Quality Pro Quality Pro TrainingTraining

““The Mark of Excellence in The Mark of Excellence in Pest Management”Pest Management”

Quality Pro TrainingQuality Pro TrainingPart 1 Part 1

Customer RelationsCustomer Relations

Program at a GlanceProgram at a Glance

Customer RelationsCustomer Relations Pesticide Application Techniques and Pesticide Application Techniques and

EquipmentEquipment PesticidesPesticides PestPest

Customer RelationsCustomer Relations

Part 1Part 1

Customer RelationsCustomer RelationsAppropriate BehaviorAppropriate Behavior

Two-thirds of customers who quit Two-thirds of customers who quit doing business with a company do so doing business with a company do so because of an attitude of indifference because of an attitude of indifference from a company employee. The from a company employee. The employee “just doesn’t seem to employee “just doesn’t seem to care”care”

A good attitude towards customers A good attitude towards customers is easy to recognize!!! is easy to recognize!!!

Respect a customer’s property and time.Respect a customer’s property and time. Take time to explain what you’re doing and why.Take time to explain what you’re doing and why. Show a willingness to listen to comments and Show a willingness to listen to comments and

sympathize with complaints.sympathize with complaints. Be willing to admit mistakes and apologize when Be willing to admit mistakes and apologize when

one’s been made.one’s been made. Do not “pass the buck” to company or coworkers Do not “pass the buck” to company or coworkers

(which just makes your company look bad)(which just makes your company look bad) Follow through on commitments madeFollow through on commitments made Act in a honest and ethical manner. Act in a honest and ethical manner.

A bad attitude with customers is A bad attitude with customers is also easy to recognize. For also easy to recognize. For example:example:

Arrive late; don’t phone ahead; don’t apologize.Arrive late; don’t phone ahead; don’t apologize. Pound on the door or ring the bell repeatedly.Pound on the door or ring the bell repeatedly. Don’t greet the customer, just grunt and begin Don’t greet the customer, just grunt and begin

work.work. Dirty shoes/ coversDirty shoes/ covers Don’t explain what your doing or give guidance.Don’t explain what your doing or give guidance. Argue with your customer.Argue with your customer. Don’t address your customer by name; act like Don’t address your customer by name; act like

you forgot it.you forgot it. Talk about what a crummy job you have and how Talk about what a crummy job you have and how

awful your boss is; throw in a few curse words.awful your boss is; throw in a few curse words. Leave a door or gate open on your way out.Leave a door or gate open on your way out.

Great Customer Service is the Key Great Customer Service is the Key to Account Retentionto Account Retention

Do great professional work.Do great professional work. Be prepared to address unexpected pest Be prepared to address unexpected pest

problems by having adequate equipment and problems by having adequate equipment and supplies availablesupplies available

Be on time. If you must be late. CALL before Be on time. If you must be late. CALL before being latebeing late

Respond right away to messages, problems, and Respond right away to messages, problems, and questionsquestions

Remember your customer’s name.Remember your customer’s name. Be Respectful.Be Respectful. Clean up after your work.Clean up after your work. Offer the extras.Offer the extras.

If you are careless about your If you are careless about your appearance, customers will assume appearance, customers will assume

you are careless about your workyou are careless about your work Attend to personal grooming and Attend to personal grooming and

habits.habits. Wear a clean fresh uniform each day.Wear a clean fresh uniform each day. Shine or otherwise clean your shoes Shine or otherwise clean your shoes

each day/ shoe covers.each day/ shoe covers. Make sure your equipment is clean Make sure your equipment is clean

and well- maintained.and well- maintained.

Do not smoke on your customer’s Do not smoke on your customer’s propertyproperty

In these health- conscious times, In these health- conscious times, many people are offended when many people are offended when someone “lights up.”someone “lights up.”

Many customers regard a smoking Many customers regard a smoking break as a theft of the time they are break as a theft of the time they are paying for.paying for.

Smoking and pesticide use can be Smoking and pesticide use can be dangerous.dangerous.

Keep your conversations with Keep your conversations with customers professionalcustomers professional

Do not complain about your work, Do not complain about your work, your boss, or your personal life.your boss, or your personal life.

Do not criticize other people (co-Do not criticize other people (co-workers, competitors, politicians, workers, competitors, politicians, etc.)etc.)

Do not discuss politics, religion, sex, Do not discuss politics, religion, sex, or other controversial subjects.or other controversial subjects.

Do not discuss the pest problems of Do not discuss the pest problems of other customer’s. other customer’s.

Do not criticize other companies Do not criticize other companies

When you point fingers at the When you point fingers at the shortcomings of other companies it harms shortcomings of other companies it harms the image of the industry as a whole.the image of the industry as a whole.

If you disrespect other companies, they If you disrespect other companies, they might just do the same to you someday.might just do the same to you someday.

Most customer’s do not want to hear you Most customer’s do not want to hear you say bad things about your competitors; it say bad things about your competitors; it makes them uncomfortable and it is makes them uncomfortable and it is unprofessional.unprofessional.

Customers safety rulesCustomers safety rules

Be sure to comply with all customers’ Be sure to comply with all customers’ rules on safety and PPErules on safety and PPE

Be informed don’t assumeBe informed don’t assume

Make a GREAT Last Impression!Make a GREAT Last Impression!

Remove all your equipment and Remove all your equipment and trash from your work.trash from your work.

Explain your service. And the Explain your service. And the benefits.benefits.

Explain the expectations. Explain the expectations. Realistically!Realistically!

Thank them for choosing RoseThank them for choosing Rose

No sexual harassmentNo sexual harassment

Never engage in any form of sexual Never engage in any form of sexual harassment to customers, coworkers, or harassment to customers, coworkers, or anyone else on the job.anyone else on the job.

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual sexual advances, request for sexual favors, verbal or physical conduct of a favors, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.sexual nature.

Verbal or physical conduct of a sexual Verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature includes touching, hugs, pinching, nature includes touching, hugs, pinching, sexual jokes and banter, lewd gestures, sexual jokes and banter, lewd gestures, sexual pictures, suggestive remarks.sexual pictures, suggestive remarks.

Driving and Customer RelationsDriving and Customer Relations

Do not block a customer’s driveway Do not block a customer’s driveway with your vehicle.with your vehicle.

Do not drive or park on the lawn.Do not drive or park on the lawn.

Never drive while impairedNever drive while impaired

Do not drive when your alertness or ability Do not drive when your alertness or ability is impaired by fatigue or illness.is impaired by fatigue or illness.

Do not drink and driveDo not drink and drive Do not drive under the influence of drugs.Do not drive under the influence of drugs. Do not consume an intoxicating beverage Do not consume an intoxicating beverage

within four hours before operating a motor within four hours before operating a motor vehicle.vehicle.

Do not have any measured alcohol Do not have any measured alcohol concentration when operating a motor concentration when operating a motor vehicle. vehicle.

Obey all traffic lawsObey all traffic laws

Your driving reflects on the companyYour driving reflects on the company Do not drive too fast for road Do not drive too fast for road

conditions.conditions. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle Keep a safe distance from the vehicle

in front of you.in front of you. Drive defensively and follow safe Drive defensively and follow safe

driving practices at all times.driving practices at all times.

Avoid distractions while drivingAvoid distractions while driving

Things to avoid while driving include Things to avoid while driving include eating, drinking, reading or writing, eating, drinking, reading or writing, grooming, and operating complex grooming, and operating complex equipment.equipment.

Be safe when using cell phonesBe safe when using cell phones

Use a hands free device or pull of the Use a hands free device or pull of the road to make or complete a call.road to make or complete a call.

Be familiar with cell phone features Be familiar with cell phone features such as voice activation, speed dial, such as voice activation, speed dial, and redial.and redial.

Allow your voice mail to answer a call Allow your voice mail to answer a call if traffic is heavy or driving conditions if traffic is heavy or driving conditions are poor. are poor.

Be especially careful when backing, Be especially careful when backing, there may be a child or petthere may be a child or pet

Walk back and look at your path Walk back and look at your path before backing.before backing.

Avoid backing whenever you can.Avoid backing whenever you can. When you park, try to park so you When you park, try to park so you

will be able to pull forward when you will be able to pull forward when you leave.leave.

Back slowlyBack slowly Back and turn towards the drivers Back and turn towards the drivers

side when possibleside when possible

Avoid “Road Rage”Avoid “Road Rage”

Act responsibly, don’t react in anger.Act responsibly, don’t react in anger. Give the other driver and yourself Give the other driver and yourself

time to cool down.time to cool down. Stay in control.Stay in control. Avoid eye contact, horn honking, Avoid eye contact, horn honking,

light flashing, and gestures.light flashing, and gestures.

Customer CommunicationsCustomer Communications

Good communications are necessary for Good communications are necessary for Pest Management to work.Pest Management to work.

Many customer’s do not understand the Many customer’s do not understand the connection between pest and sanitation, connection between pest and sanitation, clutter, cracks, and holes in walls, etc.clutter, cracks, and holes in walls, etc.

Homeowners, building maintenance and Homeowners, building maintenance and grounds personal need to understand pest grounds personal need to understand pest proofing and other steps they can take to proofing and other steps they can take to keep pest from entering buildings.keep pest from entering buildings.

CommunicationsCommunications

Residents and housekeeping staff Residents and housekeeping staff can learn to find and give special can learn to find and give special attention to areas with sanitation attention to areas with sanitation problems.problems.

Food service workers need to Food service workers need to understand the connection between understand the connection between inadequate sanitation and pest inadequate sanitation and pest problems.problems.

Great Communications will reduce Great Communications will reduce call backscall backs

Customer’s often have unrealistic Customer’s often have unrealistic expectations; for example, they may expectations; for example, they may expect immediate elimination of pest expect immediate elimination of pest when it actually may take weeks.when it actually may take weeks.

Customers may have to take action Customers may have to take action themselves in order for Pest themselves in order for Pest Management to work (better trash Management to work (better trash management, pest proofing, fixing a management, pest proofing, fixing a leak)leak)

CommunicationsCommunications

Give customers information about Give customers information about pests at their site.pests at their site.

Where the pest lives and breeds.Where the pest lives and breeds. What conditions caused the problem.What conditions caused the problem. Use your IPM reports on every stopUse your IPM reports on every stop

Describe your service to your Describe your service to your customerscustomers

What you are going to do and whyWhat you are going to do and why What to expect from the service; what not What to expect from the service; what not

to expect.to expect. The cost of service, WarrantyThe cost of service, Warranty Preparations prior to the service.Preparations prior to the service. OdorOdor When will they see results, how long will it When will they see results, how long will it

work.work. Precautions the customer must take.Precautions the customer must take.

Describe follow up actionDescribe follow up action

Schedule for any additional services Schedule for any additional services that may be needed.that may be needed.

Steps the client can take to help Steps the client can take to help prevent the problem from coming prevent the problem from coming back.back.

Communication and the absent Communication and the absent clientclient

Informational handoutsInformational handouts Service reportsService reports IPM reportsIPM reports Conversations between tech and Conversations between tech and

client.client.

Never make up an answer to a Never make up an answer to a customer’s questioncustomer’s question

If you don’t know the answer, say so.If you don’t know the answer, say so. Offer to get the information and get back Offer to get the information and get back

to them. Then make sure you do.to them. Then make sure you do. Write the question down to make sure you Write the question down to make sure you

get it right.get it right. Don’t try to answer medical questions . Don’t try to answer medical questions .

Tell your customer that you are not a Tell your customer that you are not a medical expert and that a physician should medical expert and that a physician should answer these type of questions.answer these type of questions.

Don’t put off bad newsDon’t put off bad news

Otherwise, when a customer finds out, the Otherwise, when a customer finds out, the customer likely will never trust our customer likely will never trust our company again.company again.

If you are going to be late call prior.If you are going to be late call prior. If you damage or break something don’t If you damage or break something don’t

try to hide it let the customer and us try to hide it let the customer and us know.know.

If your treatment failed, let them know and If your treatment failed, let them know and what additional steps you are going to what additional steps you are going to take.take.

Studies show that customer’s Studies show that customer’s tell at least twice as many tell at least twice as many

people about their bad people about their bad experiences than their good experiences than their good

ones!!!ones!!!

Single most important thing when Single most important thing when handling a customers complainthandling a customers complaint

Listen carefully to the customers complaint.Listen carefully to the customers complaint. Don’t tune the customer out because they are making you Don’t tune the customer out because they are making you

uncomfortable, or if you think you know what the complaint uncomfortable, or if you think you know what the complaint is about.is about.

Do not interrupt.Do not interrupt. Watch your body language; make eye contact, lean Watch your body language; make eye contact, lean

forward, look interested, nod.forward, look interested, nod. Do not argue. Respond if they ask you a question, but Do not argue. Respond if they ask you a question, but

remember your main purpose is to listen so you can remember your main purpose is to listen so you can understand the complaint.understand the complaint.

Take notes. It demonstrates your willingness to see the Take notes. It demonstrates your willingness to see the problem is resolved, and it documents the important problem is resolved, and it documents the important details.details.

Whenever there is a complaint or a Whenever there is a complaint or a conflict with a customer, be conflict with a customer, be courteous, understanding and courteous, understanding and diplomatic.diplomatic.

