Released: May 15, 2001

K-State Specialist Offers Tips To Avoid Chemical Spills

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Reports of agricultural chemicals spilled accidentally have risen this spring, according to information from the Kansas Department of Health and the Environment.

Farmers, custom applicators and dealers must transport nutrients and pesticides from storage locations to and between farms and fields.

Accidental spills often are caused by not securing a tank adequately on flatbed trucks, inadequate training for new employees, or carelessness, said Morgan Powell, an agricultural engineer at Kansas State University.

Depending on the chemical involved the amount spilled, and how far it moves in the environment, accidents can cost hundreds or even tens of thousands of dollars, said Powell, who is with K-State Research and Extension. The quicker a spill is reported, the less costly it is likely to be, he said.

“Regardless of the reason, more spills into the environment have apparently occurred this year,” Powell said. “These spills can be minimized by adhering to the basic rules of planning, training, maintenance and care in carrying out actions.”

He recommends the following safety steps:

* Train all workers on proper procedures and the effects of chemical spills.

* Don’t leave containers unattended while filling them with water or chemicals.

* Anticipate accidents; have a plan and know what to do if contamination occurs.

* Don’t place tanks out of easy sight, such as underground, in case there is a leak.

* Don’t put contaminants in zones of exclusion. Know the protection zones and follow them to enure safe water. The protection zone for all surface water including streams and lakes is at least 50 feet from water and the flood plain. The protection zone for a well is at least 100 feet or more.

“Spills result in loss of product; loss of time for clean up and repair; expense for cleanup; and damage to the environment,” Powell said. “For these reasons, it makes good sense to take action to avoid spills.”

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K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus, Manhattan.

Story by:
Keri Geffert, Communications Assistant
kgeffert@oznet.ksu.edu 

K-State Research& Extension News