2. Program 3 2023 IOWA
PPE Coveralls; Aprons; Gloves; Hats; Boots; Goggles and Face Shields
Respiratory Protection & Devices
IPM Basics
Insects and Their Relatives
How To Choose The Formulations You Use
Protecting Ground Water
Bees and Other Pollinators
Fish and Other Vertebrates
Birds
Personal Environment
Heat Stress and Heat Exhaustion
Pesticide Poisoning and First Aid
Secondary Containers & Service Containers
Storing & Transporting Pesticides
Pesticide Spills & Cleanup
Triple Rinsing
3. FOR YOUR
SAFETY,
PROTECTION
&
KNOWLEDGE
• Protective Clothing and
Personal Protective Equipment
• Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE)
• The type of protective clothing and
equipment needed depends on the
job being done and the type of
chemical being used. READ THE
LABEL on the pesticide container
carefully and follow all directions
concerning necessary protective
clothing and equipment.
4. FOR YOUR
SAFETY,
PROTECTION &
KNOWLEDGE
• Protective Clothing and
Personal Protective Equipment
• Applying and disposing of the
pesticide. In some cases, special
equipment may be required, such
as a self-contained air system
when using fumigants. In many
cases, the handler is required to
wear a chemical-resistant apron
while mixing, loading, or disposing
of a product, in addition to the
required personal protective
equipment (PPE) designated for
the applicator.
5. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION &
KNOWLEDGE
• Recommended Clothing:
• The minimum protective clothing recommended by the United
States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the National Agricultural
Chemical Dealers Association (NACA), and the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) when handling dilute (mixed) pesticides
includes a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, underwear, chemically
resistant gloves, socks, and shoes (boots). When handling
concentrates, particularly pesticides with DANGER or WARNING
labels, a face shield, goggles, or respirator (full face and eye
protection), chemical resistant apron, and chemical resistant boots
are necessary.
6. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION &
KNOWLEDGE
• Required PPE that must be worn during each
stage of handling and using the pesticide (mixing,
loading, applying, repairing, clean-up, disposal).
• Read the label.
7. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION &
KNOWLEDGE
• Coveralls Cotton coveralls over regular work clothing are
helpful protection when applying and/or handling
pesticides. Sleeves should reach the wrist and the pant legs
should reach the ankle. Coveralls should be closed (e.g.
buttoned or zipped) in the front. They must be laundered after
every wearing and should be replaced annually to prevent
pesticide carry-over in the clothing from one season to the next.
• When wearing gloves and boots with coveralls, the garments are
to be worn outside (over) the gloves and boots. This prevents
pesticides from getting into the gloves or boots. Disposable
coveralls, such as regular Tyvek® or Polylaminated Tyvek®
(polyethylene coated), are suitable for handling granular or
powdered formulations and less toxic liquid pesticides.
8. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION & KNOWLEDGE
They also can be worn over other work clothing, and
offer protection similar to cotton coveralls, but are
water resistant. Tyvek® coated with Saranex 23P®
offers better protection for handling undiluted and highly
toxic pesticides, but does not "breathe." In some weather
conditions, they must be used with discretion to avoid
heat exhaustion.
Disposable coveralls are relatively inexpensive, so for
many situations they are a good safety investment.
Disposable coveralls are durable, but cannot be
effectively decontaminated and should be disposed of in
the same way as empty pesticide containers or
hazardous waste.
9. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION &
KNOWLEDGE
•
If coveralls are not warn, long-sleeved shirts and long pants made
of a closely woven fabric are a must when handling
pesticides. The sleeves should reach the wrist and the pant legs
should reach the ankle. The shirt should be closed (e.g. buttoned
or zipped) in the front. If a shirt is worn outside the pants, it
should reach below the top of the pants. Both the shirt and pants
should be cleaned daily and should not have any holes in them.
Same as with coveralls, when wearing gloves and boots with
long-sleeved shirts and long pants, the garments are to be worn
outside (over) the gloves and the boots preventing pesticides
from getting into the gloves and boots. Always follow label
directions for laundering work clothing.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC
BY-NC.
10. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION &
KNOWLEDGE
•
Aprons When handling pesticide concentrates a liquid proof
chemical resistant apron should be worn. Aprons should cover
the body from the chest to the boots. Read the label to see if a
chemical resistant apron is required.
This Photo by Unknown author is
licensed under CC BY-SA-NC.
11. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION &
KNOWLEDGE
Gloves have been shown to reduce pesticide
contamination of skin if properly maintained and replaced
frequently. Hands should always be protected when
working with pesticides. A USDA study showed that
applicators handling concentrated pesticides received 85
percent of their pesticide exposure on their hands.
When handling concentrated or highly toxic pesticides,
wear gloves made of neoprene, nitrile or butyl rubber. For
most pesticides, nitrile gloves or natural rubber gloves
provide the best protection. Always follow the label
recommendation.
12. FOR YOUR
SAFETY,
PROTECTION &
KNOWLEDGE
•The label may require a specific kind of
glove to be worn. Gloves should not be
lined with a fabric. The lining is hard to
clean if a chemical gets on it. Do not
wear cotton or leather gloves.
•They absorb the pesticide, which
provide a continuous source of
exposure, and can be more hazardous
than wearing no gloves at all.
13. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION & KNOWLEDGE
• Gloves with a “wristband” should never be
worn. Gloves can get contaminated on the
inside, and the moist warm conditions there
may foster pesticide absorption into the
skin.
• To avoid this problem, discard or clean
gloves often. Before removing gloves, rinse
them with water and detergent to prevent
contaminating hands.
14. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION & KNOWLEDGE
• Hat Wear something to protect the
head. A wide-brimmed, waterproof hats
will protect neck, eyes, mouth, and face. It
should not have a cloth or leather
sweatband, or other porous materials that
may absorb pesticides; these sweatbands
are hard to clean if chemicals get on
them. Webbed, mesh, baseball caps, or
similar headgear should not be used. One
of the best hats is the plastic "hard hat"
with a plastic sweatband.
15. FOR YOUR SAFETY, PROTECTION
& KNOWLEDGE
• Boots As stated above in the gloves section, it is a good
idea to wear unlined rubber or neoprene boots.
• Leather and canvas shoes/boots absorb and hold pesticides
which in turn provide a constant source of skin exposure.
• Wash boots daily and dry thoroughly inside and outside to
remove any pesticide residue.
• Pants or overalls should be worn outside of boots to prevent
pesticides from getting inside them.
16. FOR YOUR SAFETY,
PROTECTION & KNOWLEDGE
Wear Goggles or a face shield when there is
any chance of getting pesticides in the eyes, or
anytime the label requires their use. These
should completely cover your eyes. Exposure is
likely when handling or applying mists,
dusts, liquid concentrates, or pressurized
equipment.
Tight fitting goggles with anti-fog lenses and
indirect venting are best. Goggles with cloth
headbands should be cleaned frequently.
17. FOR YOUR SAFETY,
PROTECTION &
KNOWLEDGE
• It is recommended that these headbands
be replaced with ones made of
nonabsorbent materials. Wash goggles or
face shield with detergent and water at least
once a day. Store in a plastic bag away from
pesticides to avoid contamination. Glasses
and sunglasses with or without side guards
should never be used as eye protection
against pesticides.
18. OSHA
1910.134(c)
Respiratory
protection
program.
• This paragraph requires the employer to
develop and implement a written
respiratory protection program with
required worksite-specific procedures
and elements for required respirator use.
The program must be administered by a
suitably trained program administrator. In
addition, certain program elements may
be required for voluntary use to prevent
potential hazards associated with the
use of the respirator.
19. Respiratory Protective Devices
• Respirators provide protection against inhalation
exposure. Pesticides can be inhaled either as mists,
dusts, or vapors. The respiratory tract rapidly and
completely absorbs pesticides, and should be
protected. Wear an approved respiratory device
when directed by the label. Follow the label
instructions on respiratory protection.
• An applicator needs a respirator if exposed to a
pesticide for a long time, if the pesticide used is
highly toxic, or if working in an enclosed area. OSHA
requirements are constantly changing with respect to
respirators used in general industries, which
includes the occupation of pest control.
20. Respiratory Protective Devices
• A pest control operator is advised to contact OSHA periodically to
obtain the most recent requirements on respirators, or
periodically consult and read the Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR) Chapter 29 Part 1910.134. Depending on respirator usage
and company policies on respirator usage, applicators may want
to consult a physician before using a respirator. In some cases
where respirator usage is mandatory, a medical evaluation may
be necessary because some individuals may have physical
problems that may be aggravated by restricted airflow associated
with respirator usage. If respirator usage is required, the
company will have a written Respirator Protection Program with
required work site-specific procedures and elements.
21. Commonly Used Respirators
• Dust and Mist Respirators. Dust and mist respirators are
physical filters which only protect against pesticide dusts and
larger spray droplets. They are not effective against fumigants
and the many pesticides which emit vapors.
• Chemical Cartridge Respirator. Chemical cartridge respirators
are usually designed as a half-face mask which cover the nose
and mouth but not the eyes; therefore, eye protection is
required when using them. They have one or two cartridges
attached to the face piece. In the cartridge, the inhaled air
comes through both a filter pad and an absorbing material such
as activated charcoal which removes most of the pesticide
vapors, gases and particles.
22. Commonly Used Respirators
Two commonly used types;
Disposable
Cartridge
They should not be used
with fumigant gases or in
areas with deficient oxygen
levels.
23. Chemical Canister
Respirator (Gas Mask)
• Gas masks are normally designed
to cover the eyes, nose and
mouth. The canister is either
attached directly to the face piece or
is worn on a belt and is connected to
the face piece by a flexible hose.
• These respirators are to be worn
when applicators are exposed to a
continuous concentration of a toxic
pesticide.