Avoid confrontation.Avoid confrontation. Never embarrass your customer even if Never embarrass your customer even if

you are right and he is wrong.you are right and he is wrong. Don’t let them draw you into a argument.Don’t let them draw you into a argument. Let them know by your words and actions Let them know by your words and actions

that you are there to resolve the issue.that you are there to resolve the issue.

Every complaint requires a Every complaint requires a responseresponse

Never do nothing.Never do nothing. Solve the problem on the spot if you can.Solve the problem on the spot if you can. Offer alternative solutions if you can.Offer alternative solutions if you can. Do not make a promise that can not be fulfilled.Do not make a promise that can not be fulfilled. If you can not solve the problem, or if you do not If you can not solve the problem, or if you do not

agree with your customer’s position, let them agree with your customer’s position, let them know you will refer the matter to your supervisor.know you will refer the matter to your supervisor.

Provide your supervisor with written details of the Provide your supervisor with written details of the complaint as soon as possible. complaint as soon as possible.

Resolving your customer’s complaint Resolving your customer’s complaint will improve your work and better will improve your work and better

your companies imageyour companies image

It is far better to receive a complaint and resolve It is far better to receive a complaint and resolve it than it is for the customer to just fire us.it than it is for the customer to just fire us.

A complaint gives you the chance to correct a A complaint gives you the chance to correct a problem or provide the level of service your problem or provide the level of service your customer was expecting in the first place.customer was expecting in the first place.

If you resolve a complaint, you will typically build If you resolve a complaint, you will typically build more loyalty than if a problem had never more loyalty than if a problem had never occurred.occurred.

Complaints help you identify areas of your service Complaints help you identify areas of your service that may need improvement, and gives you that may need improvement, and gives you opportunity to correct these prior to future opportunity to correct these prior to future cancellations. cancellations.

Telephone EtiquetteTelephone Etiquette

Market research shows 85% of Market research shows 85% of customers rank telephone customers rank telephone courtesy high in their decision on courtesy high in their decision on who they do business with.who they do business with.

50 % of customer’s will refuse to 50 % of customer’s will refuse to do business with a company if do business with a company if they feel they received poor they feel they received poor customer service over the customer service over the phone.phone.

Our Companies reputation is on the Our Companies reputation is on the line with every incoming call.line with every incoming call. Good telephone etiquette can create good Good telephone etiquette can create good

will and set the tone for strong customer will and set the tone for strong customer relationships.relationships.

Your personality comes over a telephone Your personality comes over a telephone line as clearly as your voice.line as clearly as your voice.

Smile and your voice smiles.Smile and your voice smiles. Your customer overlays your personality Your customer overlays your personality

on to the company itself; to your customer on to the company itself; to your customer , you are the company., you are the company.

Answer the phone by the third ringAnswer the phone by the third ring

Longer and callers get antsy, and Longer and callers get antsy, and begin to wonder about the staffing begin to wonder about the staffing level and professionalism of the level and professionalism of the company.company.

Answering to soon will also make Answering to soon will also make them uneasy, most have not gotten them uneasy, most have not gotten themselves quite ready for a themselves quite ready for a conversation until the second ring.conversation until the second ring.

There are three things to include There are three things to include when answering the telephonewhen answering the telephone

Greeting- “Thank you for calling Greeting- “Thank you for calling Rose”Rose”

Your name. “this is ________ Your name. “this is ________ Speaking”Speaking”

““How may I help you”? How may I help you”?

Take notes and listen carefullyTake notes and listen carefully

If the caller doesn’t tell you their If the caller doesn’t tell you their name, ask for it right away and write name, ask for it right away and write it down.it down.

Avoid using first names; some people Avoid using first names; some people are greatly offended by such are greatly offended by such informality, while very few mind informality, while very few mind being addressed formally on initial being addressed formally on initial contact.contact.

Be courteous when placing callers Be courteous when placing callers on holdon hold

Always ask them first, since they Always ask them first, since they may prefer you call back.may prefer you call back.

Return to callers on hold every 20-30 Return to callers on hold every 20-30 seconds, so they know they have not seconds, so they know they have not been forgotten, otherwise you will been forgotten, otherwise you will lose them in less than a minute, on lose them in less than a minute, on average. average.

When transferring a call give a When transferring a call give a namename

If you have transferred a call, check If you have transferred a call, check to make sure the call actually to make sure the call actually transferred, and that the caller is not transferred, and that the caller is not hanging on a dead line.hanging on a dead line.

Always return callsAlways return calls

A call not returned is a broken A call not returned is a broken promise!!!promise!!!

A quick way to lose a customerA quick way to lose a customer

When scheduling callbacksWhen scheduling callbacks

Get complete and detailed Get complete and detailed information about the nature of the information about the nature of the problem.problem.

Be courteous and helpful even when Be courteous and helpful even when your customer is rude and abrupt.your customer is rude and abrupt.

Sales TechniquesSales Techniques

A hot prospect for a sale is one who A hot prospect for a sale is one who is highly motivated to do business is highly motivated to do business with our company.with our company.

Selling time is best spent on hot Selling time is best spent on hot prospectsprospects

You can develop hot prospectsYou can develop hot prospects But you will still have to call on other But you will still have to call on other

prospects, some not very hot at all. prospects, some not very hot at all.

A sales prospect can be hot or cold A sales prospect can be hot or cold depending on certain criteriadepending on certain criteria

How serious the problem is (cold= minor How serious the problem is (cold= minor problem, hot= facing financial loss or fear problem, hot= facing financial loss or fear of pest)of pest)

The customers impression of you (cold= The customers impression of you (cold= never heard of you, hot= recommended never heard of you, hot= recommended by a friend)by a friend)

The prospect’s current service (cold= The prospect’s current service (cold= satisfied with service, hot= not happy with satisfied with service, hot= not happy with service provider)service provider)

Timing of callTiming of call

Hot prospects can be developedHot prospects can be developed

Seek out referralsSeek out referrals Call on existing customers for add on Call on existing customers for add on

services.services. Establish a follow up system for Establish a follow up system for

future sales.future sales. Make a cold call and turn the cold Make a cold call and turn the cold

contact into a hot prospect through contact into a hot prospect through good salesmanship.good salesmanship.

A referral is a hot prospect that you A referral is a hot prospect that you get from a person that knows you get from a person that knows you and the prospectand the prospect

One type of referral is when a One type of referral is when a customer gives you the name; for customer gives you the name; for example, “why don’t you go see Bill example, “why don’t you go see Bill next door? He told me he was having next door? He told me he was having a problem with yellowjackets”.” a problem with yellowjackets”.”

Another type is when the client gives Another type is when the client gives your name and number to the your name and number to the prospect to call you.prospect to call you.

You can increase your referrals by You can increase your referrals by your own actions your own actions

After a service call ask your clients if they After a service call ask your clients if they know of anyone else that may need your know of anyone else that may need your services.services.

Leave a few business cards with your Leave a few business cards with your clients and ask them to pass them on to clients and ask them to pass them on to anyone that may need your services.anyone that may need your services.

Survey your current customer’s in person Survey your current customer’s in person or by phone and ask if they are satisfied or by phone and ask if they are satisfied with their service. If so ask for a referral. with their service. If so ask for a referral.

You can also use your existing You can also use your existing customer’s as leads to new customer’s as leads to new businessbusiness

Managers and workers at commercial Managers and workers at commercial accounts may be interested in your accounts may be interested in your service at their residence.service at their residence.

Your residential customers may own Your residential customers may own businesses that need service.businesses that need service.

Contact former and current Contact former and current customer’s when a seasonal pest customer’s when a seasonal pest becomes active.becomes active.

Institute a follow up- system Institute a follow up- system “Tickler File” a prospect that may “Tickler File” a prospect that may

become hot in the futurebecome hot in the future

Any prospect that turned you down Any prospect that turned you down due to a financial restraint because due to a financial restraint because of timing.of timing.

Seasonal repeaters such as mosquito Seasonal repeaters such as mosquito control.control.

A Cold call is personal contact A Cold call is personal contact with a prospect you don’t know, with a prospect you don’t know,

that you do not have any that you do not have any connection with, and whose connection with, and whose

needs you don’t know.needs you don’t know.

Certain techniques can help you Certain techniques can help you get the most from cold callsget the most from cold calls

Pick a single category (small commercial Pick a single category (small commercial accounts, residential neighborhoods, accounts, residential neighborhoods, hotels) or a limited geographic area based hotels) or a limited geographic area based on our marketing plans.on our marketing plans.

Concentrate you efforts in a geographic Concentrate you efforts in a geographic area to maximize your effort and minimize area to maximize your effort and minimize your time.your time.

Use existing routes and fill in holes.Use existing routes and fill in holes. Make every call a planned call; know what Make every call a planned call; know what

you are going to say before you begin.you are going to say before you begin.

Very few cold calls will result in Very few cold calls will result in a direct sale, but a certain a direct sale, but a certain percentage can raise a prospect percentage can raise a prospect from cold to hot… or at least from cold to hot… or at least warm.warm.

Once the prospect becomes Once the prospect becomes warmer, it is time to make your warmer, it is time to make your basic sales presentation, 5 basic sales presentation, 5 elements.elements.

The openingThe opening Inspection and questionsInspection and questions RecommendationsRecommendations Handling questions and objectionsHandling questions and objections Close and follow-upClose and follow-up

The opening should explain your The opening should explain your presence and reduce the presence and reduce the prospect’s apprehensionprospect’s apprehension

A low key approach is best- be non A low key approach is best- be non threatening.threatening.

Smile and look into your prospect’s Smile and look into your prospect’s eyes.eyes.

DO not jump immediately into the DO not jump immediately into the sale.sale.

Introduce yourself and state the Introduce yourself and state the reason for your call.reason for your call.

Cont’dCont’d

Include any connection with the Include any connection with the prospect– a referral, or the fact that prospect– a referral, or the fact that you were working in the area, etc.you were working in the area, etc.

Make it short and move quickly on to Make it short and move quickly on to the next element, which directly the next element, which directly involves the prospect.involves the prospect.

Even if you feel you know Even if you feel you know what the problem is, the what the problem is, the

inspection/ question inspection/ question element is necessaryelement is necessary

The prospect will not have The prospect will not have confidence in you unless you take confidence in you unless you take

the time to obtain information the time to obtain information about the structure and the pest about the structure and the pest

at the siteat the site

Good inspection technique and Good inspection technique and proper assessment of proper assessment of

infestations is not only important infestations is not only important to designing a management to designing a management plan, but is essential for your plan, but is essential for your

sales success!!!!sales success!!!!

There are three main reasons for There are three main reasons for asking questions of your sales asking questions of your sales prospectprospect

Some of the answers help you identify the Some of the answers help you identify the nature and scope of the infestation.nature and scope of the infestation.

Some of the answers help you determine Some of the answers help you determine information about the prospect’s buying information about the prospect’s buying decision (who decides, when will the decision (who decides, when will the decision be made)decision be made)

The process keeps the prospect involved The process keeps the prospect involved in the sales presentation. in the sales presentation.

Your recommendation is your Your recommendation is your proposal to provide serviceproposal to provide service

Describe the extent of the problem.Describe the extent of the problem. Present your solution.Present your solution. Clearly state the benefits Clearly state the benefits to the to the

prospect prospect of our companies service.of our companies service. Provide “proof” of these benefits Provide “proof” of these benefits

(how the benefits come about, how (how the benefits come about, how you have solved similar problems at you have solved similar problems at similar locations).similar locations).

We are unique- use these traits We are unique- use these traits

Handling objections is a normal Handling objections is a normal part of any sales presentation part of any sales presentation

If the prospect is not asking questions you If the prospect is not asking questions you probably are not getting through.probably are not getting through.

Welcome questions and objections as an Welcome questions and objections as an indication of interest and involvement in indication of interest and involvement in your presentation.your presentation.

Questions and objections are also a guide Questions and objections are also a guide to what your prospect is thinking and so it to what your prospect is thinking and so it lets you fine- tune your presentation. lets you fine- tune your presentation.

Listen carefully to questions and Listen carefully to questions and objectionsobjections

Jot down notes after asking for the clients Jot down notes after asking for the clients permission.permission.

Do not interrupt, even if you know what Do not interrupt, even if you know what the prospect is going to say.the prospect is going to say.

Follow the 80/20 rule of sales: listen 80% Follow the 80/20 rule of sales: listen 80% of the time, talk 20% of the time.of the time, talk 20% of the time.

Watch the prospects facial expressions Watch the prospects facial expressions and body language.and body language.

Ask questions of the prospect to pin down Ask questions of the prospect to pin down the specific objection. the specific objection.

Answer questions and respond to Answer questions and respond to the objections sympatheticallythe objections sympathetically

Agree with legitimate concerns.Agree with legitimate concerns. Present facts that refute objections.Present facts that refute objections. Offset concerns with benefits.Offset concerns with benefits. For some objections, the best For some objections, the best

response is to give the names of response is to give the names of satisfied customers.satisfied customers.

Emphasize IPM benefitsEmphasize IPM benefits Less use of pesticides and exposure to pesticides.Less use of pesticides and exposure to pesticides. Reduced liability and risk of lawsuits.Reduced liability and risk of lawsuits. Improved long-term control of insects.Improved long-term control of insects. Preventive rather than reactive.Preventive rather than reactive. Detailed record- keeping and that documents Detailed record- keeping and that documents

success and identifies and tracks problems.success and identifies and tracks problems. Easy to defend, support from researchers, Easy to defend, support from researchers,

regulators, educators and politicians. regulators, educators and politicians. The “latest and most advanced technology”The “latest and most advanced technology”

Closing is the logical end to the Closing is the logical end to the sales processsales process

No sales call is complete without an No sales call is complete without an attempt to get a commitment from the attempt to get a commitment from the prospect.prospect.

