Keeping records of aerial chemical distribution

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In this guide:

If you are a licensed aerial distribution contractor, you must make and keep records (for at least 2 years) of all aerial distribution activities (spraying, spreading or dispersing) carried out. You must also present them to authorised officers on request.

Although the aerial distribution contractor is responsible for making and keeping the record for the required period, in practice the pilot in command of the aircraft would probably make the record on the contractor's behalf.

Types of records to keep

The Agricultural Chemicals Distribution Control Act 1966 (PDF, 453KB) outlines the types of records you need to make and keep for aerial distribution, including:

the name of the pilot in command of the particular aerial distribution
the registration mark of the aircraft being used
the name and address of the person for whom the aerial distribution is being carried out
identification of the agricultural chemical or chemical mixture being used, including any APVMA product distinguishing number
description and amount of any diluent (e.g. water) or additives added to the spray mixture (e.g. wetting agents, spreaders or emulsifiers)
the quantity and concentration of the agricultural chemicals being applied
exact location of the land being treated
total area of the land being treated
the type of crop or situation being treated
the purpose of the aerial distribution
the date or dates, and start and finish times, when the aerial distribution was carried out
the wind velocity (speed) and direction at the beginning of the aerial distribution, and any changes to the wind velocity and direction, and time of such change, during the aerial distribution operation.

Note: If you are a licensed aerial distribution contractor who also carries out the business of ground distribution of herbicides from ground equipment, you must make and keep records of your ground distribution activities.

Why you need to keep records

Keeping good records is a recommended best practice and shows due diligence as a responsible chemical user. Good records are useful if someone complains about a particular aerial distribution, especially if you need to accurately recall information months after a spray event. They are also important if a trace-back is needed. This may be required to determine the possible source of any residues, alleged misuse of an agricultural chemical or any issues with product quality such as contamination.