24. Chemical Canister Respirator
(Gas Mask)
• Normally, the canister has longer lasting
absorbent material and filters compared to
a cartridge respirator. Gas masks usually
protect the face better than cartridge types,
but neither kind provides protection when
the oxygen supply is low. Gas masks
should not be used where oxygen
deficiency or high gas concentrations may
occur, such as in a structure undergoing a
fumigation.
25. Supplied Air
Respirators and
Positive-pressure Self
Contained Breathing
Apparatus (SCBA)
•Supplied Air Respirators and Positive-
pressure
•Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
Supplied Air Respirators and SCBA (not SCUBA)
respirators, such as those manufactured by
Survivair, Ranger, Scott, or MSA, are used
primarily used in fumigation or where the oxygen
supply is low.
• Both of these respirator types have full face
masks and do not require additional eye
protection.
26. Selection of Respirators
• Specific types of cartridges and canisters protect against specific
chemical gases and vapors. Be sure to choose one to protect against
the pesticide being used. Use only those approved by the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), or the Mine
Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).
• An example or an organic vapor respirator for pesticide use would be a
“NIOSH-MSHA Approval No. TC-23C-860 issued to 3M, St. Paul,
Minnesota, USA.” All respirators, even dust masks, have these
approvals. Read the pesticide label and the respirator for appropriate
NIOSH-MSHA approval before using a pesticide which requires the use
of a respirator.
27. Selection of Respirators
• A respirator or mask should be fitted properly to the face. Long
sideburns, beard, or glasses may prevent a good seal. Adjust
headbands tightly enough to obtain a good seal. Before using, read
the manufacturer's instructions on the use and care of the
respirator and its parts.
• The manufacturer's instructions will suggest procedures to test for
a proper seal. This may be similar to the following
inhalation/exhalation test.
28. Inhalation
Test
• Place the palm of the hands over the
cartridge assemblies or inhalation points
and inhale. If no air enters and the
facepiece collapses slightly, the
respirator is properly fitted and the
exhalation valve is closing property.
• Exhalation Test: Place the palm of the
hand or thumb over the exhalation valve
guard and press lightly. Exhale to
cause a slight pressure inside the face-
piece. If no air escapes, the face-piece
is properly fitted and the inhalation
valves are closing correctly. If air
escapes, readjust the headbands.
29. Respirator
Maintenance
• During heavy spraying, the filters in
chemical cartridge respirators should be
changed at least two times a day - more
often if breathing becomes difficult.
Cartridges should be changed after eight
hours use, or when the manufacturer
recommends replacement. If the
applicator detects pesticide odor or feels
nose or throat irritation, the applicator
should leave the work area immediately
and change the canister or cartridge.
30. Respirator
Maintenance
Filters and cartridges should be removed after each
use.
Remember, once cartridges have been removed
from their original wrapping they lose their
absorptive capacity rapidly. If disposable
respirators are used, follow directions on the
package Filters/cartridges on disposable
respirators are not replaceable. Use a new
respirator as needed or recommended by the
manufacturer.
31. Respirator
Maintenance
• The face piece on all types of respirators
(including disposable respirators) should
be washed with soap and water, rinsed,
dried with a clean cloth, and stored in a
clean, dry place away from pesticides
after every use. A tightly closed plastic
bag works well for storage. The useful
life of a cartridge or canister depends on
the amount of absorbent material, the
concentration of contaminants in the air,
the breathing rate of the wearer, and the
temperature and humidity.
32. Respirator Maintenance
As a general rule, a canister, cartridge, or disposable respirator should never be reused even if used for just a few
minutes. These filters are easily replaced, but lungs are not. Remember— a disposable respirator or cartridges
should be changed:
When the manufacturer recommends;
If breathing is troublesome;
If pesticide odors can be smelled;
If the last time it was used is unknown.
33. Storage of respirators
• Shall be in a compartment away
from pesticide materials
• Shall be in a protective container,
such as a sealable plastic bag or
box.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC.
34. Definitions
• Respirator: A device designed to protect the wearer from inhalation of
hazardous atmospheres.
• Air purifying respirator: A respirator that removes contaminants from
the inhaled air stream. There are two major sub-categories of air
purifying respirator systems: Mechanical filter type, used to remove
particulates (dusts, mists, fogs, smokes and fumes) and chemical
cartridge type (absorption or adsorption or modification of gasses or
vapors). Some respirators combine both types of systems.
35. Definitions
• IDLH: Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health. Conditions that
can pose an immediate threat to life or health OR conditions
that pose an immediate threat of severe exposure to
contaminants such as carcinogens or neurotoxins which are
likely to have adverse cumulative or delayed effects on health.
All fumigant-confining structures shall be considered IDLH until
proven safe by appropriate monitoring equipment.
• Atmosphere-supplying respirator: A respirator that supplies
the respirator user with breathing air from a source independent
of the ambient atmosphere. This includes supplied-air
respirators (SAR) and self-contained breathing apparatus
(SCBA) units.
36. Definitions
• Atmosphere-supplying respirator: A respirator that supplies the
respirator user with breathing air from a source independent of the
ambient atmosphere. This includes supplied-air respirators (SAR)
and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units.
• Confidential reader: A person chosen by an employee required to
wear a respirator to read to him/her the Medical Evaluation
Questionnaire required under 3 CCR Section 6739 in a language
primarily understood by the employee. This includes, but is not
limited to, a coworker, family member, friend, or an independent
translator provided by the employer. The employer or the employer’s
direct agent, such as a supervisor, manager, foreman, or secretary,
are not included and are prohibited from being confidential readers.
37. Definitions
• Filter or air purifying element: A component used in respirators to
remove solid or liquid aerosols from the inspired air.
• Filtering facepiece (dust mask): A negative pressure particulate
respirator with a filter as an integral part of the facepiece or with the entire
facepiece composed of the filtering medium.
• Physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP): An
individual whose legally permitted scope of practice allows him or her to
independently provide, or be delegated the responsibility to provide, some
or all of the health care services required by these regulations. This can
include Physicians, (including Occupational Medicine Physicians), Doctors
of Osteopathy, Physician Assistants, Registered Nurses, Nurse
Practitioners and Occupational Health Nurses.
38. Definitions
• Qualitative fit test (QLFT): A pass/fail fit test to assess the
adequacy of respirator fit that relies on the individual's response
to the test agent.
• Quantitative fit test (QNFT): An assessment of the adequacy
of respirator fit by numerically measuring the amount of leakage
into the respirator.
39. Employees who are required to use respirators must be trained such
that they can demonstrate knowledge of at least:
Why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit, use, or maintenance can compromise its protective effect.
Limitations and capabilities of the respirator
Effective use in emergency situations
How to inspect, put on and remove, use and check the seals
Maintenance and storage
Recognition of medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent effective use
40. Practice demonstrations should include
• Inspecting, donning, wearing and removing the respirator.
• Adjusting the respirator to minimize discomfort to the wearer.
• Wearing during training for an adequate period time to ensure
that the wearer is familiar with the operational characteristics of
the respirator.
• Each respirator user will be retrained at least annually. Record
of training will be kept by the RPA.
41. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Storage
•Individual respirator users are
responsible for cleaning their own
respirators. Respirators will be cleaned
when appropriate. Cleaning will be done
following manufacturer’s
recommendations as described below.
•Respirator Safety
•Procedures for Cleaning Respirators.
•A. Remove filters, cartridges, or
canisters. Disassemble face pieces by
removing speaking diaphragms, demand
and pressure-demand valve assemblies,
hoses, or any components
recommended by the manufacturer.
Discard or repair any defective parts.
42. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Storage
• B. Wash components in warm (43 deg. C [110 deg. F]
maximum) water with a mild detergent or with a cleaner
recommended by the manufacturer. A stiff bristle (not wire)
brush may be used to facilitate the removal of dirt.
• C. Rinse components thoroughly in clean, warm (43 deg. C
[110 deg. F] maximum), preferably running water. Drain.
• D. When the cleaner used does not contain a disinfecting agent,
respirator components should be immersed for two minutes in
one of the following:
43. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Storage
• 1. Hypochlorite solution (50 ppm of chlorine) made by adding
approximately one milliliter of laundry bleach to one liter of
water at 43 deg. C (110 deg. F); or,
• 2. Aqueous solution of iodine (50 ppm iodine) made by adding
approximately 0.8 milliliters of tincture of iodine (6-8 grams
ammonium and/or potassium iodide/100 cc of 45% alcohol) to
one liter of water at 43 deg. C (110 deg. F); or,
• 3. Other commercially available cleansers of equivalent
disinfectant quality when used as directed, if their use is
recommended or approved by the respirator manufacturer.
44. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Storage
• Rinse components thoroughly in clean, warm (43 deg. C [110
deg. F] maximum), preferably running water. Drain. The
importance of thorough rinsing cannot be overemphasized.
Detergents or disinfectants that dry on face pieces may result in
dermatitis. In addition, some disinfectants may cause
deterioration of rubber or corrosion of metal parts if not
completely removed.
• Components should be hand-dried with a clean lint-free cloth or
air-dried.
45. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Storage
• Reassemble face piece, replacing filters, cartridges, and canisters
where necessary.
• Test the respirator to ensure that all components work properly.
• These procedures shall be performed after each use or when the
device becomes contaminated.
• Respirators with changeable filters must be worn in any confined
spaces or when applying pesticides in confined spaces. Respirators
must be worn in attics during rodent inspections or decontamination.
Respirators must be worn when working with or applying dusts. Use
the correct filter for the requirements of the job.
46. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Storage
• Cleaning of respirator daily:
• Wash in mild soap solution (face piece only)
• Immerse in sanitary solution for two minutes, usually a chlorine
solution.
