Growsafe Mixing and Loading Agrichemicals 3

Question 1

After completing the three-rinse procedure, what should be done with empty agrichemical containers in NZ?

Accepted Answer

Puncture them and dispose of through an approved collection scheme such as AgRecovery

Answer

Return them to the supplier for cleaning and refilling

Answer

Burn them on the farm to destroy any remaining chemical residue

Answer

Store them in the chemical shed in case they are needed again

Question 2

What is the main practical hazard created by excessive foam when filling a spray tank?

Accepted Answer

Foam can cause the tank to overflow, creating a spill and contamination hazard

Answer

Foam reduces the chemical efficacy of the agrichemical product

Answer

Foam indicates that the chemical has degraded and should not be used

Answer

Foam immediately blocks spray nozzles and stops the pump working

Question 3

When should you calibrate your spray equipment in relation to mixing agrichemicals?

Accepted Answer

Before mixing so you know exactly what volume of spray mixture is required

Answer

After mixing so you can verify the output matches your expectations

Answer

During mixing while the tank is being filled with water

Answer

Calibration only needs to be done once annually per piece of equipment

Question 4

What must you do if two agrichemicals you want to use are listed as incompatible?

Accepted Answer

Do not mix them together; apply each product in a separate spray operation

Answer

Mix them in smaller quantities to minimise the chemical reaction

Answer

Add them to the tank at different times during the spray run

Answer

Contact the manufacturer to see if a reduced rate allows mixing

Question 5

What is the correct way to measure a small quantity of liquid agrichemical concentrate for mixing?

Accepted Answer

Use a clean measuring cylinder dedicated solely to that chemical

Answer

Estimate by eye using the graduation marks printed on the original container

Answer

Use a household measuring jug that is washed between uses

Answer

Fill to the top of the bottle cap and use that as a consistent rough measure

Question 6

What records are required to be kept under NZ good practice after mixing and applying an agrichemical?

Accepted Answer

Product name and rate, area treated, date, applicator name, and weather conditions

Answer

Only the name of the person who carried out the application

Answer

Weather conditions at the time of application only

Answer

Records are only required for restricted-use pesticides under the HSNO Act

Question 7

What is the best combined approach to minimise operator exposure when adding agrichemical concentrate to a spray tank?

Accepted Answer

Use a closed transfer system or induction hopper together with appropriate PPE

Answer

Work as quickly as possible to minimise time spent near the concentrate

Answer

Only perform mixing outdoors in a well-ventilated area without any other precautions

Answer

Pre-dilute the concentrate in a bucket of water before transferring to the tank