pesticide label shall be followed. Just enough formulation for a single application shall be 
mixed. The measuring vessel shall be triple -rinsed (see 3 .20) and the rinse liquid shall be added to the 
mixture before it is made up to volume.  
10.5.2. 2 Extreme care shall be taken during mixing operations and when a spray tank is filled to prevent 
contamination of persons and the environment. The mixing and filling area shall be well away from any water 
sources, and entry to the area shall be restricted . The floor shall be of non -porous material and shall be 
bunded.  
10.5.2.3  Any spillage in the area described in 10.5.2.2 shall be collected and disposed of in accordance 
with 10.7.  
10.5.2.4  When mixing takes place in the field, any spillage on the soil s hall be collected and, together with 
the contaminated soil, be dispo sed of in accordance with 10.7  
10.5.3  Animals  
Unless treatment of animals, or treatment of permanently occupied animal housing, is intended, all animals 
shall be kept away from the operat ion areas during mixing and application operations, and afterwards for the 
period stipulated on the label.  
10.5.4  Soil fumigation  
10.5.4.1  When soil fumigation with a gaseous fumigant is intended, the number of gas  proof sheets 
needed, and the mass of fu migant required for the type of soil to be treated, shall be estimated.   
16 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 NOTE  Opaque or coloured sheets retain heat and expand when their temperature increases, thus becoming more 
permeable to gas and more vulnerable to wind damage.  
10.5.5  Buildings  
10.5.5.1 All foods, feeds and livestock shall be removed from the building. Plastics sheeting and plastics -
backed adhesive tape or masking tape shall be used to cover and seal all food -processing utensils, stock 
remedies, animal -handling apparatus, saddlery, e tc. that cannot be removed.  
10.5.5.2  If the pesticide intended to be used is flammable, all naked flames within the area shall be 
extinguished and all sources of ignition shall be switched off.  
10.6 Application of pesticides  
10.6.1  Application on crops  and animals   
10.6.1.1  Manually or mechanically operated equipment shall be used to apply a pesticide in accordance 
with the instructions on the label.  
10.6.1.2  Drift of pesticide spray or dust (or both) onto people, animals, adjacent land, public roads, 
footpaths, water supplies and crops shall be avoided,  particularly when harvesting is taking place. If herbicides 
are applied, the drift of herbicide spray or dust (or both) onto susceptible crops shall be avoided. Spraying or 
dusting operations (or both) s hall be suspended under adverse weather conditions to prevent the danger of 
contamination. The instructions on the label concerning wind speed shall be followed.  
10.6.1.3  Harvesting or grazing immediately after application of a pesticide shall not be perm itted. The pre-
harvest and re -grazing  period stipulated on the label shall be strictly adhered to, and no harmful pesticide 
residues shall be present on crops when harvesting or grazing is resumed.  
10.6.2  Buildings  
10.6.2.1  If a pesticide is applied as a  space spray, all windows and doors, except the exit door, shall be 
closed. After completion, the area shall be  vacated immediately, the exit door closed and the area kept closed 
for the period stipulated on the label. At the end of this period, all window s and doors shall be opened and, if 
applicable, fans shall be switched on. The area shall not be deemed sa fe until the ventilation period stipulated 
on the label has expired.  
10.6.2.2  If the pesticide is applied as a dust or a residual spray, all windows and doors shall be opened to 
ensure adequate ventilation. The dust or resid ual spray shall be applied in accordance with the instructions 
given on the label, starting at  the point furthest from the exit door. The area shall be vacated as soon as the 
applic ation has been completed, and shall not be re -entered until the ventilation period stipulated on the label 
has expired .  
10.6.2.3  A residual spray can be added to the irrigation system of a greenhouse and the mixture released 
through the nozzles of the sys tem until the plants are well covered with the spray mixture. Alternatively, 
manually or mechanically operated equipment can be used to apply the residual spray in accordance with the 
instructions on the label. Space sprays, smoke, mists and fogs shall be applied in accordance with the 
instructions on the label.  
10.6.2.4  Bait shall be placed in such a position as to be inaccessible to children and animals. Bait shall be 
replenished when necessary, and shall be removed when all pest activity has ceased.  
10.6.3 Outdoor areas  
10.6.3.1  Patio and other outdoor surfaces with which people might come into contact shall only be treated 
if it is stated on the label that the pesticide can safely be used for this purpose.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  17 
 10.6.3.2  Bait shall be placed in such a posit ion as to be inaccessible to children and animals. Bait shall be 
replenished when necessary, and shall be removed when all pest activity has ceased.  
10 Requirements for pest control operators  
10.1 General  
10.1.1 A pest control operator shall ensure that  workers are aware of the hazards involved in the use of 
pesticides (see clause 4) and of the provisions regarding protective clothing and equipment (see clause 7).  
10.1.2 If a severely toxic pesticide is to be applied, a warning notice together with the toxic hazard class 
diamond (see table D.1), shall be placed at the entrance of the site to be treated or on gates or doors that give 
access to the operation area. The warning notices  shall be in one of the official languages and in at least one 
other langu age indigenous to the region. The height of the letters shall be at least 75 mm. The dimensions of 
the toxic hazard class diamond shall be at least 250 mm × 250 mm.  
10.1.3 A pest control operator shall be acquainted with the handling and application of pe sticides in 
accordance with US 863 . A pest control operator shall be fully aware of the hazards involved in the use of 
pesticides, as noted in clause 4 and of further information given in US1792 -1 regarding the toxicity of 
pesticides, and the first -aid tre atment in cases of suspected poisoning (see annex B).   
10.2 Storage facilities  
The storage facilities shall be organized and maintained in accordance with the requirements given in either 
annex C or annex D, depending on the volume of pesticides to be sto red.  
10.3 Preparation before application  
10.3.1 Before treating indoor areas, for example offices, homes and catering establishments, the pest control 
operator shall provide the occupant(s) with a written list of the materials and articles that have to b e removed 
before treatment can start, for example  
a) all food not sealed in metal containers,  
b) eating utensils and movable food -processing utensils,  
c) pets, including fish in aquariums,  
d) pot plants, if the pesticide has phyto  toxic properties,  
e) all clothes, i f cupboards are to be treated,  
f) any loose carpets, and  
g) any toys and cribs.  
10.3.2 The pest control operator shall, by personal inspection, ensure that the operation areas have been 
vacated and that, where relevant, all fires and naked flames within the o peration area have been extinguished 
and that oil, gas and electrical supplies have been turned off.  
10.3.3 Plastics -backed adhesive tape or masking tape shall be used to seal food freezers and refrigerators. 
Plastics sheeting shall be used to cover all i tems that cannot be removed and all working surfaces, and the 
sheeting shall be sealed with plastics -backed adhesive tape or masking tape.  
10.3.4 The pest control operator shall ensure that the pesticide formulation can safely be used on textiles 
(such as  carpets and curtains) and that it will not stain painted or varnished surfaces.   
18 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 10.3.5 The pest control operator shall determine the size of the area or space to be treated and, by following 
the instructions on the label, shall prepare just enough pestic ide for a single application. The measuring vessel 
shall be triple -rinsed (see 3. 20) and the rinse liquid shall be added to the mixture before it is made up to 
volume.  
10.3.6 If a herbicide is to be applied, the pest control operator shall take cognizance  of other plants growing 
in the area to be treated and that might be susceptible to that particular herbicide.  
10.4 Application of pesticides  
10.4.1 Buildings  
10.4.1.1  Space sprays  
All windows and doors, except the exit door, shall be closed. Cupboard doors and drawers shall be opened 
and the formulation shall be applied in accordance with the instructions on the label. After completion of the 
application of the pesticide, the room shall be vacated immediately, the exit door closed a nd the room kept 
closed for the period stipulated on the label. At the end of this period, all doors and windows shall be opened 
and, if applicable, fans shall be switched on. The room shall not be deemed safe until the stipulated ventilation 
period has expired.  
10.4.1.2  Dusts and residual sprays  
All doors and windows shall be opened to ensure adequate ventilation. The spray or dust shall be applied in 
accordance with the instructions on the label, starting at the point furthest from the exit door. The room or area 
shall be vacated as soon as the application has been completed and the treated room shall not be re -entered 
until the stipulated ventilation period has expired. If human dwellings are being treated, a strip of about 1 m 
wide on walls where small children or elderly  persons could touch treated surfaces shall remain untreat ed in 
frequently used areas, for example passages.  
10.4.1.3  Bait 
Bait shall be placed in such positions that it is inaccessible to children and animals. Bait can be replenished 
when necessary, and shall be removed when all pest activity has ceased.  
10.4.1.4  Fumigants  
Fumigants shall be applied in accordance with US 863 .  
10.4.2 Outdoor areas  
10.4.2.1 General  
10.4.2.1.1  Manually or mechanically operated equipment can be used to apply a pesticide ( to a point near 
run-off) in the form of a coarse spray against surfaces.  
10.4.2.1.2  Drift of pesticide spray or dust (or both) onto people, animals, driveways, susceptible plants and 
water supplies shall be avoided by the suspension of operations in windy  weather if there is a danger of 
contamination. Humans and animals shall not be allowed into the operation area until the surfaces have dried 
or the dust has settled.   
10.4.2.2  Patios and other outdoor floor surfaces  
Patios and other outdoor floor surface s shall only be  treated when it is stated on the label that the pesticide 
can safely be used for this purpose.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  19 
 10.4.2.3  Herbicides  
Herbicides shall be applied in accordance with the instructions on the label, and care shall be taken not to 
contaminate ot her susceptible plants.  
10.4.2.4 Soil fumigants  
Soil fumigants shall be applied in accordance with US 863 .  
10.4.2.5 Bait  
Bait shall be placed in such a position that it is inaccessible to children and animals. Bait can be replenished 
when necessary, an d shall be removed when all pest activity has ceased .  
10.5 Disposal  
10.5.1 To minimize the problems of disposal, pest  control operators shall follow the following procedures:  
a) only as much pesticide as will be needed at one time for a specific applicatio n shall be prepared, and 
it shall be used strictly in accordance with the instructions on the label;  
b) when the entire contents of a container are to  be used, the container shall be emptied until the flow 
has slowed to a drip, and the container and the meas uring vessel shall then be triple -rinsed with the 
relevant diluent  and the rinsings shall be added to the pesticide formulation before it is made up to the 
final volume for application; and  
c) access to full or empty waste containers, unless authorized by th e pest control operator, shall be 
prohibited until such time as they can be disposed of. All such containers shall be kept securely 
closed and stored under lock and key, and records of the containers shall be kept.  
10.5.2 Pesticide waste and empty contain ers should preferably be returned to the local supplier or to a 
registered disposal company. Alternatively, triple -rinsed empty pesticide containers (with the exception of 
plastics drums that  previously contained a pesticide)  can be sent to a registered re processing company.  
Before empty pesticide containers (other than aerosol dispensers) are disposed of, they shall be triple -rinsed 
with water and then shattered (in the case of glass containers), punctured  (in the case of plastics and metal 
containers), o r so otherwise rendered unserviceable as to prevent re -use.  
10.5.3 Pesticide waste or empty punctured containers (or both) shall only be disposed of at a site registered 
as a hazardous waste landfill site with the national department that deals with waste  management and 
disposal.  
10.5.4 Empty aerosol dispensers shall never be punctured or heated. Empty aerosol dispensers are not 
recyclable and may be disposed of by landfill in a waste disposal site together with general waste.  
10.5.5 Empty triple -rinsed pesticide containers (especially plastics containers) that have been rendered 
unserviceable (see 11.5.2) could be considered for processing (recycling) into other products such as building 
construction materials. Thermal destruction shall only be carried o ut in a facility authorized by the national 
department that  deals with waste manage ment and disposal .  
11 Requirements for manufacturers, formulators and packers of pesticides  
11.1 General  
11.1.1 The construction of a factory shall be such that it compli es with the national buil ding regulations and 
statutory provisions. In addition, the floors shall be bunded or constructed with a slope, to facilitate drainage 
into a reservoir in the event of spillage or of sprinklers being activated during a fire.   
20 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 11.1.2 A reservoir shall be installed and maintained to  receive all factory effluent. The contents of the 
reservoir shall be purified  
a) to the quality requirements of the local authority if the contents are to be discharged into the sewer, or  
b) to the quality req uirements of the relevant national regulations and statutory provisions, and any 
provincial or local regulatory requirements (see annex A) if the contents are to be discharged into 
storm -water drains or into any other stream.  
11.1.3 Manufacturers, formula tors and packers shall attend regular awareness programmes about the 
hazards involved in the use of pesticides, and about the health and safety requirements for the handling of 
pesticides. All operators shall attend regular training programmes and shall ab ide by the relevant national 
regulations and statutory provisions, and any provincial or local regulatory requi rements (see clause 5 and 
annex A).  
11.1.4 Manufacturers, formulators and packers shall provide operators with adequate protective clothing and 
equipment (see clause 7), and shall adhere to all the relevant national, regional and local regulations (see 
clause 5 and annex A) regarding the health of workers exposed to pesticides.  
11.2 Washing facilities  
11.2.1 Adequate washing facilities shall be installed and maintained for the washing and drying of protective 
clothing. The washing facilities shall be readily accessible, and shall be located in an area where the facility 
will not become contaminated.  
NOTE  A water temperature of 65 °C, with the ad dition of an appropriate detergent, and a triple cycle of wash and 
rinse is suitable for the removal of most pesticides.  
11.2.2 All washing and rinsing water shall be directed to the reservoir (see 12.1.2).  
11.3 Storage facilities  
11.3.1 The distributio n store shall comply with  the requirements given in annex E.  
11.3.2 Separate storage areas shall be set up for the different types of pesticides manufactured, formulated 
or packed. An inventory shall be kept of  all stored pesticides. The inventory shall b e kept away from the 
storage are a and shall be available at all times for inspection.  