• Rinse thoroughly in clean, warm water
• Air dry
• Do Not wash filters or cartridges
47. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Storage
Repair and Maintenance
of respirators:
Pre-filters should be
replaced when breathing
becomes more difficult,
per manufacturer's
instructions.
Cartridges should be
replaced when wearer
begins to taste or smell
chemical being used
Only those filters and
cartridges designed for
the specific respirator
will be used.
48. Cleaning,
Sanitizing
and
Storage
Single-use respirators will be properly disposed
of in a company trash container
After cleaning (and, if required, sanitizing), respirators
will be stored in disposable, resealable plastic bags.
Respirators and their filters/cartridges will be stored so
that they are protected from sunlight, dust, chemical
contamination, moisture, and temperature extremes.
Maintenance, Inspection and Repair
(Policy on maintenance, inspection and repair
of respirators can be either or both of the
following)
49. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Storage
• Individual respirator users are directed to perform routine maintenance
and inspection of respirators issued to them. The respirator user is
directed to identify and deliver to the RPA any respirator in need of
repair/replacement. Damaged or defective respirators will be properly
disposed according to company policy. The RPA will also make random
inspections of the respirators. For SCBA type, there will be a minimum
inspection period of one month. Respirator inspections will cover the
following items:
• General condition of mask, straps, valves, air hoses (no cracks, tears,
holes, deformations, loss of elasticity).
• Filter elements (proper filter or cartridge), air tanks (full tanks), regulators,
low-pressure warning device.
• Hose clamps, gaskets (in place and properly seated)
• Mask cleanliness (no debris, especially on sealing surfaces)
50. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Storage & Use
• Employees with facial hair (heavy stubble, drooping
mustache, long sideburns, beards) that prevent a gas-tight
seal shall not wear respiratory protective equipment that
requires a tight face to face-piece seal for proper operation.
Other types of non-face-sealing respirators, if adequate for
mitigating the hazard, may be chosen.
• Cartridges, filters and filtering face-pieces will be discarded
daily, absent other information on the end-of-service-life
indication from the respiratory protection equipment
manufacturer or specific end-of-service-life information on
the pesticide label.
• Air-purifying respirators shall not be worn when an oxygen-
deficient atmosphere (less than 19.5% oxygen) is known or
suspected, or in environments where high concentrations of
air contaminant may be present.
51. Qualitative Fit Testing
Quantitative Fit Testing
Positive/Negative Pressure User Seal-Check
In all cases, the respirator wearer should select a respirator that feels comfortable. If there are any
doubts about the condition or integrity of the respirator or filters, the respirator should be
rejected.
As required by 3 CCR Section 6739(e)(4), all fit testing is done in accordance with the requirements
found in Department of Industrial Relations Title 8 CCR Section 5144, Appendix A.
52. Respirator Fit Test
• Qualitative Fit Testing: The following protocols are cited in
regulation 3 CCR Section 6739(e)(4) as authorized to fit test
respirators:
• For testing against organic vapors cartridges:
• Isoamyl acetate test (“Banana oil”)
• For testing against particulate filters:
• Saccharin test
• Bitrex® test
• Irritant smoke test
53. Respirator Fit Test
• Positive Pressure User Seal-Check: This test will be
conducted by blocking the exhalation valve with the palm of the
hand to prevent air escaping from the mask. Do not press so
hard on the exhalation valve that the mask is moved from its
proper face-fit position. A slight positive pressure is then
created in the mask by gently exhaling until the facepiece starts
to pull away from the face. If the mask does not “balloon” up or
otherwise pull away, there may be a leak in the mask or in the
face seal. However, if there is neither loss of pressure nor
outward leakage of air, the wearer and the respirator have
passed the positive pressure fit-check.
54. Respirator Fit Test
• Negative Pressure User Seal-Check: This test will be
conducted by blocking the air purifying element(s) with either
the palm of each hand or covering it with a plastic wrap. A
negative pressure will be created inside the facepiece by gently
inhaling and holding the breath for several seconds. The mask
should collapse against the face and remain in that position
during the test. If the mask does not collapse or otherwise
tighten against the face, there may be a leak in the mask or in
the face seal. If there is no loss of vacuum or inward movement
of air, the wearer and the respirator have passed the negative
pressure fit-check.
55. Respirator Fit Test
•Caution!
• The positive/negative pressure user seal-checks are not
considered “fit-testing”. A qualitative or quantitative fit test must
be performed before a respirator can be assigned to a worker.
Persons with facial hair that interferes with the sealing surfaces
of the respirator will be recorded as unsatisfactory for respirator
use without further testing.
56. IPM BASICS
• In recent years, the term "Integrated Pest Management" and its
acronym "IPM" have received much press in the pest control arena.
There have been dozens of articles written on the subject during the
past decade. It has been heralded as the "new approach" to pest
control. Those who have been less than encouraging have generally
cited its lack of acceptance by the pest control industry. Neither view
is correct. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is neither a "new
approach" to pest control, nor is it practiced by only a limited number
of pest management companies. It predates recorded history and is
practiced universally.
58. IPM BASICS
• The IPM approach to pest management differs in several ways
from "conventional" or "traditional" urban pest control that relies
primarily upon pesticide use. First, it is not merely a reaction to
a pest problem. It is a process which when followed, provides
effective control. Second, it considers threshold levels of pest
presence. The Third difference between conventional pest
control and the IPM approach is the application of two or more
pest management procedures to reduce or limit population
levels. A Fourth difference is that pest management involves a
truly integrated approach where all pests are considered in the
development of the pest management process.
59. IPM BASICS INSPECTION
The first step in any IPM
program is thorough
inspection. There are
several reasons for
inspecting the premises
including:
Determine the location of
the infestation
Determine the extent of the
infestation
Note damage to the
structure or commodities
Determine conditions
conducive to the
infestation
Identify harborage areas
Identify sanitation
deficiencies
Identify avenues of possible
entry
Identify items or factors
which would impact
program development
60. IPM BASICS INSPECTION
• The inspection should be an orderly, organized procedure to determine the
above information. It should include all areas of the premises - both
indoors and outdoors. All levels of the structure should be inspected
including attics, living or public floors, basements, crawl spaces, etc. No
area should be overlooked because an infestation may have its beginnings
in such an area or may, because of favorable conditions, move into this
area.
61. IPM BASICS
Identification
•Before an effective integrated pest management
program can be developed and implemented, it is
necessary to know the pest or pests with which we
are dealing. Identification is an integral part of any
IPM program. This knowledge enables us to
determine what control measures to employ and
when, where and how to employ them.
•Without a thorough understanding of the pest
and its habits, habitat, life cycle and biology, we
cannot be effective. In addition, several states
require that any chemical applications performed
be for a specific pest and that this pest be listed on
the treatment record.
62. IPM BASICS Identification
While the customer can often identify many pests by general categories such
as cockroach, fly, beetle or rodent; they are seldom able to make more specific
identification. Such specific information is necessary so that the proper
management program can be developed. The reason for this is simple: even
though two pests may be of the same group or family (cockroach, fly, etc.) their
food, shelter and habitat requirements may be quite different. In addition, the
damage they may cause can vary greatly. Similar looking beetles, for example,
may damage wood members, stored products, carpets and houseplants. Each
would require a different control method. It is important, therefore, to assure
that proper identification is made.
63. IPM BASICS
Identification
• Once a pest has been
correctly identified, its
food preferences,
harborage sites,
behavioral patterns,
biology, habits,
potential for damage
and options for control
measures may be
determined.
64. Establishment of Thresholds
• The concept of threshold levels originated in
the area of agricultural pest control. The pest
population levels at which control measures
are undertaken are called "economic
thresholds" and are based upon the value of
the commodity (or its anticipated market
value), the amount of damage the pest
population could cause, and the cost
associated with implementing particular
control measures.
65. Establishment of Thresholds
• Although the cost of potential control measures in an
urban setting can be determined, it is difficult to assign a
value to the economic consequences of an infestation.
For example, while the presence of cockroaches in
some locations within a facility may be tolerated, their
presence in the food preparation or consumption areas
would not. Consequently, in this case, the threshold
level would be zero. Occasionally, a pest management
decision may depend upon the cost of potential control
measures as weighed against the benefits received.
66. Establishment of Thresholds
• Urban pest management decisions are generally
influenced by three factors:
• health and safety danger created by the pest
• legal restrictions on pest infestation
• the levels of pest tolerance exhibited by the customer
67. Employment Of Two Or More
Control Measures
• It is at this stage of the pest management
process that we see the true integrated
approach come into play. The primary objective
of an IPM approach is to design a program that
uses more than one strategy or control
measures.
• The strategies chosen should be ones that are:
68. Employment Of Two Or More
Control Measures
• least disruptive of natural controls
• least hazardous to human health
• least toxic to non-target organisms
• least damaging to the general environment
• most likely to produce a permanent reduction of the pest
population
• easiest to carry out effectively
• most cost-effective over the short and long term
69. Employment Of Two Or More
Control Measures
• To qualify as a truly integrated program, at least two types of
control measures must be employed. There are many types
of control measures available to the pest management
professional. These measures fall into several general
categories based upon how pest population suppression is
approached and include habitat modification, changing
human behavior, employment of traps, caulks, etc. and
pesticide applications. They may be grouped into five major
pest control types:
70. SANITATION
• No other non-chemical control measure can have a more
beneficial effect than sanitation. It is the elimination of pest
harborages, water and food sources so as to inhibit the
survival of pests and requires the cooperation of the
customer who is normally the one who provides the sanitary
measures. To be effective in the use of other pest
management procedures (i.e.: mechanical, cultural,
biological and chemical), it is first necessary to ensure
sanitation is addressed.
