Keeping workplace records

It is essential to keep accurate workplace records, particularly for applying treatment programs for weed management and plant health remedies.

All permanent records should be stored in a safe and secure place for future reference. For example, documents should be kept in a filing cabinet or waterproof container that is easily accessible to all staff, i.e. in the supervisor's office.

Any changes to treatment programs must be reported to workplace supervisors.

Workplace records allow an enterprise to:

1. Record pertinent information about treatment programs. For example:
   • location or garden area
   • date documentation completed
   • diagnosed problem
   • schedule (start and finish dates, number of days and approval received)
   • resources used (personnel, tools, equipment and machinery)
   • chemicals used, (product information, application method, concentration/solution, quantity mixed and amount used)
   • other relevant information (weather conditions, PPE, effects on target population and off target damage)
   • tasks carried out.
   • explanation of procedures followed (chemical registration, operator manuals, workplace procedures and completed records)
   • special notes.
2. Monitor treatment programs accurately and record progress.
3. Review records and modified future programs based on progress and/or success or failure of previous treatments.
4. Use records as evidence to support claims, particularly if there are complaints about treatment programs. For example, crops may have poor vigour and this could be unreasonably blamed on the operator who sprayed the weeds.
5. Use records as a learning reference and research tool. Weed control practices can be closely monitored for their effectiveness. For example, the most effective plants used to compete with the weeds can be recorded and recommended.
6. Compare manufacturers' specifications with enterprise records. For example, manufacturers' recommend how long it will take for herbicides to kill weeds. This nominated period many vary from how long it takes in your situation in practice.
7. Use records as a reference to review control programs and modify policy and procedures based on these assessments.