The best time to close is when the The best time to close is when the prospect gives you a buying signal.prospect gives you a buying signal.

Common buying signals include the Common buying signals include the prospect’s agreement with a main point or prospect’s agreement with a main point or a series of points, and the prospect’s a series of points, and the prospect’s expression of satisfaction with the answer expression of satisfaction with the answer you have given to a objection. you have given to a objection.

A trial close is a question to the A trial close is a question to the prospect that will provide a prospect that will provide a buying commitment if the buying commitment if the

response is favorable, but that response is favorable, but that won’t close the door on the sale won’t close the door on the sale

if the answer is unfavorable.if the answer is unfavorable.

Trial ClosesTrial Closes

An example of a trial close is, when An example of a trial close is, when would it be convenient for us to do would it be convenient for us to do this?this?

Use a trial close as early as you can.Use a trial close as early as you can. If the prospect responds negatively, If the prospect responds negatively,

continue with your presentation.continue with your presentation. If the prospect responds favorably, If the prospect responds favorably,

wrap up the sale with the final close. wrap up the sale with the final close.

If the close fails, Follow-up action is If the close fails, Follow-up action is necessary!!! (I’ll think about it)necessary!!! (I’ll think about it) Ask a question to bring out an Ask a question to bring out an

objection or question that you objection or question that you haven’t adequately addressed.haven’t adequately addressed.

Leave yourself an opportunity to call Leave yourself an opportunity to call back or revisit later.back or revisit later.

Watch out for the sins of selling that Watch out for the sins of selling that can lose sales and damage can lose sales and damage reputationreputation

Not knowing the details of the service to Not knowing the details of the service to be provided.be provided.

Promising an answer and not following Promising an answer and not following through.through.

Presuming a personal relationship with a Presuming a personal relationship with a prospect that doesn’t exist.prospect that doesn’t exist.

Being late for appointments.Being late for appointments. Promising what can’t be delivered.Promising what can’t be delivered. Not listening.Not listening. Not understanding a prospect’s business Not understanding a prospect’s business

operations and concerns.operations and concerns.

Sales Techniques for TechniciansSales Techniques for Technicians

Techs are in a unique position to find new pest Techs are in a unique position to find new pest control business and have many selling control business and have many selling opportunities.opportunities.

Techs work where the action is.Techs work where the action is. Techs know what pests are hot.Techs know what pests are hot. Technicians move around town.Technicians move around town. Techs know when buildings are being renovated Techs know when buildings are being renovated

and when new construction is being built.and when new construction is being built. Techs know when a customer’s child brings home Techs know when a customer’s child brings home

a stray puppy or if the neighbors are talking a stray puppy or if the neighbors are talking about rats. about rats.

Technicians sales opportunities Technicians sales opportunities come in two categoriescome in two categories

““Add-ons” to existing customers.Add-ons” to existing customers. New service to neighbors, either New service to neighbors, either

residential or commercial.residential or commercial.

Techs should get in the habit of Techs should get in the habit of inspecting each account for inspecting each account for potential pest problems during potential pest problems during regular serviceregular service

Inspect the account as though it were the Inspect the account as though it were the first visit; pretend you are seeing it for the first visit; pretend you are seeing it for the first time.first time.

Look not only for pests you’re supposed to Look not only for pests you’re supposed to control during their regular service, but control during their regular service, but also pests and conditions not covered also pests and conditions not covered under the regular pest control agreement.under the regular pest control agreement.

Always check for wood destroying Always check for wood destroying insects and moisture conditionsinsects and moisture conditions

Inspect for Moisture conditions in crawl Inspect for Moisture conditions in crawl spaces.spaces.

Inspect for Termites, PPB, Woodborers, Inspect for Termites, PPB, Woodborers, persistent insect problems.persistent insect problems.

Check outside foundation as wellCheck outside foundation as well Keep an eye out for water pooling against Keep an eye out for water pooling against

the foundation after a rain, wet crawl the foundation after a rain, wet crawl spaces, water stains, fungus, and other spaces, water stains, fungus, and other signs of moisture problems in your signs of moisture problems in your accounts. accounts.

If you find a problem, explain to If you find a problem, explain to your customer how high your customer how high

moisture levels can lead to moisture levels can lead to wood rot, termites, and other wood rot, termites, and other

pest problems. Most people do pest problems. Most people do not understand the connection not understand the connection between moisture and pests.between moisture and pests.

Quality Pro TrainingQuality Pro TrainingPart 2Part 2

Pesticide ApplicationPesticide Application

Techniques & EquipmentTechniques & Equipment

Integrated Pest ManagementIntegrated Pest Management

Integrated Pest Management is a Integrated Pest Management is a system that was originally designed system that was originally designed for agriculture uses over 50 years for agriculture uses over 50 years ago. IPM focuses on managing pests ago. IPM focuses on managing pests through removal of habitat, food and through removal of habitat, food and water.water.

IPM Includes:IPM Includes:

InspectionInspection IdentificationIdentification Establishment of threshold levelsEstablishment of threshold levels Implementation of control measuresImplementation of control measures Monitoring of the effectiveness of the Monitoring of the effectiveness of the

controls. controls.

Insecticide Bait ApplicationInsecticide Bait Application An insecticide bait application is the An insecticide bait application is the

placement of a food attractant bait placement of a food attractant bait into specific sites that vary into specific sites that vary depending on the pest being baited.depending on the pest being baited.

Insecticide baits used indoors are Insecticide baits used indoors are usually applied as a gel.usually applied as a gel.

Baits are also available in Baits are also available in containerized bait stations, as containerized bait stations, as granules, in paste forms, or in sealed granules, in paste forms, or in sealed tubes for termites control.tubes for termites control.

Gel Baits are usually applied using Gel Baits are usually applied using a crack and crevice injection tipa crack and crevice injection tip

Some are prepackaged in their own Some are prepackaged in their own syringe-type applicators.syringe-type applicators.

Others are packaged in tubes Others are packaged in tubes designed to be used with special bait designed to be used with special bait guns.guns.

Containerized baits are Containerized baits are placed along foraging routes placed along foraging routes

of pests or in hiding areas of pests or in hiding areas such as the back corners of such as the back corners of

kitchen cabinets.kitchen cabinets.

Containerized baitsContainerized baits

Granular baitsGranular baits

Scattered by handScattered by hand Granule spreaderGranule spreader Placed in bait stationsPlaced in bait stations Granule baits are mainly used Granule baits are mainly used

outside for cockroaches, crickets, outside for cockroaches, crickets, ants, and other perimeter pest.ants, and other perimeter pest.

Termite BaitsTermite Baits

Usually impregnated into cellulose Usually impregnated into cellulose materials in sealed tubes which are materials in sealed tubes which are installed into the ground.installed into the ground.

Above ground stations are also Above ground stations are also available. available.

Granular baits are primarily Granular baits are primarily used for outside applications used for outside applications for Occasional invaders, for Occasional invaders, Roaches, Ants, CricketsRoaches, Ants, Crickets

Insecticide gels and container baits are used primarily for Roaches, Ants, Termites

For Cockroaches, gel baits are applied For Cockroaches, gel baits are applied as small spots or beads in or near dark, as small spots or beads in or near dark, protected harborages, or aggregation protected harborages, or aggregation sites where spotting is seen.sites where spotting is seen.

Typical baiting are in cracks and crevices or Typical baiting are in cracks and crevices or small voids such as pipe chases, inside and small voids such as pipe chases, inside and behind cabinets, under sinks, in drawer slides, behind cabinets, under sinks, in drawer slides, and behind and under appliances.and behind and under appliances.

Gel baits should only be reapplied when needed.Gel baits should only be reapplied when needed. In heavy infestations more bait placements need In heavy infestations more bait placements need

to be made since the pests might consume all of to be made since the pests might consume all of the bait before the next service visit.the bait before the next service visit.

For ants, gel baits are applied on ants’ For ants, gel baits are applied on ants’ foraging trails, near feeding sites, nest foraging trails, near feeding sites, nest sites, or near entry points or water sourcessites, or near entry points or water sources

Ant baits may have to be switched Ant baits may have to be switched periodically since their feeding preferences periodically since their feeding preferences often change seasonally (or daily).often change seasonally (or daily).

Baits eventually get old, dry, Baits eventually get old, dry, greasy, or dusty.greasy, or dusty.

Old bait should be cleaned up Old bait should be cleaned up periodically and fresh bait applied.periodically and fresh bait applied.

The advantages to insecticide baits The advantages to insecticide baits are:are:

They can be placed specifically where They can be placed specifically where pests are found or are hiding.pests are found or are hiding.

Baits have a low toxicity, so if properly Baits have a low toxicity, so if properly applied in out-of-the-way sites, they pose applied in out-of-the-way sites, they pose little hazard to people, pets, or non target little hazard to people, pets, or non target surfaces.surfaces.

Baits are generally odorless with no Baits are generally odorless with no airborne solvents.airborne solvents.

Baits are ready-to-use.Baits are ready-to-use. Baits are non-repellant to pestsBaits are non-repellant to pests Baits are long lasting.Baits are long lasting.

Disadvantages to baits are that:Disadvantages to baits are that: Some can stain light-colored porous surfaces.Some can stain light-colored porous surfaces. Most baits are pest-specific and so will not control Most baits are pest-specific and so will not control

pest other than the target.pest other than the target. Proper bait application can take longer than a Proper bait application can take longer than a

traditional spray application.traditional spray application. Baits should not be applied in the same sites Baits should not be applied in the same sites

where insecticide sprays have been applied.where insecticide sprays have been applied. Routine cleaning can remove bait applications.Routine cleaning can remove bait applications. Baits are slower-acting than most pesticides.Baits are slower-acting than most pesticides.

Rodenticide Bait Applications Rodenticide Bait Applications

There are significant differences in There are significant differences in the biology of rats and mice that the biology of rats and mice that should make baiting strategies should make baiting strategies against each very different.against each very different.

MiceMice Mice seldom travel 20-30 feet from their nest; a Mice seldom travel 20-30 feet from their nest; a

rat’s home territory is much larger, and it will rat’s home territory is much larger, and it will commonly travel 100 feet in its evening travels.commonly travel 100 feet in its evening travels.

Mice require many baiting sites, at least one Mice require many baiting sites, at least one placement wherever you find evidence of activity, placement wherever you find evidence of activity, in order to provide bait to all the mice in the area. in order to provide bait to all the mice in the area. As an alternative, space bait placement every 10 As an alternative, space bait placement every 10 feet.feet.

Rats require fewer baiting sites (typically 25 to 50 Rats require fewer baiting sites (typically 25 to 50 feet), but exterior inspections are essential feet), but exterior inspections are essential because rats can be foraging for long distances because rats can be foraging for long distances from nest sites around a dumpster, up a tree, or from nest sites around a dumpster, up a tree, or down in a sewer.down in a sewer.

Mice are curious about new objects in their Mice are curious about new objects in their territory; rats have a fear of things new and territory; rats have a fear of things new and foreign, in their territory, and they are very foreign, in their territory, and they are very cautious.cautious.

When baiting for mice, disturb their When baiting for mice, disturb their environment as much as possible. Move environment as much as possible. Move baits around at each service. Mice will baits around at each service. Mice will investigate the changes and include bait investigate the changes and include bait sites into their territories.sites into their territories.

When baiting for rats, disturb the rat’s When baiting for rats, disturb the rat’s environment as little as possible. Avoid environment as little as possible. Avoid moving bait stations, and consider pre-moving bait stations, and consider pre-baiting with nontoxic food to acclimate the baiting with nontoxic food to acclimate the rats to bait stations and activity.rats to bait stations and activity.

Mice are nibblers, rats often consume Mice are nibblers, rats often consume large quantities at a single feeding.large quantities at a single feeding.

Use single-feeding rodenticides in Use single-feeding rodenticides in many small placements in many many small placements in many sites when baiting for mice.sites when baiting for mice.

For rats, put effort into finding a bait For rats, put effort into finding a bait materials that the rats will accept materials that the rats will accept (put out different baits to find the (put out different baits to find the best acceptance), and place large best acceptance), and place large amounts in major travel or feeding amounts in major travel or feeding areas.areas.

RodentsRodents

To promote feeding on baits, reduce the To promote feeding on baits, reduce the rodents’ natural food through good rodents’ natural food through good sanitation practices and trash handling.sanitation practices and trash handling.

Don’t limit bait placements to ground Don’t limit bait placements to ground level: both rats and mice live in three level: both rats and mice live in three dimensions and may be located in dimensions and may be located in suspended ceilings, attics, crawlspaces, suspended ceilings, attics, crawlspaces, cooler tops, etc.cooler tops, etc.

In situations where water is scarce, liquid In situations where water is scarce, liquid baits are often preferred by rodents over baits are often preferred by rodents over dry baits. dry baits.

Crack & Crevice ApplicationsCrack & Crevice Applications

A crack & crevice treatment is the A crack & crevice treatment is the application of a small amount of application of a small amount of pesticide into cracks & crevices, pesticide into cracks & crevices, behind and between objects, and into behind and between objects, and into inaccessible voids.inaccessible voids.