71. MECHANICAL
• Mechanical, or physical control involves the use of traps,
caulks, seals or barriers to prevent pests from entering,
establishing and living in an undesired location. It may
include any or all of the measures listed next:
• excluding (pest proofing) pests using barriers, including
screens, seals, nets and caulking
• manually removing pests using hands, snares or by
vacuuming
• setting traps, including sticky, electric, light, multiple catch
and snap types
• the use of heat or cold to destroy pests
72. CULTURAL
• Cultural control involves manipulation of the pest's
environment to make it less favorable for the pest to
exist. It may also be referred to as habitat
modification or environmental alteration. To
accomplish this, the customer may have to change
some of their normal practices or habits and thus
make it harder for the pest populations to become
established or to spread.
73. BIOLOGICAL
• Biological control is the use of parasites, predators, or
pathogens to control or manage pests. When available
or sufficiently developed, biological control strategies
tend to be among the least environmentally disruptive
pest control measures. Nematodes, fungus, parasitic
wasps, and even IGR's are all examples of biological
control agents in the urban arena.
74. CHEMICAL
• The final type of control measure is chemical. It should be
the last control measure to be considered when
developing an integrated pest management program
although there may be times when pesticides will have to
be the first control strategy used because of the immediate
need to significantly reduce or eliminate a pest population.
This in no way implies that pesticides may not be an
important part of your program. It does imply, however,
that they should be thought of as one of several control
measures available.
75. Evaluation of Effectiveness
• The final step in the Integrated Pest Management process is the
evaluation of effectiveness. Follow-up inspections enable the pest
management professional to assess and adjust the control measures
that have been employed. There are several reasons for reinspecting
the account:
• Determine effectiveness of previous procedures
• Identify areas overlooked
• Eliminate entry points
• Enhance program effectiveness
• Reapply or revise any pest management procedures as appropriate
• Maintain good customer relations and satisfaction
76. THE IPM TEMPLATE
The IPM template is a formula with which the pest management professional can determine the
appropriate control measures to use. It may be expressed using the following formula:
Account Type + Pest(s) - Restrictions = Control Measures
The key components of the formula are the account type, the pest or pests for which control is
desired, and any restrictions imposed by various factors including the customer, environmental
and legal restrictions. The result is the appropriate control measure or measures to be employed.
77. Insects and Their Relatives
• This portion of the course covers insects develop. These changes are
called metamorphosis. The kinds of changes may vary among different
insect groups, but two general types of metamorphosis predominate, simple
metamorphosis and complete metamorphosis.
• Insects covered are ants and identification, general ant control, specific
carpenter ant control and specific pharaoh ant control.
• The portion also covers cockroaches including, German, brown banded
and oriental. Including is detection, sanitation and control.
78. Ants, Cockroaches (meaning jointed foot).
All arthropods possess the following combination of characteristics which make
them distinctive:
Segmented body
Jointed appendages
Skeleton on the outside of the body (exoskeleton)
Growth involving molting
Insects, as a distinct class of arthropods, also possess the
following combination of characteristics:
Three body regions (head, thorax, abdomen)
Three pairs of legs (restricted to the thorax)
One pair of antennae
Wings (usually) in the adult stage
79. Characteristics of the other common
arthropod groups (classes) are:
•Crustaceans (crayfish, shrimp, sowbugs, pillbugs)
•Five to seven pairs of legs
•Two body regions (cephalothorax and abdomen)
•Two pairs of antennae
80. Arachnids (spiders,
ticks, mites, scorpions)
• Four pairs of legs
• Two body regions (cephalothorax,
abdomen)
• No antennae
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-SA.
83. INSECT GROWTH
• All insects begin their development as
eggs produced by the adult female.
Although a few species, such as aphids,
may also appear to give live birth, this
occurs from the eggs hatching inside the
mother.
• After egg hatch, insects grow in a
series of distinct stages. Each stage
(instar) is separated by a period.
• When the insect sheds (molts). Its
exoskeleton, which is produced during
molting, is larger than the previous one.
• A few hours after a molt, the new
exoskeleton becomes hardened, and
there is no further change in body size
the following molt.
84. INSECT
GROWTH
• Body parts that remain soft,
such as the thorax and
abdomen of caterpillars, may
expand to a limited extent
during the course of an
instar. All growth ceases
following the final molt to the
adult stage of the insect. (A
small fly will remain a small
fly: it is not a "baby" large fly.)
85. As insects develop, there are also changes in
form. These changes are called metamorphosis.
The kinds of changes may vary among different
insect groups, but two general types of
metamorphosis are predominate,
simple metamorphosis and complete
metamorphosis.
Insects undergoing simple metamorphosis have
three basic life forms, egg, nymph and adult. The
nymphs typically pass through three to five
instars. Nymphs and adults often live in the same
habitat, with the principal changes during
metamorphosis being size, body proportions, and
the development of wings.
This Photo by Unknown
author is licensed under
CC BY-NC.
86. Some insects which undergo simple metamorphosis include grasshoppers
and crickets, earwigs, the "true" bugs (Hemiptera), aphids, and related
insects. Insects that undergo complete metamorphosis pass through four
basic life forms -- egg, larva, pupa and adult.
Caterpillars, maggots and grubs are typical examples of larvae. During the larval stage,
there may be three to seven instars, during which the larvae usually feed. The pupal stage
(cocoon, puparia, chrysalid) is a non-feeding stage. During that stage, the insect changes to
the adult form. Adults are usually winged, and they may differ from the larvae in a number of
ways, including type of legs, mouthparts, and feeding habits.
87. • Adults of insects
undergoing complete
metamorphosis are very
different from the larvae
and maybe found in Very
different habitats.
• Insects with complete
metamorphosis include
butterflies and moths,
beetles, flies, and
lacewings.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.
88. ANTS
• Ants are social insects that produce a colony made
of various specialized types of individual ants. Most ants
are known as workers; they are wingless, do most of the
food foraging and rearing of young, and defend the colony.
Eggs are produced by the large queens, which have wings
until after they have mated. Smaller winged ants found in
colonies are the males.
90. •Development of ants involves complete
metamorphosis. Eggs are extremely small. The
developing larvae are fed by the worker ants and
pass through several molts before pupation.
The pupae don’t feed and are immobile, soft and
white. Ant nests usually are produced
underground, and colonies can contain tens of
thousands of workers.
ANTS
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under
CC BY-SA-NC.
91. • The large carpenter ants build
nests in wood, usually wood that is
partially decayed. Ants feed on a
wide variety of different foods.
Sugary materials are preferred by
some species; others mostly feed on
fatty or protein-rich foods. Some ants
are important predators of insect
pests. However, problems with ants
often occur when they forage for
food indoors during the warmer
months. In addition, carpenter ants
can cause structural damage, and
house-infesting species, such as the
pharaoh ant, can mechanically move
disease organisms around. Following
are descriptions of some common
species of ants.
92. • Carpenter ants are the largest ants (one-
fourth to one-half inch). Often they are black
or dark brown, although some eastern plains
species are lighter in color. The most
distinctive habit of carpenter ants is their
nesting in wood. The ants excavate
galleries and pile coarse sawdust at the nest
openings. Unlike termites, carpenter ants
don’t eat wood; instead, they scavenge on
dead insects, insect honeydew, and other
materials. Carpenter ants almost always
nest in wood that is soft because of water
and decay damage. Rarely, nests originating
from damaged wood will later extend into
sound wood, causing structural damage.
Carpenter ants don’t sting, but they can
produce a mildly painful pinch from their
jaws. Carpenter ants are polymorphic
meaning many sizes.
CarpenterAnts
(Camponotus sp.)
93. Field ants
(Formica sp.)
• There are a great many
species of field ants.
These ants are medium-
sized, and they may be
brown, red, black, or any
combination of these
colors. Nesting occurs
outdoors, often near
pavement. The ants are
attracted to sweets.
94. Cornfield ants(Lasius sp.)
• Nests of the cornfield ants
occur in fields and around
homes. Typically, nesting
sites in yards include brick or
stone walls, cracks in the
pavement, beneath rocks,
and sometimes in openings
around foundations. They
don’t nest in the house, but
they often forage inside in
search of sweet materials.
95. Pavement ant(Tetramorium caespitum)
•The pavement ant can be one of the most frequent
nuisance-ants in areas of the state where they have
become established. They are small, blackish-brown
ants with pale legs and antennae. As the name might
suggest, pavement ants commonly nest under
pavement slabs, especially next to lawn areas.
•Rocks and areas under slab-construction homes
also have been commonly used as nest
sites. Foraging in the home most commonly occurs
during summer, but nests adjacent to homes can
allow foraging to occur year-round.
96. One of the most persistently
annoying and hard-to-control
ants in homes is the pharaoh
ant. Pharaoh ants are very
small and yellow or pale red.
Unlike most other ants,
pharaoh ants have adapted
well to nesting indoors, and
colonies may spread
throughout a building. In
addition, pharaoh-ant colonies
readily split into smaller
colonies when disturbed.
Pharaoh ant (Monomorium
pharaonis)
Pharaoh ants have a wide range of foods that include
jellies, grease, cake, and pet food.
97. Thief ant (Solenopsis
molesta)
•The thief ant is one of the
smallest ants found within a
building, similar in size to the
pharaoh ant. However, its habits
differ considerably from many
other ants, since it primarily
develops in association with
colonies of other ant species.
98. Thief ant (Solenopsis
molesta)
•Because of their small size, thief
ants can move around in small
tunnels of other ant colonies and
may move about and kill other
immature ants. Within homes, thief
ants forage on greasy foods.
Nests can occur in a wide variety
of locations, but they are almost
always located outdoors.
99. • General Ant Control
• Sanitation is an important aspect of any ant-control program.
Crumbs, grease, food scraps, and other foods attractive to foraging
workers should be eliminated. Heavy infestations of ants in buildings
are rarely found where thorough sanitation is practiced. Sanitation is
also important to increase the effectiveness of ant-baiting. Most
species of nuisance-ants nest outdoors. Perimeter treatments with
residual sprays applied around foundations can prevent many ants
from foraging indoors.
