vent Archives - Stored Grain | Information Hub for Grain Storage, Quality Control, Insect & Pest Management

The fumigation process in grain storages

Successful grain storage requires an essential grain fumigation process to achieve effective insect control and help prevent phosphine resistance in stored grain. Ben White and Chris Warrick from GRDC’s Grain Storage team explain best-practice phosphine fumigation, including the importance of gas-tight, pressure-tested silos, correct phosphine dosage calculations, exposure periods, residue management, ventilation requirements, and withholding periods. Whether you’re managing wheat storage, grain silos, or on-farm grain storage facilities, this practical guide provides valuable advice for successful grain fumigation, stored grain pest management, and maintaining grain quality.

Venting Phospine After Fumigating Grain

Phosphine clearance or safety meters are the surest way to avoid rejection when delivering grain after fumigating. More info: https://storedgrain.com.au/phosphine-…

after Fumigation post vent Venting video

Phosphine venting and delivery limits require more research

Key points
– Testing phosphine residue in trucks at receival sites is required for operator safety and label compliance
– Sampling and testing methods require further research and development to avoid penalising those doing the right thing
– Using a phosphine meter on farm is the surest way to avoid truckloads being rejected

clearance delivery Exposure groundcover limit phosphine ppm rejection TLV TWA vent

When to open sealed silos

Key points
– Gas-tight sealable silos should meet the Australian Standard AS2628-2010 for sealing but should only be sealed during a fumigation
– Open sealed silos after fumigation to protect seals and grain quality and, importantly, to prevent excess fumigant absorption

gas-tight groundcover lid open seal sealed vent