Crack & Crevice ApplicationsCrack & Crevice Applications Crack & Crevice applications are used most often Crack & Crevice applications are used most often

for control of cockroaches, and also earwigs, for control of cockroaches, and also earwigs, silverfish, bed bugs, and other pests that hide in silverfish, bed bugs, and other pests that hide in hidden locations.hidden locations.

A crack & crevice application places a pesticide A crack & crevice application places a pesticide precisely in areas where pest hide, move, or enter precisely in areas where pest hide, move, or enter a building while keeping the pesticide away from a building while keeping the pesticide away from surfaces, people, pets, and other non-targets.surfaces, people, pets, and other non-targets.

Pesticide residues in cracks & crevices tend to Pesticide residues in cracks & crevices tend to last longer because they are protected from last longer because they are protected from disturbance, moisture, dust, and grease.disturbance, moisture, dust, and grease.

Crack & Crevice ApplicationsCrack & Crevice Applications

Some crack & crevice applications Some crack & crevice applications are designed to flush pests out of are designed to flush pests out of hiding during inspection.hiding during inspection.

Proper crack & Crevice technique Proper crack & Crevice technique require that technicians inject require that technicians inject pesticides only pesticides only into into cracks and cracks and crevices, with very little residue crevices, with very little residue applied to exposed surfaces.applied to exposed surfaces.

Crack & Crevice ApplicationsCrack & Crevice Applications

Treatments can only be Treatments can only be accomplished with a special crack & accomplished with a special crack & crevice injector tip.crevice injector tip.

Pin stream nozzles can not be used Pin stream nozzles can not be used to apply crack and crevice treatment to apply crack and crevice treatment because they don’t apply pesticides because they don’t apply pesticides deep inside the crack and they apply deep inside the crack and they apply a significant residues onto a significant residues onto surrounding surfaces.surrounding surfaces.

Void ApplicationsVoid Applications A void application is a treatment in a A void application is a treatment in a

hollow, enclosed space.hollow, enclosed space. Voids may be large such as hollow wall Voids may be large such as hollow wall

voids or inside suspended ceilings, or voids or inside suspended ceilings, or small such as a hollow table leg or inside a small such as a hollow table leg or inside a piece of equipment.piece of equipment.

Void applications of insecticides are used Void applications of insecticides are used for control of cockroaches, ants, bees, for control of cockroaches, ants, bees, wasp and some over wintering pest like wasp and some over wintering pest like cluster flies.cluster flies.

Void applications of tracking powders are Void applications of tracking powders are used to control rodents.used to control rodents.

Void ApplicationsVoid Applications Some void applications are used to flush insects Some void applications are used to flush insects

from the void for inspection and monitoringfrom the void for inspection and monitoring A void application places pesticide precisely A void application places pesticide precisely

where pests hide or move while keeping pesticide where pests hide or move while keeping pesticide away from people, pets, and non-target surfaces.away from people, pets, and non-target surfaces.

Treatment is usually done using a injector tip and Treatment is usually done using a injector tip and low pressurelow pressure

Some voids can be directly accessed through Some voids can be directly accessed through switch plates, cracks, or other existing openings, switch plates, cracks, or other existing openings, but you may need to drill a hole to reach sealed but you may need to drill a hole to reach sealed voids. voids.

Void ApplicationsVoid Applications

Insecticide dusts are often the best Insecticide dusts are often the best way to treat voids. Dusts drift to fill way to treat voids. Dusts drift to fill the void space better than liquids the void space better than liquids and pests pick up the dusts on their and pests pick up the dusts on their bodies.bodies.

Advantages to void applications Advantages to void applications are that pesticide residues are are that pesticide residues are out of the reach of people and out of the reach of people and

pets, and pesticides tend to last pets, and pesticides tend to last longer in voids where they are longer in voids where they are

protected from disturbance, protected from disturbance, moisture, dust, and grease.moisture, dust, and grease.

Disadvantages to void treatment Disadvantages to void treatment are the following:are the following:

You may have to drill access voids.You may have to drill access voids. The voids may be blocked by The voids may be blocked by

insulation and cross braces.insulation and cross braces. Spray or dust may drift out of voids Spray or dust may drift out of voids

into non-target rooms.into non-target rooms. Contractors may contact pesticide Contractors may contact pesticide

residues when they access treated residues when they access treated voids for repairs. voids for repairs.

Spot ApplicationsSpot Applications A spot application is a pesticide treatment to a A spot application is a pesticide treatment to a

limited area, not to exceed two square feet.limited area, not to exceed two square feet. The spot can be any shape. For example a “spot” The spot can be any shape. For example a “spot”

can be a rectangle 2ft by 1 ft, or a strip 6 inches can be a rectangle 2ft by 1 ft, or a strip 6 inches wide and 4 foot long, or even a circle about 19 wide and 4 foot long, or even a circle about 19 inches in diameter.inches in diameter.

Spots may not be continuous but may Spots may not be continuous but may occasionally touch each other, such as around a occasionally touch each other, such as around a door frame.door frame.

Typical spot application sites include a wall/floor Typical spot application sites include a wall/floor junction, around water pipes, at the base of a junction, around water pipes, at the base of a piece of equipment, or around foundations.piece of equipment, or around foundations.

Spot ApplicationsSpot Applications A spot application allows you to apply pesticide to A spot application allows you to apply pesticide to

a small, localized area where pests gather rather a small, localized area where pests gather rather than treating a large area.than treating a large area.

Spot treatments are made to sites where insects Spot treatments are made to sites where insects will walk across treated areas, to baseboards, and will walk across treated areas, to baseboards, and to points where pests enter from outdoors.to points where pests enter from outdoors.

Spot treatments are used primarily to control Spot treatments are used primarily to control occasional invaders such as crickets, spiders, occasional invaders such as crickets, spiders, scorpions, millipedes, pill bugs, etc.scorpions, millipedes, pill bugs, etc.

Spot treatments are most often applied with a Spot treatments are most often applied with a compressed air sprayer and a fine fan or a coarse compressed air sprayer and a fine fan or a coarse fan nozzle but can also be applied with a fan nozzle but can also be applied with a pressurized aerosol.pressurized aerosol.

The main advantage to spot The main advantage to spot treatments is that you can treat treatments is that you can treat many pests sites in a short period many pests sites in a short period of time while applying pesticide in of time while applying pesticide in targeted areas only.targeted areas only.

DisadvantagesDisadvantages

Spot application leaves pesticide on Spot application leaves pesticide on surfaces which may not be desirable in surfaces which may not be desirable in sensitive areas.sensitive areas.

Technicians sometimes ignore the Technicians sometimes ignore the definition of a “spot” and instead apply the definition of a “spot” and instead apply the pesticide to continuous broad areas which pesticide to continuous broad areas which may be a violation of the label.may be a violation of the label.

Many pesticide labels do not allow a spot Many pesticide labels do not allow a spot application in food areas. application in food areas.

Direct Broadcast ApplicationDirect Broadcast Application

A direct broadcast application (also A direct broadcast application (also called a general application) is a called a general application) is a uniform treatment over an entire, uniform treatment over an entire, usually large, surface area.usually large, surface area.

A direct application can provide a A direct application can provide a quick kill for certain pest problems quick kill for certain pest problems where a more precise application is where a more precise application is not possible, or can prevent exposed not possible, or can prevent exposed pest from moving into other areas.pest from moving into other areas.

Direct Broadcast ApplicationsDirect Broadcast Applications Direct broadcast applications are primarily used Direct broadcast applications are primarily used

indoors to control fleas and outdoors to control indoors to control fleas and outdoors to control various lawn and perimeter pests.various lawn and perimeter pests.

Broadcast applications can be made with liquids Broadcast applications can be made with liquids or granules (outside).or granules (outside).

Liquid insecticide applications are usually done Liquid insecticide applications are usually done with a wide angle flat fan tip and a pressure of with a wide angle flat fan tip and a pressure of 20psi, but with some equipment higher pressures 20psi, but with some equipment higher pressures are used.are used.

Typical direct broadcast application sites are Typical direct broadcast application sites are walls, floors, ceilings, lawns, and the perimeters walls, floors, ceilings, lawns, and the perimeters of buildings of buildings

Direct Broadcast ApplicationsDirect Broadcast Applications

A perimeter treatment, also called a A perimeter treatment, also called a barrier treatment, is a direct barrier treatment, is a direct broadcast application of a pesticide broadcast application of a pesticide around the exterior perimeter of a around the exterior perimeter of a structure to kill or repel pests that structure to kill or repel pests that might enter the structure.might enter the structure.

When applying a liquid perimeter When applying a liquid perimeter treatment, the applicator typically treatment, the applicator typically sprays a swath of ground 2-10 feet sprays a swath of ground 2-10 feet out from the structure, the building out from the structure, the building wall from the ground up a few feet wall from the ground up a few feet (depending on the label), and (depending on the label), and sometimes a narrow barrier around sometimes a narrow barrier around doors, windows, and other potential doors, windows, and other potential entry points for pests.entry points for pests.

Direct Broadcast ApplicationsDirect Broadcast Applications

The main advantages of a direct The main advantages of a direct broadcast application are that it broadcast application are that it covers a large area in one treatment, covers a large area in one treatment, usually results in immediate kill of usually results in immediate kill of exposed pests, and delayed kill or exposed pests, and delayed kill or repellency for the useful life of the repellency for the useful life of the residual. residual.

Disadvantages Disadvantages It typically applies a large amount of pesticide.It typically applies a large amount of pesticide. Pesticides are applied to open surfaces that can Pesticides are applied to open surfaces that can

be accessible to non-targets, people, and pets.be accessible to non-targets, people, and pets. The pesticide may be exposed to air, dust, rain, The pesticide may be exposed to air, dust, rain,

and other factors that shorten its residual life.and other factors that shorten its residual life. Outdoor applications may be susceptible to Outdoor applications may be susceptible to

runoff. runoff. If spray swaths do not overlap properly, you can If spray swaths do not overlap properly, you can

apply either too much or too little.apply either too much or too little. Broadcast applications are not allowed in food Broadcast applications are not allowed in food

areas.areas.

Space ApplicationsSpace Applications A space treatment is the application of a fine A space treatment is the application of a fine

aerosol mist of insecticide into the entire airspace aerosol mist of insecticide into the entire airspace of the room or targeted to a limited airspace of the room or targeted to a limited airspace inside equipment or under a sinkinside equipment or under a sink

The treatment can be done by aerosol, The treatment can be done by aerosol, mechanical aerosol, ultra-low volume (ULV) or mechanical aerosol, ultra-low volume (ULV) or fogging.fogging.

A space application uses small airborne droplets A space application uses small airborne droplets of a non-residual (usually) insecticide to control of a non-residual (usually) insecticide to control flying and crawling insects that are exposed to it.flying and crawling insects that are exposed to it.

Some Insect Growth Regulators (IGR’s) are also Some Insect Growth Regulators (IGR’s) are also applied by space application.applied by space application.

Space applications are used mainly to control Space applications are used mainly to control fly’s and stored product pest.fly’s and stored product pest.

A space treatment is done with A space treatment is done with specialized fogging or aerosol-specialized fogging or aerosol-generating equipment and generating equipment and requires precise calculation of requires precise calculation of the volume of the treated space the volume of the treated space in order to ensure a legal and in order to ensure a legal and effective dosage effective dosage

Space treatment of a whole room Space treatment of a whole room must be done when the facility is must be done when the facility is not in operation and workers are not in operation and workers are not present.not present.

Exposed foods must be covered before Exposed foods must be covered before treatment and food handling surfaces treatment and food handling surfaces must be cleaned after treatment.must be cleaned after treatment.

The primary advantages of space The primary advantages of space applications are that it can treat a large applications are that it can treat a large area in a short period of time, it provides area in a short period of time, it provides quick kill, and the insecticide covers all quick kill, and the insecticide covers all surfaces. surfaces.

The primary disadvantages of The primary disadvantages of space application are that:space application are that:

Pests that are hidden inside voids, closed Pests that are hidden inside voids, closed closets, equipment, cabinets, etc. are closets, equipment, cabinets, etc. are protected from the insecticide and protected from the insecticide and probably will not be killed.probably will not be killed.

The application is not targeted to specific The application is not targeted to specific sites, so much of the insecticide falls in sites, so much of the insecticide falls in areas where pests are not present.areas where pests are not present.

In most cases, there is no lasting In most cases, there is no lasting insecticide residual to continue killing insecticide residual to continue killing pests.pests.

The insecticide can drift into non-target The insecticide can drift into non-target areas. areas.

Compressed Air SprayerCompressed Air Sprayer

The basic parts of a compressed air The basic parts of a compressed air sprayer are the tank, pump, discharge sprayer are the tank, pump, discharge hose, valve, and nozzle.hose, valve, and nozzle.

Many sprayers are equipped with a Many sprayers are equipped with a pressure gauge so that you can regulate pressure gauge so that you can regulate the tank pressure for best application the tank pressure for best application results.results.

The compressed air sprayer should never The compressed air sprayer should never be filled to the top; there must be an air be filled to the top; there must be an air space above the liquid for the sprayer to space above the liquid for the sprayer to pressurize and operate properly.pressurize and operate properly.

Compressed air sprayersCompressed air sprayers

Different nozzles produce different spray Different nozzles produce different spray patterns: fan sprays for spot and patterns: fan sprays for spot and broadcast applications, injector tip and pin broadcast applications, injector tip and pin stream for crack and crevice and void stream for crack and crevice and void applications.applications.