100. • General Ant Control
• For more permanent control, nests can be located and attacked;
dusts are usually more effective for this than sprays, since the dusts
are more readily tracked into the colony. Also, slow-acting
insecticides such as baits are the most useful, since they allow the
forager time to return to the nest so the poison can be fed in the
colony, killing queens and young.
• Control of some ants, such as carpenter ants and pharaoh ants,
requires more specialized treatment.
101. • Effective control of carpenter ants requires finding the
nest. Carpenter ants don’t accept baits readily, and residual
treatments fail to kill colonies. When carpenter ants are found in a
building, they are either nesting inside the building or nesting outside
the building and entering to forage for food. In some circumstances, an
entire colony may migrate from one nesting site to another, so areas of
wood associated with high moisture. Critical areas include clogged
drain gutters, poorly fitted or damaged siding and flashing, wood-
shingle roofs, hollow porch posts and columns, and leaking doors and
window frames. Look for wood in contact with soil and wood in crawl
spaces or under dirt-filled slab porches. When looking for a nest
indoors, look for:
102. Carpenter Ant Control
•1. Piles of wood debris ejected from the colony. This debris has a shredded quality that looks
somewhat like shavings found in pencil sharpeners. It’s similar to that produced by some wood-boring
beetles that are common in firewood. Sometimes this debris is deposited in the voids in the wall and isn’t
visible.
•2. "Windows" or small openings to the nest. "Windows" may not always be present, since existing
cracks may be used by the ants.
•3. Ant activity. The ants often forage in kitchen pantries, garbage, and other areas for food. Often,
relatively few ants are seen during the day, as they are more active at night.
•4. Swarmers. These may be found trapped in spider webs.
•5. Damaged timbers. The surface may appear solid, but by sounding, the damaged areas can be located.
•Sound detection is sometimes useful in carpenter-ant nest location. An active colony at times produces a
distinct dry, rustling sound that may be heard from outside the nest. Sometimes the noise is very loud, but
generally it can only be heard when conditions are very still and outside noises are at a minimum.
103. Control of carpenter ants
indoors should involve:
•1. Elimination of high-moisture conditions that provide wood conditions
suitable for carpenter-ant nesting.
•2. Insecticide application to nests and nest areas. Dusts are especially effective
in treating nest galleries. Nest treatments may be used with dusts or in
conjunction with sprays. However, spraying or dusting the infested area with
residual insecticides without locating or treating the nest itself usually doesn’t
result in complete control.
•3. Baiting if applied to areas of foraging activity can also aid in colony control and
elimination.
104. • The insecticides should be
applied to reach, areas
inhabited or traveled by the
ants. The extent of the
galleries should be determined
to whatever degree is practical
by careful inspection and
drilling.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-SA.
105. Pharaoh Ant Control
•Pharaoh ants are unusually well-
suited to nesting indoors, and most
colonies will be located within
buildings rather than outdoors.
They are also poorly controlled
with residual sprays, since irritating
chemicals (including solvents and
many cleaners) may cause the
nest to "bud" into separate colonies
that can disperse throughout the
structure.
106. Pharaoh Ant Control
• Use of slow-acting baits has been most
effective for pharaoh-ant control. Sweet baits,
especially mint-apple jelly, are readily accepted
by foraging workers. However, pharaoh ants
may later become saturated by the sweet baits
and no longer accept them. Use of a
combination of fat-based materials, such as
peanut butter and honey, in combination with
sweets are often effective for a longer period
than are sweet baits alone.
107. •To improve bait acceptance, sanitation is essential.
•Failure to restrict other food sources will result in poor bait
acceptance. Since the purpose of baiting is to get the ants to feed on
the bait and return it to the colony, residual insecticides should not be
used in the area of the baiting. It’s also important to avoid use of
volatile cleaners and solvents, which may repel pharaoh ants.
Residual insecticides can be used as a preventive treatment in areas
where ants are not present.
Pharaoh Ant Control
109. Cockroaches are oval, flattened, fast-
moving insects. They have long, hair like
antennae and a broad saddle like plate
(pronotum) that covers the head. Adult
stages of most species have wings, with
the front pair being thickened
and leathery. Cockroaches go through
gradual metamorphosis, with three basic
stages in their life cycle: egg, nymph and
adult. The eggs are laid in bean like egg
capsules, called ootheca, which
may contain several dozen eggs.
110. Cockroaches
These egg capsules are often dropped around food sources or glued
to surfaces, although some cockroaches carry the capsule during its
development. The immature stages are called nymphs.
Several nymphal stages occur, each separated by a molt. The
nymphs generally appear similar to the adult stage, but
They lack wings and are smaller. Typically, two to three months pass
while they complete their life cycle.
111. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are among the oldest group of
insects known, with fossils dating back 200
million years. As a group, the cockroaches
have shown exceptional ability to adapt to
and survive in a wide range of
environments, including human dwellings.
Most cockroaches are capable of
developing on a wide range of food, and
their flattened body form allows them to
move into most areas. Cockroaches have
also developed a high level of resistance to
many commonly used insecticides.
112. Cockroaches can enter
buildings and containers of
all kinds. They also may
enter around loose-fitting
doors and windows and
through utility lines, and they
may travel through sewers.
Once within a home,
Cockroaches tend to prefer
warm, dark, moist shelters
and are often found near
kitchens and food-handling
areas. Since cockroaches
are nocturnal, they are rarely
seen during the day.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-ND.
113. • Aside from their importance as a
household nuisance, they may soil
areas with their salivary secretions
and excrement leaving an unpleasant
odor. Cockroaches and cockroach
parts also produce allergic reactions
in some humans. Cockroaches
haven’t been found to be direct
carriers of human disease.
• However, their habits of feeding on
filth or disease organisms make them
well suited to mechanically
contaminate food or utensils. They
are suspected of helping to spread
diseases such as dysentery, diarrhea,
and food poisoning.
114. •Adults are pale brown to tan and about one-half inch long.
* Adults have wings and are distinguished by having two dark stripes that
run lengthwise along the pronotum, behind the head.
*This species has the highest reproductive potential (number of eggs laid
and shortest life cycle) of the house-infesting cockroaches.
*Females carry their egg capsule, protruding from their abdomen, until
the eggs are ready to hatch.
German Cockroach (Blatella germanica)
115. German Cockroach
(Blatella germanica)
Females produce about four to eight
capsules in their lifetime. Each capsule
contains 30 to 50 eggs, Which hatch in
about 28 days at room temperature. The
eggs usually die if the mother is killed.
Females live an average of 250 days.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.
116. • German cockroaches will generally be found close to
moisture and food, such as in kitchens and other Food
areas, restrooms, and around plumbing fixtures.
Surveys should concentrate in cracks and crevices.
• Under table tops, behind sinks, in cabinets, in motor
areas of refrigerators, in and around kitchen
equipment, and similar sites.
• * Infestations found scattered throughout a building,
including non-food areas, indicate very high
populations.
117. Brown-banded cockroaches are the smallest
of the more common cockroach, slightly
smaller than the German cockroach.
Brown-banded cockroaches vary from light
tan to glossy dark brown in color. The adult
stages are marked with two light-colored
bands at the base of the wings.
Brown-Banded Cockroach (Supella longipalpis)
118. Brown-Banded Cockroach (Supella
longipalpis)
•Brown-banded cockroaches usually glue their egg
capsules to surfaces in dark areas such as cabinets,
chairs, boxes, drawers, and high areas of a building.
Because of this habit, they are easily transported to
new buildings.
*Females produce about 14 capsules during their
lifetime, averaging 18 eggs in each capsule. Eggs
hatch in about 50 to 75 days.
* The adult female may typically live about 200 days.
119. Brown-Banded
Cockroach
(Supella longipalpis)
• Brown-banded
cockroaches tend to
scatter thoroughly through
a building. They prefer
areas of higher
temperature (80 degrees F.
or higher). Brown-banded
cockroaches tend to occur
more often in homes,
apartments, hotels and
hospitals than in stores or
restaurants.
120. •Oriental cockroaches are
not as common as the
brown-banded cockroach
and the German
cockroach.
Oriental
Cockroach
(Blatta orientalis)
121. Oriental Cockroach (Blatta
orientalis)
•* Adults are about one inch long and dark
brown or black in color.
* Wings of the oriental cockroach are short.
Females only have small wing pads, while
males have wings that only cover about
three-fourths of their abdomen.
* Females drop egg capsules in warm,
sheltered areas near a food supply. Each
female produces an average of eight egg
capsules, each containing about160 eggs.
Under room-temperature conditions, eggs
hatch in about 60 days.
122. Oriental Cockroach (Blatta
orientalis)
*Adult females may live about 180 days.
* Oriental cockroaches are almost always found around moist, dark
sites. Common habitats include floor and storm drains, water-meter
boxes, around plumbing fixtures, moist crawl spaces, sewers, and
around garbage.
Oriental cockroaches may be found outdoors during the warmer months
of the year.
*Oriental cockroaches are rather sociable, and clusters of them may be
found in favorable habitats.
They are seldom found high on walls, in high cupboards, or in the upper
floors of buildings.
123. Oriental Cockroach (Blatta orientalis)
• Detection
• The site should be thoroughly surveyed to determine the extent of
the infestation and to identify the type of treatments that will be
required. Fundamental to this is determining the cockroach species
present.
• Since different cockroach species have differing habits, this will
allow treatments to be better targeted. A search should be made of
all suspected hiding places. Since cockroaches are less active
during the day, this can be difficult. "Flushing" sprays of pyrethrins
can be used to irritate cockroaches and cause them to move out of
their hiding areas.
