Media Release
January 24, 2005

Debco supports renewed call for safe use of potting mix
Monday, 24th January 2005, for immediate release

Australia’s leading manufacturer of premium potting mixes for home gardeners and commercial growers - Debco - welcomes the Victorian Government’s renewed call for safe use of potting mix.

“Health and safety instructions should always be followed when using potting mixes,” says Patrick Kasso, Debco Chief Executive Officer.

“Debco has the highest standards in the industry. None of the cases of Legionella longbeachae reported in Victoria in 2004 have been attributed to Debco products. Debco’s PotPower potting mix was used in the media to illustrate what is an industry-wide issue,” says Mr Kasso.

Every Debco potting mix adheres to Australian Standards for potting mixes and all products are clearly labelled with instructions for use.

Debco was also involved in research into Legionella longbeachae and potting mix when it was first discovered to be a public health issue. Legionella longbeachae can also be found in composted bark and green waste, home garden compost, mulches and pot plants.

“Debco is the choice of leading professional growers who rely on the safety and performance of our product for best quality plants. We use the standards of professional growers as the benchmark for the production of our products.”

Debco is also a committed member of Nursery Industry Associations and Australian Standards for Potting Mix committee.

Debco is committed to the highest level of safety and manufacturing standards for the wellbeing of people who use, and manufacture, Debco products.

“Consumers should ensure that they choose a high quality potting mix. Potting mix is like many other products - you get what you pay for - and consumers should always choose a high quality product accredited with Australian Standards for potting mix,” says Mr Kasso.

Mr Kasso also urges everyone to adhere to the manufacturer’s safety instructions when using potting mixes. “Risk, safety, first aid, storage and disposal instructions are clearly marked in a prominent position on the reverse of every Debco potting mix product, and should be followed when using the product,” he says.

Tips for the safe use of potting mix:
- Moisten content
- Avoid contact with eyes and skin
- Avoid breathing dust and/or mists
- Wear suitable protective clothing and standard light gloves
- If exposed to dust wear protective eyewear
- Wash thoroughly immediately after use
- Wash work clothes regularly
- Clean work area by wet-sweeping or vacuuming
- Seal opened product after use and store in a cool location

About potting mix risks
Inhalation of potting mix dust may irritate, inflame or sensitise the nose, throat and lungs, resulting in illnesses ranging from hayfever or asthma, to pneumonia or pneumonia-like illnesses. (This includes Legionella longbeachae, which should not be confused with Legionella pneumophila, which is associated with cooling towers.) Direct contact with the material may cause skin or eye irritation. People particularly at risk of health issues related to the incorrect use of potting mix are those suffering from asthma or allergies, and those with compromised immune defence systems.

END

For more information:

Contact Debco page
Health and Safety page

debco@debco.com.au
Debco Pty Ltd
03 5977 4755