Farmers urged to review safety as dangerous goods rules are updated

Victorian farmers are being encouraged to review their farm safety practices ahead of updated dangerous goods regulations coming into effect later this month.

The new Dangerous Goods Regulations begin on July 25, replacing the 2016 rules. While the changes improve the clarity and readability of the legislation, existing obligations for managing high consequence dangerous goods remain unchanged.

Victorian Farmers Federation President Ryan Milgate says the update is a timely reminder for producers to assess workplace safety and ensure their systems remain effective.

He says the Federation's Making Our Farms Safer Project is offering free on-farm safety visits, with tailored advice covering chemical storage, machinery safety, workplace systems and regulatory compliance.

Mr Milgate says understanding responsibilities around dangerous goods is an important part of running a safe farm business, with practical support available to help farmers improve safety and meet their legal obligations.

The Victorian Farmers Federation says producers can access further information and arrange a free farm safety visit through the Making Our Farms Safer program.