A range of pesticides are used in the agricultural sector to protect plants, animals and agricultural products from harmful pests and diseases. Many of these pesticides contain hazardous chemicals that can have short term and long term health effects if the risks aren’t managed safely.
It’s important you know the chemicals that you are working with so you can take precautions, and know what to do in potentially dangerous situations.
The international Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified Benzene as a carcinogenic for humans. Benzene is contained in diesel engine exhaust fumes and has been identified as an emerging health risk for those in the agricultural industry.
Diesel exhaust, which agricultural workers may be exposed to can cause damage to the lungs if inhaled. Short term exposure to fuels containing Benzene can cause nausea and loss of co-ordination. Long term exposure has the potential to increase the risk of an early death from heart and lung disease or Leaukaemia.
A good way to keep healthy is to use safer engines and cleaner fuels (e.g. low emission technology, emission control devices such as particle filters, ultra low sulphur diesel, compressed natural gas or electricity).
Prevention is always better than dealing with the effects of hazardous chemical exposure and you can take steps to minimise any potential health risks:
If you believe you have been exposed to harmful chemicals ensure you talk to your doctor about:
Industry Associations:
For more information refer to Safework
Safe Work Australia data show that vehicles, particularly tractors and quad bikes, are involved in most work-related deaths in the agriculture industry. Alongside these immediate safety risks, farm workers can also face longer-term health risks from pesticides, diesel exhaust, noise, dust and sun exposure, which is where health monitoring can play a role.
It depends on the chemicals and tasks involved. Organophosphate pesticides are listed in Schedule 14 of the model WHS Regulations, so workers with significant exposure need health monitoring that includes a baseline and follow-up red cell and plasma cholinesterase test. Other exposures on farms, such as noise, dust and sun, may call for hearing tests, respiratory checks or skin checks.
Organophosphate pesticides, pentachlorophenol and arsenic compounds are among the Schedule 14 chemicals that can be relevant in agriculture, horticulture and timber treatment. Health monitoring may also be needed for other chemicals where there is a significant risk to health and a valid test is available. A chemicals register and the product Safety Data Sheets are a good starting point for working out what applies on your property.
Diesel exhaust from tractors, pumps and other machinery can irritate the lungs, and long-term exposure has been linked to heart and lung disease. Exposure can be reduced with well-maintained engines, cleaner fuels, ventilation and limiting time near running equipment. Where workers have regular exposure, a doctor can advise whether respiratory assessment should form part of their health program.
Yes. Employees Health can bring doctors and nurses onsite to rural and remote properties anywhere in Australia, so workers do not need to travel to a city clinic. Assessments can be scheduled around seasonal work such as spraying, shearing or harvest.