11.3.3 Hazardous raw materials and formulations on pallets shall be kept in a separate room or a separate 
area of the warehouse, and shall be secured against unauthorize d entry (see E.6.1.1) and against burglary.  
11.4 Warning notices and symbolic safety signs  
Suitable symbolic safety signs in accordance with US ISO  7010  and warning notices shall be posted in and 
around the areas where pesticides are kept or handled. The  height of  the letters shall be at least 75 mm. The 
dimensions of the toxic hazard class diamond shall be at least 250 mm × 250 mm (see table D.1).  
11.5 Spillages and leaks  
11.5.1 All containers shall be inspected regularly for leaks. When a container is  damaged, the pesticide shall 
be transferred to a suitable, clean, compatible container and the new container shall be clearly labelled.  
11.5.2 Vermiculite, sand or any other suitable inorganic material that can absorb spillage or leakage shall be 
availab le and easily accessible, together with suitable empty containers, shovels, squeegees and brooms.  
11.6 Fire precautions  
The requirements of clause 14 and annex F shall be complied with.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  21 
 12 Requirements for pesticide distributors and any other traders in pesticides  
12.1 General  
12.1.1 Pesticide distributors and any other traders in pesticides shall comply with the relevant national 
regulations and statutory provisions, and any provincial or local regulatory requirements (see clause 5 and 
annex A).  
12.1.2 The management of a pesticide distributing company and the management of any other 
establishment trading in pesticides shall offer regular awareness programmes about the hazards involved in 
the use of pesticides, and about the health and safety requireme nts for the handling of pesticides. All 
operators shall attend regular training programmes, and shall abide by the relevant national regulations and 
statutory provisions, and any provincial or local regulatory requirements (see clause 5 and annex A).  
12.1.3 If pesticides constitute a large part of the company's trade, the locality of the nearest hospital or 
medical consulting rooms and the hours  of attendance, and the locality and telephone numbers of the local 
emergency services shall be established.  
12.2 Storage and display of pesticides  
12.2.1 A separate pesticide distribution store shall be organized in accordance with annex E.  
However, the storage requirements of annex G apply if the quantities of pesticides to be stored exceed the 
maximum quantitie s given in table E.1.  
12.2.2 Pesticides that are displayed for purposes of sale shall be well removed from foodstuffs, feeds, 
clothing, medicines, cosmetics and toiletries, and the pesticides shall be so placed that they are out of the 
reach of children i n trolleys. Additionally, pesticides classified as danger group I (a) and danger group I (b) 
(colour code red) in terms of US 1792 -1 shall be kept in a locked cupboard or other locked area.  
12.3 Disposal of pesticides  
12.3.1 All materials that are contamin ated with pesticides, all unwanted pesticides and all empty pesticide 
containers (that have been triple -rinsed – see 3.17) should preferably be sent to a registered disposal 
company for disposal at a site  registered as a hazardous  waste landfill site with the national department that 
deals with waste manage ment and disposal .  
Alternatively, triple -rinsed empty pesticide containers (with the exception of  plastics drums that previously 
contained a pesticide) can be sent to a registered reprocessing company . Before empty pesticide containers 
(other than aerosol dispensers) are disposed of, they shall be triple -rinsed with water and then shattered (in 
the case of glass containers), punctured (in the case of plastics and metal containers), or so otherwise 
rendere d unserviceable as to prevent re -use.  
12.3.2 Empty triple -rinsed pesticide containers (especially plastics containers) that have been rendered 
unserviceable could be considered for processing (recycling) into other products such as building construction 
materials. Thermal destruction shall only be carried out in a facility authorized by the national department that 
deals with waste manage ment and disposal .  
12.4 Fire precautions  
The requirements of clause 13 and annex F shall be complied with.   
22 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 13 Fire pre cautions and action in the event of fire  
13.1 To facilitate effective action in the event of fire, the procedures  for fire drills shall be planned in 
collaboration with the local fire authority and in accordance with the relevant national regulations and statutory 
provisions, and any provincial or  local regulatory requirements (see annex A).  
13.2 Suitable fire extinguishers, in accordance with annex F, shall be available and shall be easily 
accessible. All relevant national regulations and statutory provi sions  
, and any provincial or local regulatory requirements (see annex A) in respect of fire extinguishers shall be 
complied with  
13.3 In the event of fire, the procedures given in annex F shall be followed. In addition, the relevant national 
regulations a nd statutory provisions, and any provincial or local regulatory requirements in respect of 
contaminated run -off shall be complied with.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  23 
 Annex  A 
(Informative)  
 
Relevant Ugandan  regulations and statutory provisions   
A.1 Acts  
1. Employment Act, 2006  (Act No. 11(3) of 2006 ) 
2. Environment Conservation Act  
3. The Building Control  Act, 2013  
4. The Traffic and Road  Safety  Act, 199 8 
5. The Water Act, Cap. 152  
6. The Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2006  
7. The Control of Agricultural Chemicals Act  
8. The National Environment (Manageme nt  of Ozone Depleting Substances and Products) 
Regulations,2001(S.1.No.63 of 2001)  
9. National Environment (Waste Management) Regulations,1999.  
10. Ratification of Treaties Act 1998  
11. The Water(Water Discharge) Regulations,No.32/1998  
12. The Environmental Impact Asses sment Regulation,S.1.No.13/1998  
A.2 Other publications  
1. Minimum requirements for waste disposal by landfill  
2. Minimum requirements for water monitoring at waste management facilities   
24 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 Annex B  
(normative)  
 
First aid  
B.1 General  
B.1.1  The simple mnemonic ABC: A (airway) – B (breathing) – C (circulation) will help to keep the majority 
of poison victims alive until medical help arrives.  
B.1.2  Speed is essential in the treatment of any contamination incident, since contamination can result in 
poisoning, especially when the victim has been exposed to a highly toxic pesticide.  
B.1.3  Symptoms of poisoning can either be localized, for example irritation of the throat, nose, skin or eyes, 
or be more general. The appropriate first -aid measures depend to some extent upon the route by which the 
pesticide has entered the body (see B.2.2).  
B.2 Requirements for untrained persons  
B.2.1  Immediate action  
B.2.1.1  Move the patient away from the contaminated area.  
B.2.1.2  Keep the patient calm and comfortable and immediately eit her summon a medical practitioner or 
take the poison victim to a medical practitioner. If the patient can walk, allow him to do so only with assistance.  
B.2.1.3  If the patient is unconscious, turn him onto his right side with his right leg straight, his l eft leg 
drawn up and his head so bent back that the respiratory tract is kept clear; loosen the clothing round the neck, 
chest and abdomen, and keep the patient quiet and lightly covered.  
B.2.1.4  Follow the applicable procedures given in B.2.2.1.2, B.2.2. 2.2, B.2.2.3.2 and B.2.2.4.2.  
B.2.2  Routes of poisoning and action to be taken  
B.2.2.1  Inhalation  
B.2.2.1.1  Symptoms  
Symptoms of exposure by inhalation might include headache, dizziness, nausea, sore throat, anxiety, and 
tightness of the chest.  
B.2.2.1.2  Action  
Move the patient to an area where there is fresh air, and loosen the clothing round the patient's throat and 
neck. Seek medical attention immediately, and show the pesticide label to the medical practitioner if possible . DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  25 
 B.2.2.2  Ingestion  
B.2.2.2.1  Symptoms  
Although accidental ingestion of a pesticide seldom happens, it might occur owing to contamination of eating 
utensils, food or drinking water. Ingestion of a pesticide often causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pains and 
diarrhoea.  
B.2.2.2.2  Action  
B.2.2.2.2.1  Do not give the patient anything to drink, unless this is specified on the pesticide label.  
B.2.2.2.2.2  Do not induce vomiting, unless specified on the label.  
B.2.2.2.2.3  If the patient vomits spontaneously, clean out his mouth and throat. R etain the vomit for analysis.  
B.2.2.2.2.4  Seek medical attention immediately, and show the pesticide label to the medical practitioner if 
possible.  
B.2.2.3  Skin contact  
B.2.2.3.1  Symptoms  
Although many pesticides only irritate the skin, some can penetrat e intact skin rapidly, even if no skin irritation 
is experienced.  
Many pesticides are absorbed through the skin, particularly on the scalp, at the back of the neck, on the soles 
of the feet and other exposed skin areas. Symptoms of poisoning inclu de heada che, nausea, tiredness,  
irritability;  anxiety and abnormal behaviour. Symptoms  are often delayed.  
B.2.2.3.2  Action  
B.2.2.3.2.1  If a pesticide comes into contact with an operator's skin:  
a) remove the co ntaminated clothing immediately;  and  
b) rinse the affected  area with plenty of clean water and seek medical at tention. A person assisting the 
patient by rinsing the affected area shall wear clean chemical -resistant gloves.  
B.2.2.3.2.2  When an operator becomes grossly contaminated, eve n if operations are incomplet e: 
a) remove the patient fro m the operation area;  
b) remove protective clothing and pr otective equipment immediately;  
c) wash the affected a rea with plenty of clean water;  
d) put on clean clothes; and  
e) seek medical attention immediately, and show the pesticide label to  the medical practitioner if 
possible . 
B.2.2.4  Eye contact  
B.2.2.4.1  Symptoms  
The patient might not experience severe discomfort, but first aid shall nevertheless be carried out immediately.   
26 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 B.2.2.4.2  Action  
Rinse the eyes with plenty of clean water for a t least 10 min and seek medical attention. Show the pesticide 
label to the medical practitioner if possible.  
B.3 Requirements for trained persons  
B.3.1  Follow the instructions given in B.2. In addition, advise the medical practitioner if it is suspected t hat 
the pesticide ingested might contain petroleum distillates or other  hydro  carbon solvents.  
B.3.2  If the patient experiences difficulty in breathing, administer oxygen until medical help arrives. Apply 
artificial respiration if breathing h as stopped. I f there is concern about possible transfer of communicable 
diseases through mouth -to-mouth resuscitation, a disposable protective mouthpiece can be used.  
B.3.3  Apply cardiopulmonary resuscitation if the heartbeat has stopped.  
B.3.4  When poisoning is caus ed by phosphine, methyl bromide or hydrogen cyanide, mouth -to-mouth 
resuscitation can be fatal. Use a manual  respiratory resuscitating device instead.  
B.3.5  On arriv al of the medical practitioner:  
a) show him the pesticide label; or  
b) provide the MSDS.  
When re levant, submit the work -exposure record card of the patient to the medical practitioner without delay.  
B.4 Requirements for medical practitioners and nursing staff  
B.4.1  General  
An operator could take ill from natural causes while handling pesticides, and  wrong treatment could make the 
operator's condition worse. It is therefore important to establish whether a pesticide was actually involved 
before treatment is given. Contact the supplier of the pesticide for information additional to that given in the 
MSDS or on the pesticide label, if necessary. As soon as the nature of the poison and the route of poisoning 
(see B.2.2) have been confirmed, carry out the appropriate emergency treatment (which might include the 
administration of an antidote).  
B.4.2  Gastric  lavage  
If a very toxic pesticide is involved, gastric lavage may be used to empty the stomach, provided that it can be 
carried out within 4 h of ingestion of  the poison. Gastric lavage is, however, contra -indicated if a pesticide that 
contains hydrocarbon  solvents or that has corrosive properties has been ingested. Carry  out symptomatic and 
supportive treatment instead.  
B.4.3  Induction of vomiting  
The induction of vomiting is not recommended. However, if the induction of vomiting is indicated on the 
pesti cide label, or if the medical practitioner deems such induction necessary, ensure that the patient is fully 
conscious. Administer 10 mL to 15 mL of ipecacuanha tincture (BP), followed by a gl ass of cold water to 
facilitate emesis. If necessary, follow this  treatment with a similar dose after 20 min. After emesis, administer 
four to five tablets (or one tablespoon) of activated charcoal in a glass of water, followed by a suitable laxative. 
Follow this with symptomatic and supportive treatment.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  27 
 B.5 First -aid kit 
B.5.1  A first -aid kit shall contai n at least the following items:  
a) wound cleaner or antiseptic (100 ml);  
b) swabs for cleaning wounds;  
c) cotton wool for padding (100 g);  
d) sterile gauze swabs (minimum quantity of 10);  
e) 1 pair of forceps ( for splinters);  
f) 1 pair of scissors (minimum size 100 mm);  
g) 1 card of safety pins;  
h) bandages:  
i) 4 triangular bandages;  
ii) 4 roller bandages (75 mm × 5 m);  
iii) 4 roller bandages (100 mm × 5 m); and  
iv) 1 roll of elastic adhesive bandage (25 mm × 3 m);  
i) adhesive strips:  
i) 1 roll of non -allerge nic adhesive strip (25 mm × 3 m); and  
ii) 1 packet of adhesive dressing strips(minimum quantity of 10 assorted sizes);  
j) first-aid dressings:  
i) 4 first -aid dressings (75 mm × 100 mm); and  
ii) 4 first -aid dressings (150 mm × 200 mm);  
k) 2 straight splints;  
l) 2 pairs o f large and 2 pairs of medium disposable latex gloves;  
m) 2 cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) mouth -pieces or similar devices; and  
n) an eyewash bottle containing distilled water or rinse solution.  
B.5.2  The following items shall be available at the medical  station, for use by nursing staff and by medical 
practitioners:  
a) pecacuanha tincture (BP);  
b) about 200 g of activated charcoal in powder form or tablet form; and  
c) any special equipment, antidotes, etc., that might be required in view of the specific chemic als to be 
applied.  
B.5.3  Antidotes shall be kept separate from other items.   
28 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 Annex C  
(normative)  
 
The storage of pesticides in a storeroom  
C.1 General  
This annex gives requirements for the storage of small volumes (see table C.1) of pesticides in storeroo ms.  
C.2 Local authority approval  
A pesticide storeroom shall comply with the regulations and statutory provisions of the relevant departments 
(local fire authority, public health , sewerage, building inspectorate, etc.), and a certificate of occupancy shal l 
be issued by the local authority in accordance with the national bui lding regulations.  
