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Information sheets   |   Elsenburg infopaks   |   Mechanisation: 4

The spraying machine Afrikaans | Xhosa

Click to enlarge!		 Spraying machines are a common sight on crop farms. The implement requires special attention, therefore the person who operates the machine must also be special, because not everybody is willing to accept such a great responsibility.

Neither is everybody willing to expose himself to the dangers of toxic agents. However, by following a set pattern, the person operating the machine can ensure that he does not expose himself unnecessarily to the toxic agents and that his implement is maintained in the best working order.

Click to enlarge!		 The following are a few of the important items that have to be checked before the machine is switched on:
  • Check that the driving shaft is connected correctly.
  • A safety screen around the driving shaft is essential.
  • The safety screen must be fastened down and must not turn with the driving shaft.
  • Make sure that the pipes do not lie on the driving shaft where they can become chafed.

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  • The tank, filling sieve and 

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suction filter must be clean.

  • The spraying machine must be standing level before the machine is filled.
  • Fill the tank through the filling sieve about half full with water.
  • Mix all wettable powders in separate containers outside the tank.
  • Add the poison solution through the filling sieve in the tank, then fill up the rest of the tank with water.
  • Make sure that there are no leaks.

When the tractor is switched on, make sure of the following:

  • The pump and pipes must not leak.
  • Check whether the driving shaft is tuning correctly and whether the pressure gauge and tachometer are in good working order.

Click to enlarge!		 While spraying, bear the following in mind:
  • Always keep an eye on the pressure gauge to be sure that the pressure is correct.
  • Never race with a full spraying machine.
  • Never spray when a strong wind is blowing.
  •  Try to drive the tractor at a steady speed.
  • No other person may be allowed on the spraying machine.
  • Do not empty the spraying machine by spraying out the spray on the way to the shed. If it is not empty, empty it at a suitable and predetermined dump yard.

Click to enlarge!		 After the spraying has been completed, the following are important:
  • Rinse the tank with a soapy solution.
  • Never leave any spray in the tank overnight.
  • Rinse the spraying machine as well as the tractor.
  • Wash all the sieves.
  • Clean the spray plates with a toothbrush; never blow or suck them clean.

At the end of the spraying season there are important requirements that have to be met:

  • Wash the tank very thoroughly.
  • Fill the tank half full with soapy water, and then spray out the water until the tank is empty.
  • Then fill the tank with 300 litres of clean water. Spray out about 200 litres to get rid of the soap. Add 1 litre of diesel to the remaining 100 litres of water in he tank. Now empty the tank by spraying. The diesel serves as a lubricant and helps to prevent rust. 
  • All sieves must be cleaned.

Click to enlarge!		 Every person who works with toxic agents, must be informed of the following:
  • If spray accidentally lands on your skin, immediately wash the area with soap and water.
  • Never eat or drink while working with sprays.
  • Never take off your overalls while you are spraying. Put them on before you mix the spraying agents, and do not take them off until you have cleaned and put away the spraying machine.
  • Wash your overalls after you have finished spraying. Do not take them to the house.

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  • Never put or store any toxic agent in a cooldrink bottle. This can cause somebody's death.
  • Never eat fruit that has been sprayed. It can make you very ill or even lead to death. Good advice is to wait until the harvest because then it is safe to eat the fruit.

What are the symptoms of poisoning?

It usually begins with headache, tiredness and nausea. Such a person often perspires heavily, has diarrhoea and his eyes water. If such a person cannot obtain medical help immediately, he gets convulsions and goes into a coma, with eventual collapse of the heart and lungs.

Therefore remember: if you feel ill after you have worked with toxic agents, immediately seek medical help!

D Louw
ELSENBURG / Training