Fan spray nozzles are generally used at Fan spray nozzles are generally used at 20-40psi, pin stream and injection tips at 20-40psi, pin stream and injection tips at 20psi or lower.20psi or lower.

Most compressed air sprayers are Most compressed air sprayers are equipped with a strainer to screen equipped with a strainer to screen contaminants and keep the nozzle clear.contaminants and keep the nozzle clear.

Compressed air sprayers in regular Compressed air sprayers in regular use require weekly cleaning and use require weekly cleaning and

daily maintenance checksdaily maintenance checks To clean a compressed air sprayer, fill the empty To clean a compressed air sprayer, fill the empty

tank one-half full of water with a tablespoon of tank one-half full of water with a tablespoon of detergent. Spray the soapy water out of the detergent. Spray the soapy water out of the nozzle for one minute. Remove the strainer and nozzle for one minute. Remove the strainer and nozzle and scrub them with a soft brush. Use a nozzle and scrub them with a soft brush. Use a long-handled brush inside the tank. Rinse long-handled brush inside the tank. Rinse thoroughly.thoroughly.

Do not use ammonia to clean a sprayer, it is Do not use ammonia to clean a sprayer, it is corrosive and can damage certain sprayer parts. corrosive and can damage certain sprayer parts. Use plain detergent or a specialty tank cleaning Use plain detergent or a specialty tank cleaning product.product.

Cleaning and MaintenanceCleaning and Maintenance

Inspect the sprayer each day for Inspect the sprayer each day for damage or excess wear to check damage or excess wear to check valve, plunger cup, and hose; pump valve, plunger cup, and hose; pump the sprayer to high pressure and the sprayer to high pressure and check for leaks.check for leaks.

Common sprayer problems, Common sprayer problems, causes, and solutions.causes, and solutions.

If liquid leaks or sprays around the plunger If liquid leaks or sprays around the plunger handle, the check valve is worn, damaged or not handle, the check valve is worn, damaged or not seated properly.seated properly.

If spray comes out at low pressure or dribbles out, If spray comes out at low pressure or dribbles out, the strainer is possibly clogged.the strainer is possibly clogged.

If, no matter how hard you pump, you get no If, no matter how hard you pump, you get no pressure in the tank, there is a problem with the pressure in the tank, there is a problem with the pump cup.pump cup.

If air but no spray comes out of the nozzle, but If air but no spray comes out of the nozzle, but the tank isn’t empty, then the siphon tube (supply the tank isn’t empty, then the siphon tube (supply tube) is broken or pitted.tube) is broken or pitted.

If there is good pressure, but the spray pattern is If there is good pressure, but the spray pattern is uneven, then the nozzle is clogged or worn out.uneven, then the nozzle is clogged or worn out.

Power SprayersPower Sprayers

Power sprayers are used for termite Power sprayers are used for termite control, lawn care, and perimeter control, lawn care, and perimeter treatments because they can apply far treatments because they can apply far more pesticide in a given time than can more pesticide in a given time than can hand sprayers.hand sprayers.

High pressure in power sprayers means High pressure in power sprayers means increased risk of leaks, spills, splash back, increased risk of leaks, spills, splash back, airborne residues, and drift including drift airborne residues, and drift including drift back onto the applicator.back onto the applicator.

Run through an inspection Run through an inspection checklist before each job using checklist before each job using

a power sprayera power sprayer

Inspection of a power sprayer Inspection of a power sprayer should include the followingshould include the following

Check for cracked, split, or damaged hoses, Check for cracked, split, or damaged hoses, cracked fittings, broken regulators and gauges, cracked fittings, broken regulators and gauges, damaged tanks, and any other signs of defect or damaged tanks, and any other signs of defect or wear.wear.

Check oil and water levels in gas powered Check oil and water levels in gas powered enginesengines

Lubricate fittings as neededLubricate fittings as needed Set bypass and other valves properly, check that Set bypass and other valves properly, check that

no lines are plugged or kinked, and inspect the no lines are plugged or kinked, and inspect the pressure relief valve on the discharge.pressure relief valve on the discharge.

Start up the unit and let it run a few minutes, Start up the unit and let it run a few minutes, checking for leaks and making sure it is operating checking for leaks and making sure it is operating properly.properly.

Power Sprayer InspectionsPower Sprayer Inspections Before servicing a power sprayer, Before servicing a power sprayer,

disconnect any electric power, release all disconnect any electric power, release all pressure, and drain all pesticide liquids pressure, and drain all pesticide liquids from sprayers.from sprayers.

Never operate gasoline-driven sprayer Never operate gasoline-driven sprayer inside an enclosed or unventilated or you inside an enclosed or unventilated or you could generate life-threatening fumes and could generate life-threatening fumes and gasses.gasses.

For high-pressure pumps, secure the For high-pressure pumps, secure the discharge line before starting; otherwise, it discharge line before starting; otherwise, it could whip around and cause injury or could whip around and cause injury or damage.damage.

When power-spraying attics or When power-spraying attics or crawlspaces, or at commercial and crawlspaces, or at commercial and

industrial sites, watch out for industrial sites, watch out for electrical circuits, (to avoid electric electrical circuits, (to avoid electric shock) and pilot lights and other shock) and pilot lights and other sources of ignition (flammable sources of ignition (flammable

sprays can ignite, nonflammable sprays can ignite, nonflammable sprays can extinguish pilot lights).sprays can extinguish pilot lights).

DustersDusters

Fill a hand duster only half full.Fill a hand duster only half full. The base of the spout should be above the The base of the spout should be above the

level of the dust. (if the base of the spout level of the dust. (if the base of the spout is buried in the dust, the air in the duster is buried in the dust, the air in the duster can’t mix with the dust.)can’t mix with the dust.)

You need the remaining empty space in You need the remaining empty space in the duster so that air can mix with the the duster so that air can mix with the dust to give a fine application.dust to give a fine application.

If there is too much dust in the duster, you If there is too much dust in the duster, you will apply in clumps.will apply in clumps.

DustersDusters

Don’t remove the screen inside the duster Don’t remove the screen inside the duster (unless the pesticide label says to) since it (unless the pesticide label says to) since it helps keep the dust from clumping.helps keep the dust from clumping.

Shake a hand-held duster lightly before Shake a hand-held duster lightly before each application to mix the dust and air, each application to mix the dust and air, and to keep clumps from forming.and to keep clumps from forming.

Add a couple of ball bearings or coins to Add a couple of ball bearings or coins to your duster. This not only helps to agitate your duster. This not only helps to agitate the dust inside, but also gives the dust an the dust inside, but also gives the dust an electrostatic charge so that it sticks better electrostatic charge so that it sticks better to surfaces. to surfaces.

Apply a Apply a lightlight film of dust; heavy film of dust; heavy applications actually repel pests and applications actually repel pests and increase the risk of drift to non-target increase the risk of drift to non-target areas.areas.

Squeeze the duster lightly to apply a thin film. Squeeze the duster lightly to apply a thin film. When a hand-held duster is squeezed correctly, When a hand-held duster is squeezed correctly, you will just barely be able to see the dust you will just barely be able to see the dust coming out of the tip.coming out of the tip.

The larger the crack or void being treated, the The larger the crack or void being treated, the harder you will have to squeeze to force dust onto harder you will have to squeeze to force dust onto all surfaces.all surfaces.

Pull the nozzle away from the crack or opening Pull the nozzle away from the crack or opening before you completely relax your squeeze. This before you completely relax your squeeze. This prevents sucking dust or moisture back into the prevents sucking dust or moisture back into the duster.duster.

Carry a damp cloth to wipe up any excess dust Carry a damp cloth to wipe up any excess dust that spills onto surfaces. that spills onto surfaces.

DustersDusters When working in crawlspaces, attics, and similar When working in crawlspaces, attics, and similar

sites, turn off fans, ventilators, furnaces and other sites, turn off fans, ventilators, furnaces and other air circulation equipment that could blow the dust air circulation equipment that could blow the dust into non-target surfaces.into non-target surfaces.

Do not use a duster to apply an insecticide if it Do not use a duster to apply an insecticide if it has been previously used for applying a has been previously used for applying a Rodenticide tracking powder or the tracking Rodenticide tracking powder or the tracking powder residue could be applied in an illegal powder residue could be applied in an illegal location.location.

When treating voids or areas smaller than attics When treating voids or areas smaller than attics or crawlspaces with a power duster, use a lower or crawlspaces with a power duster, use a lower pressure to reduce the chances of the dust pressure to reduce the chances of the dust drifting into non-target areas.drifting into non-target areas.

Rodent Bait StationsRodent Bait StationsServe three purposesServe three purposes

They reduce the risk that children, They reduce the risk that children, pets, livestock, and wildlife can be pets, livestock, and wildlife can be poisoned accidentally.poisoned accidentally.

They protect baits from the elements They protect baits from the elements and help keep baits fresh and and help keep baits fresh and attractive to rodents.attractive to rodents.

They monitor rodent activity through They monitor rodent activity through droppings, gnaw marks, and bait droppings, gnaw marks, and bait consumption.consumption.

Rodent Bait StationsRodent Bait Stations

Rodent bait stations can also hold snap Rodent bait stations can also hold snap traps and glueboards and protect them traps and glueboards and protect them from viewing and tampering.from viewing and tampering.

A rodenticide must be placed inside a A rodenticide must be placed inside a “tamper-resistant” bait station if a risk “tamper-resistant” bait station if a risk exists that children, pets, and other non-exists that children, pets, and other non-targets could access the bait.targets could access the bait.

Rodenticide labels also require that Rodenticide labels also require that a bait station be secured or a bait station be secured or otherwise immobilized whenever otherwise immobilized whenever two conditions exist:two conditions exist:

A risk exists that children, pets and A risk exists that children, pets and other non-targets can get at the bait other non-targets can get at the bait station.station.

The station is so designed that bait The station is so designed that bait can be shaken out of it. can be shaken out of it.

There are two primary strategies There are two primary strategies when installing bait stations: (1) bait when installing bait stations: (1) bait stations can be placed around a stations can be placed around a perimeter of a facility to intercept perimeter of a facility to intercept rodents before they enter, and (2) rodents before they enter, and (2) bait stations can be placed along bait stations can be placed along rodent travel paths in existing rodent travel paths in existing infestations.infestations.

Bait stations are most effective Bait stations are most effective when placed in corners, against when placed in corners, against walls, or beneath and between walls, or beneath and between items of furniture, equipment, items of furniture, equipment, boxes, etc. where rodents boxes, etc. where rodents commonly travel.commonly travel.

Technicians should brush out their Technicians should brush out their stations, or remove the loose trays stations, or remove the loose trays and dump the debris out of them for and dump the debris out of them for the following reasons:the following reasons: New rodent droppings mean that the station is New rodent droppings mean that the station is

active.active. Careful inspection of the new droppings can Careful inspection of the new droppings can

determine what kind of rodents (or other species) determine what kind of rodents (or other species) have been feeding recently, and sometimes even have been feeding recently, and sometimes even their ages and conditions.their ages and conditions.

Fill out the service record in or on the station Fill out the service record in or on the station after each service after each service

Check the bait to be sure it is still in Check the bait to be sure it is still in good condition.good condition. Two months is about all you can Two months is about all you can

expect from a block or a loose bait expect from a block or a loose bait before it begins losing palatability.before it begins losing palatability.

CalibrationCalibration

Most pesticide application equipment Most pesticide application equipment requires regular calibration to ensure requires regular calibration to ensure the correct volume of material is the correct volume of material is applied.applied.

CalibrationCalibration

Poorly calibrated equipment can mean too Poorly calibrated equipment can mean too much pesticide has been applied, which is much pesticide has been applied, which is illegal as well as expensive, or that too illegal as well as expensive, or that too little has been applied which can mean little has been applied which can mean control failure.control failure.

Even sprayers equipped with a flow meter Even sprayers equipped with a flow meter require periodic calibration because a flow require periodic calibration because a flow meter can get out of adjustment during meter can get out of adjustment during day-to-day operations, and may be day-to-day operations, and may be affected by temperature and pump affected by temperature and pump pressure. pressure.

To check the accuracy of a power sprayer, To check the accuracy of a power sprayer, such as a termite rig, equipped with a such as a termite rig, equipped with a backflow meter , fill a five gallon bucket to backflow meter , fill a five gallon bucket to predetermined one-gallon mark and see if predetermined one-gallon mark and see if the meter agrees.the meter agrees.

If the meter does not read close to 1 If the meter does not read close to 1 gallon, follow the calibration gallon, follow the calibration adjustment instructions for that adjustment instructions for that particular flow meter.particular flow meter.

If the sprayer does not have a flow If the sprayer does not have a flow meter, do the following:meter, do the following:

Adjust the pump to the pressure you Adjust the pump to the pressure you will be using (say 25psi) will be using (say 25psi)

Measure the number of seconds it Measure the number of seconds it takes to pump one gallon into a takes to pump one gallon into a marked bucket. That figure is the marked bucket. That figure is the “seconds per gallon” your sprayer “seconds per gallon” your sprayer will apply.will apply.

Repeat a couple of times to make Repeat a couple of times to make sure the equipment is consistent.sure the equipment is consistent.

