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Storing Pesticides Safely
Storing Pesticides Safely
nonreader may be
Virginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, dis-
ability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual
poisoned
orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity/
affirmative action employer. Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Virginia Polytechnic
accidentally! Institute and State University, Virginia State University, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperat-
ing. Edwin J. Jones, Director, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg; M. Ray McKinnie,
Administrator, 1890 Extension Program, Virginia State University, Petersburg.
VT/0517/HORT-250NP
Storing Pesticides Safely 2) Design a pesticide storage area. Temperature extremes can cause physical or chemical
changes to pesticide products. Such changes may make
Design or designate a pesticide storage area that meets
Storage Tips the product ineffective and/or cause plant injury. Heat
the following requirements:
makes chemicals more volatile and unstable. Freezing
The proper storage of pesticides, both synthetic and can cause some types of containers to break open. If
botanical, in and around the home is important for • easy to lock
specific temperature ranges are required for proper stor-
many reasons, including protecting human health, age, they will be printed on the product label.
• well-ventilated
preserving the environment, and maintaining chemical
effectiveness. One way to minimize storage problems is Finally, the site must be designed to contain, or stop the
• properly lighted when in use
through good planning. further spread of, any spills and/or leaks.
• dry – protected both from flooding and high humidity
Buy only the amount of pesticide that you need for a
specific job or for the current growing season. The • protected from extreme heat and freezing
smaller-volume containers, even if more expensive
ounce for ounce, may in fact be the “best buy” in the • spacious enough to allow for separation of herbicides,
long run by eliminating waste and the need for storage fungicides, insecticides, and fertilizers if all these types
space. If you need to store pesticides on your property, of materials are to be stored
follow these guidelines – for safety’s sake!
• enclosed in such a manner that leaks and/or spills may
1) Consult the label for specific storage be contained and cleaned without compromising the
soil and water quality in the vicinity
requirements.
Always read the pesticide label for specific storage
requirements. The chemical and the container in which
it is purchased must be maintained in good condition.
This is necessary to ensure that the material remains
useful and to avoid environmental or human health
hazards.