Crop spraying by farmers can be a problem for both householders and walkers.
Fortunately, most farmers in Felsham are socially responsible and make great efforts to minimise the problem of spraying near houses and footpaths.
It is worthwhile remembering that farmers have to follow a code of practice drawn up by the HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. The code includes the following:
* Ensure that all persons engaged in crop spraying are suitably trained
* Farmers have to carry out an assessment of the Risks to health of the chemicals used and reduce this risk as far as possible, this includes risks to members of the public and other who maybe affected by the spraying.
* Keep comprehensive records of spraying (incl. date,time,weather conditions and what was sprayed)
* Only spray in appropriate weather conditions to avoid/prevent drift onto neighbouring properties or fields
* Farmers have to consider taking extra precautions when spraying near homes, schools etc. eg only spray when home owners are at work or out for the day and in the case of schools or other public buildings spray after hours or during periods when premises are unoccupied.
The code also advises that best practice (although not mandatory) is to let people who may be affected by the spraying know when it is being carried out.
[The Act that governs the use of Pesticides is the Food and Environmental Protection Act 1985.]
See:Code of Practice for Using Plant Protection Products.