C.3 Construction  
C.3.1  General  
The storeroom shall be constructed of non -combustible material that is impervious to the pesticide(s) being 
stored. The floor shall be of concrete that is smooth but not slippery (even when wet). Contaminated 
firefighting water shall be contained by means such as a surrounding sill, kerb or bund wall. The doorway shall  
be bunded to a height of 200 mm and this, together with the wall -to-floor joints, shall be watertight. The 
purpose of  the bund is to contain spills or firefighting water that could cause damage to the environment, and 
to prevent water (for example flood run -off) from entering the storeroom. Windows and doors shall be secured  
to prevent forced entry.  
C.3.2  Ventilation  
The storeroom shall be so designed and constructed as to ensure that pesticide fumes are effectively 
ventilated in all parts of the storeroom, whether naturally or mechanically. The fumes shall be released to th e 
open air in such a way that they are not likely to come into contact with sources of ignition that might ignite 
them.  
C.3.3  Shelves  
C.3.3.1  The storeroom shall be equipped with racks or  shelves that are impervious and chemically 
resistant to the stored chemicals. Liquid products shall be stored on the lower shelves. The powder and 
granular formulations shall be stored on shelves above the liquid products. This is to provide for minimum 
damage in the event of accidental leakage of liquid during storage.  
C.3.3.2  Pesticides in fibre  board boxes, paper bags and fibre  board drums shall not be stored directly on 
the floor, nor shall they be stacked agains t a wall. Cement floors tend to sweat and damage could be caused 
to boxes, drums and paper bags. Plastics a nd metal drums of capacity 20 L or more shall not be stacked more 
than two tiers high.  
NOTE Non -combustible trays on hardwood shelves may be used.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  29 
 C.3.4  Lighting  
C.3.4.1  When a storeroom is used only during daytime, and natural lighting provides a suffic ient level of 
illumination to ensure compliance with the national building regulations (see foreword), artificial lighting need 
not be installed.  
C.3.4.2  Storerooms and material handling areas shall be illuminated to 150 lx, and issuing counters shall 
be illuminated to  200 lx.  
C.4 Electrical equipment  
Electrical equipment shall comply with the requirements of D.5.  
C.5 Security  
Only the superviso r and personnel appointed by th e supervisor to be  responsible for the storeroom shall have 
access to the keys a nd be allowed into the storeroom. All ke ys shall be labelled.  
C.6 Warning no tices and symbolic safety signs  
C.6.1  At the entrance to the storeroom the warning "Storage of pesticides – Unauthorized entry prohibited" 
shall be displayed in red letters agains t a white background. The warning notice shall be in one of the official 
languages and in at least one other language indigenous to the region. The height of the letters shall be at 
least 75 mm.  
C.6.2  Symbolic safety signs in accordance with  the requireme nts of US ISO  7010  shall be displayed at the 
entrance to the storeroom, and inside the storeroom, to denote the safety -related features of the storeroom, 
for example  
a) no smoking,  
b) no naked flames, and  
c) no eating or drinking.  
C.6.3  The dimensions of the sy mbolic safety signs shall be at least 290 mm × 290 mm. All workers shall 
undergo training in the meaning of the signs, warning notices, and labels on pesticide containers.   
C.7 Fire protection and emergen cy planning  
C.7.1  Portable fire extinguishers, as sp ecified in US ISO 7159:2009  and US ISO 11602 -2:2000  as 
applicable, shall be provided, unless the local fire authority is of the opinion that a larger number of fire 
extinguishers need to be installed.  
C.7.2  A fire hose shall be mounted on the outside of t he storeroom and shall be connected to a water 
supply.  
C.7.3  A sprinkler system shall be considered, but need not be installed if the storeroom is of capacity 9 m3 
or larger and is equipped with suitable manual fir efighting equipment.  
C.7.4  The emergency  telephone numbers of the nearest poison centre, medical practitioner, hospital and 
ambulance service shall be clearly displayed at the entrance and inside the storeroom. The person(s) 
responsible for the storeroom shall have access to these numbers and a telephone in case of an emergency.   
30 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 C.8 Personal pr otective clothing and equipment  
C.8.1  All operators shall be aware of the hazards involved in the use of pesticides and of the importance of 
the wearing of personal protective clothing.  
C.8.2  Instructions  on the MSDS of the pesticide or on the pesticide label shall be followed regarding the 
correct personal protective clothing and equipment to be worn. All operators shall clearly understand that, 
even though protective clothing and equipment are used, grea t care still has to be taken (see clause 4 and 
clause 7).  
C.8.3  Only persons who have been medically examined and found fit shall be employed (see 5.2.4) in a job 
that involves regular exposure to pesticides.  
C.9 First aid  
C.9.1  At least one worker shall  be trained in basic first aid (see annex B). Sufficient information on the 
relevant first -aid procedures for the pesticides in the storeroom shall be available in a prominent place.  
C.9.2  Soap, a clean towel and running water shall be available near the operation area, but so located as to 
avoid contamination by pesticides.  
C.10  Record keeping  
C.10.1  The supervisor or (a) person(s) appointed by the supervisor (see C.5) shall keep a written or 
electronic record for each product received, dispatched and us ed.  
C.10.2  On receipt of a pesticide from a supplier, at least the following information shall be recorded:  
a) product name;  
b) batch number;  
c) name and address of supplier;  
d) quantity and date of receipt; and  
e) name of the responsible person who received the pr oduct (see C.5 and C.10.1).  
C.10.3  Records shall be kept of all the products that  are used and of the balance of products in the 
storeroom.  
C.10.4  The records shall be kept in a safe place away from the storeroom, and shall be available at all times 
for inspection by national, provincial or local authorities, as applicable.  
C.11  Emergency training  
C.11.1  All operators shall be trained in the use of the different types of fire extinguishers on site and shall 
practise their duties as set out under the emer gency plan.  
C.11.2  The e mergency training shall include:  
a) initiation of the alarm,  
b) correct use of the firefighting equipment,  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  31 
 c) evacuation procedures,  
d) roll calls, and,  
e) fire drills.   
32 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 Annex D  
(normative)  
 
The storage of pesticides on farms  
D.1 General  
This annex gives requirements for the management practices relating to the storage of pesticides intended for 
immediate or seasonal use (or both) on a farm and not for resale.  
D.2 Local authority approval  
Applications shall be made to the local authority for permission to erect a pesticide store on a farm.  
In such a case, the necessary permission shall be obtained from all relevant departments (local fire authority, 
public health, sewerage, building inspectorate, etc.), and a certificate of occupancy shall be  issued by the local 
authority in accordance with  the national bui lding regulations.   
D.3 Site location  
D.3.1  The site shall at least be above the 50 year flood  line, but preferably above the 100 year flood line.  
D.3.2  The site shall be out of reach of ro ck falls , falling trees and veld fires.  
D.3.3  The store shall be a separate building and shall be at least 10 m away from any dwelling or livestock 
buildings, or from where fodder, feeds, fuel or other flammable materials are stored. A minimum of 5 m 
betwe en the store and other buildings is recommended. If part of a complex, the store shall be totally sealed 
off from the rest of the complex. There should be no free movement of air between the storage area and the 
rest of the complex.  
D.3.4  The possible pol lution risk from spilt chemicals shall be taken into account when the location of the 
store is being considered. Furthermore, the site chosen shall be well away from rivers, dams, boreholes and 
areas likely to be flooded. The direction of water flow (surfa ce drainage) shall be taken into account in case of 
fire or flooding, because crops, pastures and water sources could be contaminated. The store s hall be 
situated where it can be supervised.  
D.3.5  When a store is being planned, the ease of access  for deli very or dispatch shall be borne in mind. The 
possibility of a fire (many pesticides are highly flammable) and the need to be able to approach the building 
from all sides shall also be taken into consideration.  
D.4 Construction  
D.4.1  General  
Load -bearing c onstruction elements, for example walls, floors and doors, shall be made of non -combustible 
materials that are impervious to the pesticide(s) to be stored. It is recommended that load -bearing roof 
components be made of fire -retardant timber.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  33 
 D.4.2  Frame  
The frame of the store shall be of concrete or steel. A steel frame shall be fire protected to give the required 
stability.  
D.4.3  Floors and spillage containment  
D.4.3.1  The floor shall be of concrete and shall be of sufficient  load-bearing capacity to wit hstand the 
weight of stock and racks. The floor shall be smooth but not slippery (even when wet), free from cracks to 
facilitate cleaning, and so designed as to contain leakage and contaminated firefighting water by means such 
as a surrounding sill, kerb o r bund wall. The doorway shall be bunded to a height of 200 mm and this, together 
with wall -to-floor joints, shall be watertight. The purpose of the bund is to contain spills or firefighting water that 
could cause damage to the environment, and to prevent water (for example f lood run -off) from entering the 
store.  
D.4.3.2  In the event of a fire, the run -off water shall be prevented from leaving the site by the construction 
of a dyke ahead of the spill for later disposal in accordance with the relevant natio nal regulations and statutory 
provisions, and any provincial or local regulatory requirements (see annex A).  
D.4.4  Walls The walls  shall be of brick or concrete  
D.4.5  Roof  
The roof shall be leak -free, and shall be insulated with non -combustible material ( such as mineral wool or 
glass fibre) so as to maintain the temperature of the store at a reasonable level. Vents in the roof will allow for 
the escape of hot air during the summer months.  
D.4.6  Doors  
D.4.6.1  Steel doors are preferable to wooden doors. The  doors shall have security gates to reduce the 
risk of forced entry. Doors shall be raised 200 mm to accommodate the bunding (see D.4.3).  
D.4.6.2  The exit door(s) of the store shall open to the outside and shall have (a) lock(s) and key(s) as 
approved by the local fire authority. The exit door(s) shall at all times be capable of being opened easily from 
the inside without the use of (a) key(s).  
D.4.7  Windows  
D.4.7.1  Windows shall allow enough daylight into the store for product labels to be read. Where na tural 
light is insufficient, it shall be supplemented  with artificial lighting. All windows shall be weatherproof and 
burglar -barred, and should preferably be above head height ("out of sight out of mind") for security reasons.  
D.4.7.2  The window frames s hall be manufactured of steel and shall:  
a) be fitted with wire glass of minimum thickness of 8 mm, and  
b) have window panels of maximum size of 450 mm × 450 mm.  
D.4.7.3  No windows shall be capable of being opened.  
D.4.8 Shelves  
The store shall be equip ped with racks or shelves that are impervious and chemically resistant to the stored 
chemicals. Large bags, boxes and drums can be stored on pallets (see also D.7.6).  
NOTE  Non-combustible trays on hardwood shelves may be used.   
34 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 D.4.9  Ventilation  
D.4.9.1  The store shall be so designed and constructed as to ensure that the pesticide fumes are 
effectively ventilated in all parts of the store, whether naturally or  mechanically. The fumes shall be released to 
the open air in such a way that they are not likely to come into contact with sources of ignition that might ignite 
them.  
D.4.9.2  Natural ventilation of the store can be achieved by the installation of non -combustible airbricks of 
size at least 140 mm × 215 mm and that are provided with non -corrosive gauze  wire of nominal opening 
diameter at least  0,5 mm. The airbricks shall be:  
a) provided i n at least three external walls;  
b) positioned 100 mm above the level of the bund (sill) and 100 mm below the roof and not more than 
450mm apart; and  
c) able to ventilate the s tore at a minimum cycle of f ive total air changes per hour.  
D.4.9.3  In areas where persistent and severe dust storms occur, care shall be taken in the placement of 
vents in relation to wind direction.  
D.4.9.4  Where natural ventilation cannot be effect ed, the store shall be equipped with a mechanical inlet 
and outlet ventilation system. The system shall have the capacity to change the total air content of the store at 
least five times per hour. The ventilators shall be firmly attached to the inside of the walls, and the bottom 
ventilators shall be affixed 100 mm above the level of the bund (sill) and on  opposite walls to ensure cross 
ventilation.  
D.4.9.5  A mechanical ventilation system shall be switched on at all times, except when it is switched off 
for repairs or replacement purposes. If the system breaks down irreparably, it shall be replaced without delay.  
D.4.10  Lightning protection and discharge of electrostatic charges adequate  protection against lightning 
shall be provided, and in areas where flamm able substances are stored, appr opriate measures shall be taken 
to : 
a) prevent the accumulation of electrostatic charges, or to  
b) discharge electrostatic charges under controlled circumstances.  
D.5 Electri cal equipment  
D.5.1  All electrical equipment an d fittings shall be installed and certified by a qualified electrician.  
D.5.2 Whenever the store is not staffed, all electrical equipment and fittings, with the exception of the 
mechanical ventilation system, if applicable, shall be switched off.  
D.6 Security  
D.6.1  Only the farm owner and the farm worker(s) appointed by the farm owner to be responsible for the 
store shall have access to the keys and be allowed into the store.  
D.6.2  The area around the pesticide store shall be secured against entry of unau thorized persons, stray 
animals, and vermin by a wall or a fence at least 1,8 m high round the site. The fence or wall shall be provided 
with a lockable gate. A clear strip of width at least 1 m along the inner perimeter, and, if possible, also along 
the o uter perimeter, of the fence shall be provided. The installation of security lighting, directed at the fence 
and not at the site contents, is recommended.  
D.6.3  All windows shall be barred against unauthorized entry and should preferably be above head hei ght 
(see D.4.7.1).  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  35 
 D.7 Separation and segregation  
D.7.1  The store shall be used for the storage of pesticides only, and, if relevant, packaging material and 
equipment used for the application of pesticides.  
D.7.2  A separate bunded facility shall be used for preparation, dilution and mixing operations. An eyewash 
bottle and a washbasin with running water shall be installed in the area.  
D.7.3  A separate fenced -off and lockable area shall be provided in the store for all pesticides classified as 
danger grou p I(a) and danger group I (b) pesticides in terms of US 1792 -1.  
