Direction for Use of 1080 for Wild Dog Control – 2014 [i] DIRECTION BY THE CHEMICALS COORDINATOR PURSUANT TO: AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY CHEMICALS (CONTROL OF USE) ACT DIRECTION FOR USE OF 1080 FOR WILD DOG CONTROL I, ANDREW TOMKINS, am appointed as the Chemicals Coordinator pursuant to section 85 of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act. Sodium fluoroacetate is a Restricted Chemical Product listed in Schedule 7 of the Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Medicines and Poisons (SUSMP). The sale, possession and use of this product within the Northern Territory is regulated by the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act and Regulations, the Poisons and Dangerous Drugs Act and Regulations, Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, By-Laws and Regulations, and Workplace Health and Safety Act and Regulations. The possession and use of sodium fluoroacetate (1080) in the Northern Territory is considered by me to be an activity that actually affects or could potentially affect the health of the general public, the users of sodium fluoroacetate (1080), or both. On this basis I am of the opinion that it is necessary to take measures to minimise the risk of harm by restricting the acquisition, possession and use of sodium fluoroacetate (1080) by issuing a Direction dealing with each of these matters. Pursuant to section 87 of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act, I DIRECT all persons holding a: 1080 Pest Animal Management Authorisation (1080 PAMA); Permit to Take Protected Wildlife (Permit); 1080 User Authorisation; 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation; Certificate to acquire sodium fluoroacetate concentrate on behalf of a Regional Wild Dog Management Group (RWDMG); or have the Role of Regional Coordinator for a Regional Wild Dog Management Group Baiting Plan, as follows: You must only acquire, possess or use the chemical sodium fluoroacetate (1080) or any product containing sodium fluoroacetate (1080) in accordance with the instructions contained in this Direction for Use of 1080 for Wild Dog Control (being 34 pages). NOTE: 1. This Direction comprises all information, instructions and conditions contained in this document. 2. The instructions contained in this Direction for Use of 1080 for Wild Dog Control must be read in conjunction with the instructions for use printed on the Registered Product label. 3. Where the instructions in this document differ from those on the Registered Product label, then to the extent of any difference, the instructions in this Direction will prevail and must be followed. i 4. Where the instructions, conditions or both, in any Authorisations, Permits, Approvals, or each, issued in relation to the acquisition, possession, use, or each, of sodium fluoroacetate 1080 for pest animal control in the Northern Territory, differ from either the Registered Product label of this Direction for Use of 1080 for Wild Dog Control to the extent of any difference, the instructions, conditions, or both, contained in the Authorisations, Permits, Approvals, or each, will prevail and must be followed. If you are unsure about the precedence of operation or effect of any Direction, instruction or condition you should contact the Chemicals Coordinator for assistance and clarification before taking any action. A contravention of this Direction may result in legal action being taken against you, including by prosecution, the application of penalties or cancelation of an Authorisation, Permit or both. This Direction revokes all previous versions of Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control. A Direction issued under Section 87 is a reviewable decision. Please see the extract of Part 11 of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act (attached to this Direction and available from the Chemicals Coordinator, at the Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries or www.chemicalservices.nt.gov.au) for information about this process. ANDREW TOMKINS Chemicals Coordinator 10 February 2014 CONTACT DETAILS: Chemicals Coordinator Chemical Services Section – Berrimah Farm GPO Box 3000 DARWIN NT 0801 Phone: Fax: Email: (08) 8999 2344 (08) 8999 2111 chemicals@nt.gov.au ii GLOSSARY Definition of terms used in this document: 1080 The chemical sodium fluoroacetate used as a poison for pest animal management. 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation The Authorisation issued by the Chemicals Coordinator to allow an individual to inject wet meat baits with 1080 concentrate for a RWDMG (but not for fee or reward). 1080 Bait Injection Training course A course recognised by the Chemicals Coordinator and conducted by a registered training provider (currently Charles Darwin University – CDU) to develop the knowledge and skills required to safely inject 1080 concentrate into freshly cured wet meat to form wet baits for management of wild dogs. 1080 Bait Injectors Record Means the records of the 1080 Bait Injector’s and PBI’s. This record must be maintained and must be kept for a minimum of 2 years after the expiry of their 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation. 1080 Baiting Operations Record Means the records of all 1080 Baiting activities that occur on a property. This record must be maintained by the 1080 PAMA holder and any other person undertaking activities on the property and must be kept for a minimum of 2 years after the date of the last entry in the record. 1080 products Means products registered by the APVMA that contain 1080 and includes but is not limited to baits. 1080 PAMA The abbreviation for a 1080 Pest Animal Management Authorisation. 1080 Pest Animal Management Authorisation (1080 PAMA) The Authorisation issued by the Chemicals Coordinator to a landowner, occupier or property manager within the NT to allow Baits to be purchased or supplied and used on a property under their management for pest animal control. In this document 1080 Pest Animal Management Authorisation (1080 PAMA) includes both the ‘1080 PAMA and Permit’ to take dingoes and wild dogs as protected wildlife. 1080 Pest Animal Management Authorisation – Other Pest Animals (1080 PAMA – Other Pest Animals) The Authorisation issued by the Chemicals Coordinator to a landowner, occupier or property manager within the NT to allow Baits to be purchased and used on a property under their management for pest animal control other than wild dogs. Currently products are registered for use in the NT for feral pigs, foxes and rabbits. 1080 PAMA and Permit The abbreviation for a 1080 Pest Animal Management Authorisation and Permit to Take Protected Wildlife. 1080 Pest Animal Management Authorisation and Permit to Take Protected Wildlife (1080 PAMA and Permit) The Authorisation issued by the Chemicals Coordinator to a landowner, occupier or property manager within the NT to allow 1080 Baits to be purchased or prepared and used on a property under their management for wild dog control. It includes the Permit to Take Protected Wildlife issued under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act. iii 1080 User Authorisation The Authorisation issued by the Chemicals Coordinator to an individual who has a current SMARTtrain/AusChem/ChemCert Level III certificate and has successfully completed the additional unit ‘Implement a Vertebrate Pest Control Program’ offered by a registered training provider. AERP The abbreviation for the Adverse Experience Reporting Program. The National program maintained by APVMA for monitoring records of incidents with pesticides. Agencies Those Northern Territory Government agencies involved in the regulation of 1080 include Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory, DoH and DPIF. Annual Report Means the report to be submitted by Regional Coordinator on behalf of the RWDMG in accordance with paragraph 14.2 of this Direction. APVMA The abbreviation for the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority which is the Australian government authority that is responsible for the assessment and registration of pesticides and veterinary medicines and for regulation up to the point of sale. Authorised 1080 User A person authorised by the Chemicals Coordinator to possess, handle, transport and use 1080 bait products as specified in their authorisation. Authorised 1080 Bait Injector Is a person authorised by the Chemicals Coordinator to inject 1080 concentrate into freshly cured meat to form wet baits for the management of wild dogs on behalf of a RWDMG. Bait Any item (generally food stuffs) into which 1080 has been injected, or upon which 1080 has been applied and is used as a delivery mechanism for ingestion by a pest animal, including dry baits and wet baits. Bait distributor An Authorised 1080 User who distributes baits on a property. Baiting rounds Means two periods each year when baits should be distributed on a property under a 1080 PAMA and Permit. These periods are generally 4 - 6 weeks in duration and must be separated by at least 3 months. Where possible, the baiting rounds should be coordinated between adjacent properties, especially within a Regional Wild Dog Management Group. CASA The abbreviation for the Civil Aviation Safety Authority the national authority responsible for setting and enforcing standards for safe and responsible use of aircraft and airstrips. Chemicals Adviser Statutory position under the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act to which a person is appointed to undertake audits and investigations involving the possession, storage, use and destruction of 1080 products. iv Chemicals Coordinator Statutory position under the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act to which a person is appointed to perform certain functions under the Act, and to which certain powers and functions of the Parks and Wildlife Commissioner have been delegated. Chemical Services Section (CSS) A unit within the Biosecurity and Product Integrity Group of the Northern Territory Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries (DPIF) responsible for the management of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act and Regulations. CLA Community Living Area. An area where a rural community is living, typically members of an Indigenous family group. DoH Northern Territory Department of Health. DPIF Northern Territory Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries. Dry bait Means and includes a dry food product manufactured into a bait incorporating 1080 for the purpose of killing pest animals such as pigs, rabbits, foxes and wild dogs, in a commercial operation and sold by licensed suppliers. Freshly cured wet meat bait See Wet bait. Fee or Reward A charge, either money or objects with monetary value, for the service provided. Label instruction A direction for use that is on the Registered Product Label. Land owner Means and includes the landowner, occupier