Agrochemicals and Weed Control Risk Assessment

Product Overview

This risk assessment covers agrochemical and weed control work, including product selection, handling, application, clean-down and emergency response. It supports planning and risk management by identifying chemical exposure, drift, contamination, storage and site-control hazards.

Activities & Risks Covered

This assessment addresses activities and risks including:

• Plan the work and select products with regard to site conditions, nearby people and application information
• Receive, transport and handle agrochemicals while managing leaks, splashes and manual tasks
• Store chemicals and decant them carefully to prevent exposure, spills and unauthorised access
• Mix and prepare spray solutions while controlling concentrated chemical exposure and contamination
• Inspect, set up and calibrate spray equipment before use
• Establish the work area and control entry to reduce exposure from drift and treated areas
• Apply herbicides and weed control chemicals while managing mist, splash, heat and environmental risks
• Manage re-entry, overspray and hygiene following application
• Clean equipment, decontaminate and manage chemical waste and contaminated items
• Prepare for spills, chemical exposure and other emergency situations

Who is this for?

Suitable for contractors, workers, supervisors and businesses carrying out agrochemical and weed control activities.

Activities & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

The template records model guidance used to inform the documented controls. Applicable WHS/OHS laws and adopted Codes vary by state or territory, so confirm the current local requirements when tailoring the assessment:

• Model guidance: Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of hazardous chemicals in the workplace — 2.2 Safety Data Sheets (SDS); p. 16.
• Model guidance: Model Code of Practice: First aid in the workplace — 3. First aid equipment, facilities and training; p. 12.
• Model guidance: Model Code of Practice: Hazardous manual tasks — 4.1 The hierarchy of control measures; p. 31.
• Model guidance: Model Code of Practice: Managing the risk of fatigue at work — Provide sufficient breaks while at work; p. 30.
• Model guidance: Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace — 4.1 Guarding plant; p. 39.
• Model guidance: Model Code of Practice: Managing electrical risks in the workplace — 2.1 Identifying the hazards; p. 14.
• Model guidance: Model Code of Practice: Managing the work environment and facilities — 2.8 Heat and cold; p. 21.
• Model guidance: Model Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks — 5. Step 4 — How to review controls; p. 27.

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Standard Risk Assessment Features (Click to Expand)

• Activity-specific hazard identification and control measures
• Initial and residual risk ratings
• Assigned responsible persons for each activity
• Risk matrix and assessment classification
• Review, monitoring and sign-off fields
• Site-specific customisation before use