Green thumbs across Australia have being asked to look for the Australian StandardsMark on potting packaging following concerns raised by SAI Global, an expert on product safety standards, that some products may contain unacceptable levels of potential dangerous materials.
The General Manager of Product Certification at SAI Global, Mr Mario Battaglia, said: “Lately a spate of potting mixes, consisting of all kind of ingredients, have entered the market. They might look the same, smell the same, but they are not the same.”
“To help ensure the product you are purchasing contains the acceptable materials look for one that has been tested and assessed against the Australian Standard®, http://www.standards.com.au/catalogue/script/Details.asp?DocN=AS186293829308AS 3743:2003,” said Mr Battaglia.
“One of the best ways to tell if your potting mix has been put through its paces is to look for the Australian StandardsMark, which demonstrates compliance to the standard.”
“By having their product certified by SAI Global, manufacturers are showing that they have taken steps to inform the public about the safe use of the product, and have alerted consumers to the potential dangers.”
According to the Health and Safety Senior Auditor at SAI Global, Mr Mark Hazeldine: “Under the Australian Standard potting mixes must be stored between temperatures of 15-25°C, be kept in the shade and carry an appropriate health warning.”
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HEALTH WARNING
THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS MICRO-ORGANISMS
AVOID BREATHING DUST OR MISTS—
WEAR PARTICULATE MASK IF DUSTY
WEAR GLOVES AND KEEP PRODUCT MOIST WHEN HANDLING
WASH HANDS IMMEDIATELY AFTER USE
READ DETAILED WARNING LABEL ON THIS BAG
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“It is important to remember that potting mixes are made from organic materials, including composted pinebark, and contain living micro-organisms, including bacteria, fungi and protozoa and may also contain mineral and fertiliser additives.”
“There is a risk that the inhalation of dust or liquid mists may irritate, inflame or sensitise the nose, throat and lungs resulting in illnesses ranging from hay fever or asthma, to pneumonia and Legionnaire’s Disease.”
“Direct contact with this material or its dust or liquid mists may cause skin irritation (dermatitis), and skin or eye infection or irritation. People particularly at risk are those suffering from asthma or allergies, and those whose immune defence systems are compromised.”
“For this reason potting mix should be stored in a cool location and should not be shaken, a mask should be used to avoid breathing in dust, and it is vital to wash your hands and work clothes afterwards.”
KEY SAFETY TIPS
· Avoid contact with eyes and skin.
· Avoid breathing dust and/or liquid mists (bioaerosols).
· Wear suitable protective clothing and standard duty gloves (refer to http://www.standards.com.au/catalogue/script/Details.asp?DocN=stds000017012AS/NZS 2161.2).
· If exposed to dust and/or liquid mists, also wear dust resistant eye protection (AS/NZS 1336) and particulate respirator (AS/NZS 1715 and AS/NZS 1716).
· Wash thoroughly immediately after handling.
· Wash work clothes regularly.
· Clean up by wet sweeping or vacuuming.
· Store this product in a cool location.
FIRST AID
Irrigate eyes with plenty of water for 10 minutes, wash skin with soap and water, and seek medical attention for any persistent skin, eye or respiratory symptoms.
DISPOSAL
Follow above safety precautions and collect in containers for disposal as trade waste in accordance with local authority guidelines.
According to Mr Battaglia: “Products that display the StandardsMark must display the appropriate warning labels and all have been rigorously and independently tested to meet some of the world’s toughest safety Standards. So to stay safe in your garden, look for the Australian StandardsMark.”