Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00420:reg:15:p20
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00420
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 15 (pt 20/22)
Character Range: 250030–254938

1-2% for this type of application. Cleaners have been using a more hazardous 5% working strength solution. The reason for this is not known.
    * Use a coarse spray applicator to reduce the potential for exposure through inhalation.
    * Make further enquiries about alternative products by contacting manufacturers. Consider purchasing a ready-to­-use (1-2%) solution of the product to eliminate mixing, or consider
      a less hazardous product.
    * Rubber gloves must still be worn during application of the dilute solution, in order to avoid prolonged contact. Information and training is to be provided on the nature of the hazards,
      risks and the need to wear the gloves.

Case study 4: Pesticide spraying
Assessor(s): Manager; health and safety representative; spray operator
Hazardous chemical:
Product name: Chlorpyrifos 500 EC
Form: Solvent based concentrate containing 500 grams per litre of Chlorpyrifos in a hydrocarbon solvent
Active ingredient: Chlorpyrifos (an organophosphorus insecticide)
Health effects: Nervous system (cholinesterase inhibition)
Major routes of exposure: Inhalation (spray mist and solvent) and skin absorption (Chlorpyrifos is readily absorbed through intact skin). Chlorpyrifos is an insecticide used on vineyards. Sometimes other liquid organophosphates are also used, following the same mixing and spraying techniques. Therefore this assessment would also cover their use.
500ml of the concentrate is poured (decanted) from a 20 litre drum, into a plastic jug. Before pouring this into the spray tank of a tractor-drawn air blast sprayer, water is added to the tank to dilute the concentrate to a concentration of 0.25 grams per litre (i.e. 2000 times dilution).
The tractor-drawn air blast sprayer can generate a large quantity of fine spray mist.
Chlorpyrifos is sprayed two to three times a week on several vineyards from about October to February.
One operator, who has completed the Farm Chemical Users Course (FCUC), does all the mixing, spraying and the cleaning up of the equipment used.
Others who may be exposed to some Chlorpyrifos are those involved in thinning, pruning or repairing spray equipment. They are not considered to be at risk (refer to report).
Physicochemical hazards: chemical is a flammable liquid category 4 (flash point 68°C).

Job description:
Task                                       Routes                                                                                        Controls already in place                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Risk to health? Yes/No/Not sure                                                                                                                               Action

Mixing                                     Skin                                                                                          Gauntlet rubber gloves, PVC apron, gumboots and face shield worn. Measuring jug is rinsed immediately after use. Tap available for washing.                                                                                                                                                                                                           Yes                                                                                                                                                           Spills and splashes have occurred. Chlorpyrifos is very toxic. It is handled in concentrated form. The SDS indicates it is easily absorbed through skin. If protective equipment is not worn or properly maintained there would be a serious risk to health.   Consider ways of eliminating or reducing the use of the pesticide. Consider using a less hazardous pesticide.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Investigate the use of suitable dispensers