or property manager of a parcel of land. Neighbouring property Means a property that shares a property boundary or is directly opposite a boundary that shares a road way or right of way. NTCA Acronym meaning Northern Territory Catllemens Association. MSDS Means the Material Safety Data Sheet, which gives the procedures for handling or working with a specified substance in a safe manner, for users and emergency staff. Parks and Wildlife Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory (part of former Department of Natural Resources, Environment, the Arts and Sport (NRETAS)). Parks and Wildlife permit A Permit to Take Protected Wildlife issued under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act that permits the permit holder to hunt, catch, restrain or kill, or attempt or assist to hunt, catch, restrain or kill protected wildlife. Pest animal Means an animal that is a nuisance, endangers humans or any other aspect of the environment or causes economic loss to primary production. Pest Control Operator (with limited 1080 licence) A person who has been licenced by the Department of Health to hold a limited Pest Control Operator licence and is endorsed to purchase and use 1080 products v Primary Bait Injector (PBI) The person in each RWDMG who holds a current 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation and has agreed to be responsible for purchase, transport, storage and transfer of 1080 concentrate for the RWDMG. Protected wildlife Has the same meaning as in the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act. PWCNT The acronym for Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory. Public road Means a street, road, lane or thoroughfare that is open to or used by the public. RC The abbreviation for Regional Coordinator. Regional Wild Dog Management Group (RWDMG) A group comprising a minimum of two properties, the landowner, occupier or property manager of which who have agreed to coordinate their 1080 baiting operations to control wild dogs on their respective properties. Regional Wild Dog Management Baiting Plan (RWDMG Baiting Plan) A plan to coordinate the baiting of wild dogs prepared by the RWDMG and submitted by the RC to the Chemicals Coordinator for approval. Regional Coordinator (RC) Is a person who agrees to be the coordinator for the RWDMG, is responsible for submitting the RWDMG baiting plan and providing an Annual Report to the Chemicals Coordinator on behalf of the RWDMG. Registered Product label The label on, or attached to, a chemical container that has the APVMA approved relevant label particulars. Resellers Means a business that is licenced to sell a Restricted Chemical Product. Restricted Chemical Product A product declared by APVMA to be a Restricted Chemical Product that must only be supplied to, or used by, authorised persons. RTO Means a Registered Training Organisation. RWDMG The acronym for Regional Wild Dog Management Group. Set-back A minimum specified distance from places, objects or areas where baits are not to be laid. SOP The abbreviation for Standard Operating Procedure, which is a written set of steps (procedures) to be followed on each occasion that a specific operation is conducted, in order to ensure consistency and safety. Supply Means to provide, give or deliver whether or not there is consideration or expectation of a fee or reward. Schedule 7 (S7) A Schedule 7 poison listed in the Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Medicines and Poisons (SUSMP) and recognised by the prominent labelling as a DANGEROUS POISON Water course Means a natural or man-made course along which water flows irrespective of whether or not water flows in the course vi at all times. Watering point Means a natural, man-made or controlled source of water where animals come to drink. Wet bait Means freshly cured meat into which 1080 has been injected. Wild dog Includes Canis lupus dingo, dingo hybrids, feral dogs and dogs running wild. vii Table of Contents DIRECTION BY THE CHEMICALS COORDINATOR ........................................................... i GLOSSARY......................................................................................................................... iii 1. INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................... 1 2. LEGISLATION .............................................................................................................. 1 2.1. Northern Territory (NT) legislation ........................................................................ 1 2.2. Commonwealth Legislation .................................................................................. 2 3. LABEL INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................................................... 2 4. GENERAL CONDITIONS REQUIRED FOR USE OF 1080 .......................................... 3 4.1. Scope .................................................................................................................. 3 4.2. Minimum Property Areas ..................................................................................... 3 4.3. Authorisations and Permits .................................................................................. 3 4.4. Regional Wild Dog Management Groups (RWDMGs) and RWDMG Baiting Plans3 4.5. Maps and Baiting Plans ....................................................................................... 4 4.6. Distances and set-backs ...................................................................................... 5 4.7. Training Requirements......................................................................................... 5 4.7.1. 1080 PAMA .............................................................................................. 5 4.7.2. 1080 User Authorisation ........................................................................... 5 4.7.3. 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation .............................................................. 5 5. SALE AND SUPPLY OF 1080 PRODUCTS ................................................................. 6 6. TRANSPORT OF 1080 PRODUCTS ............................................................................ 7 7. STORAGE OF 1080 PRODUCTS................................................................................. 7 8. NOTIFICATION OF NEIGHBOURS .............................................................................. 7 8.1. Responsibilities of 1080 PAMA holders ............................................................... 7 8.2. Information to be supplied.................................................................................... 8 8.3. Additional requirements ....................................................................................... 8 8.4. Notification Records............................................................................................. 8 8.5. Delayed Baiting ................................................................................................... 8 9. SIGNAGE ..................................................................................................................... 8 9.1. Erection of warning signs ..................................................................................... 8 9.2. Signage requirements .......................................................................................... 9 10. PREPARATION OF FRESHLY CURED WET MEAT BAITS......................................... 9 10.4. Quantities produced........................................................................................... 10 10.5. Preparation of wet baits by injection .................................................................. 10 10.6. Accidents involving 1080 concentrate ................................................................ 11 10.6.5. Exposure to 1080 concentrate ........................................................... 12 10.6.6. Spillage of 1080 concentrate.............................................................. 12 10.6.7. Reporting of accidents ....................................................................... 12 11. LAYING OF BAITS ..................................................................................................... 13 11.1. Ground Distribution ............................................................................................ 13 11.2. Aerial Distribution............................................................................................... 13 11.3. Unable to complete baiting program .................................................................. 14 11.4. Distance Restrictions ......................................................................................... 14 12. DISPOSAL.................................................................................................................. 14 12.1. Baits (all types) and 1080 contaminated materials ............................................. 14 12.2. Carcass removal ................................................................................................ 14 12.3. 1080 concentrate ............................................................................................... 14 12.4. 1080 empty containers....................................................................................... 15 12.5. Contaminated materials ..................................................................................... 15 12.6. Non contaminated materials .............................................................................. 15 13. RECORD KEEPING ................................................................................................... 15 13.3. Property 1080 Baiting Operation Records .......................................................... 15 13.3.1.1. Neighbour Notifications ...................................................................... 15 13.3.1.2. Property Details ................................................................................. 16 13.3.2.3. Bait Distributor’s records .................................................................... 16 13.4. Authorised 1080 Bait Distributor’s records ......................................................... 16 13.5. Records to be kept by Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors ........................................ 16 13.5.1. Primary Bait Injectors (PBIs) .............................................................. 16 13.5.2. Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors ........................................................... 17 14. REPORTING .............................................................................................................. 18 14.1. Changes in personnel ........................................................................................ 18 14.2. RWDMG Baiting Plan Annual Report ................................................................. 