Scotts Fertilizer Safety
Scotts Fertilizer is a common lawn product used to stimulate growth and prevent insect damage or weed infiltration. There are several types of fertilizers sold under the brand. The Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA) has categorized Scotts lawn fertilizers as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) products. These products also meet strict guidelines set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency. Still, it is important for users to abide by the directions and safety precautions listed on the product label to avoid complications. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Handling
-
According to the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for Scotts fertilizer products, users should wash their hands with soapy water after handling or applying the product. Users should not try to inhale or ingest the product, and limit exposure to skin, eyes and clothing. The product should be stored in a cool, dry area in a closed container. It also should be kept away from food storages areas and out of reach of children.
Proper Usage
-
To limit exposure, Scotts lawn fertilizer should be applied by a spreader. In most instances, the lawn should be watered directly after application of the product. According to the manufacturer, that keeps pets and children from getting exposed to the material and tracking it into the house.
-
Disposal
-
Scotts fertilizer could potentially contaminate water supplies if disposed of improperly. It should never be put in a lake, river, pond or other fresh water source. Users should wrap the original fertilizer container securely in newspaper before placing it in the trash. Also, fertilizer containers must not be reused.
Potential Health Effects
-
According to the MSDS, Scotts fertilizer products contain urea, which may cause eye and skin irritation. If ingested, it could cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Additionally, high concentrations of fertilizer dust over prolonged periods may cause upper-respiratory irritation, such as coughing, nasal discharge, sore throat, sneezing or shortness of breath. Inhalation of heavy concentrations over even longer periods may eventually lead to central nervous system damage.
Treatment
-
According to the MSDS, all users who have had excessive contact with the product, or who begin exhibiting side effects should contact the poison control center. Users whose eyes have had contact with the product should rinse their eyes gently with water for 15 to 20 minutes. For skin or clothing contact, users should take off the contaminated clothing, then rinse their body with water for 15 to 20 minutes. If ingested or inhaled, poison control should be notified immediately for the best treatment advice.
-
References
- Photo Credit grass image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