D.7.4  Flammable liquids shall be stored in a separate room or enclosure of the store. The room or enclosure 
shall be ventilated to the open air in such a manner that vapour cannot accumulate i nside the store. The room 
or enclosure shall be clearly marked with the flammable liquid hazard class diamond (see table D.1) and the 
applicable symbolic safety signs in accordance with US ISO  7010 . An adequate amount of firefighting 
equipment shall be ins talled as recommended by the local fire authority (see D.11.1.2 and annex F).  
D.7.5  Liquid products shall be stored on the lower shelves or racks. The powder and granular formulations 
shall be stored on shelves above the liquid products. This is to provid e for minimum damage in the event of 
accidental  leakage of liquid during storage.  
D.7.6  Cement floors tend to sweat. To ensure that pesticides in fibre  board boxes, paper bags and fibre 
board drums are not damaged, they shall be placed on pallets and shal l not be stacked against a wall. 
Plastics and metal drums of capacity 20 L or  more shall not be stacked more than two tiers high.  
D.8 Warning notices, symbolic safety signs and product labels  
D.8.1  General  
D.8.1.1  All symbolic safety signs and warnings sh all be relevant and appropriate, and shall  be so 
positioned that they are:  
a) clearly visible at all times,  
b) not subject to misinterpretation, and  
c) not subject to damage during normal storage operations.  
D.8.1.2  All farm workers shall undergo traini ng in the meaning of the signs, warning notices, and labels on 
pesticide containers.  
D.8.2  Warning notices  
D.8.2.1  Outside the store  
D.8.2.1.1  At the entrance to the store the warning "Storage of pesticides – Unauthorized entry prohibited" 
shall be displa yed in red letters against a white background. The warning notice shall be in one of the official 
languages and in at least one other language indigenous to the region. The height of the letters shall be at 
least 75 mm.  
D.8.2.1.2  A warning notice "Storage  of pesticides – Unauthorized entry prohibited" in red letters against a 
white background shall be posted round the fence of the storage area. The warning notice shall be in one of 
the official languages and in at least one other language indigenous to the  region. The height of the letters 
shall be at least 75 mm.   
36 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 D.8.2.2  Inside t he store  
Every type of storage area and utility area inside the store shall be clearly  demarcated, for example separate 
storage areas for poisons, flammables and corrosives shall display the relevant hazard class diamonds (see 
table D.1). The dimensions of the hazard class diamonds shall be at least 250 mm × 250 mm.  
D.8.3  Symbolic safety signs  
Symbolic safety signs in accordance with the requirements of US ISO  7010  shall be displa yed at the entrance 
to the store, and inside the store, to denote the safety -related features of the store, for example  
a) no smoking,  
b) no naked flames, and  
c) no fires.  
The dimensions of the symbolic safety signs shall be at least 290 mm × 290 mm.  
D.8.4  Product labels  
D.8.4.1  The sale, acquisition, use and disposal of a pesticide other than in a container and with a label as 
approved by the relevant n ational authority  are strictly prohibited unless  
a) the pesticide is applied for the purpose of conducting tria ls, and  
b) prior approval has been obtained from the Registrar.  
D.8.4.2  Pesticides in packages and containers that are not clearly and indelibly labelled shall not be 
accepted or used.  
D.8.4.3  Every farm worker working with pesticides shall be trained in  the: 
a) meaning of the symbols on the labels, and  
b) interpretation of the written instructions.  
D.9 Responsible persons  
D.9.1  One or more literate farm workers shall be made responsible for managing the store when the farmer 
does not do so himself. Such (a) per son(s) shall be properly trained in the handling of pesticides and shall 
understand the implications of careless and incorrect handling.  
D.9.2  The responsible farm worker(s) shall check every container on receipt to ensure that the correct 
product has bee n delivered.  
D.9.3  No leaking container shall be accepted. Any leaking container shall be isolated and returned to the 
supplier.  
D.9.4  The responsible farm worker(s) shall ensure that  the oldest product for a certain application is used 
first. This can b e determined by the date of manufacture on the product label or by recording the date of 
receipt on each container with waterproof ink.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  37 
 D.10  Record keeping  
D.10.1   The responsible farm worker(s) (see D.6.1) shall keep a written or electronic record for ea ch product 
received, dispatched and used.  
D.10.2  It is recommended that, on receipt of a pesticide from a supplier, at least the following information be 
recorded:  
a) product name;  
b) batch number;  
c) name and address of supplier;  
d) and date of receipt;  
e) name of  the responsible person who received the product; and  
f) purpose for which the product is to be applied.  
 
D.10.3  Records shall be kept of all the products that  are used and of the balance of products in the store.  
D.10.4  The records shall be kept in a safe  place away from the storage area, and shall be available at all 
times for inspection by national, provincial or local or authorities, as applicable.  
D.11  Fire pr otection and emergency planning  
D.11.1  Fire protection  
D.11.1.1  The store and the area around  the store shall be designated a non -smoking area.  
Symbolic safety signs in accordance with the requirements of US ISO  7010  prohibiting smoking and open 
flames shall be prominently displayed in appropriate places (see also D.8.3).  
D.11.1.2  Portable fire extinguishers, as specified in US ISO  7159 and US ISO  11602 -2 shall be provided, 
unless the local fire authority is of the opinion that a larger number of fire extinguishers need to be installed.  
D.11.1.3  A fire hose shall be mounted on the outside of the  store and shall be connected to a water supply.  
D.11.1.4  It is recommended that a sprinkler system be installed in a store of capacity 9 m3 or larger.  
D.11.1.5  Fire extinguishers (see D.11.1.2) shall be  inspected and maintained by a registered person in  
accordance with the provisions of  US ISO7 159 and US ISO 11602 -2, at least once every twelve months.  
D.11.2  Emergency planning  
D.11.2.1  Emergency telephone numbers  
The emergency telephone numbers of the nearest poison centre, medical practitioner, hospital  and 
ambulance service shall be clearly displayed at the entrance and inside the store. The person(s) responsible 
for the store shall have access to these numbers and a telephone in case of an emergency.   
38 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 D.11.2.2  First aid  
D.11.2.2.1  It is recommended tha t at least one of the farm workers be trained in basic first aid.  
Sufficient information on the relevant first -aid procedures for the pesticides in the store shall be available in a 
prominent place.  
D.11.2.2.2  Soap, a clean towel and running water shall be available near the operation area, but so located 
as to avoid contamination by pesticides.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  39 
 Annex E  
(normative )  
 
The storage of pesticides  in distribution stores  
E.1 General  
This annex gives requirements for management practices relating to the storag e of pesticides intended for 
distribution and not exceeding the quantities given in table E.1.  
E.2 Local authority approval  
E.2.1  Pesticides intended for distribution shall not be stored in any premises unless application has been 
made to the local author ity, the necessary permission has been obtained from all relevant departments (local 
fire authority, public health, sewerage, building inspectorate, etc.), and a certificate of occupancy has been 
issued by the local authority in accordance with the nationa l building regulations (see foreword). All permits 
shall be renewed as necessary, and as required by the local authority. The continuation of a distribution store 
operation without the prescribed permits is not permitted.  
E.2.2 When  there is a change of o ccupancy of an existing building or part of a building to distribution 
storage, the building (or part of the building) shall comply fully with the national building regulations (see 
E.2.1).  
E.2.3  Early  consultation with the relevant authorities is recomme nded, as is the provision of an adequate 
brief covering the intended use of the premises and the goods intended to be stored. In this way, the 
necessary permits, such as flammable liquids permits, can be applied for in good time and the need to apply 
costly additional measures, such as  fire safety measures, after the premises are otherwise ready for 
occupation, could be avoided.  
E.3 Site location  
A company or an organization, when applying for approval to set up or extend a pesticide distribution store, 
shall undertake an environmental impact  assessment, and, in so doing, shall take the following into account: 
the nature of the goods to be stored, propos ed stock levels (taking into account seasonal variations) and the 
degree of hazard that will be presented ; the zoning or land -use requirem ents of the local authority;  
NOTE  Preference should be given to isolated locations or sites devoted to industrial development. fire protection, 
security, and gene ral service facilities in the area;  
a) proximity to houses,  schools, hospitals, shopping areas, food manufacturers and offices;  
b) proximity to water courses (surface and underground) and to open storm -water channels. Measures shall 
be taken to prevent any contaminated water from entering a natural water source;  
c) proximity to combustible vegetation;  
d) prevailing winds and other climatic factors;  
e) the highest recorded flood level in the proposed storage area, and the susceptibility of the area to 
flooding;  
f) water table depths, soil types and existing bor eholes within 500 m of the site;   
40 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 g) access to the site, and in particular to buildings, by emergency services vehicles, preferably from two 
sides;  
h) the distribution store shall be a stand -alone building and shall be at least 10 m away from any dwelling  or 
livestock, or from where fodder, feeds, or fuel are stored. A minimum of 5 m between the distribution store and 
other buildings is recommended. If the distribution store is part of a complex, it shall be totally sealed off from 
the rest of the complex.  There should be no free movement of air between the storage area and the rest of the 
complex; and  
i) suitable access for loading and unloading of delivery vehicles.  
E.4 Construction of a distribution store  
E.4.1  General  
E.4.1.1  The building design and c onstruction shall comply with the national building regulations (see 
foreword), relative to the occupancy class ( es) of the building(s) concerned. Where the provisions of this 
clause conflict with those of the national building regulations, the latter shal l apply, except that where the 
provisions of this clause are more stringent than those of the national building regulations, the provisions of 
this clause shall apply. This clause shall be read in conjunction with the relevant national regulations (see 
foreword) and statutory provisions, and any provincial or local regulatory requirements that deal with the 
environment for the workplace.  
E.4.1. 2 Load -bearing construction elements, walls, floors, doors and gates shall be made of non -
combustible materials th at are impervious to the pesticides to be stored. It is recommended that load -bearing 
roof components be made of fire -retardant timber.  
E.4.2  Frame  
The frame of a distribution store shall be of concrete  or steel. A steel frame shall be fire protected to g ive the 
required stability.  
E.4.3  Floors and spillage containment  
E.4.3.1  Floors  
Floors shall be of concrete or of another material impervious  to liquids and to the pesticides to be stored. 
Floors in storage areas shall be of sufficient load -bearing capac ity to withstand the weight of stock, racking 
and any mechanical handling equipment to  be used. Floors shall be smooth but not slippery (even when wet), 
free from cracks to facilitate cleaning, and so designed as to contain leakage and contaminated firefig hting 
water by means  such as a surrounding sill, kerb or bund wall (see also E.4.3.2.3).  
E.4.3.2  Spillage containment  
E.4.3. 2.1 Retention facilities shall be provided in a distribution store, marshalling areas and loading zones 
to contain any spills or fi refighting water and  to allow safe treatment  of the spills prior to disposal.  
E.4.3.2.2  The size and design of the containment facility will depend on estimates, preferably based on the 
worst -case scenario, of  
a) the quantities and the properties of the goo ds likely to escape,  
b) the quantity of firefighting water or rainwater that will accumulate,  
c) the concentration of products in these waters, and  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  41 
 d) the required retention time before appropriate effluent treatment and disposal can be accomplished.  
E.4.3.2.3  The kerb, sill or bund wall that forms the perimeter of the floor shall be at least 200 mm high and 
110 mm wide (two layers of bricks). The floor and the bund wall shall be plastered and sealed, with ramps 
inclined to a gradient of 1 in 10 to allow for veh icle access.  
E.4.3.2.4  Provision for closing off existing drains shall be included in order to minimize the risk of 
contaminated water reaching natural water sources.  
E.4.4  Walls  
External walls should preferably be of masonry or they can be clad with met al (steel or similar) cladding. 
Aluminium cladding shall not be used.  
E.4.5  Doorways and emergency exits  
E.4.5.1  Sufficient entrance and exit doorways or openings shall be provided to enable normal storage 
operations to be carried out without security bei ng compromised.  
E.4.5.2  Emergency exits shall be provided in addition to the main exits. Depending on the size and the 
location of a distribution store, and the number of people working therein, a distribution store shall be provided 
with at least two eme rgency exits situated as far apart as is practicable.  
E.4.5.3  All emergency exits shall be clearly marked and all escape routes shall be indicated by means of 
the relevant symbolic safety signs in accordance with US ISO  7010   
E.4.6  Fire doors  
E.4.6.1  Wher ever possible, offices, formulation operations and amenities shall be located away from the 
main body of the distribution store. If such facilities are located within the distribution store structure, they shall 
be segregated from the storage area and shal l be fitted with self -closing fire doors (see E.4.6.2). Furthermore, 
an exit other than via the distribution store shall be available.  
E.4.6.2  All openings in separating walls shall be fitted with self -closing fire -door assemblies of at least the 
same fir e resistance as the wall itself, and that comply with the requirements of SANS 1253.  
E.4.7  Doors  
E.4.7.1  Steel doors are preferable to wooden doors. The doors shall have security gates to reduce the 
risk of forced entry. Doors shall be raised200 mm to acc ommodate bunding (see E.4.3.2.3).  
E.4.7.2  The exit doors of the distribution store shall open to the outside and shall have locks and keys as 
approved by the local fire authority. The exit doors shall at all times be capable of being opened easily from 
the inside without the use of a key.  
E.4.8  Roofs  
The roof shall not leak and shall be insulated with non -combustible material such as mineral wool or glass 
fibre so as to maintain the temperature of the distribution store at a reas onable level.  
E.4.9  Window s 
E.4.9.1  Windows shall allow enough daylight into the distribution store for product labels to be read. 
Where natural light is insufficient, it shall be  supplemented with artificial lighting. All windows shall be 
weatherproof and burglar -barred, and shoul d preferably be above head height ("out of sight out of mind") for 
security reasons.   
42 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 E.4.9.2  The window frames shall be manufactured of steel and shall:  
a) be fitted with wire glass of minimum thickness 8 mm, and  
b) have window panels of maximum size 450 mm × 450 mm.  