18 14.3. Accidents and Incidents ..................................................................................... 18 15. CONTACTS ................................................................................................................ 19 APPENDIX C: GUIDELINES FOR AERIAL DISTRIBUTION OF 1080 BAITS ................. 23 APPENDIX D: EXTRACT OF PART 11 OF THE AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY CHEMICALS (CONTROL OF USE) ACT ........................................................................... 25 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1. This Direction for Use of 1080 for Wild Dog Control prescribes the requirements and obligations for the possession and use of 1080 for taking protected dingoes and wild dogs declared as pest animals within the Northern Territory (NT). 1.2. Pest animals can have undesirable environmental and economic impacts, including significant impact on crops, livestock and native fauna and flora. Management of these impacts is a shared responsibility and all parties should have a clear understanding of their roles, responsibilities and methods of management of pest animals. Use of a poison to control pest animals is only one of a number of tools that should be considered to control pest animals. 1.3. Sodium fluoroacetate (1080) is the active constituent in Restricted Chemical Products that are registered by the APVMA for use to control pest animals, such as foxes, pigs, rabbits and wild dogs. Dingoes are included in the definition of wild dogs. This document refers only to the control of wild dogs by the use of 1080. A separate document entitled Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Other Pest Animals is available and describes the requirements and obligations for the possession and use of 1080 to control animals other than wild dogs within the NT. 1.4. Because it is a very toxic Schedule 7 (S7) poison and an Restricted Chemical Product, the supply and use of 1080 is controlled in the Northern Territory. To be able to purchase and use 1080 products, an appropriate Authorisation is required from the Chemicals Coordinator. 1.5. Dingoes have cultural significance to Indigenous people and like other native wildlife are protected in the NT. The use of 1080 requires a Permit from Parks and Wildlife to ensure that no unintended harm occurs to other protected animals from 1080 baiting for wild dog control on pastoral properties. This Permit allows the landowner, occupier or property manager included in the Authorisation document that is issued by the Chemicals Coordinator to purchase and use 1080 products (1080 PAMA and Permit). In the case of bait distributors, a separate authorisation is issued by the Chemicals Coordinator in accordance with a delegation from the Director of Parks and Wildlife. 2. LEGISLATION There is a range of relevant legislative requirements that must be met to supply and use Restricted Chemical Products containing 1080 in the Northern Territory. These are: 2.1. Northern Territory (NT) legislation 2.1.1. Pursuant to the Animal Welfare Act it is an offence to administer or lay poison with the intention of killing an animal unless authorised by a law in force in the NT. 2.1.2. Pursuant to the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act it is an offence to hunt, catch, restrain kill or interfere with protected wildlife unless authorised to do so under that Act. As dingoes fall within the definition of ‘protected wildlife’, a Parks and Wildlife Permit (Section 4.3) is required to take dingoes. 2.1.3. In order to obtain authorisation for the use of 1080 baits for wild dogs on pastoral properties, the landowner is required to lodge an application for the Parks and Wildlife Permit through DPIF by means of the 1080 PAMA and Permit Application Form. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 1 2.1.4. For other pest animals, an application is made to DPIF for a 1080 PAMA – Other Pest Animals as there is no requirement to obtain a Permit to hunt, kill or interfere with these feral animals under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act. 2.1.5. The Poisons and Dangerous Drugs Act and Regulations control the wholesale and retail supply of Schedule 7 poisons. Supply of Schedule 7 poisons is only permitted by resellers who have been licensed by the Department of Health. Licensed resellers can only supply 1080 products to persons who have a current 1080 User Authorisation or the Primary Bait Injector who is named on the Certificate to acquire sodium fluoroacetate (1080) on behalf of a RWDMG. 2.1.6. The Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act and Regulations control the use of agricultural and veterinary chemical products including Schedule 7 poisons and Restricted Chemical Products. Controls on possession and use of Schedule 7 poisons and Restricted Chemical Products may also be imposed by the Chemicals Coordinator pursuant to this Act. Enforcement action in relation to the Registered Product label instructions may be taken and additional requirements or variations to controls on the label may be made under this Act. 2.1.7. The Workplace Health and Safety Act and Regulations are also applicable when using agricultural and veterinary chemical products (which are hazardous), including 1080. That Act requires occupational health and safety practices to be applied in the workplace when any hazardous substances are in use, or are stored on a property. 2.1.8. A breach of the conditions imposed by an Authorisation or Permit issued by the Chemicals Coordinator may, depending on the severity of the offence, result in the issue of an infringement notice, require appearance in court to respond to a prosecution action, result in the cancellation of the Authorisation, Permits or both, and may impact on future applications. 2.2. Commonwealth Legislation The Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Act 1994 (Cth) classifies products that require special skills or equipment to safely handle and apply any product declared to be a Restricted Chemical Product. Restricted Chemical Products are only available to authorised persons. This means that the person must have the skills required to use the product before they can be authorised to purchase or use the Restricted Chemical Product. 3. LABEL INSTRUCTIONS 3.1. The Registered Product label instructions must be followed and are enforceable under the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act and Regulations. However, the APVMA directions allow jurisdictions to add additional controls and variations to meet local conditions. All variations and additional conditions to label instructions imposed by the Chemicals Coordinator are prescribed in this document or in the Authorisation to use a specific chemical product. 3.2. In the event of a conflict in the conditions or instructions between an Authorisation issued by the Chemicals Coordinator, this Direction for Use or the Registered Product label, the documents will take precedence in the following order: 3.2.1. an Authorisation issued by the Chemicals Coordinator; 3.2.2. this Direction for Use of 1080 for Wild Dog Control; and 3.2.3. the Registered Product label. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 2 4. GENERAL CONDITIONS REQUIRED FOR USE OF 1080 4.1. Scope 4.1.1. This document sets out the obligations and requirements for use and possession of: Dry baits; Baits prepared by persons licensed by the Department of Health to use 1080 concentrate in bait preparation as a fee for service; and Baits prepared by an Authorised 1080 Bait Injector without fee or reward in accordance with an approved RWDMG baiting plan. 4.2. Minimum Property Areas 4.2.1. The minimum area of a property for which baiting for wild dogs will be authorised is 0.4 km2 (40 hectares). 4.2.2 The Chemicals Coordinator may authorise baiting for smaller areas in exceptional circumstances and subject to special conditions. 4.3. Authorisations and Permits 4.3.1. A person must not purchase, prepare or use 1080 without authorisation. 4.3.2. A person may be required to obtain one or more of the following Authorisations and Permits issued by the Chemicals Coordinator: 4.3.2.1. 1080 User Authorisation – authorises a person to handle 1080 products and is valid for the period during which the applicant has approved training accreditation (section 4.7.2.3) that can be up to 5 years. 4.3.2.2. 1080 Pest Animal Management Authorisation (1080 PAMA) – authorises baits to be laid on a specified property(ies) or part of a property and is valid for 1 calendar year. 4.3.2.3. Permit to Take Protected Wildlife (Canis lupus dingo) (Permit). This baiting permit previously issued by Parks and Wildlife is for pastoral properties and will be issued in a combined 1080 PAMA and Permit, valid for 1 calendar year. 4.3.2.4. 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation – authorises a current 1080 User Authorisation holder who has undertaken specific training to inject 1080 concentrate into freshly cured wet meat to form wet baits only on behalf of an approved RWDMG and without fee or reward. This Authorisation is valid for up to 5 years. 4.3.3. On expiry or revocation of the applicable 1080 PAMA, any baits remaining on the property must be destroyed in accordance with the procedure specified in this Direction unless authorised in writing by the Chemicals Coordinator. 4.4. Regional Wild Dog Management Groups (RWDMGs) and RWDMG Baiting Plans 4.4.1. Control of wild dogs is more effective where there is coordination between neighbouring properties. DPIF encourages pastoralists to coordinate 1080 baiting activities for wild dogs between neighbouring properties and wherever possible, over a larger regional area. To assist the formation of a RWDMG that will develop a RWDMG Baiting Plan, guidelines have been produced and are available from www.chemicalservices.nt.gov.au. The guidelines should be read Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 3 in conjunction with the Registered Product labels, this Direction, and all Authorisations or Permits issued by the Chemicals Coordinator. 4.4.2. An approved RWDMG must comprise a minimum of two properties that agree to run a coordinated baiting program, a family owned or company owned management group with two or more properties, or an amalgamation of a larger number of properties combined into a group and whose land covers a distinct region of the Northern Territory. Each property involved in an RWDMG must have a current 1080 PAMA and Permit. 4.4.3. The RWDMG must submit to the Chemicals Coordinator for assessment, a completed Proposal Form: Regional Wild Dog Management Group (RWDMG) Baiting Plan that outlines the requirements for each of the elements of the proposed baiting program, including the: names and specific roles of participants within the RWDMG and RWDMG Baiting Plan, intended timing of baiting rounds and numbers of baits to be laid on each property, procedure for purchase of 1080 products, process for injecting 1080 concentrate into freshly cured wet meat to form wet baits, and safeguards and reports necessary under the approval process. 