The “seconds per gallon” figure The “seconds per gallon” figure may be different for each tip or may be different for each tip or application tool that you use, application tool that you use, and will often change if you and will often change if you change the pressure change the pressure significantly.significantly.

To calibrate a compressed air To calibrate a compressed air sprayer, do the following:sprayer, do the following:

Mark an area of 10 feet by 10 feet (100 Mark an area of 10 feet by 10 feet (100 square feet).square feet).

Fill a clean sprayer with water to a known Fill a clean sprayer with water to a known mark.mark.

Spray the area using your normal Spray the area using your normal technique.technique.

Refill the sprayer, measuring the amount Refill the sprayer, measuring the amount of water required to refill to the original of water required to refill to the original level. That is the amount of material the level. That is the amount of material the sprayer will apply to 100 square foot.sprayer will apply to 100 square foot.

The simplest method of calibrating a granule The simplest method of calibrating a granule spreader is to measure the quantity of granules spreader is to measure the quantity of granules applied to a known area.applied to a known area.

Put a known amount of granules, say a half pound, into the Put a known amount of granules, say a half pound, into the hopper of the granule spreader.hopper of the granule spreader.

Set what you believe is the proper spreader adjustment.Set what you believe is the proper spreader adjustment. Apply all the granules while walking a normal speed in a Apply all the granules while walking a normal speed in a

straight line.straight line. Multiply the length of the distance you applied (say 83ft) Multiply the length of the distance you applied (say 83ft)

times the swath width of the spreader (say 6ft) for the total times the swath width of the spreader (say 6ft) for the total application area (83x6=498).application area (83x6=498).

You now know that the application rate of the spreader at You now know that the application rate of the spreader at that setting with that particular product is a 1/2lb per 498 that setting with that particular product is a 1/2lb per 498 square ft, or approximately 1lb per 1000 sq ft. square ft, or approximately 1lb per 1000 sq ft.

Quality Pro TrainingQuality Pro Training

Part 3Part 3

PesticidesPesticides

Integrated Pest ManagementIntegrated Pest Management

The use of indiscriminate pesticide The use of indiscriminate pesticide applications is strongly discouraged in applications is strongly discouraged in Integrated Pest Management, Integrated Pest Management, instead instead technicians should:technicians should:

Go through the steps of IPM in each Go through the steps of IPM in each account.account.

Read, understand, and follow the label.Read, understand, and follow the label. Be aware of the characteristics of each Be aware of the characteristics of each

pesticide, if a pesticide is used. pesticide, if a pesticide is used.

Toxicity and Hazard of PesticidesToxicity and Hazard of Pesticides

A pesticide is any chemical that is used to A pesticide is any chemical that is used to manage pests.manage pests.

A pesticide may be called an insecticide, A pesticide may be called an insecticide, or a rodenticide, or an herbicide, or a rodenticide, or an herbicide, depending on the target pest.depending on the target pest.

Not all pesticides kill pests: some repel Not all pesticides kill pests: some repel pests (repellents), some attract pests pests (repellents), some attract pests (attractants), and some affect the growth (attractants), and some affect the growth of pests (growth regulators).of pests (growth regulators).

Pesticides are important tools for Pesticides are important tools for managing pest problems and managing pest problems and have significant benefits to our have significant benefits to our quality of lifequality of life

Toxicity is the degree to which a Toxicity is the degree to which a chemical is poisonous.chemical is poisonous.

It is a physical characteristic of a It is a physical characteristic of a material just like its boiling point.material just like its boiling point.

The more toxic a chemical is, the less The more toxic a chemical is, the less of it is required to do damage.of it is required to do damage.

Every pesticide is toxic to some Every pesticide is toxic to some degree and poses some risk to degree and poses some risk to people and the environment.people and the environment.

The risk can range from minimal to severe, The risk can range from minimal to severe, depending on the toxicity of the pesticide and the depending on the toxicity of the pesticide and the degree of exposure.degree of exposure.

People exposed to excessive levels of a pesticide People exposed to excessive levels of a pesticide may suffer short-term or long-term health effects.may suffer short-term or long-term health effects.

Children are especially susceptible to certain Children are especially susceptible to certain pesticides.pesticides.

Pesticide in the environment can damage non-Pesticide in the environment can damage non-target plants and animals, contaminate water, target plants and animals, contaminate water, cause fish kills, etc.cause fish kills, etc.

The potential The potential hazardhazard from a from a pesticide is a function of both the pesticide is a function of both the toxicity of the pesticide and the risk toxicity of the pesticide and the risk of exposure.of exposure.

The potential hazard to occupants of a room of an The potential hazard to occupants of a room of an insecticide applied into a hidden void is much less insecticide applied into a hidden void is much less than the hazard of the same product when than the hazard of the same product when applied as a fan spray to an accessible surface.applied as a fan spray to an accessible surface.

The potential hazard to children and pets of a The potential hazard to children and pets of a rodenticide secured inside a tamper resistant bait rodenticide secured inside a tamper resistant bait station is much less than the same rodenticide station is much less than the same rodenticide applied to the ground. applied to the ground.

People can be exposed to People can be exposed to pesticides in several ways.pesticides in several ways.

Applicators face the greatest risk of exposure, Applicators face the greatest risk of exposure, especially during mixing and application.especially during mixing and application.

People can also be exposed entering treated People can also be exposed entering treated areas too soon after application, before sprays areas too soon after application, before sprays have dried, dusts have settled out, or airborne have dried, dusts have settled out, or airborne residues have disappeared.residues have disappeared.

People may be exposed to small but continuous People may be exposed to small but continuous doses if they work, live, or play in rooms with doses if they work, live, or play in rooms with pesticide residues on rugs, furniture, food pesticide residues on rugs, furniture, food preparation surfaces, etc., or by inhaling volatile preparation surfaces, etc., or by inhaling volatile residues in the air.residues in the air.

Exposure continuedExposure continued

Small children may be exposed by Small children may be exposed by touching, licking, or eating pesticide touching, licking, or eating pesticide residues.residues.

Spills caused by accident or Spills caused by accident or carelessness can cause dangerous carelessness can cause dangerous pesticide exposures.pesticide exposures.

Pesticides can damage the Pesticides can damage the environment if misusedenvironment if misused

Runoff of pesticide can contaminate Runoff of pesticide can contaminate surface water (streams, ponds, estuaries, surface water (streams, ponds, estuaries, etc.) or ground water (for drinking or etc.) or ground water (for drinking or irrigation).irrigation).

Drift can carry airborne residues to non-Drift can carry airborne residues to non-target areas such as a neighbor’s target areas such as a neighbor’s property, fish pond, vegetable garden, pet property, fish pond, vegetable garden, pet water bowl, play areas, or into a water bowl, play areas, or into a ventilation system.ventilation system.

Misapplication can damage plants and kill Misapplication can damage plants and kill non-target organisms.non-target organisms.

Two documents supply information Two documents supply information on handling and use of a particular on handling and use of a particular pesticide product, on storage and pesticide product, on storage and disposal, and on hazards to people disposal, and on hazards to people and the environment.and the environment.

Pesticide labelPesticide label Material safety data sheet (MSDS)Material safety data sheet (MSDS)

The pesticide label provides The pesticide label provides instructions telling how to correctly instructions telling how to correctly useuse the product. the product.

Where it can be used.Where it can be used. What pests are controlled by the product.What pests are controlled by the product. Directions for mixing and application.Directions for mixing and application. It briefly highlights how toxic the pesticide It briefly highlights how toxic the pesticide

is to people, and discusses ways to reduce is to people, and discusses ways to reduce risks (precautions).risks (precautions).

The label is the law regarding the use of The label is the law regarding the use of the product and should be read each and the product and should be read each and every time a pesticide is used.every time a pesticide is used.

The Material Data Safety Sheet, The Material Data Safety Sheet, called the MSDS for short, is a called the MSDS for short, is a guide to the guide to the hazardshazards of a pesticide of a pesticide

An MSDS has some of the same An MSDS has some of the same information that you can find on the information that you can find on the pesticide label.pesticide label.

But it provides more technical details But it provides more technical details on (1) identification and ingredients, on (1) identification and ingredients, (2) potential hazards, and (3) safety (2) potential hazards, and (3) safety recommendations. recommendations.

Pesticides are grouped into Pesticides are grouped into categories based on how toxic they categories based on how toxic they are to people, animals and the are to people, animals and the environment.environment.

Special identifying words- called “signal words” Special identifying words- called “signal words” are printed in large letters on every pesticide label are printed in large letters on every pesticide label to show how toxic the product is.to show how toxic the product is.

The signal words are The signal words are DANGER, WARNING, and DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION.CAUTION.

The signal words refer to the toxicity of the The signal words refer to the toxicity of the concentrated material inside the original concentrated material inside the original container; if the material is diluted the toxicity will container; if the material is diluted the toxicity will be reduced significantly. be reduced significantly.

Pesticide products labeled Pesticide products labeled DANGER DANGER areare highly toxichighly toxic

If the concentrate was swallowed, as little If the concentrate was swallowed, as little as a taste to a teaspoonful could kill the as a taste to a teaspoonful could kill the average person.average person.

All highly toxic pesticides that are very All highly toxic pesticides that are very likely to cause acute illness through oral, likely to cause acute illness through oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure, also will dermal, or inhalation exposure, also will carry the word carry the word POISONPOISON printed in red and printed in red and skull and crossbones symbol.skull and crossbones symbol.

Products that have the signal word Products that have the signal word DANGERDANGER due to skin and eye irritation due to skin and eye irritation potential will not carry the word potential will not carry the word POISON POISON or the skull and crossbones symbol.or the skull and crossbones symbol.

Pesticide products labeled Pesticide products labeled WARNING WARNING are moderately toxicare moderately toxic

They may cause acute illness from They may cause acute illness from oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure, oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure, or they are likely to cause moderate or they are likely to cause moderate skin or eye irritation.skin or eye irritation.

The fatal oral dose for the The fatal oral dose for the concentrate is estimated to be concentrate is estimated to be between one and three teaspoonfuls. between one and three teaspoonfuls.

Pesticide products labeled Pesticide products labeled CAUTION CAUTION Slightly toxic or relatively Slightly toxic or relatively and have only slight potential to and have only slight potential to cause illness or skin or eye cause illness or skin or eye irritation.irritation. The vast majority of pesticides used The vast majority of pesticides used

by pest management professionals in by pest management professionals in our industry carry a caution labels our industry carry a caution labels and so are classified as slightly toxic and so are classified as slightly toxic or relatively nontoxic.or relatively nontoxic.

The toxicity of the end-use product The toxicity of the end-use product (for example, the spray applied to a (for example, the spray applied to a surface after being diluted) is often surface after being diluted) is often much less than the packaged much less than the packaged pesticide product.pesticide product. Two pesticides with the same signal word Two pesticides with the same signal word

may pose different risks to people in the may pose different risks to people in the treated area if, say, one is designed to be treated area if, say, one is designed to be used full strength and the other to be used full strength and the other to be mixed with water and diluted to a 1 % mixed with water and diluted to a 1 % solutionsolution

Toxicity continuedToxicity continued

When choosing between similar When choosing between similar effective pesticide products, choose effective pesticide products, choose the one whose end-use product (the the one whose end-use product (the material that is actually applied) is material that is actually applied) is the least toxic to people, and whose the least toxic to people, and whose potential risks of exposure is lowest potential risks of exposure is lowest (reminder: hazard=toxicity x (reminder: hazard=toxicity x exposure)exposure)

Technician Exposure To PesticidesTechnician Exposure To Pesticides

Applicators of pesticides typically Applicators of pesticides typically face the highest risk of exposure to face the highest risk of exposure to themselves and the highest risk of themselves and the highest risk of both short and long-term health both short and long-term health effects. effects.

The Occupational Safety and The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, commonly Health Administration, commonly called OSHA, has a set of rules called OSHA, has a set of rules

called the Hazard Communication called the Hazard Communication Standard that gives you the right to Standard that gives you the right to

information you need to protect information you need to protect yourself from hazardous chemicals, yourself from hazardous chemicals,

including the pesticides you use.including the pesticides you use.

OSHAOSHA The purpose of the Hazard Communication The purpose of the Hazard Communication

Standard is to reduce the incidence of Standard is to reduce the incidence of chemically- caused illnesses and injuries in chemically- caused illnesses and injuries in the workplace.the workplace.

It gives you the right to know the hazards It gives you the right to know the hazards and identities of the chemicals, such as and identities of the chemicals, such as pesticides, that you might be exposed to pesticides, that you might be exposed to when working.when working.

It gives you the right to know what It gives you the right to know what protective measures are available to protective measures are available to prevent any illness or injury from these prevent any illness or injury from these hazardous chemicals.hazardous chemicals.

OSHA requires that you be informed OSHA requires that you be informed about certain legal requirements of the about certain legal requirements of the

Hazard Communication StandardHazard Communication Standard A company must have a written list of all hazardous A company must have a written list of all hazardous

chemicals in the workplace.chemicals in the workplace. You must have ready access to the MSDS for each pesticide You must have ready access to the MSDS for each pesticide

or chemical that you use.or chemical that you use. Containers of hazardous materials must be labeled, tagged, Containers of hazardous materials must be labeled, tagged,

or marked with the identity of the chemical and appropriate or marked with the identity of the chemical and appropriate hazard warnings.hazard warnings.

If a chemical is transferred to another container, the new If a chemical is transferred to another container, the new container must be labeled.container must be labeled.