E.4.9.3  No windows shall be capable of being opened.  
E.4.10  Lightning protection and discharge of electrostatic charges  
In areas where flammable substances are stored, appropriate measures shall be  taken to: 
a) prevent the accumul ation of electrost atic charges; or  
b) discharge electrostatic charges under controlled circumstances.  
E.4.11   Ventilation  
E.4.11.1  A distribution store shall be so designed and constructed as to ensure that the fumes of 
hazardous substances are effectively ventilated in all parts of the distribution store, either by adequate natural 
ventilation or by mechanical draught ventilation that ensures at least five changes of air per hour. The fumes 
shall be released to the open air in such a way that they are not likely to come into  contact with sources of 
ignition that might ignite them.  
E.4.11.2  Natural ventilation of the distribution store can be achieved by the installation of non -combustible 
airbricks of size at least 140 mm × 215 mm and that are provided with non -corrosive gau ze wire of nominal 
opening diameter at least 0,5 mm. The airbricks shall be:  
a) provided in  at least three external walls;  
b) positioned 100 mm above the level of the bund (sill) and 100 mm below the roof and not more than 
450 mm apart; and  
c) able to ventilate t he distribution store at a minimum cycle of five total air changes per hour.  
E.4.11.3  In areas where persistent and severe dust storms occur, care shall be taken in the placement of 
vents in relation to wind direction.  
E.4.11.4  Where natural ventilation cannot be effected, the distribution store shall be equipped with a 
mechanical inlet and outlet ventilation system. The system shall have the capacity to change the total air 
content of the distribution store at least five times per hour.  
E.4.11.5  A mecha nical ventilation system shall be switched on at all times, except when it is switched off 
for repairs or replacement purposes. If the system breaks down irreparably, it shall be replaced without delay.  
E.4.12   Electrical equipment  
E.4.12.1  All electrical  equipment and fittings shall be installed and certified by a qualified electrician.  
E.4.12.2  Only distribution boxes, fuses and other electrical equipment installed and protected shall be 
installed inside  the distribution store.  
Equipment that is not in stalled and protected shall be situated outside  the distribution store so as not to come 
into contact with pesticide fumes that might be emitted.  
E.4.12.3  Whenever the distribution store is not staffed, all  electrical equipment and fittings, with the 
exce ption of the mechanical ventilation system, shall be switched off.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  43 
 E.4.12.4  Battery charging facilities for electrically operated forklift trucks should preferably be in an open -
sided, covered area within the marshalling area.  
Alternatively, the room or area shall be well ventilated at all times and shall not  be accessible directly from the 
distribution store. The vents in such a room or area shall be positioned as high as possible in the walls to 
prevent the accumulation of hydrogen gas.  
E.5 Storage tec hnology  
E.5.1  The storage technology to be implemented in  a distribution store depends on the quantity and types of 
pesticides to be stored, the scale of  the storage operation, the turnover rate, and logistical and economic 
factors.  
E.5.2  A distribution s tore shall be equipped with racks or shelves that are impervious and chemically 
resistant to the stored chemicals. Liquid products shall be stored on the lower racks or shelves. Powder and 
granular formulations shall be stored on shelves above the liquid p roducts. This is to provide for minimum 
damage in the event of accidental leakage of liquid during storage.  
E.5.3  Cement floors tend to sweat. To ensure that pesticides in fibreboard boxes, paper bags and 
fibreboard drums are not damaged, they shall be pl aced on pallets and shall not be stacked against a wall. 
Plastics and metal drums of capacity 20 L or  more shall not be stacked more than two tiers high.  
E.5.4  Flammable liquids shall be stored in a separate room or enclosure of the distribution store (se e also 
E.6.3). The room or enclosure shall be ventilated to the open air in such a manner that vapour cannot 
accumulate inside the distribution store. The room or enclosure shall be clearly marked with the flammable 
liquid hazard class diamond (see table D .1) and the applicable symbolic safety signs in accordance with 
SANS 1186 -1. An  adequate amount of firefighting equipment shall be installed as recommended by the local 
fire authority (see E.9.1.2 and annex F).  
E.6 Distribution store management  
E.6.1  Secu rity 
E.6.1.1  Access to a distribution store, unless authorized by the distribution store manager, shall be 
prohibited at all times. An appropriate entry -pass system shall be implemented.  
E.6.1.2  Outside  normal working hours, all doors shall be locked. All  windows shall be barred against 
unauthorized entry and should preferably be above head height (see E.4.9.1).  
E.6.1.3  If a distribution store is part of a larger complex of buildings, or stands in its own grounds, the 
perimeter of the property shall be pr otected by means o f a wall or a fence of height 1. 8 m that has at least two 
strands of electric wiring, or a coil razor wire, or similar protection, on top. The installation of security lighting, 
directed at the fence and not at the site contents, is recom mended.  
E.6.1.4  The number of gates in the perimeter wall or fence shall be the minimum necessary to allow 
normal operations, except that, if possible, emergency service vehicles shall be able to gain access to the 
distribution store from at least two sid es.  
E.6.1.5  Names and contact telephone numbers of persons to be called in an emergency shall be given to 
security personnel, the local police and the local fire authority. A system shall be in place to ensure that the 
persons called have access to the ke ys of the distribution store. All keys shall be labelled.  
E.6.1.6  If a distribution store is situated in a relatively heavily populated or environmentally sensitive area, 
and if the scale of  operations permits, a 24 -hour manning of the security function, with regular patrols, shall be 
carried out. In such a case, a procedure shall be instituted to verify that patrols actually take place, especially 
at night.   
44 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 E.6.2  Receipt and dispatch  
E.6.2.1  A distribution store shall have separate loading and unloading bays to facilitate safe, efficient and 
secure receipt and dispatch.  
E.6.2.2  (A) person(s) trained in all aspects related to the loading and unloading of dangerous goods shall 
be present while loading or unloading is in progress.  
E.6.2.3  All goods receive d shall be checked against the relevant invoice, delivery note, bill of lading or 
dangerous goods declaration, and any discrepancies shall be dealt with in a safe and responsible manner.  
E.6.2.4  No pesticides shall be accepted for storage if MSDSs for the  goods have not been provided by 
the supplier of the goods.  
E.6.2.5  During receipt and prior to dispatch, the person in charge of th ese functions shall ensure that:  
a) the packaging, marking and labelling provisions, as appli cable, have been complied with;  
b) the vehicle to be used for transport is in a clean condition ; and  
c) appropriate action is taken in the event of non -compliance.  
E.6.2.6  Care shall be taken during receipt and dispatch operations to ensure that incompatible pesticides 
are not allowed to come  into contact with one another (see also E.6.3). A system shall exist that prevents the 
uncontrolled or indiscriminate simultaneous loading and unloading of more than one vehicle at a time.  
E.6.3  Separation and segregation  
E.6.3.1  The general principles t o be applied in product separation and segregation shall be based on a 
detailed knowledge of the properties of, and the hazards associated with, the pesticides to be stored. US 
1792 -1 classifications and MSDS information are of vital importance in this reg ard.  
The following general provi sions shall apply in all cases. Flammable  pesticides will greatly increase the risk of 
a toxicant fire if stored in the same area as toxic pesticides. If non -toxic themselves, flammable pesticides will 
normally not contamin ate fire - fighting water; and flammable non -toxic pesticides and non -flammable 
pesticides shall be separated  from flammable pesticides and aerosols. Flammable pesticides shall be 
segregated  from oxidizing substances and corrosives.  
NOTE  See E.5.4 with reg ard to the storage of flammable liquids.  
E.6.3.2  A separate bunded facility shall be used for preparation, dilution and mixing operations. An 
eyewash bottle and a washbasin with running water shall be installed in the area. A separate fenced -off and 
locka ble area shall be provided in the distribution store for all pesticides classified as danger group Ia and 
danger group Ib pesticides in terms of US 1792 -1  
E.7 Warning notices, symbolic safety signs and product labels  
E.7.1  Warning notices  
E.7.1.1  At the e ntrance to the distribution store the warning “Storage of pesticides – Unauthorized entry 
prohibited” shall be displayed in red letters against a white background. The warning notice shall be in one of 
the official languages and in at least one other langu age indigenous to the region. The height o f the letters 
shall be at least 75 mm.  
E.7.1.2  Each type of storage area and utility area inside the distribution store shall be clearly demarcated, 
for example separate areas for poisons, flammables and corrosive s shall display the relevant hazard class 
diamonds (see table D.1). The dimensions of the hazard class diamonds shall be at least 250 mm × 250 mm.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  45 
 E.7.2  Symbolic safety signs  
Symbolic safety signs in accordance with the requirements of US ISO  7010  shall b e displayed at the entrance 
to the distribution store, and inside the distribution store, to denote the safety -related features of the 
distribution store, for example  
a) no smoking;   
b) no naked flames;  and  
c) no fires.  
The dimensions of the symbolic safety sign s shall be at least 290 mm × 290 mm.  
E.7.3  Product labels  
E.7.3.1  The sale, acquisition, use and disposal of a pesticide other than in a container and with a label as 
approved by the relevant national authority (see foreword) are strictly prohibited unles s  
a) the pesticide is applied for the purpose of conducting trials, and  
b) prior approval has been obtained from the Registrar.  
E.7.3.2  Pesticides in packages and containers that are not clearly and indelibly labelled shall not be 
accepted or used.  
E.7.3.3  Every operator shall be trained in the: 
a) meaning of the symbols on the labels, and  
b) interpretation of the written instructions.  
E.8 Responsibilities of  the distribution store manager  
E.8.1  General  
The responsibilities of the distribution store manager shall  be stipulated in writing. These responsibili ties 
include the assurance that:  
a) all safety, operating and emer gency procedures are adhered to;   
b) stock records are kept up to date and are r eadily available;   
c) hazard an d risk areas are clearly marked;  and  
d) worke rs are trained in all operations, and in particular in the safe handling of pesticides.  
E.8.2  Record keeping  
E.8.2.1  The distribution store manager shall keep a written or electronic record for each product received, 
dispatched and used.  
E.8.2.2  It is re commended that, on receipt of a pesticide from a supplier, at least the following information 
be recorded:  
a) product name;    
46 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 b) batch number;   
c) name and address of supplier;   
d) quantity and date of receipt;  and  
e) name of the person who received the product.  
E.8.2. 3 Records shall be kept of all the products that are distributed and of the balance of products in the 
distribution store.  
E.8.2.4  The records shall be kept in a safe place away from the storage area, and shall be available at all 
times for inspection by national, provincial or local authorities, as applicable.  
E.9 Fire pr otection and emergency planning  
E.9.1  Fire protection  
E.9.1.1  The distribution store and the area around the distribution store shall be designated a non -
smoking area. Symbolic safety si gns in accordance with the requirements of US ISO  7010  prohibiting smoking 
and open flames shall be prominently displayed in appropriate places (see also E.7.2).  
E.9.1.2  Portable fire extinguishers, as specified in US ISO  7159 and US ISO  11602 -2 shall be provided, 
unless the local fire authority is of the opinion that a larger number of fire extinguishers need to be installed.  
E.9.1.3  A fire hose shall be mounted on the outside of the distribution store and shall be connected to a 
water supply.  
E.9.1.4 A sprinkler system can be considered but need not be installed if the distribution store is of 
capacity 9 m 3or larger and is equipped with suitable manual firefighting equipment.  
E.9.1.5  Fire extinguishers shall be inspected and maintained by a registered p erson in accordance with 
the provisions of US ISO  7159 and US ISO  11602 -2 at least once every twelve months.  
E.9.2  Emergency planning  
E.9.2.1  General  
E.9.2.1.1  The health and safety representative(s) or the health and safety committee of the distribution 
store shall develop an on -site emergency plan in consultation with the local emergency services. Any risks 
related to the health and safety of the public in the event of an incident shall be taken into consideration.  
E.9.2.1.2  The on -site emergency plan s hall be updated at least once every three years in consultation with 
the local emergency services. A copy of the emergency plan shall be signed by the manager of the distribution 
store in the presence of two witnesses, who shall attest the signature.  
E.9.2.1.3  All operators shall be conversant with the on -site emergency  plan, and it shall be readily available 
at all times for implementation and use.  
E.9.2.1.4  The on -site emergency plan shall be tested (by means of an emergency exercise) at least once a 
year, and a record shall be kept  of each such emergency exercise.  
E.9.2.2  Emergency training  
E.9.2.2.1  All operators shall be trained in the use of the different types of fire extinguishers on site, and 
shall practise their duties as set out under the emerg ency plan.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  47 
 E.9.2.2.2  The e mergency training shall include:  
a) initiation of the alarm;   
b) correct us e of the firefighting equipment;   
c) evacuation procedures;   
d) roll calls;  and  
e) fire drills.  
E.9.2.3  Emergency telephone numbers  
The emergency telephone numbers of the nearest poison centre, medical practitioner, hospital and 
ambulance service shall be clearly displayed at the entrance and inside the distribution store. The person(s) in 
charge of the distribution store shall have access to these numbers and a telepho ne in case of an emergency.  
E.9.2.4  First aid  
E.9.2.4.1  Basic first -aid requirements and the items required for a first -aid kit are given in annex B.  
E.9.2.4.2  The employer shall provide a first -aid kit at, or near, the area where more than five operators  are 
working. The first -aid kit shall be readily available and accessible.  
E.9.2.4.3  Where more than 10 people are employed, and for every group of 50 operators, at least one 
person shall be trained in first aid and shall be readily available during norma l working hours. Such (a) 
person(s) shall be in possession of a valid  first-aid certificate issued by an organization approved for this 
purpose by the relevant  national authority (see foreword).  
E.9.2.4.4  Eyewash bottles and safety shower facilities shall  be available in different areas of the distribution 
store in case of accidental exposure of (an) operator(s) to a pesticide. The MSDSs of the pesticides stored 
shall be readily available at a central location for reference to the actions to be taken in th e event of an 
incident.  