124. Oriental Cockroach (Blatta orientalis)
• Sticky traps can also be useful to help to
detect cockroach activity and monitor the
successfulness of a treatment. Several
different types of traps exist, and some
also contain the sex-attractant chemicals
used by certain cockroach species.
• These traps should be placed in areas
where cockroach activity is suspected,
and they should be checked after a few
days. Traps can also be used to help
control cockroaches, but they aren’t an
effective substitute for other control
practices.
125. Oriental
Cockroach
• Sanitation
• Sanitation is fundamental to
cockroach control. Any methods
that can be used to deny
cockroaches the food, water and
shelter they need will greatly aid
in control. Cleanliness and good
housekeeping are essential.
• Food should be kept in tightly
closed containers and should not
be left exposed. This includes
spilled materials, garbage, food
scraps left in sink areas, and pet
foods. Water is an important need
of cockroaches.
126. Oriental
Cockroach
• Dripping faucets, leaking pipes, and
other sources of moisture should be
eliminated. Bottles and cans to be
recycled should be stored outdoors,
if possible. Sewer openings should
be screened. It’s also important to
remove potential sources of re-
infestation. Cracks, crevices, and
other openings should be sealed.
Pipes should be caulked and sewer
drains screened. All materials being
moved into the building should be
checked for evidence of cockroach
infestation.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND.
127. Several approaches to chemical control are possible. Regardless of the
chemical or formulation chosen, applications made near regular hiding
and breeding places will be most effective, since they allow more
contact.
Chemical controls usually provide only temporary suppression,
especially when they aren’t combined with a vigorous sanitation
effort.
Another serious limitation of insecticides is the development by many
cockroaches of resistance to the chemicals. Many populations of
German cockroaches are no longer susceptible to several
insecticides that formerly were effective.
128. Furthermore, cockroaches are repelled by several chemicals and will avoid treated surfaces.
Often, where no previous control has occurred, the initial treatment consists of a thorough
"cleanup" or "clean-out." During this treatment, sprays or dusts are applied thoroughly
throughout the building. As a result of this thorough treatment, there is often an immediate
reduction in cockroach numbers
CONTROL
129. • CONTROL
• However, cockroaches are rarely eliminated by a single
treatment, since egg capsules aren’t killed. Also, some
cockroaches may remain hidden in, or migrate to untreated
areas. Vacuuming is almost always the best, first treatment
option to quickly reduce the population and prevent
scattering of the infestation. Monitoring with sticky traps
(glue boards) can help determine the success of the
treatment.
131. •Control chemicals can be oil-based
sprays, water-emulsion sprays,
dusts, Insect Growth Regulators
(IGR's) or baits. Choice of the type
of treatment should be matched to
the conditions of the infestation site.
Treatments may involve sprays or
crack and crevice treatments in
order to provide a residual effect.
CONTROL
Crack and Crevice Tip
132. •These applications leave a toxic residue on the treated surface that
cockroaches pick up when moving across it. The length of time that
treatments remain effective varies, depending on such factors as the
concentration of chemical applied, choice of insecticide, and application
surface. Two to four weeks of residual activity is fairly typical with baits,
dusts and IGR's lasting longer.
TREATMENT
Hand Duster
133. •Sprays can be applied to cockroach harborages,
with thorough emphasis on cracks and crevices.
Avoid runoff, and immediately wipe off excess
spray. Oil-based sprays shouldn’t be applied near
open flames, to tile floors, or onto plants. Water-
based sprays shouldn’t be used near electrical
outlets.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-SA.
134. Several precautions should always be taken when making insecticide
applications for cockroach control.
Pets should be removed from the treatment area during application, and all
aquariums should be covered. If Sprays are to be applied to areas where food,
cooking utensils or dishes are stored, these items should be covered or
removed prior to treating. Furthermore, applications around these sites must
be limited to cracks and crevices, avoiding exposed surfaces. Also, treatments
made near air ducts and ventilation systems should be done with extreme care
to avoid air contamination.
135. •Dusts are able to penetrate cockroach hiding areas that sprays
may not reach. They are also useful on very rough surfaces or on
surfaces that would absorb liquid sprays. They may kill the insect
by having the chemical penetrate the insect body or be swallowed
as the cockroach cleans its antennae and legs.
When applied to dry locations, they also last longer than residual
sprays. Dusts should be applied as thin films, since heavy
concentrations can repel cockroaches. Some dusts, such as boric
acid, may be applied in water, which quickly dries, but to be
effective, dusts must remain dry.
Dusts are not appropriate for use in areas where they would be
unsightly or cause contamination problems.
136. •Baits are generally long-lasting and can be applied to areas that
can’t be treated with sprays or dusts. Often, baits may be placed
inside small containers to help keep them away from pets and
humans.
To be effective, baits should be used in small amounts placed in
many locations. Effectiveness of baits is greatly dependent on the
amount of competing food sources available. If sanitation efforts
haven’t been thorough, baits perform poorly.
140. •Over the last several years there has been an
increase in the types of formulations available as a
result of a number of factors including development
costs, competitive pressures, and increased
environmental and safety concerns.
The selection of the proper formulation is as important
as choosing the proper active ingredient. To effectively
choose, several criteria must be considered.
These include the pest, the surface upon which the
application will be made, the location within the
structure, environmental factors, odor and staining
concerns, the potential for harm to non-target
organisms, and finally, the customer themselves.
Without the proper choice of formulation, you cannot
undertake an effective management program.
The IPM
approach to pest
management
can and often
does include the
employment of
chemical control
measures.
141. How to choose the formulations you use
With so many pesticide choices available, it can
often be difficult determining which one to use.
Not only are there several active ingredients from
which to choose, there are also numerous
formulations available. A single active ingredient
for example, may be available more than one
formulation.
142. Why have pesticide
manufacturers developed new
formulations? Several factors
have driven product development
in this direction. These include:
1. Competitive pressures
from other manufacturers
2. Technological
advancements
3. Environmental concerns
and safety issues
143. There are four primary
benefits to developing
new formulations.
• First, they can increase
safety to the environment,
the customer, and you.
• Second, improved
formulations can reduce
waste.
• Third, they enable you to
more effectively target
specific pests and or
locations.
• Fourth, improved
formulations can often
provide enhanced
efficacy.
144. Types of
Formulations
• Pesticides are available in
several formulations. Each
formulation has its own
advantages and
disadvantages such as
ease of mixing and
application, storage,
transport, cleanup,
recommended surface type,
flammability and drift
potential. Let's look at each
of the main formulation
types.
145. Emulsifiable concentrates
• Emulsifiable concentrates - Most
emulsifiable concentrates mix with oil as well
as water to provide the end dilution that is
used for application. They are easy to mix,
require little agitation during use, and there
is little visible residue after application.
Disadvantages are that the solvents may
damage some surfaces or sprayer
components, undiluted product is often
flammable, skin absorption is usually faster
than with non-liquid formulations, the
finished spray conducts electricity, there may
be some solvent odor, and they are easily
absorbed by porous surfaces.
146. Wettable or soluble
powders
• Wettable or soluble powders - These are
concentrated powders containing insecticides
that mix with water to form a suspension or
liquid. They have low to no odor, low cost and
are easily stored, transported and handled. In
addition, they are nonflammable and are not
absorbed by porous surfaces.
• They do, however, require more agitation in
the spray tank than ECs, residues may be
more visible on some surfaces, and there is a
greater inhalation hazard when handling
concentrate than with ECs.
147. Dusts
• Dusts - Contain technical grade pesticides mixed
with a fine material that acts as a carrier, which alone
has little if any effect on pests.
• Advantages of dust are that they are ready for use,
have no solvent problems, work well on porous
surfaces, provide longer residual action than most
spray formulations (often because they contain a
higher percentage of active ingredient than sprays),
and are excellent for penetrating spaces such as wall
voids, attics, pipe ducts and sewers.
• Disadvantages include the potential of drift to non-
target areas, they can be bulky to store, care is
needed to avoid inhalation exposure to technicians
and customers
148. •Often, baits are pesticides mixed with a food material that is
attractive to a pest. Some contain toxicants and kill the pest
directly; others are insect growth regulators and slowly reduce
the pest population. There are insecticide, termiticide, and
rodenticide baits. Baits are formulated as pastes, gels, dry
granules, pellets, seeds, or molded cakes.
The development of new bait formulations, such as gels and
pastes, and the improvements in delivery systems, including
injector systems and bait stations, allow more precise pesticide
application in and around the harborages where the pests are
most likely to be found.
Technological advances have reduced the amount of the active
ingredient needed to achieve effective control and also the
volatility and odor of products. These changes have reduced the
risk of human and pet exposure to pesticides without
compromising effective results.
Baits
149. Baits
• Baits are generally ready for use, they may have
a field life of many weeks, they work on both
porous and non-porous surfaces, they are
particularly effective against pests that forage
widely for food and pests such as social insects
that share their food.
• Baits can be bulky to handle and store, may
deteriorate under damp conditions, they may pose
a serious hazard to non-target species unless
confined to inaccessible sites or tamper-resistant
bait stations, and they often provide poor results
where there are many competing food sources.
150. Aerosols
• These may be ready-to-use pressurized containers that
contain dilute insecticide or they may be produced by special
application equipment by forcing liquids through a nozzle as
they are mixed with air. Advantages include their ready to
use convenience and that they are the best system for space
treatments against dispersed pests such as flies.
• The small droplet size allows fairly uniform dispersal
throughout a void area. Among the disadvantages of
aerosols, many containing liquefied hydrocarbon propellants
such as propane may be flammable and all pressurized
containers must be stored away from heat, overdosing is
easier than with many other formulations, care is needed to
avoid drift to non-target areas and to avoid inhalation
exposure
151. •Granules - Dry formulations that consist of an active ingredient
impregnated onto a dry carrier usually made of clay, corncob or
some other non-reactive material.