You must be provided information and training prior to You must be provided information and training prior to working with any hazardous material.working with any hazardous material.

Every company must have a hazardous communication Every company must have a hazardous communication program in writing. program in writing.

Pesticide exposure can occur Pesticide exposure can occur through the skin (dermal), through the skin (dermal), mouth (oral), lungs (inhalation), mouth (oral), lungs (inhalation), or through the eyes.or through the eyes.

Ninety-seven percent of all pesticide Ninety-seven percent of all pesticide exposure during spraying is by exposure during spraying is by contact with the skin. contact with the skin.

Emulsifiable concentrates and oil-based Emulsifiable concentrates and oil-based sprays are the most absorptive through sprays are the most absorptive through skin.skin.

Dust and granules are the least absorptive.Dust and granules are the least absorptive. Water-based sprays such as wettable Water-based sprays such as wettable

powders are somewhere in the middle.powders are somewhere in the middle. Health risk from skin exposure are higher Health risk from skin exposure are higher

when skin is exposed to a pesticide when skin is exposed to a pesticide concentrate rather than a dilution.concentrate rather than a dilution.

The area of the body exposed and the The area of the body exposed and the condition of the skin will make a condition of the skin will make a difference in the amount of pesticide difference in the amount of pesticide absorbedabsorbed

The genital area, the scalp, ear canal and The genital area, the scalp, ear canal and forehead absorb pesticide very rapidly.forehead absorb pesticide very rapidly.

Cuts, scrapes, and skin rashes absorb Cuts, scrapes, and skin rashes absorb pesticide more quickly than unbroken skin.pesticide more quickly than unbroken skin.

Hot, sweaty skin absorbs more pesticide Hot, sweaty skin absorbs more pesticide than cool, dry skin.than cool, dry skin.

Skin exposure is caused by poor Skin exposure is caused by poor pesticide safety practices, such as:pesticide safety practices, such as:

Splashing, dripping, or spraying pesticides Splashing, dripping, or spraying pesticides on unprotected skin.on unprotected skin.

Wearing inadequate personal protective Wearing inadequate personal protective equipment or wearing clothing, gloves, or equipment or wearing clothing, gloves, or shoes that are already contaminated with shoes that are already contaminated with pesticide.pesticide.

Applying pesticides outdoors in windy Applying pesticides outdoors in windy weather.weather.

Touching pesticide-treated surfaces.Touching pesticide-treated surfaces. Not washing hands after handling Not washing hands after handling

pesticides or pesticide containers. pesticides or pesticide containers.

Before handling a pesticide, check Before handling a pesticide, check for a Precautionary Statement on for a Precautionary Statement on the label that will alert you to the the label that will alert you to the need for skin protection: need for skin protection:

““Harmful if absorbed through skin”Harmful if absorbed through skin” ““May be a skin sensitizer”May be a skin sensitizer” The label may specify the use of The label may specify the use of

gloves and wearing long sleeves, in gloves and wearing long sleeves, in addition to other precautions.addition to other precautions.

Skin exposure can cause a number Skin exposure can cause a number of different symptoms and effects.of different symptoms and effects.

Contact with some pesticides can cause your skin Contact with some pesticides can cause your skin to itch, blister, crack, or change color.to itch, blister, crack, or change color.

Extreme skin exposure, particularly to Extreme skin exposure, particularly to concentrates, can progress to nausea, cramps, concentrates, can progress to nausea, cramps, sweating, difficulty breathing and other more sweating, difficulty breathing and other more serious symptoms.serious symptoms.

Continued skin exposure to some pesticides over Continued skin exposure to some pesticides over a period of time can cause delayed health effects.a period of time can cause delayed health effects.

Some pyrethroids may cause a mild and Some pyrethroids may cause a mild and temporary skin sensitization or allergic skin temporary skin sensitization or allergic skin reaction in some individuals. reaction in some individuals.

Follow label directions for first aid Follow label directions for first aid for (dermal) exposure. If label for (dermal) exposure. If label directions are unavailable, do the directions are unavailable, do the followingfollowing

Immediately drench the skin and clothing with plenty of Immediately drench the skin and clothing with plenty of cool water.cool water.

Remove contaminated clothing and equipment.Remove contaminated clothing and equipment. Wash exposed skin with soap and water.Wash exposed skin with soap and water. Cover any chemical burns with clean cloths or bandages. Cover any chemical burns with clean cloths or bandages.

Don’t apply any first aid ointments.Don’t apply any first aid ointments. For burns or after exposure to highly toxic concentrates, For burns or after exposure to highly toxic concentrates,

see a physician and bring the label and MSDS.see a physician and bring the label and MSDS. Also see a physician if symptoms persist.Also see a physician if symptoms persist.

Oral exposure can occur in any of Oral exposure can occur in any of the following ways.the following ways.

Not washing your hands before eating, Not washing your hands before eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing.drinking, smoking, or chewing.

Accidentally splashing pesticide into your Accidentally splashing pesticide into your mouth when pouring or applying it.mouth when pouring or applying it.

Accidentally applying pesticide to food, Accidentally applying pesticide to food, cigarettes, or other objects that then go cigarettes, or other objects that then go into your mouth.into your mouth.

Wiping your mouth with a contaminated Wiping your mouth with a contaminated hand.hand.

Mistaking pesticide for food or drink.Mistaking pesticide for food or drink.

Before using a pesticide, look for a Before using a pesticide, look for a Precautionary Statement on the Precautionary Statement on the label that will alert you to the label that will alert you to the degree of oral hazard.degree of oral hazard.

““May be harmful if swallowed” for a May be harmful if swallowed” for a pesticide with a slight oral toxicity.pesticide with a slight oral toxicity.

““Fatal if swallowed” or “Can kill you if Fatal if swallowed” or “Can kill you if swallowed” for a highly toxic swallowed” for a highly toxic pesticide.pesticide.

Symptoms of oral exposure to a Symptoms of oral exposure to a pesticide vary depending on the pesticide vary depending on the product.product.

Oral exposure to certain pesticides can burn your Oral exposure to certain pesticides can burn your mouth or throat and make it difficult to swallow.mouth or throat and make it difficult to swallow.

Some pesticides can burn your digestive system.Some pesticides can burn your digestive system. Some can be carried through your blood stream Some can be carried through your blood stream

and cause various chronic or delayed health and cause various chronic or delayed health effects.effects.

For some restricted-use pesticides, swallowing For some restricted-use pesticides, swallowing even a few drops from a splash or wiping your even a few drops from a splash or wiping your mouth with a contaminated glove can make you mouth with a contaminated glove can make you very ill. very ill.

First aid procedures for oral pesticide First aid procedures for oral pesticide poisoning are not the same for all types of poisoning are not the same for all types of pesticides so follow the pesticide label’s first pesticides so follow the pesticide label’s first aid section carefully. If the label is not aid section carefully. If the label is not available do the following:available do the following:

Rinse mouth with plenty of water.Rinse mouth with plenty of water. Drink large amounts (up to 1 quart) of milk or water.Drink large amounts (up to 1 quart) of milk or water. Induce vomiting only if the pesticide label, manufacturer, or Induce vomiting only if the pesticide label, manufacturer, or

poison control expert advises you to do so.poison control expert advises you to do so. In general, vomiting should not be induced if the victim is In general, vomiting should not be induced if the victim is

having convulsions, or if the victim has swallowed an having convulsions, or if the victim has swallowed an Emulsifiable concentrate or oil solution, or strong acid or Emulsifiable concentrate or oil solution, or strong acid or alkali poison.alkali poison.

Get to a physician as soon as possible.Get to a physician as soon as possible.

You can be poisoned by inhaling You can be poisoned by inhaling too much of any airborne pesticide: too much of any airborne pesticide: aerosols, liquid sprays, fumigant aerosols, liquid sprays, fumigant gases, or dusts.gases, or dusts.

Inhalation can be a hazard if you are Inhalation can be a hazard if you are working in a poorly-ventilated, working in a poorly-ventilated, enclosed space like a crawlspace, enclosed space like a crawlspace, attic, or manhole.attic, or manhole.

Fumigators need to be especially Fumigators need to be especially careful to avoid inhaling a fumigant careful to avoid inhaling a fumigant which can be fatal.which can be fatal.

Inhalation exposure can be caused Inhalation exposure can be caused by any of the following mistakes:by any of the following mistakes:

Failing to use the proper respirator when Failing to use the proper respirator when necessary.necessary.

Using a respirator that doesn’t fit properly or Using a respirator that doesn’t fit properly or using old or inadequate filters, cartridges, or using old or inadequate filters, cartridges, or canisters.canisters.

Using a pesticide in a closed or poorly-ventilated Using a pesticide in a closed or poorly-ventilated space and not wearing a respirator.space and not wearing a respirator.

Spills and improper storage in storage facility or Spills and improper storage in storage facility or vehicle.vehicle.

Inhaling vapors or dusts when reentering an area Inhaling vapors or dusts when reentering an area too soon.too soon.

Inhaling pesticide drift from a treated area.Inhaling pesticide drift from a treated area.

Before handling a pesticide, look for Before handling a pesticide, look for a Precautionary Statement on the a Precautionary Statement on the label that will alert you to an label that will alert you to an inhalation hazard.inhalation hazard. ““Harmful if inhaled”Harmful if inhaled” ““Do not breathe dusts, vapors, or spray Do not breathe dusts, vapors, or spray

mist”mist” Inhalation may cause delayed lung, nerve, Inhalation may cause delayed lung, nerve,

or brain injury.or brain injury. The label may specify the use of a specific The label may specify the use of a specific

type or model of respirator. type or model of respirator.

Symptoms of inhalation exposure Symptoms of inhalation exposure vary with the product and the vary with the product and the degree of exposure.degree of exposure.

Some inhaled pesticides may “burn” your respiratory Some inhaled pesticides may “burn” your respiratory system, making it difficult to breathe.system, making it difficult to breathe.

Some may not affect your breathing at all but may be Some may not affect your breathing at all but may be carried through your blood stream causing other harmful carried through your blood stream causing other harmful affects.affects.

You may develop flu-like symptoms such as nausea, You may develop flu-like symptoms such as nausea, headache, chills, and aches.headache, chills, and aches.

The effects of inhaling a pesticide may result in delayed, or The effects of inhaling a pesticide may result in delayed, or chronic, effects that appear days later.chronic, effects that appear days later.

Continuous or frequent inhalation exposure to some Continuous or frequent inhalation exposure to some pesticides over a long period of time can result in pesticides over a long period of time can result in emphysema or asthma that appears years lateremphysema or asthma that appears years later

Follow the first aid instructions on Follow the first aid instructions on the label for overexposure to an the label for overexposure to an inhaled pesticide. First aid may inhaled pesticide. First aid may include the following:include the following:

Get the victim away from the pesticide vapors and into fresh Get the victim away from the pesticide vapors and into fresh air immediately. (make sure you are wearing a respirator air immediately. (make sure you are wearing a respirator and other PPE as necessary.)and other PPE as necessary.)

If other people are in the same area, warn them of the If other people are in the same area, warn them of the danger.danger.

Loosen any tight clothing.Loosen any tight clothing. If the victim has stopped breathing, immediately call 911 (if If the victim has stopped breathing, immediately call 911 (if

possible) and administer CPR.possible) and administer CPR. Keep the victim warm and quiet.Keep the victim warm and quiet. Get the victim to the hospital or a physician.Get the victim to the hospital or a physician. Take the pesticide container, label, and MSDS with you. Take the pesticide container, label, and MSDS with you.

The health effects from pesticide exposure to The health effects from pesticide exposure to an eye depend on the toxicity of the an eye depend on the toxicity of the pesticide, how much pesticide is involved, pesticide, how much pesticide is involved, and how long it remains in contact with the and how long it remains in contact with the eye.eye.

The effects can range from simple eye irritation to The effects can range from simple eye irritation to eye burns to permanent blindness from highly eye burns to permanent blindness from highly corrosive pesticides.corrosive pesticides.

Some pesticides may not irritate your eyes at all Some pesticides may not irritate your eyes at all but can pass through your eyes and enter your but can pass through your eyes and enter your body causing internal poisoning.body causing internal poisoning.

The eyes offer a very fast route for pesticide The eyes offer a very fast route for pesticide absorption.absorption.

You can get pesticides into your You can get pesticides into your eyes by any of the following eyes by any of the following mistakes:mistakes:

Accidentally splashing or spraying Accidentally splashing or spraying pesticides into your eyes.pesticides into your eyes.

Applying pesticides in windy Applying pesticides in windy conditions without eye protection.conditions without eye protection.

Rubbing your eyes with contaminated Rubbing your eyes with contaminated gloves or hands.gloves or hands.

Having dusts, wettable powders, or Having dusts, wettable powders, or granules drift into unprotected eyes.granules drift into unprotected eyes.

Before handling a pesticide, look for Before handling a pesticide, look for a Precautionary Statement on the a Precautionary Statement on the label that will alert you to the need label that will alert you to the need for eye protection. for eye protection. ““Avoid contact with eyes.”Avoid contact with eyes.” ““May irritate eyes”May irritate eyes” ““Causes eye burns”Causes eye burns” The label may specify the use of a The label may specify the use of a

specific type of safety eye wear, such specific type of safety eye wear, such as goggles, at least when pouring or as goggles, at least when pouring or mixing the product.mixing the product.

