September 29, 2006

Australia sets security clearances for fertilisers

The Australian Government is considering measures to keep track of the use of farm chemicals and nitrate fertilisers to counter criminal use, according to a farming website in the country.

Fertilisers may be grouped into 3 tiers, Infarmation reported. 

Farmers using tier one chemicals, which include 1080, mevinphos, parathion and phosphine, must undergo ASIO checks, be trained and licensed, have a security plan, provide secure storage and transport surveillance and keep monthly records.

Tier two chemicals, which include potassium nitrate and dichlorvos, will require a licence, training, secure storage, transport surveillance and quarterly reporting.

As for tier three chemicals, which include calcium nitrate, diazinon and ivermectin, farmers must be licensed and trained and provide annual reports.