E.10  Hygiene and personal safety  
E.10.1  Smoking and the consumption of food and drink in the distribution store shall be prohibited. Suitable 
signs to this effect in accordance with US ISO  7010  shall be displayed. (A) separate tea  room(s) or eating -
place(s) shall be available on the premises.  
E.10.2  Adequate washing facilities (in accordance with clause 8) and personal protective clothing and 
equipment (in accordance with clause 7) shall be provided.  
E.10.3  The following operatio ns shall be prohibited in a distribution store:  
a) repacking or refilling (or both);  
b) vehicle maintenance; and  
c) overnight  garaging of any vehicles or mo torized equipment, including forklift trucks.  
E.10.4  For high -risk activities (for example welding and cu tting), a formal procedure shall be established for 
the handover of responsibilities from the manager of  the distribution store to the outside contractor 
undertaking the work.   
48 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 AnnexF   
(normative)  
 
Fire fighting procedures  
F.1 The following fire fighting and ancillary equipment shall be available in establishments where  pesticides 
are handled and stored:  
a) protective clothing, respirators and self -contained breathing apparatus, as described in clause 7;  
b) gas sampling pumps and appropriate detection tube s; 
c) portable  fire extinguishers in accordance with US ISO 7159 ; 
d) portable and wheeled  fire extinguishers in accordance with US ISO 11602 -2; 
f) explosimeter;  
g) 25 kg bags of hydrated (slaked) lime or soda ash;  
h) 5 L containers of laundry bleach;  
i) 25 kg bags of dry sawdust;  
j) a supply of empty sacks and labels for contaminated sawdust;  
k) two large brooms, two shovels and a squeegee;  
l) one stainless steel 250 mm funnel;  
m) one 25 L open -head drum;  
n) one 200 L open -head drum; and  
o) salvage packagin g and slings for transferring leaking drums into the salvage packaging  
F.2 When a fire breaks out in a handling or storage area, the emergency services shall be notified  
immediately.  
F.3 Spectators shall be kept away from fires that involve pesticides, and  all persons downwind  from such fires 
shall be evacuated.  Respiratory equipment, preferably self -contained (air -supplied)  breathing apparatus, shall 
be worn by all persons involved in extinguishing the fire, and, when there  is a wind, they shall not work f rom 
the downwind direction.  Firefighters shall not eat, drink or smoke  in the fire fighting area.  
F.4 Small fires involving pesticides can be extinguished with dry chemical powder (or a hand foam  unit) or 
carbon dioxide.  
F.5 Foam shall be used where large volumes of pesticides and, in particular, flammable liquids are burning. 
Alcohol -resistant foam shall be used where flammable water -soluble concentrates or emulsifiable 
concentrates are involved.  
F.6 Water fog or water spray shall be used to extinguish me dium -sized fires, unless stacks of paper bags or 
fibreboard containers or phosphine -releasing compounds are involved. Water mists or fogs, or soft streams of 
water shall be used to preclude the breakage of glass containers and the melting of plastics conta iners. The 
volume of water used to extinguish the fire shall be kept to a minimum so that the least possible toxic run -off is DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  49 
 produced. When relevant, the run -off shall be contained to prevent it from entering sewers, water supplies or 
low-lying areas. Dru ms containing liquids shall be cooled with a water spray to prevent them from exploding or 
rupturing.  
F.7 Stacks of paper bags or fibreboard containers can be protected by a water curtain if care is taken to avoid 
wetting them.   
50 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 Annex G  
(normative)  
 
Ware housing of pesticides  
G.1 Local authority approval  
G.1.1  No warehousing operation shall be started in any premises unless application has been made to the 
local authority, the necessary permission has been obtained from all relevant departments (local fire  authority, 
public health, sewerage, building inspectorate, etc.), and a  certificate  of occupancy has been issued by the 
local authority in accordance with the national  building regulations (see foreword). All permits shall be 
renewed as necessary, and as required by  the local authority. The continuation of a warehouse operation 
without the prescribed permits is not  permitted.  
G.1.2  When there is a change of occupancy of an existing building or part of a building to  warehousing, the 
building (or part of the  building) shall comply fully with the national building  regulations (see G.1.1).  
G.1.3  Early consultation with the relevant authorities is recommended, as is the provision of an  adequate 
brief covering the intended use of the premises and the goods intend ed to be stored. In this way, the 
necessary permits, such as flammable liquids permits, can be applied for in good time  and the need to apply 
costly additional measures, such as fire safety measures, after the premises  are otherwise ready for 
occupation, c ould be avoided.  
G.2 Site location  
A company or an organization, when applying for approval to set up or extend a warehouse, shall  undertake 
an environmental impact assessment, and, in so doing, shall take the following into  account:  
a) the nature of the g oods to be stored, proposed stock levels (taking into account seasonal  variations) and 
the degree of hazard that will be presented;  
b) the zoning or land -use requirements of the local authority;  
NOTE  Preference should be given to isolated locations or site s devoted to industrial development.  
c) fire protection, security, and general service facilities in the area;  
d) proximity to houses, schools, hospitals, shopping areas, food manufacturers and offices;  
e) proximity to water courses (surface and undergroun d) and to open storm -water channels.  Measures shall 
be taken to prevent any contaminated water from entering a natural water  source;  
f) proximity to combustible vegetation;  
g) prevailing winds and other climatic factors;  
h) the highest recorded flood level  in the proposed storage area, and the susceptibility of the area to  
flooding;  
i) water table depths, soil types and the location of existing boreholes within 500 m of the site;  
j) access to the site, and in particular to buildings, by emergency services v ehicles, preferably from  two 
sides;  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  51 
 k) safe escape from the effects of fire or other hazards in each of the proposed buildings on site;  
NOTE  Buildings should ideally be stand -alone with a space of at least 22 m between the buildings and the  
surrounding pro perty.  
l) suitable access for the loading and unloading of delivery vehicles;  
m) the adequacy of the services to be provided, for example electricity and emergency supplies if  needed, 
potable and fire fighting water supply, and drainage that either prevent s ground run -off to public sewers and 
storm -water drains or allows run -off to a waste treatment plant intended to  be used for on -site containment of 
run-off water and spills; and  
n) future expansion.  
G.3 Warehouse construction  
G.3.1  General  
G.3.1.1  The bui lding design and construction shall comply with the national building regulations (see 
foreword), relative to the occupancy class  (es) of the building(s) concerned. Where the  provisions of this 
clause conflict with those of the national building regulation s, the latter shall apply,  except that where the 
provisions of this clause are more stringent than those of the national building  regulations, the provisions of 
this clause shall apply.  This clause shall be read in conjunction with the national regulations  (see foreword) 
and statutory  provisions, and any provincial or local regulatory requirements that deal with the environment for 
the workplace.  
G.3.1. 2 The recommendations of US ISO 7240 -14:2013 shall be taken into account with regard to the fire  
preventio n and fire fighting aspects of buildings.  
G.3.1. 3 An enclosed warehouse shall be substantially closed in, shall be lockable, and shall not  have more 
windows or open spaces in the walls or roof than are necessary to provide an adequate  degree of natural 
lighting during the day and the necessary ventilation at all times.  
G.3.1. 4 Load -bearing construction elements, walls, floors, doors and gates shall be made of non -combustible  
materials that are impervious to the pesticides to be stored. It is recommended tha t load-bearing roof 
components be made of fire -retardant timber.  
G.3.2  Frame  
The frame of a warehouse shall be of concrete or steel. A steel frame used for an enclosed  warehouse shall 
be fire protected to give the required stability.  
G.3.3  Floors and spill age containment  
G.3.3.1  Floors  
Floors shall be of concrete or of another material impervious to liquids and to the pesticides to be  stored. 
Floors in storage areas shall be of sufficient load -bearing capacity to withstand the weight of  stock, racking 
and a ny mechanical handling equipment to be used. Floors shall be smooth but not  slippery (even when wet), 
free from cracks to facilitate cleaning, and so designed as to contain  leakage and contaminated fire fighting 
water by means such as a surrounding sill, k erb or bund wall  (see also G.3.3.2.3).  
G.3.3.2  Spillage containment  
G.3.3.2.1  Retention facilities shall be provided in stock warehouses, marshalling areas and loading  zones 
to contain any spills or fire fighting water and to allow safe treatment prior to disposal.   
52 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 G.3.3.2.2  The size and design of the containment facility will depend on estimates, preferably  based on a 
worst -case scenario of the:  
a) quantities and the properties of the goods likely to escape,  
b) quantity of fire  fighting water or rainwater that will accumulate,  
c) concentration of products in this water, and  
d) required retention time before appropriate effluent treatment and disposal can be  accomplished.  
G.3.3.2.3  The kerb, sill or bund wall that forms the perimeter of the floor shall be at  least 200 mm  high and 
110 mm wide (two layers of bricks). The floor and the bund wall shall be plastered and  sealed, with ramps 
inclined to a gradient of 1 in 10 to allow for vehicle access.  
Alternatively, a sump of capacity 10 % of the total available st orage volume can be constructed. For  large 
installations, the sump shall be provided with pneumatically controlled valves that are always  in the closed 
position. As a precaution to control contamination of water sources, sampling of the  sump water shall be  
carried out before it is released.  
G.3.3.2.4  Provision for closing off existing drains shall be included in order to minimize the risk of  
contaminated water reaching natural water sources.  
G.3.4  Walls  
G.3.4.1  External walls should preferably be of masonry  or they can be clad with metal (steel or  similar) 
cladding. Aluminium cladding shall not be used.  
G.3.4.2  Internal division walls designed as fire breaks shall provide at least 90 min resistance and  should 
extend to a height of 1 m above the roof. In orde r to achieve the desired fire resistance,  reinforced concrete 
walls shall be at least 15 cm thick, and brick walls at least 23 cm thick. Hollow  concrete blocks shall not be 
used. Furthermore, separating walls shall be non -load-bearing and  shall be independ ent of the main structure 
of the building.  
G.3.4.3  Where piping, ducting and electric cables penetrate a separating wall, they shall be either  placed in 
fire-retardant sand cups or so sealed as to prevent the spread of fire.  
G.3.5  Windows  
G.3.5.1  Windows s hall allow enough daylight into the warehouse for product labels to be read.  Where natural 
light is insufficient, it shall be supplemented with artificial lighting (see G.3.10). All  windows shall be 
weatherproof and burglar -barred, and should preferably be  above head height  ("out of sight out of mind") for 
security reasons.  
G.3.5.2  The window frames shall be manufactured of steel and shall  
a) be fitted with wire glass of minimum thickness 8 mm, and  
b) have window panels of maximum size 450 mm × 450 mm.  
G.3.5.3 No windows shall be capable of being opened.  
G.3.6  Doorways and emergency exits  
G.3.6.1  General  
G.3.6.1.1  Sufficient entrance and exit doorways or openings shall be provided to enable normal  
warehousing operations to be carried out without security bei ng compromised.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  53 
 G.3.6.1.2  All exit doors shall be easy to open in the dark or in dense smoke.  
G.3.6.2  Emergency exits  
G.3.6.2.1  Emergency exits shall be provided in addition to the main exits. Depending on the size  and the 
location of a warehouse, and the number of people working therein, a warehouse shall be  provided with at 
least two emergency exits situated as far apart as is practicable.  
G.3.6.2.2  A large warehouse shall be provided with additional emergency exits at a maximum  distance of 
20 m from any point in the warehouse.  
G.3.6.2.3  All emergency exits shall be clearly marked, and all escape routes shall be indicated by  means 
of the relevant symbolic safety signs in accordance with US ISO  7010 . 
G.3.6.3  Fire doors  
G.3.6.3.1  Wherever possible, offices, formulation operations and amenities shall be located away  from the 
main body of a warehouse. If such facilities are located within the warehouse structure,  they shall be 
segregated from the storage area and shall be fitted with self -closing fire doors (se e 
G.3.6.3.2)  Furthermore, an exit other than one via the warehouse shall be available.  
G.3.6.3.2  All openings in separating walls shall be fitted with self -closing fire -door assemblies of at  least 
the same fire resistance as the wall itself, and that compl y with the requirements of  
G.3.6.3.3  Each door provided for forklift truck access through separating walls shall be fitted with a  fusible 
link or a link activated by an automatic fire detection system to ensure automatic closure of  the door in the 
event of  fire. The space required for closure shall be kept free from obstruction.  
G.3.7  Roofs  
G.3.7.1  Roofs can be of a lightweight, friable construction, should preferably be of pitched design  and should 
readily fall in the event of fire, in order to provide rel ief from smoke and heat.  
G.3.7.2  Roofs of solid construction shall be provided with ventilation panels for early removal of  smoke and 
heat to improve visibility of the source of the fire and to retard the lateral spread of fire.  
G.3.7.3  The recommended fir e rating for roofs is 30 min to 60 min.  
G.3.7.4  If roof insulation is used, it shall be of a non -combustible material, such as mineral wool or  glass 
fibre.  
G.3.7.5  Metal roof support constructions shall be protected against thermal impact.  
G.3.8  Lightning protection and discharge of electrostatic charges  
G.3.8.1  Adequate protection against lightning shall be provided in accordance with the relevant  provisions of 
US IEC 62305 -1:2010 . Lightning protection systems shall be maintained and inspected . 
G.3.8.2  In areas where flammable substances are stored (see G.4), appropriate measures shall  be taken  to: 
a) prevent the accumulation of electrostatic charges, or to  
b) discharge electrostatic charges under controlled circumstances.   
54 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 G.3.9  Ventilation, air conditionin g and heating  
G.3.9.1  Ventilation  
G.3.9.1.1  Every employer shall ensure that the workplace is adequately ventilated. Covered  storage areas 
shall therefore be provided with either adequate natural ventilation or mechanical  draught ventilation that 
ensures a t least five changes of air per hour. In general, good ventilation  occurs when vents are positioned 
both near the floor (above the bund levels) and near, or in, the  roof. The fumes shall be released to the open 
air in such a way that they are not likely to  come into  contact with sources of ignition that might ignite them.  