•Granules are ready for use, there are no solvent problems, they
perform well on porous as well as non-porous surfaces, they don't
present the drift hazard of sprays and dusts, they sink through
vegetation to the soil surface better than sprays or dust and are
therefore more effective against pests traveling on the soil surface.
•On the downside, they are bulky to handle and store, are not
practical for indoor use, are often more expensive than sprayable
formulation, and may require irrigation for best results.
Granules
152. Microencapsulated
• In a microencapsulated product the active
ingredient is encased in microscopic
permeable capsules that permit only very
slow release of pesticide molecules. The
encapsulation process reduces
environmental degradation of the active
ingredients, they are not absorbed by porous
surfaces, encapsulation reduces the intensity
of odor arising from the active ingredient,
and there is a much lower toxicity than other
formulations of the same active ingredient.
Microencapsulated products may be harder
to mix than other formulations, they require
more agitation than ECs, they may leave
visible deposits on some surfaces, and they
are often more expensive than many
sprayable formulations.
153. Microencapsulated
• Finally, there are several other formulations
on the market including water soluble packs,
liquids-in-a-bag, foams, point source and many
pre-packaged containers. In addition,
continued research ensures that the industry
will have a steady supply of new and improved
formulations from which to choose.
• How do you choose what formulation to use?
• How then do you choose which one to use in
a particular situation?
154. You choose after carefully considering
several criteria:
• Pest - Different pest species are more effectively controlled by some
formulations than others. For example, aerosols are effective in reducing
flying insects while granular insecticides may be more effective in managing
those species that crawl along the outside perimeter. Baits are effective for
cockroaches, ants and termites but not for fleas. In addition, some
formulations are specifically labeled for specific insect species while other
formulations of the same active ingredient are not.
155. You choose after carefully considering
several criteria:
• Surface - The type of surface to be treated will often determine the correct
formulation. Wettable powders are more effective on porous surfaces, for
example, than are emulsifiable concentrates because the active ingredient
remains on the surface. Granules are effective in thatch or mulch areas
because they sift down through and settle where the pests are living.
156. You choose after carefully considering several criteria:
• Location - You must consider where, either in or around the account,
you are going to make a pesticide application. Is it an area that is
restricted or open? Are you going to apply it overhead, in an
unventilated or enclosed area, or below a water table? Will it be in a
location where accidental exposure might occur? Is there a possibility
of non-target organisms either coming in contact with it or being
poisoned?
157. You choose after
carefully
considering
several criteria:
• Environmental factors -
Temperature, humidity,
sunlight, and drift potential
can all influence the
formulation you choose.
• Baits, for example, hold up
well in moderate to warm
temperatures and pose no
drift problems; however, in
high humidity or moisture
conditions they can break
down or mold quickly.
• Emulsifiable concentrates
may be subject to drift and
high temperatures.
158. You choose
after carefully considering
several criteria:
• Odor concerns - In cases where the
customer has concerns about odor,
you will need to ensure that low odor
formulations are used. Many times
the odor of emulsifiable concentrates
comes from the solvents and thus
they may not be good to use.
Wettable powders may also produce
odors that can be offensive or linger.
In these situations, baits and dusts
may be the best choice.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND.
159. Staining
concerns
• Any formulations
containing water may
result in staining
problems.
• Wood, wallpaper,
carpets and many other
surfaces can be stained or
discolored by the
application of plain water
and some of the
insecticides themselves
may stain.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-SA.
160. Non-target organisms
Non-target organisms - the
presence of pets, children,
elderly, or invalids may
preclude the use of certain
formulations. For example, you
can't use a total release aerosol
in an area where people are
present and cannot be moved.
Nor can you use bait in an area
where children might find the
station or the bait itself an
attractive nuisance or where
pets might encounter them.
161. Customer
Customer - Finally, you must consider the desires of the customer when
determining what formulation to use. They may have reservations about
certain types of formulations or may have specific desires regarding
others.
For example, some customers will insist on the use of total release
aerosols while others may not want them used. Some may prefer that
you use dust in void areas or behind baseboards rather than aerosols
or liquids.
Baits may be preferred by some while others may not want you to
use baits. In addition, the cost of treatment may vary depending upon
the formulations you use. As such, this may drive the customer's
request for the use of one type over another.
162. Protecting Groundwater
• In the selection of the product you use, always try to
choose the pesticides that are highly soluble, relatively
stable and not readily adsorbed to soil tend to be the most
likely to leach. Choose pesticides with the least potential
for leaching into groundwater.
• Follow label directions. The label is the law and it
carries critical information you need to know about the
proper application rates, mixing, treatment areas,
including areas to avoid. When using products that
require dilution, mix the correct amount for the job. Adding
more doesn't kill pests any more dead it just wastes
chemical and adds to the increased possibility of off target
contamination.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.
163. Protecting Groundwater
• Calibrate your equipment. If you are
using a 1/2 gallon, 1 gallon or larger
compressed air sprayer or backpack you
still need to know how much is being
applied at how many seconds using
each tip at a consistent pressure. Most
chemical suppliers have 1 gallon
measuring cups you can purchase for
use in calibrating. As an example, a
spray wand with a cone tip verses pin
stream will put out different amounts of
liquid in the same time period with the
same pressure. You should always
select the correct nozzle size and
pressure for the application you are
performing.
164. Bees and other
pollinators
•Restrict the application of pesticides that are toxic to
bees and other pollinators when weeds and flowering
plants are in bloom. Pollinators are very important to
our environment. From a food standpoint, about 1/3
of the food we eat requires pollination.
Do not apply pesticides that are toxic to bees during
bloom. Even shade trees and weeds should not be
sprayed when blooming. Select the pesticide least
harmful to foraging bees. Check the product labels for
specific bee hazards.
165. Bees and other pollinators
• Select the safest formulation. In general,
dusts are more hazardous to bees than
sprays; wettable powders are more
hazardous to bees than either emulsifiable
concentrates or water-soluble formulations.
Granular insecticide formulations are
generally the least hazardous while
microencapsulated formulations can be
quite hazardous. The hazard to the bees
increases when the material can be carried
back to the hive. Since microencapsulated
and dust formulations are picked up with
pollen, they are the most dangerous
because they can affect the brood as well as
other adults fed by the contaminated pollen.
166. Fish and other
vertebrates
• Pesticides can be harmful to all
kinds of vertebrates. Most
recognizable are the direct effects
from acute poisoning. Fish and other
marine life kills often are a direct
result of water pollution by a
pesticide.
• Pesticides can enter water via drift,
surface runoff, soil erosion, leaching,
and in some cases, deliberate or
careless release of the pesticide
directly into the water. Fish kills are
most often caused by insecticide
contamination of small ponds or
streams with low water volume or
turnover.
167. BIRDS
• Birds killed from pesticides can
occur in many ways. Birds can
ingest the toxicant in granules, baits
or treated seed; they may be
exposed directly to the spray; they
may consume a treated food
source; they may drink or use
contaminated water; or they may
feed on pesticide-contaminated
prey. Animals often mistake
granules or pellets for food. Pets,
birds and other wildlife can be killed
when baits are left unattended or
improperly placed. Granule
pesticides are particularly attractive
to birds, since they are often
mistaken for food.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-SA.
168. Personal Environments
*Another environment you must always keep in
mind is the environment in and around the people
you are servicing. Your service cannot have a
negative impact people or pets. An important
consideration is the age of your clients, both very
young, older and any that may be incapacitated in
ways that would not allow them to leave the area of
treatment. Also, considerations must be made for
people on any type oxygen.
*Your choice of chemicals and formulations must be
made with a conscious effort to select the product
that will control the target pest population without
causing harm to occupants.
*If there is a fish aquarium in or near the treatment
area air pumps should be turned off and the tank
covered if any type of product is used that will or
can become airborne.
This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-SA. This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND.
169. Heat Stress and Heat Exhaustion
This course covers heat factors,
PPE, adjusting to heat, signs and
symptoms of heat stress and first
aid.
You'll learn what to look for and
what to do if heat stress or heat
exhaustion happen you or a fellow
worker.
170. Heat Stress
& Heat
Exhaustion
•Illness that occurs when body builds
up more heat than it can cope with
•Wearing personal protective
equipment increases risk.
•Limits body’s ability to cool down
171. Heat factors
•Temperature, humidity, wind,
sunlight
•Workload
•Amount of effort a task involves
•Scheduling
•Personal Protective Equipment
*Water intake
175. Adjusting to Heat
•Allow time to adjust
to the heat and
workload
•Start slowly and
increase time and
workload gradually
•Workers may adjust
naturally if warm
weather occurs
gradually
176. Other Symptoms of Heat Stress:
Heat Cramps
•Painful muscle spasms caused by loss of
body salts from sweating
•Occur in legs, arms, stomach
•Drink cool water or “sports drinks”
•Stretching or kneading muscles will help
relieve cramps
177. Drinking Water
and Sports
Drinks
•Evaporation of sweat cools body
•Water must be replaced or body
temperature will rise. Drink water and
sports drinks throughout the day.
•Drink plenty of water and sports
drinks before, during, and after heat
stress conditions
178. Consider work /
rest cycle.
•Outdoors pause under shade. Keep a wet towel
around your neck.
•In attics continually replenish fluids. Take water
and sports drinks with you or take a break every 30
minutes and get out of the enclosed space.
