Safely storing chemicals on farms is more than just good practice — it’s a legal and operational necessity. Whether you’re using pesticides, fertilisers, or veterinary products, having a compliant, well-designed structure is critical for protecting your team, the environment, and your livelihood.
At Central Steel Build, we understand that regulations around chemical storage can feel complex. This guide outlines the key requirements — and how a purpose-built shed can help you meet them with confidence.
Agricultural chemicals play a critical role in modern farming — supporting healthy crops, improved pasture, and effective pest control. But these same chemicals can also pose serious risks if stored incorrectly. Fires, environmental contamination, human and animal exposure, and compliance breaches are all real consequences when storage isn’t up to standard.
That’s why an increasing number of farmers are turning to purpose-built, compliant chemical storage sheds. Unlike retrofitted or general-purpose buildings, a custom-designed shed can be engineered from the ground up to meet separation distances, incorporate bunding and ventilation, and allow for safe, secure access.
It’s not just about reducing risk — it’s about building for the future. A well-designed shed provides long-term assurance that your operation meets all the necessary safety, environmental and legal obligations, and gives you flexibility as your chemical use or certification requirements evolve.
Farmers and agricultural businesses must follow a web of national and state regulations, including:
- WHS Regulations
- AS 2507:1998
- Dangerous Goods laws
- Additional standards for specific substances
State legislation also varies, especially in how Dangerous Goods thresholds, placarding, and emergency plans are enforced.
Siting and accessMinimum separation distances apply:
- Ensure good vehicle access and space for safe loading and unloading |
Construction and safetyStructural compliance features: - Fire-resistant materials (steel, concrete)
- Lockable access - Emergency exits |
Ventilation and insulationAirflow and thermal control: -Prevention of vapour build-up
- Ridge vents, whirlybirds, or mechanical systems - Use insulation to reduce condensation |
LightingSafe visibility options: - Internal lighting sufficient for label reading
- External lighting for mixing areas |
Flooring and bundingSpill containment infrastructure: - Impermeable and chemical-resistant floors- Bunding: 110% of largest container or 25% of total volume - Separate incompatible substances |
Storage and shelvingChemical separation and visibility: - Sturdy, non-absorbent shelving- Powders above liquids - Separate incompatible substances |
Of course, compliant chemical storage also relies on clear signage, emergency readiness, and proper documentation. HAZCHEM labels, Dangerous Goods placards, and warning signs must be in place. First aid kits, running water, and spill kits should be accessible, along with Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and a current chemical register. A documented emergency plan and staff training are also essential to ensure safety and meet regulatory requirements.
Requirements can vary between states, particularly when it comes to Dangerous Goods thresholds, placarding, and emergency planning. It’s important to check with your local authority for the most up-to-date regulations relevant to your location and operation:
Victoria: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/handling-agricultural-and-veterinary-chemicals
NSW: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/chemicals/agricultural-chemicals
Queensland: https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/environment/licences-permits/dangerous-goods/storing
South Australia: https://www.safework.sa.gov.au/safety-topic/hazards/chemicals
For Charles Edmonston of Lintel Grange, building a compliant storage shed was made easy with Central’s end-to-end support. From site surveying and permit guidance to tailored design and ongoing communication, the process was handled with clarity and care — taking the stress out of what could have been a complex project.
“Dealing with Central Steel Build was an easy process. They sent out a number of people to help with the surveying and helped with what I needed to do with permits and getting the ground ready. All that work that you aren’t sure about was taken away so that was really good. Their communication throughout the whole process was great, with consistent emails, phone calls, and follow-ups. I would definitely build through Central Steel Build again.”
~ Charles Edmonston, Lintel Grange
Whether you're planning a new chemical store or reviewing an older shed for compliance, Central Steel Build know the way forward.
Explore our agricultural builds: https://www.centralbuild.com.au/agricultural-sheds
Request a quote: https://www.centralbuild.com.au/request-a-quote