4.4.4. The RWDMG Proposal must indicate any plans for aerial baiting (see Section 11.2 below). Although aerial baiting is not encouraged in the Northern Territory, it may be authorised for large scale situations where ground baiting is impossible or impractical, such as in areas that are difficult to access. 4.4.5. The RWDMG Proposal must be submitted for assessment by the Chemicals Coordinator and if approved, the RWDMG Baiting Plan will be valid for 1 calendar year. 4.5. Maps and Baiting Plans 4.5.1. A current map of the property(ies) to be baited which indicates all baiting areas and other sensitive areas, must be submitted with each application for a 1080 PAMA and Permit. 4.5.2. Maps are a very important part of the baiting process as they provide visual information for risk assessment e.g. dwellings, property access, boundaries, etc. Where the applicant does not have a current or accurate map of the property, it is recommended that he/she contact Rangelands at the Department of Land Resource Management (Phone: (08) 8999 4446 or Email rangelands.dlrm@nt.gov.au) to obtain the relevant pastoral property maps . 4.5.3. To prepare maps the following symbols must be used and any dwelling or Community Living Area (CLA) that is not on the property but within 3 km of a baiting site must be shown. Dwelling - own Dwelling – adjacent and other ownership Community Living Area (CLA) Constructed roadside stops – rest areas, monuments, road houses and similar Location of 1080 warning signs Public access points to property Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 4 Watering points, water bodies including dams and bores, etc Watercourses to be marked with a line – blue if possible Property boundaries Roads adjoining boundary If the entire property is not intended to bait, the area(s) to be baited should be indicated by outlining the area Internal roads and tracks (indicating those to be used for bait distribution) Aerial tracks for bait distribution (if applicable). 4.6. Distances and set-backs There are specified distances and set-backs in relation to the laying of baits (Section 11.4). In exceptional circumstances, the Chemicals Coordinator may authorise variations to these distances and set-backs, subject to specified conditions. 4.7. Training Requirements 4.7.1. 1080 PAMA 4.7.1.1. There is no training requirement to be the holder of a 1080 PAMA. The 1080 PAMA is issued to the landowner, occupier or property manager to allow purchase and possession of 1080 baits for (and on) that property and the 1080 PAMA holder is responsible for the baiting operations on the property under their management. 4.7.1.2. A 1080 PAMA is NOT a 1080 User Authorisation. To become an Authorised 1080 User a 1080 PAMA holder must undertake the required training specified in 4.7.2 and then apply for a 1080 User Authorisation. An individual can be both a 1080 PAMA holder and an Authorised 1080 User. 4.7.2. 1080 User Authorisation 4.7.2.1. An Authorised 1080 User is permitted to be in possession and to use 1080 products in accordance with their Authorisation. 4.7.2.2. A 1080 User Authorisation is NOT a 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation. 4.7.2.3. Applicants for a 1080 User Authorisation must provide evidence of: their accreditation to use chemicals through a current AusChem, ChemCert or SMARTtrain level 3 accreditation, and completion of the competency unit AHCVPT 302A (previously RTE 3406A) - Implement a Vertebrate Pest Control Program - delivered by a Northern Territory Registered Training Provider, or other training as approved by the Chemicals Coordinator. 4.7.3. 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation 4.7.3.1. To prepare 1080 baits for fee or reward the person must hold a limited Pest Control Operator licence with a 1080 endorsement issued by the NT Department of Health. 4.7.3.2. The Chemicals Coordinator will authorise an appropriately trained person to provide 1080 bait injection ONLY within an approved RWDMG and in accordance with an approved RWDMG Baiting Plan on the basis of no fee or reward. Applicants for a 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation must provide evidence of: a current 1080 User Authorisation issued in the Northern Territory, Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 5 a Statement of Completion for the Northern Territory 1080 Bait Injector’s Training course, delivered by Charles Darwin University or another RTO, and a personalised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that documents their working procedures for the Bait injection process and production of wet baits. The preparation of wet baits must be outlined in the SOP provided in the application for a 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation and these procedures followed during the process of producing Wet Baits. A Model SOP is available online at: www.chemicalservices.nt.gov.au which can assist with the development of a personalised SOP. 5. SALE AND SUPPLY OF 1080 PRODUCTS 5.1. Only a reseller licensed to sell 1080 products by the Department of Health pursuant to the Poisons and Dangerous Goods Act can sell 1080 products 5.2. Some Parks and Wildlife staff are authorised with a limited Pest Control Operator licence to purchase 1080 products and can do so in accordance with the processes and procedures of PWC 5.3. Some Department of Health (DoH) staff are licensed to purchase 1080 products and can do so in accordance with the processes and procedures of DoH. 5.4. In all other cases, to purchase or acquire dry baits from a reseller, that person must present to the licensed reseller a current version of the following: limited Pest Control Operator licence with endorsement to purchase 1080 products 1080 User Authorisation, 1080 PAMA and Permit for the property to be baited, and photo identification OR 1080 User Authorisation, 1080 PAMA and Permit (for Wild Dogs) for the property to be baited, and photo identification 5.5. To collect 1080 concentrate from a licenced reseller, a person must hold a limited Pest Control Operator licence with endorsement to purchase 1080 products OR be nominated as the Primary Bait Injector for a RWDMG and present to the licensed retailer current versions of the following: the original gold-coloured Certificate to acquire sodium fluoroacetate (1080) concentrate on behalf of a Regional Wild Dog Management Group issued in that person’s name, their 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation, and photo identification. 5.6. To receive wet baits that have been injected by either a licensed Parks and Wildlife staff member; a person holding a limited Pest Control Operator licence with endorsement to inject wet baits; or an authorised 1080 Bait Injector (only as part of a RWDMG); that person must present a current version of the following: 1080 PAMA and Permit for the property to be baited, 1080 User Authorisation, and photo identification (if requested). Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 6 6. TRANSPORT OF 1080 PRODUCTS 6.1. 1080 products must be transported in a locked container which is securely attached to the vehicle but is outside the cabin where the driver and passengers are seated and away from any foodstuffs or domestic pets. 6.2. The container must be clearly labelled DANGEROUS POISON – 1080 (in bold red Arial font – 48 point minimum). 6.3. The vehicle must be locked if unattended. 6.4. For security when the vehicle is unattended, the locked container containing the 1080 products may be securely attached and locked within the cabin. 7. STORAGE OF 1080 PRODUCTS 7.1. The holder of the 1080 PAMA and Permit is responsible for ensuring the secure storage of the 1080 product when not actually in use. Examples of suitable storage are: a locked gun safe or similar in a locked shed, or a locked container in a locked chemical store. 7.2. The storage building and related areas must be labelled S7 poison. 7.3. All 1080 storage containers must be labelled DANGEROUS POISON – 1080 (in bold Uppercase red Arial font – 48 point minimum) 7.4. Dry baits must remain in the original container with Registered Product Label attached and are not to be removed from that container until baiting is undertaken. 7.5. Unless authorised in writing by the Chemicals Coordinator, all dry baits must be destroyed (in accordance with this Direction) on or before the first date corresponding to: 7.5.1. the expiry of the 1080 PAMA and Permit applicable to the dry baits; or 7.5.2. the expiry date marked on the original product container. 7.6. All wet baits must: 7.6.1. be laid within two days of preparation; 7.6.2. only be stored by a person authorised to prepare baits (i.e. Bait Injector) in accordance with a valid 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation (Section 10.5.1.13). 7.6.3. not be frozen for any reason. 7.7. Records of all 1080 products must be kept inside the storage area and updated every time a 1080 product is removed, used or returned. 8. NOTIFICATION OF NEIGHBOURS 8.1. Responsibilities of 1080 PAMA holders 8.1.1. The holder of the 1080 PAMA and Permit must notify neighbours and any CLA on the holder’s property or neighbouring the property of the intention to lay baits. This is a compulsory label direction and allows for appropriate action to be taken to protect livestock, domestic animals, pets and other people not involved with the baiting operations. 8.1.2. Notification under this Section (Section 8) must be given no later than 3 days prior to commencement of baiting. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 7 8.1.3. Notice may be given by: 8.1.3.1. 8.1.3.2. 8.1.3.3. 8.1.3.4. Fax, Email, Hand delivery, or Telephone or in person with prior agreement of the neighbour. 8.1.4. The 1080 PAMA and Permit holder must keep written evidence of all Notices given. 8.1.5. Each CLA must be notified through an interpreter fluent in the local Indigenous dialect, and by placing notifications in English on available notice boards and points of entry to the CLA. 8.2. Information to be supplied 8.2.1. The minimum information that must be supplied to neighbours is as follows: name of holder of the 1080 PAMA and Permit, name of property or location of baiting, that 1080 baits will be laid on the property, pest animal to be baited, date of commencement of baiting campaign, date of expected completion of baiting campaign, and advice that steps should be taken to ensure that domestic dogs do not gain access to the baits or poisoned animals. Restraint or muzzling is recommended. 8.3. Additional requirements The Chemicals Coordinator may impose additional notification requirements or variation to notification requirements. Any addition to or variation of notice requirements will be specified on the 1080 PAMA and Permit and must be followed. 