Safe handling of soil mixes and chemicals

Best practice when handling potting, compost and mulch mixes.

Soil mixes are known to be a combination of organic and inorganic material containing beneficial and other natural organisms. To minimise your over exposure to these organisms, it is important to follow these safe handling guidelines.

• Before using product, thoroughly read the health warning on the packaging and adhere to its guidelines for safe use.

• Before use, wear a mask, eye protection and gloves. After use, wash hands thoroughly.

• Keep the potting mix and compost moist when working. This is to minimise exposure to its dust or mists.

• Always open a bag of potting mix and compost in a well-ventilated space.

• Avoid shaking the bag too vigorously when emptying a bag of potting mix and compost.

• Avoid touching your face when working with potting mix. Importantly, don’t eat, drink or smoke while working.

• Store unused potting mix in a sheltered, dry place. It should also be away from direct heat.

For more information on safe product handling, read the health warning or safe handling directions on the packaging.

Best safety practice when using herbicides and insecticides.

• Before using product, thoroughly read the safety directions on the packaging and adhere to its guidelines for safe use.

• When opening the container, preparing and using the prepared spray wear cotton overalls buttoned to the neck and wrist, a washable hat, elbow length PVC gloves, face shield or goggles if indicated on the container or SDS.

• The gloves should be chemical resistant and specifically made to stop chemicals absorption into the skin.

• After use and before eating, drinking, or smoking, wash hands, arms and face thoroughly with soap and water. After each day’s use wash gloves, face shield, or goggles and contaminated clothing.

• Spray early morning or late afternoon when there is little to no wind and the temperature is under that indicated on the container.

• The individual Safety Data Sheets or SDS are available for all Searles products on the Searles website, located in the product details page. These give even further information on the products.

For more information on safe product handling, read the health warning or safe handling directions on the packaging.