•Be alert for heat stress problems
•Stop work immediately with heat stress
179. Heat Exhaustion
•Sweating, headache, fatigue
•Dry membranes, dry mouth, no tears, no saliva
•Fast pulse (slow if fainted)
•Nausea and diarrhea
•Dilated pupils
•Central nervous system depression
•Loss of coordination, confusion
•Fainting (prompt recovery)
180. Pesticide Poisoning
•Sweating, headache, fatigue
•Moist membranes, salivation, tears,
saliva present in mouth
•Slow pulse
•Nausea and diarrhea
•Possible small pupils
•Central nervous system depression
•Loss of coordination, confusion
•Coma
181. First Aid
•Get victim into shaded or cool area
•Cool by sponging or splashing skin with cool water
•Concentrate on face, neck, hands and forearms
•Carefully remove PPE and other clothing making victim hot
•If conscious, have victim drink as much cool water as possible
•Keep victim quiet until help arrives
•Brain damage or death may result if treatment is delayed
182. Dealing with Heat Stress
•Take safety precautions to avoid heat related illness
•Recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stress
•Get medical attention immediately
183. Secondary Containers and Service Containers for
Pesticides EPA Guidelines and Recommendations
• Secondary containers and service containers are often used by
pesticide applicators when they are applying a pesticide. EPA
does not require secondary containers or service containers to be
labeled or to meet particular construction standards.
• However, for both types of containers, the applicator is
responsible for following the requirements on the pesticide
product labeling and complying with other relevant requirements
in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)
and other statutes.
184. Secondary Containers and Service Containers for
Pesticides EPA Guidelines and Recommendations
• Given that both secondary and service containers are widely
used, however, EPA has some recommendations for users who
choose to label these containers. These recommendations for
labeling are intended to help ensure the safe use of
pesticides. Any labeling on secondary or service containers
should not conflict with the product labeling.
185. Secondary and Service Containers
• Secondary containers and service containers are similar, but there
are some minor differences, and different terms are used in
different settings. A secondary container is used to apply and/or
store an EPA-registered pesticide and, when it holds the
pesticide, is neither sold nor distributed. Secondary containers are
most commonly used in institutional settings for concentrated
products that are diluted prior to use, or to hold pesticides filled
from a larger container to be used or stored prior to application.
Often secondary containers are filled by end users at the site
where the product will be used.
186. Secondary and Service Containers
• Service containers are containers that are filled with an EPA-
registered pesticide by an applicator and usually transported to a
use site where the pesticide will be applied by the applicator.
Although a product may be temporarily stored in a service
container, the container is not intended for long-term storage. The
term "service container" is often used in the agricultural setting
and by pest control operators. Service containers also are not
used to sell or distribute the pesticide.
187. EPA Recommendations for Labeling Secondary
and Service Containers
• Although the Agency does not require labels on secondary and
service containers, the Department of Transportation (DOT) and
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
requirements may apply. EPA recommends that the applicator
identify the material in the secondary or service container in the
event of a spill to ensure that adequate information regarding the
pesticide can be obtained in case of medical or environmental
emergency. EPA recommends that such labels include the
following information:
188. EPA Recommendations for Labeling Secondary
and Service Containers
• The name, address and telephone number of the applicator/pest
control firm [if applicable].
• Product name.
• EPA registration number.
• Name and percentage of active ingredient.
• If the product in the container is diluted, it should be followed by
the phrase:
“The product in this container is diluted as directed on the
pesticide product label.”
189. EPA Recommendations for Labeling Secondary
and Service Containers
• Signal word and precautionary statements (including First
Aid statements) from the registered label unless the registrant has acute
toxicity data supporting lesser precautionary statements for the diluted
product and alternate directions for the diluted product are indicated on the
product label; and
• The statement:
“Follow the directions for use on the pesticide label when applying
this product.”
• It is a good management practice to ensure that the label for the pesticide
product that has been put into a secondary or service container is available
to any person transporting, handling and/or applying the pesticide.
190. EPA Recommendations for Labeling Secondary
and Service Containers
• EPA also allows registrants to provide labels to users for secondary containers that
are used to apply or temporarily store end-use pesticides, as long as the labels that
accompany the containers are not inconsistent, i.e., have no other statements that
conflict, with the EPA approved pesticide label.
• Can an applicator leave a service container with a customer for the customer to
apply?
• No, if the applicator leaves a filled service container with a customer for the
customer to apply, the container is being used to sell or distribute the pesticide
rather than for the applicator to use the pesticide. This triggers a number of
different requirements. Selling and/or distributing a pesticide requires the product
to be registered with EPA, the product container display full labeling, and
for transfer of the product into a container to occur at a pesticide producing
establishment registered with the EPA.
191. How To Safely Store Pesticides
The storage area should be securely locked. Weatherproof
signs stating “Danger - Pesticides, Keep Out!”, or similar
warning should be hung over every door and window. In
addition, the fire department may have specific posting/placarding
requirements — Check with the fire department’s hazardous
materials division for specific requirements.
Storage areas need to have adequate ventilation to prevent the
buildup of fumes. If possible, store pesticides in an area with a
concrete floor free from drains. An adequate supply of detergent or
soap, hand cleanser, and water are essential in the storage area.
Water can be a quick first aid in a poisoning emergency. A
pesticide storage area should be used only for pesticides and
pesticide equipment. Do not store pesticides near food, feed,
fertilizers, seeds, veterinary medicines, or other stored products.
192. How To Safely Store Pesticides
Store pesticides out of reach of children and pets. Keep pesticides
in a locked cabinet in a well-ventilated utility area.
Never store pesticides in cabinets with or near food, animal feed, or
medical supplies.
Do not store pesticides in places where flooding is possible or
where they might spill or leak into wells, drains, ground water, or
surface water.
Vehicles should have locked storage areas with the same warning
signs as a storage facility. Storage units must be locked at all times.
193. How To Safely Store Pesticides
Always store pesticides and other chemicals in their original
container with their label attached and lid closed tightly. Using food
or drink containers (e.g. soda-pop bottles, milk jugs, fruit jars, or
other types of non-pesticide containers) can have serious
consequences. Small children as well as most adults associate the
shape of a container with its contents. Consequently, a child or
adult may be seriously poisoned or even killed if they drink a
pesticide from an unmarked, secondary container.
194. How To Safely Store Pesticides
Store pesticides and pesticide containers in a separate building,
room, or other secure enclosure where they can be kept cool, dry,
and out of direct sunlight. Protect pesticides from extreme heat
and cold which can cause excessive pressure and containers to
break and leak, and contents to separate or breakdown.
To avoid cross contamination, herbicides should not be stored with
other pesticides. Sacks, cartons, and fiber boxes should be stored
off the floor on wooden pallets or on shelves.
195. How To Safely Store Pesticides
Always keep personal protective equipment (PPE) and a pesticide
spill kit (chemical-resistant gloves, coveralls, and goggles; sorbent
pads and absorbent material such as kitty litter; and a plastic
temporary storage bag or container) readily available in or near the
pesticide storage area. When storing pesticides on shelving, place
liquid formulations on lower shelves and dry formulations above
them.
If a liquid formulation container leaks, the dry formulations will not
be contaminated. Keeping the liquid containers on lower shelving
also helps reduce the risk of accidental spills if the container is
knocked off the shelf.
196. How To Safely Store Pesticides
Post weatherproof signs, stating “Danger - Pesticides - Keep Out!” or a
similar warning on each door and in any windows of the facility. In some
cases, it may be advisable to post the warning signs in one or more
languages in addition to English. Post the name, address, and phone
number of a contact person at the primary entrance to the storage area.
Regardless of whether it is a cabinet, room, or an entire building, the
pesticide storage area should be lockable to prevent unauthorized entry
and should be used only for pesticides and pesticide equipment.
A floor plan, records related to the storage location, and an annual
inventory of the pesticides and containers in storage should be provided
to the local emergency response coordinator as well.
197. How To Safely Store Pesticides
Wooden pallets or metal shelves must be provided for storing
granular and dry formulations packaged in sacks, fiber drums,
boxes, or other water-permeable containers. If metal pesticide
containers are stored for a prolonged period, they should be placed
on pallets, rather than directly on the floor, to help reduce potential
corrosion and leakage.
198. How To Safely Store Pesticides
Heavy or difficult to handle pesticide containers should be stored
on or near the floor to prevent them from being dropped or falling.
Extremely heavy containers should always be placed on floors,
never on shelves. Containers should not extend beyond the edge
of shelves or cabinets where they can be bumped, knocked off, or
broke open. Check containers frequently for cracks and leaks. If a
crack or leak is found, transfer the contents to an empty container
that originally held the same material. Otherwise, dispose of the
contents in the manner prescribed on the product’s label. Clean up
spilled pesticide promptly and thoroughly using proper safety
equipment during the cleanup procedure. Dispose of the pesticide
waste in a proper manner.
199. How To Safely Store Pesticides
The pesticide storage location should be a cool, dry, well-ventilated
area away from sources of heat or flame. Storage areas should
remained locked when not in use. See the pesticide label for
specific storage recommendations. Some pesticides may not be as
effective if they are or have been frozen or overheated. Expansion
of pesticides caused by freezing or heating can cause containers to
crack or break, resulting in potentially dangerous leaks or spills.
Heat expansion of a liquid pesticide also may result in contents that
are under pressure. When the container is opened, the pressure
may cause an overflow and/or contamination of the user or storage
site. Excessively high temperatures (120oF or higher) also can
change the effectiveness of a pesticide and may produce
dangerous fumes, making the storage area unsafe.
200. How To Safely Store Pesticides
To prepare for pesticide applications, remove the pesticide
containers from storage and take them to an open area. Always
measure and mix pesticides in a well-lit, well-ventilated location.
Regardless of whether they are partially or completely emptied,
never leave pesticide containers open or unattended while the
pesticide is being applied.
Return all containers to storage prior to application to prevent
accidental spills, ingestion, or exposure to people, pets, livestock, or
wildlife.
201. How To Safely Store Pesticides
Mixing and applying pesticides requires detailed attention to label
instructions, along with common sense and good judgment. So, too,
does pesticide storage. Being careless or using improper storage
procedures is an open invitation to disaster.