8.4. Notification Records A written record of each neighbour notification must be made in and kept with the 1080 Baiting Operations Record for the property, the information required to be recorded is identified in Section 13 of this document. 8.5. Delayed Baiting If the date of commencement of baiting is delayed by more than 7 days or if the date of completion of baiting is extended by any period, a new notification must be issued. See the individual Registered Product label for neighbour re-notification requirements. 9. SIGNAGE 9.1. Erection of warning signs 9.1.1. Signage is compulsory, but must not be used outside the intent of the 1080 PAMA and Permit. Misuse of signage can be assessed and taken into account when issuing or refusing to issue further permits to use a Restricted Chemical Product as prescribed in section 121 (Altering or falsifying records) of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act and section 16 B (3) (Issue of authorisation) of the Regulations. 9.1.2. Before any baits are laid, the holder of the 1080 PAMA and Permit must erect warning signs on the main property entrance, any other entrance to the property, and any entrance to a CLA on the property. Signs must also be erected at adjoining roadside reserves, designated roadside rest stops, truck parking bays, Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 8 fuel stops, tourist attractions and any other public amenity area. The signs must provide the information listed in Section 9.2 Signage requirements below. 9.1.3. Signs must be replaced if not legible, are damaged or stolen, and must be in place prior to baiting and for a minimum of 4 weeks after completion of baiting. 9.1.4. Signs must be removed after the baiting program has been completed. It is suggested that complete removal could occur 8 weeks after the last bait was laid, although caution should be exercised as there is some indication that baits can remain active over a wet season in the Top End and up to 18 months in Central Australia. 9.2. Signage requirements 9.2.1. All signs must meet the following requirements: durable and weather resistant, e.g. corflute is suitable, minimum size to be A3 (297 mm x 420 mm), white background, in Uppercase Arial font with colour and minimum size as indicated, and include the following words: WARNING (red – 130 point) 1080 POISON BAITS LAID HERE (red – 130 point) (red – 80 point) DOMESTIC DOGS, PETS OR ANIMALS MAY BE (red or black – 60 point) AFFECTED IF THEY EAT BAITS OR DEAD ANIMALS (red or black – 60 point) PROTECT BY RESTRAINING OR MUZZLING (red or black – 60 point) BAITS LAID FOR (NAME of PEST ANIMAL) (red of black – 30 point) BAITS LAID ON (DATE) (red or black – 48 point) BAITS MAY BE PRESENT FROM THIS DATE CONTACT TEL 08………………………………. (red or black – 48 point) (red or black – 48 point) 9.2.2. See APPENDIX A for an example of a sign. It is strongly recommended that a skull and crossbones be displayed at the top of the sign as depicted in the example sign. The skull is universally recognized as a symbol of danger and takes account of varying levels of literacy in some communities. Compliant corflute signs are available for purchase from Chemicals Services Section, DPIF. 10. PREPARATION OF FRESHLY CURED WET MEAT BAITS 10.1. License to charge for baiting services Only suitably qualified staff employed by Parks and Wildlife or holders of a limited Pest Control Operator licence with endorsement to purchase and use 1080 products may undertake the preparation of wet baits for a 1080 PAMA and Permit holder who is not part of a RWDMG. These persons may, under the DoH limited licence charge for their services in preparing wet baits 10.2. Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors within RWDMG If the properties listed in the 1080 PAMA and Permit are part of a RWDMG, then as a part of the RWDMG Baiting Plan, preparation of wet baits may be undertaken by Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors, who are part of the RWDMG and who cannot charge Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 9 for their services. If required, wet baits may also be prepared by qualified employees of Parks and Wildlife or persons holding limited Pest Control Operator licences endorsed for 1080 10.2.1. Each Authorised 1080 Bait Injector must hold a 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation, and have a personalised SOP which they must closely follow when preparing wet baits 10.3. Record Keeping Records must be kept of each stage of the wet bait preparation by the person or persons who are undertaking the preparation. (see Section 13: Record Keeping). 10.4. Quantities produced 10.4.1. Only the number of baits approved in the RWDMG Baiting Plan may be prepared. Unused injected baits must be disposed of according to the instructions on the Registered Product Label. 10.4.2. Ensure that there is sufficient 1080 concentrate to prepare the required number of wet baits. 10.4.3. For all wet baits prepared by an Authorised 1080 Bait Injector, that person must record the volume of 1080 concentrate used and the number of baits prepared in a 1080 Bait Injector Record. 10.5. Preparation of wet baits by injection 10.5.1. Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors must comply with the following minimum requirements for the preparation of wet baits by injection: 10.5.1.1. Personal Protective Equipment must be worn at all times when handling 1080 concentrate and the prepared baits 10.5.1.2. Meat bait pieces must be prepared to the correct specification (refer to the Model SOP - Attachment 1) and previously supplied to the bait preparation area 10.5.1.3. The bait preparation area must be clean and secure 10.5.1.4. Injection equipment must be inspected, checked for correct operation and calibrated using clean water to deliver 0.2 ml (+/- 5%) per shot. A measuring cylinder manufactured to ISO/DIN CLASS A with 0.1 ml graduations is the minimal acceptable specification for calibration 10.5.1.5. Injection equipment should connect directly to the 1080 concentrate container 10.5.1.6. Containers for prepared baits are available within the secure bait preparation area 10.5.1.7. Heavy gauge nitrile or PVC gloves must be worn during the bait preparation process to prevent absorption of chemical through the hands. For extra protection against needle prick, a chain mail half glove MUST be worn over the glove on the hand holding the baits. Alternatively, a Turtleskin ® brand glove can be worn to prevent needle prick. Inject baits as required with 0.2 ml of 1080 concentrate per bait piece. This will give 6 mg of 1080 active constituent per bait 10.5.1.8. If baits are to be used for aerial baiting ONLY, then they can be allowed to further air dry for one to two days in order to ensure a better seal on the 1080 concentrate within the bait (this additional time is part of the preparation and is not considered storage) 10.5.1.9. Immediately place injected wet baits into suitable containers Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 10 10.5.1.10. If baits are for immediate distribution, plastic or metal tubs or buckets are adequate containers 10.5.1.11. If baits are to be stored for later use the container must be suitably labelled, secured and sealed. The label shall record the following: 10.5.1.11.1. 10.5.1.11.2. 10.5.1.11.3. 10.5.1.11.4. 10.5.1.11.5. 10.5.1.11.6. DANGEROUS POISON – 1080 (in bold Arial font – 48 point minimum), date prepared, number of baits, person preparing the bait, the injector’s authorisation number, and preparation method 10.5.1.12. The Authorised 1080 Bait Injector preparing the baits must lock the baits in a secure, and suitable labelled storage area when the baits are not actually being distributed. Examples of secure storage include: 10.5.1.12.1. 10.5.1.12.2. a locked gun safe or similar in a locked shed, or a locked container in a locked chemical store 10.5.1.13. The Authorised 1080 Bait Injector preparing the baits must lock the 1080 concentrate in a secure, and suitable labelled storage area when the 1080 concentrate is not actually in use. Examples of secure storage include: 10.5.1.13.1. 10.5.1.13.2. a locked gun safe or similar in a locked shed, or a locked container in a locked chemical store 10.5.1.14. Storage of prepared wet baits must be in a secure, locked storage and at temperatures which prevent deterioration of the baits before they are used 10.5.1.15. All baits must be laid within two days of preparation. Freezing of baits for later use is NOT ALLOWED under any circumstance 10.5.1.16. Access to prepared wet baits is restricted to persons with a current 1080 User Authorisation. 10.5.2. Lockable bait injection preparation kits containing injection equipment and suitable PPE may be available from reseller outlets in the NT. 10.6. Accidents involving 1080 concentrate 10.6.1. Urgent and suitable action When a Primary Bait Injector or 1080 Bait Injector is handling or using 1080 concentrate and an accident occurs, it is extremely important that suitable action is taken urgently and as a priority over all other activities 10.6.2. Medical attention For all accidents, any work being done with the 1080 concentrate must be stopped immediately until the spill has been attended and made safe. In the event of a person being exposed to 1080 concentrate, they must be sent to receive urgent medical attention from suitably qualified medical staff as first priority. The personalised SOP (see 4.7.3.2) MUST address this possibility and have the contact names and operational directions (10.6.5) at hand during the injection process and other times when 1080 concentrate is being handled Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 11 10.6.3. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) All persons conducting baiting operations must have a printed copy of the relevant Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) available at the site of their operations 10.6.4. Availability of MSDS Copies of the MSDS for various 1080 products are available from the reseller and can also be found at the following websites: ACTA 1080 concentrate: http://www.animalcontrol.com.au/pdf/ACTA%201080%20Concentrate%20 2013.pdf PAKS 1080 concentrate: http://www.paks.com.au/New%20Folder/1080%20ConcentratePAKS.pdf Doggone® Dry manufactured Baits: http://www.animalcontrol.com.au/pdf/DOGGONE%202013.pdf 10.6.5. Exposure to 1080 concentrate 10.6.5.1. An injector may be exposed to 1080 concentrate by breathing fumes for long periods, contamination through gloves or protective clothing, spilling the 1080 concentrate onto exposed skin or accidental injection. Clearly accidental injection is the most serious form of exposure. 