G.3.9.1.2  In order to ensure that excessive temperatures (for example temperatures above 35 °C)  are not 
reached, good air circulation is necessary. This can be achieved by a clear space of  1 m being maintained 
between the top of most products and the roof, and also between the goods and  the wall.  
G.3.9.1.3  Where highly flammable gases or flammable liquids are stored, effective extraction shall  be 
provided at or near floor level, and the ven tilation shall be so efficient as to prevent the formation  of an 
explosive atmosphere (see also G.4). A ventilation rate of up to 12 air changes per hour could  be required in 
certain cases. Appropriate monitoring using an explosimeter is recommended. Where  mechanical draught 
ventilation is applied, it shall be flameproof. It shall operate continuously during  periods of normal operation 
and shall operate during periods when the warehouse is unmanned.  
G.3.9.1.4  The following arrangements are appropriate for s moke and heat ventilation:  
a) natural lighting openings covered with domes or strips of a plastics material;  
b) automatically or manually opening exhaust shutters; and  
c) permanent ventilation openings in or near the roof.  
The positions of all openable pan els in external walls shall be marked on the outside of the building  to permit 
easy identification by fire authorities.  Where the floor area of any room exceeds 500 m2, certain minimum size 
requirements could apply  to ventilation openings in order to compl y with the national building regulations (see 
foreword).  Alternatively, a mechanical smoke ventilation system could be required.  
G.3.9.2  Air conditioning  
G.3.9.2.1  Air conditioning should preferably be of the ducted type, with the air -conditioning plant  situated 
well away from the storage area. Individual electric air conditioners shall not be used in  areas where 
flammable materials are stored.  
G.3.9.2.2  Where it is necessary to humidify the storage area, this shall be done by direct spraying  of 
steam or wa ter vapour. Where room humidity is critical, appropriate monitoring shall be carried  out. 
G.3.9.2.3  The air -conditioning system shall be so designed as to prevent the distribution of  products of 
combustion in the event of a fire. 
G.3.9.3  Heating  
G.3.9.3.1  Where heating is required to ensure product integrity, it shall be so designed as to ensure  that 
the temperature in the warehouse does not fall below 5 °C. Heating systems should preferably  be based on 
hot water or steam. The heat source, pipes, radiators,  etc. that are likely to become hot  shall be so positioned 
as to prevent direct heating of the stored product.  
G.3.9.3.2  Facilities for the heating of a circulation medium shall be located outside the storage area  or in a 
separate room. Any insulation mate rial to be used shall be non -combustible, for example  mineral wool or 
glass fibre.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  55 
 G.3.9.3.3  Direct electrical room -heating equipment, and portable gas -fired room heaters, shall not  be used 
in areas where flammable materials are stored.  
G.3.10  Lighting  
G.3.10.1  Where warehousing operations are only carried out during daytime and natural lighting  provides a 
sufficient level of illumination to ensure compliance with the regulations, artificial lighting  need not be installed.  
G.3.10.2  Warehouses and material h andling areas shall have illumination with a luminance value  of 150 lx, 
and issuing counters shall have illumination with a luminance value of 200 lx.  
G.3.10.3  Artificial lighting shall be such that  undue warming of stored products is avoided. Lights shall  be 
located above entrances and aisles,  and not above product stacks.  
G.3.10.4  Wiring for electric lighting and the necessary  certificate(s) of compliance shall be obtained.  
G.3.10. 5 Electric switches shall not be installed inside a warehouse used for flam mable products. Main  
switches shall be positioned outside the warehouse and shall be protected against the  weather.  
G.3.10. 6 Subject to the provisions of G.3.10.1, emergency lights shall be placed at strategic  positions 
along escape routes. Each light shal l have an independent emergency power supply, such  as a battery, which 
shall be kept fully charged during normal operations. Emergency lighting shall  be so arranged that failure of 
the main supply will automatically switch on the emergency lighting.  
G.3.11  Electrical equipment and installations, other than for lighting  
G.3.11.1  Only the electrical facilities that are  absolutely vital for the operation of a warehouse shall be 
located in the warehouse.  
G.3.11.2  A separate electrical switch room shall be const ructed. It shall be located against an  outer wall of 
the warehouse building and shall be separated from the storage area by walls that  provide a fire resistance of 
120 min. A drainage system shall prevent the entry of water into the  switch room. The door(s ) that permit entry 
to the electrical switch room shall not open directly into  the stock warehouse.  
The main power line into the electrical switch room shall not pass through the storage area; it shall  be laid 
either along the outside of the building or in  the earth and encased in concrete. Switching to  back -up or 
emergency power supplies, such as battery back -up supplies for alarm systems, or to  independent default 
lines or power generators, shall be done either in the switch room or in a safe  area well aw ay from the storage 
areas.  
G.3.11.3  Electrical equipment other than that for permanent lighting, such as power points, power  tools or 
hand lights, shall not be installed in a warehouse that is used for flammable pesticides.  
G.3.11.4  Operating procedures sh all provide for the isolation of non -essential electrical equipment  during 
periods when the warehouse is unmanned.  
G.3.11.5  Battery charging facilities for electrically operated forklift trucks should preferably be in  an open -
sided, covered area within the  marshalling area. Alternatively, the room or area shall be  well ventilated at all 
times and shall not be accessible directly from the warehouse. The vents in  such a room or area shall be as 
high as possible in the walls to prevent the accumulation of  hydrogen gas.  
G.3.12  Racks, shelving and warehouse storage technology  
Pesticides shall not be stored directly on the floor. Adequate racks and shelves shall be provided for  small 
packages, but, in general, provision shall be made to store goods on pallets or i n standardized storage 
containers so that, especially in the case of larger warehouses, they can  easily be handled by forklift trucks. 
Racks and shelves shall be non -combustible. The warehouse  storage technology to be installed will depend  
56 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 on the quantitie s and types of pesticides to be stored,  the scale of the warehousing operation, the turnover 
rate, and logistical and economic factors.  
G.3.13  Means of impeding the progress of a fire  
G.3.13.1  Equipment such as fire shutters and draught curtains shall be i nstalled as necessary and  as 
recommended by the local fire authority. Where the design of the building necessitates it, a  fireman's lift shall 
be installed.  
G.3.13.2  Fire compartments and the limitation of the number of storage units in a compartment  are w ays in 
which the risk of the spreading of fire through a warehouse can be reduced. Fire  compartments shall be 
separated from the main building by fire -resistant walls and ceilings,  reinforced on both sides of the firewall. 
The firewalls shall extend beyond  the building by at least500 mm. Each compartment shall be provided with a 
sprinkler system.  
G.4 Storage facilities for flammable substances  
G.4.1  Storage facilities for flammable liquids  
G.4.1.1  Flammable liquids shall be stored in a separate area or room  of the warehouse, and shall  be 
enclosed with a material that has a fire resistance of 120 min from any room, cabinet or  enclosure.  
G.4.1.2  The floor of the storage area shall be constructed in such a way that, in the case of  spillage, a 
volume equal to th e quantity of the flammable liquid ordinarily kept in the store, plus10 % of that quantity, can 
be contained.  
G.4.1.3  The flammable liquids store shall be ventilated to the open air in such a manner that  vapour 
cannot accumulate inside the store.  
G.4.1.4  The flammable liquids store shall be clearly marked with the flammable liquid hazard class  
diamond (see table D.1) and the applicable symbolic safety signs in accordance with US ISO  7010 . 
The type and amount of flammable liquid stored shall also be indicate d at the entrance to the store.  
G.4.1.5  An adequate amount of fire  fighting equipment shall be installed as recommended by the  local fire 
authority (see annex F).  
G.4.2  Storage facilities for flammable solids  
G.4.2.1  Flammable non -toxic solids shall be seg regated from  
a) flammable toxic liquids, and  
b) non-flammable toxic liquids.  
G.4.2.2  Flammable toxic solids shall be segregated from non -flammable toxic liquids.  
G.4.2.3  Flammable toxic solids shall be stored in a separate area or room of the warehouse tha t shall be 
clearly marked with both the flammable solid hazard class diamond and the toxic hazard  class diamond (see 
table D.1), and with the symbolic safety signs in accordance with US ISO  7010 . 
G.4.2.4  An adequate amount of fire  fighting equipment shall be installed as recommended by the  local fire 
authority (see annex F).  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  57 
 G.5 Warehouse management  
G.5.1  Warehouse controller  
The manager of a warehouse shall appoint a warehouse controller. The responsibilities of the  warehouse 
controller, stipulated in writ ing, shall be to ensure that  : 
a) all safety, operating and emergency procedures are adhered to,  
b) stock records are kept up to date and are readily available,  
c) hazard and risk areas are clearly marked,  
d) workers are trained in all operations, and in p articular in the safe handling of pesticides, and  
e) pesticides are stacked in accordance with the relevant requirements of G.6.  
G.5.2  Security  
G.5.2.1  Only the warehouse controller and those appointed by him shall have access to the  warehouse. An 
appropri ate entry -pass system shall be implemented.  
G.5.2.2  Outside normal working hours, all doors and windows shall be locked unless they are  required to 
remain open for ventilation.  
G.5.2.3  If a warehouse is part of a larger complex of buildings, or stands in i ts own grounds, the  perimeter of 
the property shall be protected by means of a wall or a fence of height at least 2,5 m  that has, preferably, at 
least two strands of electric wiring, or a coil of razor wire, or similar  protection, on top. The warehouse bui lding 
itself shall be burglar -proofed as necessary.  
G.5.2.4  The number of gates in the perimeter wall or fence shall be the minimum necessary to  allow normal 
operations, except that, if possible, emergency service vehicles shall be able to gain  access to t he warehouse 
from at least two sides.  
G.5.2.5  Names and contact telephone numbers of persons to be called in an emergency shall be  given to 
security personnel, the local police and the local fire authority. A system shall be in place to  ensure that the 
persons called have access to the keys of the warehouse. All keys shall be labelled.  
G.5.2.6  If the warehouse is situated in a relatively heavily populated or environmentally sensitive  area, and if 
the scale of operations permits, 24 -hour manning of the secur ity function, with regular  patrols, shall be carried 
out. In such a case, a procedure shall be instituted to verify that patrols  actually take place, especially at night.  
G.5.3  Receipt and dispatch  
G.5.3.1  A warehouse shall have separate loading and unload ing bays to facilitate safe, efficient  and secure 
receipt and dispatch.  
G.5.3.2  (A) person(s) trained in all aspects related to the loading and unloading of dangerous  goods shall be 
present while loading or unloading is in progress.  
G.5.3.3  All goods recei ved shall be checked against the relevant invoice, delivery note, bill of  lading or 
manifest, and any discrepancies shall be dealt with in a safe and responsible manner.  
G.5.3.4  No pesticides shall be accepted for storage if MSDSs for the goods have not be en provided  by the 
supplier of the goods.  
G.5.3.5  During receipt and prior to dispatch, the person in charge of these functions shall ensure  that the :  
58 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 a) packaging, marking and labelling provisions as relevant,  have been complied with,  
b) vehicle to be u sed for transport is in a clean condition and in proper working order, and  
c) appropriate action is taken in the event of non -compliance.  
G.5.3.6  Care shall be taken during receipt and dispatch operations to ensure that incompatible  pesticides are 
not allo wed to come into contact with one another. A system shall exist that prevents  the uncontrolled or 
indiscriminate simultaneous loading and unloading, in one place, of more than  one vehicle at a time.  
G.5.4  Segregation and separation  
G.5.4.1  Owing to the pot entially hazardous nature of pesticides, they shall not be stored in the  same 
warehouse with food products, animal feeds or other materials such as clothing, tobacco and  cosmetics.  
G.5.4.2  The general principles to be applied in product separation and segr egation shall be based  on a 
detailed knowledge of the properties of, and the hazards associated with, the pesticides to be  stored. US 
1792 -1 classifications and MSDS information are of vital importance in this regard.  
The following general provisions shall  apply in all cases:  
a) flammable pesticides will greatly increase the risk of a toxicant fire if stored in the same area as  toxic 
pesticides. If non -toxic themselves, flammable pesticides will normally not contaminate fire fighting  water; and  
b) flammabl e non -toxic pesticides and non -flammable pesticides shall be separated from  flammable 
pesticides and aerosols. Flammable pesticides shall be segregated from oxidizing  substances and corrosives.  
NOTE  See G.4 with regard to the storage of flammable substance s. 
G.5.5  Hygiene and personal safety  
G.5.5.1  Housekeeping  
G.5.5.1.1  Smoking and the consumption of food and drink in a warehouse shall be prohibited.  Suitable 
signs to this effect in accordance with SANS 1186 -1 shall be displayed. (A) separate tea  room(s) or eating -
place(s) shall be available on the premises.  
G.5.5.1.2  Adequate washing facilities shall be provided, in accordance with the requirements of  clause 8.  
G.5.5.2  Personal protective clothing and equipment  
Personal protective clothing and equipment t hat comply with the requirements of clause 7 shall be  provided.  
G.5.6  Operations prohibited within a warehouse . The following operations shall be prohibited in a 
warehouse:  
a) repacking or refilling (or both);  
b) vehicle maintenance; and  
c) overnight garag ing of any vehicles or motorized equipment, including forklift trucks.  
G.5.7  Work procedures for high risk activities  For high -risk activities (for example welding and cutting), a 
formal procedure shall be established for  the handover of responsibilities f rom the warehouse controller to the 
outside contractor undertaking  the work.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  59 
 G.6 Warehouse storage systems  
G.6.1  General  
G.6.1.1  The use of standardized storage units is essential if safe and economical storage is to be  achieved. 
For this reason, the varie ty of storage unit types and sizes shall be kept as small as  possible.  
G.6.1.2  The simplest storage unit is the storage container, which permits trouble -free handling and  storage, 
owing to its set dimensions and design. The most frequently used storage uni t, however,  remains the wooden 
pallet.  
