Hi Fert believes that the information contained on this web page is accurate, nevertheless Hi Fert makes no representations or warranties in relation to this information. All fertilizer is transported, handled and stored at the risk of the customer and Hi Fert accepts no liability in this regard.
Transporting and handling of fertilizer correctly ensures product quality is maintained.
Ensure any equipment used for transporting and handling, such as trucks, bins or bags, is clean and free of debris (including grain).
Covering the fertilizer during transportation is required by law and it also helps prevent moisture coming into contact with the fertilizer.
When handling bulk product on farm, Hi Fert recommends fertilizers be moved with properly guarded belt conveyors or "tubulators."
Hi Fert does not recommend the use of augers to move fertilizer. Auger flights will damage and grind ALL fertilizers, creating 'fines' and dust. The dust forms layers, which cause the product to "cake" by cementing the granules together.
It is important to remember that excessive handling of fertilizers will reduce product quality.
Storage on Farm
Over time, manufactured fertilizers will deteriorate in storage. Contamination from foreign matter may be a problem and should be eliminated where possible. Mixing fertilizer unintentionally during storage and handling or intentionally prior to application may impact on the products handling characteristics so that it fails to perform as expected.
Fertilizer Silos
Silos should not be used for storage of fertilizers. Silos used to store fertilizers have been known to collapse. This poses a risk to human safety and may lead to loss and damage of product. Hi Fert does not recommend storage of fertilizer in silos.
Field bins
Check with the bin manufacturer before storing fertilizer to ensure it is suitable for fertilizer storage. Impermeable plastic sheeting placed on top of fertilizer in the bin will protect the fertilizer from moisture.
Remember to remove the plastic sheeting placed on top of fertilizer in the bin will protect the fertilizer from moisture. Remember to remove the plastic sheeting before emptying the bin.
Hi Fert does not recommend the storage of DAP or Urea based fertilizers in field bins.
Bulk storage sheds
Storage sheds should have a clean concrete or bitumen floor and a waterproof roof covering the entire area.
It is important to control any moisture changes in solid fertilizers, as moisture will affect the handling properties of the product. Fertilizer which is intended to be stored for a period before use should be covered with impermeable plastic sheeting to limit contact with air. The cover should be arranged so that all air movement is eliminated. Canvas tarpaulins are not suitable because moisture is able to pass through the canvas.
Bulk storage "Paddock dumps"
Pasture fertilizers stored in bulk heaps on the ground must be covered. Storage times of "paddock dumps" should be kept to a minimum, as ground moisture, will degrade fertilizer. For ease of spreading and future safety, it is best to prepare a firm "pad" free of grass clumps, sticks and stones.
Bags
To store 1 tonne polyurethane bulk bags, cover with plastic sheeting and place on an impermeable floor or on pallets. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent the protective plastic breaking down. To prevent bag breakage and product compaction, do not stack more than two bags high.
50 kg bags used for storing fertilizer should be polythene-lined to ensure air movement is kept to a minimum. Hi Fert's 50 kg bags have a laminated polythene liner. These types of bags are not waterproof and must be covered when being transported to protect them from rain and moisture. They store well in sheds away from direct sunlight and without further covering.
Open-top bags should be covered with plastic. If storage of an open-top bag is on a wood floor (for example in a shearing shed), plastic sheeting should be placed under the bags as well as wrapping the whole stack.
For safe handling of bags refer to Australian Standard AS/NZS 2153.9.
Length of Storage
Base products (TSP, MAP, DAP and Urea) will store for up to 12 months.
Coated and blended products should be used within three months.
High nitrogen blends should only be stored for short periods of up to 6 weeks.
Storage of fertilizer for longer periods than suggested above may lead to product degradation and handling difficulties.
Safety
When storing fertilizer follow safe working practices to ensure the health and safety of yourself and others.
Have a qualified engineer inspect any damage to your field bin to determine what repairs are necessary.
Keep field bins closed and locked when unattended.
The first step to start the fertilizer flowing is to tap on the outside of the field bin with a rubber mallet. Ensure all sides of the field bin are evenly tapped.
If an even flow is not established or if the fertilizer clings to one side (‘hangs up’), the field bin may become unstable.
Do not take risks. Fertilizer that ‘hangs up’ or is stored badly is an extreme safety risk.
Should fertilizer stop flowing, or appear to be flowing from one side of the field bin only, consult your Hi Fert Dealer or Hi Fert for further advice and assistance on how to deal with the situation. Ensure all people are aware of the hazard and are kept away from the danger area.
For information on OHS related matters contact your local OHS authority, or refer to the Australian Standards for further guidance.
South Australia Tel 13 18 55
Victoria Tel 1800 136 089
New South Wales Tel 02 4321 5000
Queensland Tel 1300 369 915
Tasmania Tel 1300 366 322
Website http://nohsc.gov.au