10.6.5.2. If poisoning occurs call ambulance or other medical transport if feasible 10.6.5.3. Then call for Poison Information (This is a national 24 hour helpline) The MSDS for 1080 concentrate provides directions on what actions a person who has been exposed to 1080 should take Make sure that the 1080 product container, the product’s ‘Directions for Use’, and the MSDS are available for medical staff A useful source of information is the Western Australia Department of Agriculture – Farmnote Number 381: Guide to the Safe Use of 1080 Poison: 10.6.5.4. 10.6.5.5. 10.6.5.6. IMMEDIATELY 000 to request an 13 11 26 http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/objtwr/imported_assets/content/pw/vp/rab/fn_safe_use_of_1080.pdf 10.6.5.7. If a person involved in baiting operations is exposed to the concentrate contained in the Doggone® dry baits then they should refer to the MSDS for that product as to the necessary actions required. 10.6.6. Spillage of 1080 concentrate In the event of a spill of 1080 concentrate you must closely follow the instructions and procedures described in the MSDS for the 1080 concentrate. 10.6.7. Reporting of accidents 10.6.7.1 When a person is exposed to 1080 concentrate, the situation is classed as a ‘dangerous incident’ and there is a legal requirement for the accident to be reported as soon as possible to NT WorkSafe. The contact number for reporting an accident to NT WorkSafe is: 1800 019 115. This agency has a number of other requirements for such situations, the details of which can be found at: Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 12 http://www.worksafe.nt.gov.au/Bulletins/Bulletins/09.01.04.pdf 11. 10.6.7.2 The Regional Coordinator for the RWDMG must also be informed as soon as possible of any accidents by the 1080 Bait Injector, the 1080 PAMA and Permit holder or other responsible person on the property where the accident occurred. 10.6.7.3 The Chemicals Coordinator must be informed as soon as possible of any accident. The informant may be the Regional Coordinator, the 1080 Bait Injector, the 1080 PAMA and Permit holder or any other responsible person on the property where the accident occurred. The contact details for the Chemicals Coordinator are provided in Section 15.1 of this Direction. 10.6.7.4 All accidents must be recorded in the 1080 Baiting Operations Record for the property at which the incident occurred; in the 1080 Bait Injector’s Record compiled by the affected Injector; and documented in the RWDMG Annual Report prepared by the Regional Coordinator. LAYING OF BAITS It is usual to distribute the annual authorised allocation of baits during two baiting rounds nominated in the 1080 PAMA and Permit. These periods are generally 4 - 6 weeks in duration and must be separated by at least 3 months. Where possible, the baiting rounds should be coordinated between adjacent properties, especially within a RWDMG. It is usual to divide the annual allocated number of baits roughly equally between the two rounds and if two rounds of baiting have been nominated, no more that 75% of the baits should be applied to a single round, unless there is a good practical reason to do so. 11.1. Ground Distribution 11.1.1. Ground placement of baits is recommended because baits can be strategically placed to maximise uptake by the target pest animal and minimise any uptake by other wildlife. 11.1.2. Some suggested techniques to ground bait placement and laying baits are provided in APPENDIX B. 11.1.3. Baits do not need to be buried for wild dog control unless directed to do so on the registered product label or on the 1080 PAMA and Permit. 11.1.4. Bait replacement can take place within the baiting period until uptake ceases, 11.1.5. Recovery of baits is not required unless indicated on the 1080 PAMA and Permit or on the Registered Product label, 11.1.6. When bait recovery is required by the Registered Product label or the 1080 PAMA and Permit, the sites where baits are laid must be marked or recorded by a Global Positioning System (GPS) and untaken baits recovered within the specified time period and then destroyed, and 11.1.7. Baits should not be laid if heavy rain is forecast to occur within the baiting period. 11.2. Aerial Distribution Although aerial baiting is not encouraged in the Northern Territory, it may be approved for large-scale situations where ground baiting is impossible or impractical, such as areas that are difficult to access. APPENDIX C provides guidelines for conditions that would generally be required for aerial baiting but additional conditions can be imposed by the Chemicals Coordinator. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 13 11.3. Unable to complete baiting program If the laying of baits is unable to be completed before the 1080 PAMA and Permit is due to expire, the 1080 PAMA and Permit holder must contact the Chemicals Coordinator as soon as practicable. See also section 12.1 regarding roll-over of baits. 11.4. Distance Restrictions 11.4.1. Baits must NOT be laid within: 11.4.1.1. 11.4.1.2. 11.4.1.3. 11.4.1.4. 11.4.1.5. 11.4.1.6. 11.4.1.7. 11.4.1.8. 150 m of your own dwelling (includes stations living quarters), 3 km of a dwelling (other than own dwelling), or a place of habitation which includes a Community Living Area (CLA), roadside reserve, designated roadside rest stop, truck parking bay, fuel stop or tourist attraction, 3 km of any other public amenity area, 20 m of a permanent or flowing watercourse, 500 m of a major highway, 250 m of any other public roadway, and for ground baiting, 5 m of a boundary line that does not adjoin a major highway or public road, or for aerial baiting, 50 m of a boundary line that does not adjoin a major highway or public road. 11.4.2. The Chemicals Coordinator may vary the minimum distances set out above. 12. DISPOSAL 12.1. Baits (all types) and 1080 contaminated materials Unused baits or 1080 contaminated materials must be destroyed by burning or deep burial as per Registered Product label instructions. An exception can be made to roll-over manufactured dry baits from one year to the next, on the following conditions: 12.1.1. A written request is submitted to Chemical Services indicating the numbers and types of dry baits requested to be held over; 12.1.2. That, if granted, the numbers tally with the baiting records submitted to Chemicals Services before or accompanying the 1080 PAMA and Permit application the next year; 12.1.3. That the numbers are considered during the assessment of numbers of baits authorised to that property during the next 1080 PAMA and Permit authorisation; and 12.1.4. The rolled-over dry baits are utilised or destroyed by 31 May the following year. 12.2. Carcass removal Carcass removal is not compulsory unless specified on the 1080 PAMA and Permit or by the Chemicals Coordinator. Where possible, carcasses should be removed and destroyed in accordance with label directions to prevent secondary poisoning. 12.3. 1080 concentrate Where an Authorised 1080 Bait Injector is required to dispose of small volumes of 1080 concentrate, the Authorised Injector must dilute the chemical with a copious quantity of water (at least 1000 times the volume of concentrate) and pour the diluted chemical onto the soil at the bottom of a disposal pit. The disposal pit should be at least 1 metre deep, specifically marked and set for the purpose, and Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 14 well clear of waterways. The pit must be filled with the spoil. The 1080 will break down in the soil. For volumes of concentrate larger than 500 ml, contact the Chemicals Coordinator or arrange disposal through ChemClear, Tel: 1800 008 182 or by email at: www.chemclear.com.au 12.4. 1080 empty containers 12.4.1. Triple rinse empty containers before burial in a local authority landfill or, if no landfill is available, bury the containers below 0.5 metres in the disposal pit described in section 12.3 above. 12.4.2. Do not re-use containers. 12.5. Contaminated materials Bury materials contaminated with 1080 in a local authority landfill or if no landfill is available, bury the materials below 0.5 metres in the disposal pit described in section 12.3 above. 12.6. Non contaminated materials These may be disposed through conventional waste disposal. 13. RECORD KEEPING 13.1. 1080 Baiting Operation Records must be made during the baiting process and kept for a minimum of two years from the expiry of the 1080 PAMA and Permit. Records must be made available for audit and inspection as required by a person or persons authorised to do so under the Northern Territory Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act. Audits and inspections may be conducted at any time to ensure that persons responsible are maintaining such records. 13.2. All 1080 baiting activities must be recorded within 48 hours by the person undertaking the action. This includes purchase, notification, signage, baiting, bait disposal, etc. A recommended 1080 Baiting Operations Record Template and 1080 Bait Injector Record which provides for insertion of all the details legally required to be kept is available on the Chemical Services Section website: www.chemicalservices.nt.gov.au. These records templates do not have to be used. Electronic records are permitted. 13.3. Property 1080 Baiting Operation Records 13.3.1. Each property listed on a 1080 PAMA and Permit must have and maintain a 1080 Baiting Operations Record. The 1080 PAMA and Permit holder or, the Regional Coordinator in the case of members of a RWDMG, is responsible to ensure that the records required as outlined in this section 13.3 are entered and maintained. These records include: 13.3.1.1. Neighbour Notifications For each neighbour or CLA notified: The full name of the person notified, Property name or location notified, How the property was notified, Relevant phone, fax, email or postal details for the method of notification, and Date and time of notification. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 15 13.3.1.2. Property Details Property address, property postal address, property phone, fax and email, the full name of the 1080 PAMA and Permit holder for the property, the 1080 PAMA and Permit number, date it was issued and date of expiry, the full names and 1080 User Authorisation numbers for all persons that handle 1080 baits on the property, when and where signs were erected, date, locations and descriptions of non-target animal deaths or poisonings, and any incidents involving 1080, especially those which occurred during the baiting program. 13.3.2.3. Bait Distributor’s records The 1080 PAMA and Permit holder must incorporate into the 1080 Baiting Operations Record, those records required to be kept by all bait distributors laying baits on the property/ies which is/are listed on the 1080 PAMA and Permit. 13.4. Authorised 1080 Bait Distributor’s records 13.4.1. Each person who has a 1080 User Authorisation and undertakes baiting distribution activities for the 1080 PAMA and Permit holder must make records of these activities. These records are to be kept in the 1080 Baiting Operations Records for each property which should remain with, and be submitted to the Chemicals Coordinator by the 1080 PAMA and Permit holder with the application for a new 1080 PAMA and Permit. If requested, the 1080 PAMA and Permit holder must provide a copy of the records to the Authorised 1080 Bait Distributor. 