Primary producers are being reminded not to underestimate the distance spray drift can travel in unsuitable conditions with compliance checks under way to identify poor spraying practices this season.
Following recent summer rain and weed development, officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) will be undertaking compliance activities and will pursue any instances of deliberate or negligent use of chemicals in contravention of label instructions.
Offences carry a maximum penalty of $35,000 per offence, reflecting the seriousness of not following mandatory label instructions.
Producers must comply with the General Duty requirement of the chemical use legislation.
Users are required to take all reasonable care to prevent or minimise harm to the health and safety of human beings and the environment through off-target impacts of agricultural chemicals.
PIRSA Biosecurity Operations director Laura Bruce said certain weather conditions such as hazardous inversions can result in spray drift damage up to tens of kilometres from the application site.
“When planning a spray operation, producers must consider sensitive crops such as vineyards, even if they are some distance away,” she said.
“It is crucial that producers do not spray during hazardous inversion weather conditions, which generally exist from late in the evening, right through the night until early morning.”
It is important to note label instructions can include mandatory directions regarding spray operations such as droplet size and wind speed.
Producers are required to comply with all mandatory directions.
“Another way producers can reduce the potential for chemical spray drift is to strictly adhere to spray methods that do not produce fine droplets,” Ms Bruce said.
“Large, coarse droplets are produced when the correct nozzle and pressures are chosen for spray equipment, as specified on the label, which is why following label instructions is important.
“You should be aware of the labels for products in use with particular regard to mandatory directions.”
Mesonet, on-site or local weather stations should be checked before spraying, particularly for wind speed and inversion information.
Boom height is also a key factor in preventing spray drift with the ideal height being 0.5m above the chemical target.
Lower application speeds reduce the amount of drift, especially when using higher boom heights.
Speeds should not exceed 20kphr during chemical application.
PIRSA encourages all community members and producers to report any alleged incidents, alleged misuse or observed damage to the Spray Drift Hotline 1300 799 684 or email pirsa.ruralchemicals@sa.gov.au.
All reports will be assessed for further action.