G.6.1.3  The choice of the warehouse system to be used depends on logistical and economic  criteria, in 
addition to safety requirements. The following warehouse storage systems are used:  
a) block storage without racks;  
b) block storage with drive -in racks;  
c) block storage with through -racks;  
d) rack storage with movable racks;  
e) rack storage that uses normal forklift trucks;  
f) narrow -aisle rack storage; and  
g) high-rack storage.  
G.6.2  Block storage without racks  
G.6.2 .1 Block storage without racks is suitable for small product ranges where there are large  quantities per 
product and a high turnover rate. It requires that there be no necessity for access to a  specific storage unit.  
G.6.2. 2 The storage units are stacked o n the floor in double rows, and inspection corridors are  kept free 
between each set of two rows. A space of at least 800 mm shall be left between stacks  and exterior or 
partition walls. Inspection corridors shall be of width at least 500 mm, and no row  shall exceed 20 storage 
units in length.  
G.6.2. 3 A maximum of three storage units may be stacked vertically; this provision may be relaxed  when the 
height of the storage units is less than 1 m and the stack is robust.  
G.6.2. 4 Block storage without racks is of  low cost in terms of equipment and infrastructure.  However, it is 
difficult to detect leaks, disturbances to packaging, and fire in this type of storage  system.  
G.6.3  Block storage with drive -in racks  
G.6.3.1  Block storage with drive -in racks can be used for products of all storage classes.  
G.6.3.2  Block storage with drive -in racks consists of a permanent framework that has continuous  supports for 
individual pallets or containers. The centre -to-centre horizontal distance between two  adjacent racks shall be  
approximately 1 550 mm. The rack width, normally 1 200 mm, shall be such  as to accommodate the storage 
units, and the depth of each rack shall exceed that of the pallets or  containers by at least 50 mm.  
G.6.3.3  An advantage of the drive -in rack design is that the height of storage is limited only by the  lifting 
height of the forklift trucks used. Other advantages include the following:  
a) reduced damage to storage units caused by stacking;   
60 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 b) reduced danger of product damage, leakage or spillage; and  
c) the ability to install fire alarms or fire  fighting facilities to allow in -rack sprinkling.  
G.6.3.4  Block storage of this type has a high infrastructure cost compared to that of normal block  storage, but 
demands less warehouse space.  
G.6.4  Block storage with  through -racks  
G.6.4.1  The design of block storage with through -racks is similar to that of the drive -in racks, but  the solid 
support is replaced with transport mechanisms such as conveyer rails, sloping or motor driven  roller 
conveyers, chain drives and c onveyer belts. Loading and removal of products can be  carried out manually, by 
forklift truck, or by means of automatic handling equipment.  
G.6.4.2  This type of warehouse storage system can be adapted to a wide variety of storage unit  dimensions, 
from aero sols and fibreboard boxes to pallets. It is logistically suited to the storage of a  limited product range, 
with large quantities per product type and a high turnover rate. It requires that  there be no necessity for 
access to a specific storage unit and, pr ovided that appropriate safety  facilities are installed, may be used for 
all storage classes.  
G.6.4.3  An aisle of width at least 500 mm shall be provided after every second line of racks for  maintenance 
and inspection purposes.  
G.6.4.4  Block storage of thi s type has the highest capital installation cost per storage place, and  for this 
reason is only used in practice for applications such as buffer storage  
a) immediately following a continuous filling or packing line,  
b) before high -speed commissioning, and  
c) before shipping preparation.  
G.6.5  Rack storage with movable racks  
G.6.5.1  Rack storage with movable racks consists of racks on movable bases. The rack units are  
congregated to form blocks. The length of a movable rack unit shall not exceed 30 m. Loadin g and  removal 
can be carried out manually or by forklift truck, depending on the storage units.  
G.6.5.2  Movable -rack storage technology offers the highest level of utilization of the building  volume, and is 
suitable for the storage of medium -sized product ranges with a limited turnover rate,  in warehouses where 
access to each individual storage unit is necessary.  
G.6.5.3  The high storage density achievable with this system hinders the detection of fires. Fire  alarms and 
fire fighting facilities in large war ehouses that use this technology shall be so installed as  to allow in -rack fire 
detection and sprinkling of all storage positions. A fire protection mechanism  shall be installed that drives all 
movable racks apart by at least 500 mm in the event of a fire alarm  or when activated manually, for example 
at the close of business each day.  
G.6.5.4  The capital costs for this storage type are high but can be offset by the high degree of  space 
utilization, especially when special climatic conditions such as product  conditioning are required.  cooling or air  
G.6.6  Rack storage that uses forklift trucks  
G.6.6.1  Rack storage that uses forklift trucks consists of rows of racks separated by intermediate  aisles. The 
dimensions of the rack spaces depend on the storage units  used.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  61 
 G.6.6.2  Rack lengths shall not exceed 50 m in cases where the rack is accessible from both sides,  and 30 m 
where access is from one side. The storage height is limited by the maximum lifting height  of the forklift truck. 
The width of the aisles depe nds on the design of the forklift truck and can vary  between 2,8 m and 4,2 m.  
G.6.6.3  A rack storage system that uses forklift trucks is suited to the storage of large product  ranges with a 
moderate turnover rate in small -to-medium -sized warehouses, where access to each  individual storage unit is 
necessary.  
G.6.6.4  Fire detection and fire  fighting are simplified by the generous space arrangement  necessitated by the 
use of forklift trucks. The use of separating elements, together with fusible bolts  for attac hing the racks, can 
reduce the potential hazard of a fire in one section of the warehouse  breaking through to the next section.  
G.6.6.5  Capital investment in racks and forklift trucks is relatively low in view of their useful  lifetimes. 
However, savings in  this area could be offset by the cost of the required storage space.  
G.6.7  Narrow -aisle rack storage  
G.6.7.1  For narrow -aisle rack storage, special forklift trucks that have swivelling forks, telescoping  forks or a 
swivelling mast are used. Some of the fo rklift trucks used are capable of operating  automatically or semi -
automatically; no person shall therefore be allowed to enter the rack aisle  during operations.  
G.6.7.2  The width of an aisle varies from 1,7 m to 1,9 m depending on the dimensions of the  storage units. 
The useful storage height depends on the type of forklift truck used. Special forklift  trucks have been 
developed that have a maximum lifting height of 12 m, which gives a useful  storage height of approximately 
14 m.  
G.6.7.3  Narrow -aisle rack s torage is suitable for large product ranges with a moderate turnover  rate in large 
warehouses, where access to each individual storage unit is necessary.  
G.6.7.4  The high capital costs of the racks and the specialized forklift trucks are generally offset by the high 
level of utilization of the building volume.  
G.6.8  High -rack storage  
G.6.8.1  The high -rack storage system is operated by means of a fully automatic rack server that  runs on 
rails. Lines of racks, up to 150 m long and 45 m high, are located on b oth sides of the aisle  along which the 
automatic rack server runs. The dimensions of the racks and rack spaces depend  on the storage units, and 
are critical to the effective automatic running of the system. The aisle is  normally 100 mm wider than the 
wides t storage unit.  
G.6.8.2  High-rack storage technology offers a very high level of utilization of the building volume. It  is 
therefore suitable for the storage of large product ranges with a high turnover rate in large  warehouses, where 
access to each indivi dual storage unit is necessary. In relation to the volume  stored, the floor space 
demanded is small.  
G.6.8. 3 Automatic fire  fighting facilities shall be installed and the automatic rack server shall be  equipped 
with controls that "park" the system in the e vent of fire.  
G.6.8. 4 High-rack storage is a high -capital -cost solution to storage problems. However, the high  level of 
utilization of the building volume can offset these costs. This system is likely to be  economical only when the 
warehouse turnover rate is very high and the rest of the warehousing and  marshalling operations are 
characterized by a high degree of order.  
G.7 Forklift trucks  
G.7.1  Forklift trucks driven by petrol engines or by low petroleum gas (LPG)  engines shall not be used in a 
warehouse w here pesticides are stored.   
62 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 G.7.2 A forklift truck with a capacity of 750 kg or more shall only be operated by an operator in  possession 
of a certificate issued by an organization approved for this purpose by the relevant  national authority (see 
foreword).  
G.7.3 A maintenance register for each forklift truck shall be kept and shall be available for  inspection.  
G.7.4 A carbon dioxide type fire extinguisher (see US ISO  7159 and US ISO  11602 -2) shall be fitted onto 
each forklift truck.  
G.8 First aid  
G.8.1  Basic first -aid requirements and the items required for a first -aid kit are given in annex B.  
G.8.2  An employer shall provide a first -aid kit at, or near, an area where more than five operators  are 
working. The first -aid kit shall be readily available and acce ssible.  
G.8.3  Where more than 10 people are employed, and for every group of 50 operators, at least  one person 
shall be trained in first aid and shall be readily available during normal working hours.  Such (a) person(s) shall 
be in possession of a valid fi rst-aid certificate issued by an organization  approved for this purpose by the 
relevant national authority (see foreword).  
G.8.4  Eyewash bottles and safety shower facilities shall be available in different areas of the  warehouse in 
case of accidental expos ure of (an) operator(s) to (a) pesticide(s). The MSDSs of the  pesticides stored shall 
be readily available at a central location for reference to the actions to be  taken in the event of an incident.  
G.9 Fire protection, emergency planning and emergency tra ining  
G.9.1  Fire protection  
G.9.1.1  General  
The requirements of clause 14 and annex F shall be complied with.  
G.9.1.2  Sprinkler systems  
G.9.1.2.1  A sprinkler system is most effective in racked storage facilities. Sprinklers shall always be  
installed if the  storage racks are more than 6 m high. The following shall form part of the sprinkler  system of a 
warehouse:  
a) bulk water tanks;  
b) a jockey pump, an electrical pump and a diesel pump that can be coupled to a pressure -sensitive  control 
system; and  
c) in-line rack sprinklers.  
G.9.1.2.2  A warehouse in which any of the following storage limits are exceeded shall be equipped  with a 
sprinkler system in addition to portable or mobile fire extinguishers  
G.9.1.2.3  Despite the provisions of G.9.1.2.2, the authorit y administering this standard may, after  due 
consideration of the exposure risk and available water and distinguishing media supplies, relax  some of the 
provisions, or, alternatively, prescribe such additional provisions as are deemed  necessary. Furthermor e, a 
sprinkler system may be prescribed for a warehouse that stores smaller  quantities of such materials after 
other risk factors have been taken into account.  DUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  63 
 G.9.1.3  Fire detection and fire alarm systems  
G.9.1.3.1  Depending on the risk profile of the war ehouse, the local fire authority could require that  the 
premises be equipped with an internally audible alarm system.  
G.9.1.3.2  Various alarm systems can be installed:  
a) a push -button and break -glass unit;  
b) a smoke -and-heat detector system;  
c) a pressur e-sensitive system coupled to the sprinkler system; or  
d) an automatic system with a direct link to the local fire authority by telephone line or radio  connection.  
G.9.2  Emergency planning  
G.9.2.1  The health and safety representative(s) or the health and s afety committee of the  warehouse shall 
develop an on -site emergency plan in consultation with the local emergency  services. Any risks related to the 
health and safety of the public in the event of an incident shall be  taken into consideration.  
G.9.2.2  The on-site emergency plan shall be updated at least once every three years in  consultation with the 
local emergency services. A copy of the emergency plan shall be signed by  the warehouse controller in the 
presence of two witnesses, who shall attest the signa ture. 
G.9.2.3  All operators shall be conversant with the on -site emergency plan, and it shall be readily  available at 
all times for implementation and use.  
G.9.2.4  The on -site emergency plan shall be tested (by means of an emergency exercise) at least  once  a 
year, and a record shall be kept of each such emergency exercise.  
G.9.3  Emergency training  
G.9.3.1  All operators shall be trained in the use of the different types of fire extinguishers on site,  and shall 
practise their duties as set out under the emerg ency plan.  
G.9.3.2  The emergency training shall include  
a) initiation of the alarm,  
b) correct use of the fire  fighting equipment,  
c) evacuation procedures,  
d) roll calls, and  
e) fire drills.   
64 © UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  
 Bibliography  
[1] SANS 509, Pallet trucks – Principal dimensions . 
 [2] SANS 1186 -1, Symbolic safety signs – Part 1: Standard signs and general requirements  
[3] SANS 1253, Fire -doors and fire -shutters  
[4] SANS 1475 -1, The production of reconditioned fire -fighting equipment – Part 1: Portable and wheeled 
(mobile) recharge able fire extinguishers  
[5] SANS 1475 -2, The production of reconditioned fire -fighting equipment – Part 2: Fire hose reels, hydrants 
and booster connections  
[6] SANS 1567, Portable rechargeable fire extinguishers – CO2 type extinguishers  
[7] SANS 1726 -1, Safety of industrial trucks – Self-propelled trucks up to and including 10000 kg capacity 
and industrial tractors with a drawbar pull up to and including 20000N – Part 1: General requirements  
 CDUS 179 3: 2017  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved  65 
 Certification marking  
Products that conform to Uganda standards  may be marked with Uganda National Bureau of Standards 
(UNBS) Certification Mark shown in the figure below.  
The use of the UNBS Certification Mark is governed by the Standards Act, and the Regulations made 
thereunder. This mark can be used only by those licensed under the certification mark scheme operated by 
the Uganda National Bureau of Standards and in conjunction with the relevant Uganda Standard. The 
presence of this mark on a product or in relation to a product is an assurance that the goods comply with the 
requirements of that standard under a system of supervision, control and testing in accordance with the 
certification mark scheme of the Uganda National Bureau of Standards. UNBS marked products are 
continually checked by UNBS for conformity to th at standard.  
Further particulars of the terms and conditions of licensing may be obtained from the Director, Uganda 
National Bureau of Standards.  
 
 CDUS 1793 : 2017    
 
ICS nn.nnn.nn  
Price based on nn pages  
© UNBS 2017 – All rights reserved