13.4.2. It is the responsibility of each individual bait distributor to record the following information for the laying of baits that they personally undertake: 13.5. date of purchase or supply of baits, the full name and Authorisation numbers of the person collecting, transporting and storing baits, type of 1080 bait product supplied and product name if purchasing dry baits, full name and Authorisation or licence number of supplier, number of dry baits purchased, number of wet baits purchased and supplied by Parks and Wildlife, orthe number of wet baits supplied by an Authorised 1080 Bait Injector as part of a RWDMG Baiting Plan, dates on which baits were laid, number and type of baits laid, broad location (e.g. paddock name) where baits were laid, any incidents which occurred during the baiting operation, if required, date when left over baits were collected, date and numbers of left-over baits that were destroyed. Records to be kept by Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors 13.5.1. Primary Bait Injectors (PBIs) 13.5.1.1. PBIs must compile and keep records of the purchase, transport, storage and transfer of 1080 concentrate under their responsibility. Once 1080 concentrate is transferred to a 1080 Bait Injector, it becomes the responsibility of the 1080 Bait Injector. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 16 13.5.1.2. The PBI must also keep all records required by the 1080 Bait Injector Record in accordance with section 13.5.2 below. 13.5.1.3. PBI records must include: 13.5.2. full name and 1080 Bait Injection Authorisation number of PBI full brand name of 1080 concentrate purchased, full details of supplier, date of purchase and quantity of 1080 concentrate purchased, number of the Authorisation which allows the purchase and possession of 1080 concentrate by the PBI where and how 1080 concentrate is stored by PBI, dates when 1080 concentrate is transferred to Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors, full name, Authorisation number of each Authorised 1080 Bait Injector receiving 1080 concentrate, and quantity of 1080 concentrate transferred, quantity of 1080 concentrate retained by PBI after each transfer to an Authorised 1080 Bait Injector, quantity of unallocated 1080 concentrate remaining at the end of the RWDMG Baiting Plan programme, and the date, quantity, and methodology of disposal for that 1080 concentrate. Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors 13.5.2.1. Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors must compile and keep a 1080 Bait Injection Record, that records the transfer, transport, storage and use of 1080 concentrate under their responsibility; and the transfer of wet baits to authorised 1080 users. 13.5.2.2. The 1080 Bait Injector Record must include: full name and Authorisation number of 1080 Bait Injector, date when 1080 concentrate was received by an Authorised 1080 Bait Injector from the PBI, date of any transfer or delivery of 1080 concentrate to another Authorised 1080 Bait Injector, full name and Authorisation number of PBI transferring 1080 concentrate to a 1080 Bait Injector, quantity of 1080 concentrate transferred to each Authorised 1080 Bait Injector, where and how 1080 concentrate is stored by the Authorised 1080 Bait Injector, full name and Authorisation numbers of any Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors assisting with the preparation of wet baits, dates when 1080 concentrate is used to prepare baits and the total number of baits injected on those dates, quantity of 1080 concentrate in an Authorised 1080 Bait Injector’s possession before undertaking baiting operations, quantity of 1080 concentrate used to prepare baits, quantity of 1080 concentrate wastage during bait preparation, quantity of 1080 concentrate retained after bait preparation, confirmation that wet bait preparation conforms to their personalised SOP, any incidents which occurred during bait preparation, the unique batch and lot number of baits created and supplied to each property, Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 17 14. details of delivery or transfer of baits to another person, including the full name, number of baits, property(ies) and 1080 User Authorisation number of the person the baits are transferred to after preparation, date when baits were transferred, and the dates, quantity and methodology of disposal of the remaining 1080 concentrate. REPORTING 14.1. Changes in personnel 14.1.1. The 1080 PAMA and Permit holder must notify the Chemicals Coordinator in writing within 14 days of ceasing to be the landowner, occupier or property manager of the property(ies) listed in their Authorisation. 14.1.2. The holder of a 1080 PAMA and Permit must notify the Chemicals Coordinator of changes to the Authorised 1080 Users laying baits on the properties listed on that 1080 PAMA and Permit by using the approved 1080 PAMA and Permit Amendment Form and prior to the Authorised 1080 User undertaking any baiting activities. 14.1.3. The RC of a RWDMG must notify the Chemicals Coordinator in writing within 14 days of ceasing to be the RC for the RWDMG Baiting Plan, and provide the name of a suitable replacement person. 14.1.4. If the PBI intends to cease as PBI for a RWDMG, the PBI must notify the RC and the Chemicals Coordinator in writing within 14 days of cessation to enable transfer of the responsibility to another nominated person. 14.1.5. All changes in personnel within a RWDMG must be reported by the RC in their Annual Report to the Chemicals Coordinator. 14.2. RWDMG Baiting Plan Annual Report 14.2.1. The RC of the RWDMG must submit an Annual Report to the Chemicals Coordinator within two months of the expiry date of the RWDMG Baiting Plan in an electronic form that will be set by the Chemicals Coordinator and provided to the RC. 14.2.2. The RWDMG Annual Report must include the following details: 14.2.2.1. Baiting activities undertaken by the RWDMG; 14.2.2.2. Changes in personnel; 14.2.2.3. Errors, incidents and identified issues; 14.2.2.4. Copies of all records required to be kept by all 1080 PAMA and Permit holders, Authorised 1080 Bait Injectors, the PBI and 1080 Authorised Users in the RWDMG. 14.3. Accidents and Incidents 14.3.1. The 1080 Bait Injector, the 1080 PAMA and Permit holder or another responsible person on the property must notify both the Regional Coordinator and the Chemicals Coordinator as soon as possible of any accidents involving exposure to 1080 concentrate(see Section 10.6 of this Direction). 14.3.2. The 1080 PAMA and Permit holder for a property must, as soon as possible, notify the Chemicals Coordinator of any incidents of suspected or confirmed untargeted animal deaths or poisoning which have, or may have resulted from the laying of baits on that property. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 18 14.3.3. The 1080 PAMA and Permit holder for a property, Authorised 1080 Bait Injector or Authorised 1080 User must notify the Chemicals Coordinator and NT Police by phone, fax or email immediately of any theft or suspected theft of 1080 or 1080 products. 14.3.4. An Authorised 1080 User, 1080 Bait Injector, 1080 PAMA and Permit holder, or RC who suspects or observes any misuse of 1080 must immediately notify the Chemicals Coordinator. The Chemicals Coordinator may report any such incident to the APVMA’s Adverse Experience Reporting Program (AERP). 15. CONTACTS 15.1. Chemicals Coordinator Any notice required to be given to the Chemicals Coordinator under this Direction or a Permit or Authorisation issued by the Chemicals Coordinator (subject to any other requirements for that notice) must be to the following: Tel: Fax: Email: 15.2. (08) 8999 2344 (08) 8999 2111 chemicals@nt.gov.au In the event of an accidental exposure to 1080 concentrate (see Section 10.6 of this Direction): 15.2.1. IMMEDIATELY call 000 to request an ambulance or other medical transport if feasible, 15.2.2. then call Poison Information 13 11 26 (National 24 Hour Hotline), 15.2.3. once immediate treatment has occurred, the accident must be reported as soon as possible to NT WorkSafe as a ‘dangerous incident’ on 1800 019 115 15.2.4. the RC for the RWDMG must also be informed of any accidents as soon as possible, and 15.2.5. the Chemicals Coordinator must also be informed of any accidents as soon as possible at the contact details listed in 15.1 above. 15.3. Further information on this document and assistance with applications is available from Chemical Services Section, DPIF: Tel: Fax: Email: Web: 15.4. (08) 8999 2344 (08) 8999 2111 chemicals@nt.gov.au www.chemicalservices.nt.gov.au Parks and Wildlife Commission of the NT – wet bait preparation service (fees apply): Contact: Wildlife Operations Units based in Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs. Tel: (08) 8995 5008 Email: operations@nt.gov.au Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 19 APPENDIX A: EXAMPLE 1080 WARNING SIGN WARNING 1080 POISON BAITS LAID HERE DOMESTIC DOGS, PETS OR ANIMALS MAY BE AFFECTED IF THEY EAT BAITS OR DEAD ANIMALS PROTECT BY RESTRAINING OR MUZZLING BAITS LAID FOR WILD DOGS /FERAL PIGS /………………… BAITS LAID ON……../..