Chemical Application & Storage Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Weather and low light work — Monitor heat, cold, rain and wind; adjust schedule, pace and breaks. Provide shelters, hydration, and thermal or cooling layers. Cease in lightning or dangerous gusts. For low light, deploy task lighting, high-vis garments and head torches, and review visibility at each briefing.
• Vehicle transport of chemicals — Transport upright in bunded transit boxes secured to the load bed; keep chemicals separate from cab and welfare items; carry SDS, spill kit and drain mats; ventilate vehicle; remove stock from vehicles at shift end; never leave loaded vehicles unattended in public places.
• Hidden debris and sharps — Pre-walk and map hazards; remove scrap with tongs or magnet rakes. Wear puncture-resistant gloves/boots and forearm protection; use approved sharps bins with lids; never compact bags by hand. Stop and escalate if suspect cylinders or ordnance are encountered. Keep waste streams segregated.
• Unstable trees and limbs — Undertake visual tree assessment; tag hangers and set no-go zones until made safe. Use MEWP or mechanical assist for storm-damaged wood. Monitor wind limits, establish escape routes, and ensure only trained arborists fell, dismantle, or winch compromised stems or limbs.
• Fuel and oil handling — Set a cool, ventilated refuel area with drip trays; use funnels or quick-fill spouts and spill kits. Stop engines, no smoking, earth portable tanks, and store fuels in UN-approved bunded containers. Label clearly, keep SDS accessible, train staff, and record any spill responses.