Storage of phytosanitary effluents

Water collected from the sprayer washing area often needs to be stored before being treated.
The conditions for storing phytosanitary effluents are defined by regulations.

Characteristics of phytosanitary effluents

Phytosanitary effluents are residues of chemical products used in viticulture to protect vines against diseases and pests. They include pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and other plant protection agents. These effluents are often toxic and present significant risks to the environment and human health.

The volumes of phytosanitary effluents produced vary according to vineyard treatment practices and climatic conditions. They may contain highly toxic active substances and require specific management methods to prevent pollution.
 
 
The decree on the use of plant protection products of 4 May 2017 (updating the 2006 decree)
sets out a number of requirements for filling and washing sprayers.

It defines what constitutes a phytosanitary effluent: any product-laden water is a phytosanitary effluent (tank bottoms, spray equipment cleaning water, tank overflow during filling, etc.).

Types of storage

Phytosanitary effluents must be stored in facilities specially designed to ensure their containment and avoid the risk of spillage. The main types of storage include :
  • Retention tanks : These tanks, made from chemical-resistant materials (such as reinforced polyethylene), are used to store phytosanitary effluents safely. They must be fitted with safety devices to prevent leaks and overflows.
  • Retention tanks: Retention tanks are placed under storage tanks to catch any accidental spills. They provide an additional barrier against the risk of contamination.
  • Treatment plants: Some wineries have treatment plants for phytosanitary effluents where chemical residues are neutralised or broken down before being eliminated. These plants are equipped with filtration, chemical neutralisation or biodegradation systems.
The decree also sets out the conditions for the storage of phytosanitary effluents:
  • It must not be located above residential premises or premises occupied by a third party.
  • Storage under a canopy must be at least 10 m from the property boundary.
  • A distance of more than 5 m from property boundaries for enclosed storage.
  • More than 50 m from a water catchment point, spring, watercourse or rainwater collection system (exemption if retention tank).
  • Watertight tank (no leakage or infiltration).

If the storage is double-walled or with retention, these conditions are no longer compulsory.
Citerne de stockage d'effluents phytosanitaires
Storage tank for phytosanitary effluents

Regulations and safety

The storage of phytosanitary effluents is subject to particularly strict regulations due to their hazardous nature, according to theOrder of 4 May 2017. Facilities must comply with environmental and safety standards, such as those established by the European Directive on Plant Protection Products or national legislation.

The order requires:
  • The installation of a means of protecting the water supply network (non-return system).
  • A means of preventing spillage into the environment during filling.
  • Rinsing the packaging with clean water. This rinsing water should then be emptied into the spray tank.
  • The possibility of rinsing the treated area by adding a volume of water at the end of the treatment equal to at least 5 times the volume of the tank bottom.
  • The use of construction materials that are resistant to chemicals.
  • Installing spill containment systems.
  • Training workers in the procedures for handling and storing plant protection products.

Farms must also have emergency plans in place to respond rapidly to any incident involving phytosanitary effluents.

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