……/……. BAITS MAY BE PRESENT FROM THIS DATE CONTACT TEL 08………………… Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 20 APPENDIX B: SUGGESTED APPROACHES TO BAITING TO ACHIEVE EFFECTIVE WILD DOG CONTROL The following notes and comments will not be applicable or suitable for all pastoral properties in the NT, but are intended to provide some guidance in specific areas of wild dog control. They have been compiled from comments and discussions with pastoralists and officers from the NT Parks and Wildlife Commission, Invasive Animals Co-operative Research Centre, Queensland AgForce and Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food. In particular, information from the NTPWC publication Effective Wild Dog Control with 1080 by S. Eldridge and K. Schwartzkopff (Agnote J33, August 2004) has been utilised below. In the NT pastoral industry, wild dogs can cause financial losses due to death or severe injury to calves and adult cattle; downgrading of carcasses and hides; and spread of parasites that cause disease. Management costs can be considerable, and pastoralists should consider the effectiveness of wild dog control to ensure best returns. However, it is important to balance control of wild dogs with wildlife conservation to ensure that populations of pure dingoes are maintained in the NT. The role and significance of dingoes in regulating other introduced pests (e.g. feral pigs, cats, foxes, rabbits) and the cultural importance within indigenous communities are other factors to be considered. A holistic approach to control Landholders should become familiar with wild dog activity and actively search for signs of their presence. They should know their country and the areas where dogs are likely to breed and range across. Since wild dogs move through the landscape and across property boundaries, a syncronised baiting program between neighbouring landholders will increase the effectiveness of that control. All stakeholders should become involved, as coordination over larger areas will reduce the chance of dogs recolonising the vacated territories. Other effective control techniques (such as trapping and shooting) can potentially be used all year and should be integrated around the specified baiting periods. It is also preferable to kill all the members in one pack because if the alpha male dog and only a few others in the pack are killed, the younger male dogs are leaderless and may become more troublesome than a pack led by a mature and experienced dog. Timing of 1080 baiting rounds Under the permit system operated in the NT, two rounds of baiting are permitted. The rounds can be up to 8 weeks in duration and must be separated by a three month period. In the Top End, wild dog activity and damage is usually greatest during calving and just after weaning. In Central Australia dog attacks are greatest during dry periods, and particularly during the early to mid-years of a drought. Baiting rounds should therefore be planned around at the risk periods for pastoral management and the breeding cycle when wild dogs are most vulnerable. For dingoes, these latter periods are generally: o April – May mating season o July – August whelping o October – November first movement of pups Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 21 o January – February pups trained to hunt Such rounds could be planned for (say) May-June and October-November when livestock damage and the wild dog breeding seasons coincide. It is possible, but probably unlikely that the breeding seasons of wild dogs (as hybrids of domestic dogs and dingoes) may differ from pure dingoes in the NT. Placement and laying of ground baits Ground baits can be either freshly cured wet meat baits or manufactured dry baits. In the NT, pastoralists are increasingly using injected wet meat baits prepared by Willdlife Operations Unit officers within PWCNT or as part of a coordinated Regional Wild Dog Management Group (RWDMG). The wet baits must be laid within 2 days of preparation. Dry baits can be used to mop-up wild dogs that are still causing damage after the coordinated baiting round with wet meat baits has finished. It should be understood that each bait contains about 6 mg of 1080 and will readily kill an adult wild dog. Uptake of several baits by the same animal should be avoided. If baits are easy to find and plentiful, the alpha dog may prevent other dogs consuming them and eat the majority of the distributed baits. It will later die, but its actions will lessen the control impact on the pack. Dog packs will usually follow the easiest pathway through the landscape to obtain prey and water. Places that are successful baiting areas in one year are often good areas to bait in successive years. Baits should be strategically dropped around watering points used by cattle; on cattle pads; and along creek lines, roads or fence-lines. Where practicable, baits should be placed under bushes to increase the attractiveness of the bait and possibly reduce consumption by other non-target wildlife. No more than 25 baits should be placed at any one watering point and these should be dispersed so that each dog does not eat more than one (preferably) or two baits. Distance requirements that are outlined in section 11.4 of this Direction must be met when placing baits. Baits do not need to be buried for wild dog control unless directed to do so on the registered product label or on the 1080 PAMA and Permit. The manufacturers of some dry bait instruct users to bury the baits since it is considered that the dog will expend interest and energy to dig for the bait and then will be more likely to eat it. Burial should also reduce the potential of off-target effects. In these situations the dry baits should be in a shallow hole (8 cm deep) and covered with soil. The 1080 in baits can be diluted and washed out if exposed to water. Baits should not be distributed it there is a chance of heavy rain affecting the baits before dogs consume them. However, there is some indication that baits can remain active over a wet season in the Top End and up to 18 months in Central Australia. Although an obvious point, persons distributing baits should leave their working dogs at home and restrained, or if required in the paddock, muzzle them. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 22 APPENDIX C: GUIDELINES FOR AERIAL DISTRIBUTION OF 1080 BAITS Aerial baiting may be considered for approval for large-scale situations where ground baiting is impossible or impractical, such as in areas difficult to access. The general conditions for aerial baiting are: 1. The aircraft must be suited to the purpose and must be registered with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to perform the task. 2. The aircraft must be crewed by a pilot and a person with a current 1080 User Authorisation (bombardier) who manually loads the baits for distribution. The pilot must not handle or distribute baits. 3. The pilot is not required to be an Authorised 1080 User as they do not handle 1080 baits. 4. An automated bait delivery system that records each bait delivery and does not require manual delivery is preferred. 5. The aircraft must be equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS) with the facility to input the planned flight-path and to download onto a transportable memory device the flight-path followed and waypoints of each bait drop. 6. All drop sites must be accurately recorded in the GPS as waypoints. 7. A restrained and leak-proof bait hopper and bait distribution mechanism should be used for dispensing baits. 8. The pilot must be licensed by CASA to fly at low altitude (100 feet) and distribute a chemical (pesticide) from an aircraft. 9. Pilots who are involved in low altitude distribution of 1080 baits are not exempt from the CASA requirement to hold an agricultural aerial rating and the aircraft must have endorsement for this type of work. In addition they must hold a Pilot (chemical rating) licence issued by the Chemicals Coordinator and must be employed by a company that holds an aerial business licence issued by the Chemicals Coordinator. 10. Aerial baiting must not be undertaken in excessively windy conditions where accuracy of bait dispersal and ability to maintain appropriate altitude and groundspeed may be adversely affected. 11. The specified minimum distances that 1080 baits can be laid from habitation, watercourses, boundary fences and roads etc, must be observed (see section 14 below). 12. Baits must be dropped only along the flight path provided in the map of an approved 1080 PAMA and Permit. 13. To achieve good baiting precision, the aircraft should travel at a set ground speed and height. Although these factors will be influenced by terrain and weather conditions, the following are given as a general guide: a. for fixed wing aircraft: 80 knots and 50 to 100 feet above ground level, b. for rotary wing aircraft: 50 knots and 100 feet, c. the flight path must be recorded by GPS coupled to software capable of storing these positions, d. flight path information and bait drop waypoints must be downloaded onto a portable memory device and submitted to the Chemicals Coordinator or the RC of a RWDMG within 14 days of completion of flights, and e. aircraft operators must ensure that their flying operations comply with requirements of CASA. 14. Baits must not be dropped within: 150 m of own dwelling (includes station living quarters), Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 23 3 km from a dwelling, (other than own dwelling), or place of habitation that includes a Community Living Area (CLA), roadside reserve, designated roadside rest stop, truck parking bay, fuel stop or tourist attraction, 3 km of any other public amenity area, 20 m of a permanent or flowing watercourse, 50 m of a boundary line that does not adjoin a major highway or public road, and 500 m of a major highway or 250 m of any other public roadway. 15. Other conditions may be specified by the Chemicals Coordinator. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 24 APPENDIX D: EXTRACT OF PART 11 OF THE AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY CHEMICALS (CONTROL OF USE) ACT Part 11 115 116 117 118 Review of decisions Reviewable decisions and affected persons (1) Each of the decisions specified in the Schedule is a reviewable decision. (2) Each of the persons specified in the Schedule opposite a reviewable decision is an affected person for the decision. Notice of reviewable decisions (1) The decision maker for a reviewable decision must, within 28 days after making the decision, give the affected person written notice of the decision. (2) The notice must: (a) set out the reasons for the decision; (b) state that the affected person may apply to the Local Court for a review of the merits of the decision; and (c) specify the period allowed for applying for the review. (3) The validity of a reviewable decision is not affected by a contravention of subsection (1) or (2). Application for review (1) An affected person for a reviewable decision may apply to the Local Court for a review of the merits of the decision. (2) The application must be made: (a) within 28 days after: (i) the day the person received notice of the decision in accordance with section 116; or (ii) if subparagraph (i) does not apply – the day the person became aware of the decision; or (b) within such further time as the Court allows. Decision on review (1) After reviewing the merits of a reviewable decision, the Local Court may: (a) confirm the decision; (b) vary the decision; or (c) set the decision aside and substitute its own decision. (2) The Court may make the orders it considers appropriate to give effect to its decision. (3) The review must be by way of hearing de novo. (4) A decision under subsection (1)(b) or (c) is taken to be the decision maker's decision. 119 Operation and implementation of reviewable decision (1) The making of an application under section 117 for a review of a reviewable decision does not affect the operation or implementation of the decision. (2) However, the Local Court may make an order staying or otherwise affecting the operation or implementation of so much of the decision as the Court considers appropriate to effectively hear and decide the application. (3) The order: (a) is subject to the conditions specified in the order; and (b) has effect: (i) for the period specified in the order; or (ii) if no period is specified – until the Local Court has decided the application. Direction for Use of 1080 for Pest Animal Control – Wild Dogs Only – 2014 pg. 25