Usually you will know right away if Usually you will know right away if you have gotten pesticide into your you have gotten pesticide into your eyes.eyes.

The acute symptoms that occur The acute symptoms that occur immediately may include burning or immediately may include burning or tearing.tearing.

Even if there is no irritation you must Even if there is no irritation you must take immediate first aid measures to take immediate first aid measures to keep the pesticide from entering your keep the pesticide from entering your system.system.

Follow the instructions on the label Follow the instructions on the label for eye contamination. Most for eye contamination. Most importantly wash the eye or eyes importantly wash the eye or eyes quickly, but gently. quickly, but gently.

Use a eye wash dispenser if available. Otherwise, use a Use a eye wash dispenser if available. Otherwise, use a garden hose or faucet.garden hose or faucet.

Hold the eye open and wash with a gentle flow of water Hold the eye open and wash with a gentle flow of water across the eye.across the eye.

Continue to rinse the affected eye for at least 15 minutes.Continue to rinse the affected eye for at least 15 minutes. Don’t use eye drops afterwards.Don’t use eye drops afterwards. Inform your supervisor.Inform your supervisor. Check with a physician if advised to do so on the label, or if Check with a physician if advised to do so on the label, or if

you have any remaining symptoms. (irritation, blurred you have any remaining symptoms. (irritation, blurred vision, etc.) vision, etc.)

Certain pesticide formulations Certain pesticide formulations present more of a hazard during present more of a hazard during application than do others.application than do others.

Aerosols can present an inhalation hazard Aerosols can present an inhalation hazard during application, especially in confined during application, especially in confined spaces, a risk to eyes from splash back, spaces, a risk to eyes from splash back, and the propellants in some pressurized and the propellants in some pressurized aerosol containers are flammable and must aerosol containers are flammable and must be kept from heat, flame, or puncture.be kept from heat, flame, or puncture.

Baits present little hazard to the applicator. Baits present little hazard to the applicator.

Hazards continuedHazards continued Dusts present an inhalation hazard when filling equipment Dusts present an inhalation hazard when filling equipment

and during application, they may irritate eyes, nose, throat, and during application, they may irritate eyes, nose, throat, and skin, and there is a potential eye hazard from abrasive and skin, and there is a potential eye hazard from abrasive particles.particles.

Emulsifiable concentrates are sometimes flammable, skin Emulsifiable concentrates are sometimes flammable, skin absorption is faster, as a rule, than a wettable powders or absorption is faster, as a rule, than a wettable powders or other dry formulations, there is a hazard to eyes from other dry formulations, there is a hazard to eyes from splash back, and the finished mix conducts electricity.splash back, and the finished mix conducts electricity.

Granules present little hazard to the applicator.Granules present little hazard to the applicator. Microencapsulates present a hazard to eyes from splash Microencapsulates present a hazard to eyes from splash

back, and the finish mix will conducts electricity.back, and the finish mix will conducts electricity. Wettable powders present an inhalation hazard during Wettable powders present an inhalation hazard during

mixing (although water soluble packets eliminate these mixing (although water soluble packets eliminate these risk), the packaging of some wettable powders makes them risk), the packaging of some wettable powders makes them hard to mix without getting on the skin, and the finished hard to mix without getting on the skin, and the finished mix conducts electricity. mix conducts electricity.

Personal Protective Equipment Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)(PPE)

PPE Is short for personal protective PPE Is short for personal protective equipment. Some PPE is used to protect equipment. Some PPE is used to protect you from exposure to pesticides.you from exposure to pesticides.

Examples include chemical-resistant Examples include chemical-resistant gloves, respirators, even pants and long-gloves, respirators, even pants and long-sleeved shirts.sleeved shirts.

The PPE you use will depend on the The PPE you use will depend on the pesticide product, the application pesticide product, the application technique, and specific conditions at the technique, and specific conditions at the site. site.

The pesticide label will provide The pesticide label will provide instructions for the minimum level of instructions for the minimum level of protection required when using the protection required when using the product.product. You can always choose PPE that provides a You can always choose PPE that provides a

larger measure of safety (such as a full larger measure of safety (such as a full face respirator rather than a standard face respirator rather than a standard respirator).respirator).

You should always feel free to use more You should always feel free to use more PPE than specified on the label (such as PPE than specified on the label (such as wearing gloves during application even wearing gloves during application even though the label doesn’t require them).though the label doesn’t require them).

Respirators have to be worn Respirators have to be worn whenever airborne contaminants whenever airborne contaminants may affect your health and safety.may affect your health and safety.

Most pest control technicians wear a Most pest control technicians wear a respirator at least some of the time respirator at least some of the time such as when mixing or applying such as when mixing or applying pesticides.pesticides.

OSHA requires that pest control OSHA requires that pest control companies have a Respiratory companies have a Respiratory Protection Program in place.Protection Program in place.

Using a respirator stresses your Using a respirator stresses your body because breathing is body because breathing is restricted.restricted.

How much stress depends on the type of How much stress depends on the type of respirator, job conditions, and your health.respirator, job conditions, and your health.

Certain medical conditions, such as heart or Certain medical conditions, such as heart or lung trouble, affect your ability to use a lung trouble, affect your ability to use a respirator safely.respirator safely.

Other factors that affect your ability to use Other factors that affect your ability to use a respirator safely include beards, a respirator safely include beards, dentures, the shape of your face, some dentures, the shape of your face, some types of glasses, and the use of certain types of glasses, and the use of certain medications medications

Your respirator must be suited to the Your respirator must be suited to the particular hazards you face, and it must particular hazards you face, and it must fit properly in order to work.fit properly in order to work. The first step in respirator training is The first step in respirator training is

selection of the proper type and size of selection of the proper type and size of respirator for the individual and the job.respirator for the individual and the job.

Most technicians use a cartridge Most technicians use a cartridge respirator, but technicians doing respirator, but technicians doing fumigation may need a self-contained fumigation may need a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).breathing apparatus (SCBA).

Technicians who wear glasses may need Technicians who wear glasses may need to get a full facepiece respirator to get an to get a full facepiece respirator to get an adequate seal. adequate seal.

A fit test is necessary to determine A fit test is necessary to determine if your respirator fits properly.if your respirator fits properly.

There are different ways to do a fit test.There are different ways to do a fit test. Most pest control companies use a simple Most pest control companies use a simple

substance detection test to check the fit (an odor substance detection test to check the fit (an odor test uses banana oil; a taste test uses saccharin; test uses banana oil; a taste test uses saccharin; other tests use a harmless irritant or smoke).other tests use a harmless irritant or smoke).

While you wear your selected respirator, the While you wear your selected respirator, the substance is wafted into the air in front of you. If substance is wafted into the air in front of you. If you can smell it, taste it, or otherwise detect it, you can smell it, taste it, or otherwise detect it, your respirator doesn’t fit properly.your respirator doesn’t fit properly.

Once you’ve found a respirator that fits, you must Once you’ve found a respirator that fits, you must repeat the fit test at least once a year… or more repeat the fit test at least once a year… or more often if you gain or lose weight or get dentures or often if you gain or lose weight or get dentures or glasses. glasses.

Conduct a “user seal check” to Conduct a “user seal check” to recheck to check the fit of your recheck to check the fit of your respirator each time you use it.respirator each time you use it.

Seal checks can be positive pressure Seal checks can be positive pressure test or negative pressure test.test or negative pressure test.

For positive pressure test, cover the For positive pressure test, cover the exhalation valve with your hand.exhalation valve with your hand.

Press lightly and exhale gently.Press lightly and exhale gently. If the fit is correct, you should feel If the fit is correct, you should feel

the facepiece bulge slightly from the facepiece bulge slightly from trapped air.trapped air.

If air is escaping, recheck and refit. If air is escaping, recheck and refit.

For a negative pressure test, close of For a negative pressure test, close of the inlet openings by covering them the inlet openings by covering them with the palms of your hands, or by with the palms of your hands, or by replacing the filter seals.replacing the filter seals.

Inhale gently so that the facepiece Inhale gently so that the facepiece collapses slightly, and hold your collapses slightly, and hold your breath for ten seconds.breath for ten seconds.

If the facepiece stays collapsed, and If the facepiece stays collapsed, and no air is leaking, the fit is correct. no air is leaking, the fit is correct.

All respirators must be inspected for All respirators must be inspected for wear and deterioration before and wear and deterioration before and after each use.after each use. Check the face piece for dirt and grime, cracks, or Check the face piece for dirt and grime, cracks, or

tears. Make sure the shape of the facepiece is not tears. Make sure the shape of the facepiece is not distorted from improper storage or from distorted from improper storage or from deterioration of the material.deterioration of the material.

Check the head straps for cracking, loss of Check the head straps for cracking, loss of elasticity, or broken buckles or attachments.elasticity, or broken buckles or attachments.

Remove the cover of the exhalation valve and Remove the cover of the exhalation valve and check for dirt, debris, or hairs under the valve check for dirt, debris, or hairs under the valve seat and make sure the valve is seated properly seat and make sure the valve is seated properly in the valve body.in the valve body.

Check the conditions of the cartridges Check the conditions of the cartridges

Cartridges and filters gradually lose Cartridges and filters gradually lose their protective ability. Their useful their protective ability. Their useful life depends on the following:life depends on the following:

The amount of particles in the air.The amount of particles in the air. The concentration of vapor being filtered.The concentration of vapor being filtered. The amount of absorbent material that The amount of absorbent material that

they contain.they contain. The breathing rate of the wearer.The breathing rate of the wearer. The temperature and humidity.The temperature and humidity. The length of time that they’ve been The length of time that they’ve been

stored between uses. stored between uses.

Follow the manufacturer’s Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on when to replace guidelines on when to replace filters and cartridges.filters and cartridges.

If there are no guidelines, change the If there are no guidelines, change the cartridges after 8 hours of use or if cartridges after 8 hours of use or if you smell pesticides or have trouble you smell pesticides or have trouble breathing. breathing.

Respirators should be cleaned and Respirators should be cleaned and disinfected frequently.disinfected frequently.

If a respirator is shared with another worker, it If a respirator is shared with another worker, it must cleaned and disinfected after each use.must cleaned and disinfected after each use.

Proper cleaning requires disassembly.Proper cleaning requires disassembly. Use a mix of detergent, bleach, and warm water, Use a mix of detergent, bleach, and warm water,

or a commercially-available cleaner and or a commercially-available cleaner and disinfectant solution.disinfectant solution.

Do not use ammonia, hot water, or strong Do not use ammonia, hot water, or strong cleaning detergents or chemicals as they can cleaning detergents or chemicals as they can damage respirator parts.damage respirator parts.

A respirator that has been contaminated with a A respirator that has been contaminated with a concentrated pesticide may require a separate concentrated pesticide may require a separate decontamination procedure. In such a case, check decontamination procedure. In such a case, check with the manufacturer of your respirator. with the manufacturer of your respirator.

Store respirators where they are Store respirators where they are protected from dust, sunlight, protected from dust, sunlight, extreme temperatures, moisture, extreme temperatures, moisture, pesticides, and other chemicals. pesticides, and other chemicals.

Place them in a normal position to prevent Place them in a normal position to prevent distortion of the shape of the rubber or plastic distortion of the shape of the rubber or plastic parts.parts.

During the work day, respirators stored in your During the work day, respirators stored in your vehicle, should be stored be kept away from vehicle, should be stored be kept away from pesticides.pesticides.

Don’t throw a respirator into a service kit or Don’t throw a respirator into a service kit or locker unless it is protected in a carrying case or locker unless it is protected in a carrying case or box.box.

Many pesticide labels require you Many pesticide labels require you to wear chemical-resistant gloves.to wear chemical-resistant gloves.

A glove is considered “chemical-resistant” A glove is considered “chemical-resistant” if there can be no movement of pesticide if there can be no movement of pesticide through the material during its use.through the material during its use.

If you are handling or applying a pesticide If you are handling or applying a pesticide product that contains a solvent, choose product that contains a solvent, choose gloves made of butyl, nitrile, or foil-gloves made of butyl, nitrile, or foil-laminate.laminate.

Sometimes the label or MSDS will specify Sometimes the label or MSDS will specify what type of gloves are resistant to the what type of gloves are resistant to the pesticide or solvents in the product (“wear pesticide or solvents in the product (“wear chemical-resistant gloves such as butyl or chemical-resistant gloves such as butyl or nitrile”). nitrile”).

Pest control technicians often need Pest control technicians often need eye protection when using eye protection when using pesticides.pesticides.

Pesticides can splash into your eyes when Pesticides can splash into your eyes when pouring, or it can splash back during pouring, or it can splash back during application.application.

You may need eye protection from You may need eye protection from airborne pesticides when applying certain airborne pesticides when applying certain aerosols, dust, or space treatments.aerosols, dust, or space treatments.

Always check the pesticide label to see Always check the pesticide label to see what type of safety eye wear is required. what type of safety eye wear is required.

There are different types of eye There are different types of eye protection equipment and they provide protection equipment and they provide different levels of protection.different levels of protection.

Unvented goggles protect your eyes when Unvented goggles protect your eyes when applying any pesticide.applying any pesticide.

Vented goggles are less likely to fog, but aerosols Vented goggles are less likely to fog, but aerosols and mists may get inside.and mists may get inside.

Safety glasses must have attached brow and side Safety glasses must have attached brow and side panels.panels.

Face shields protect your entire face from Face shields protect your entire face from pesticide splash and can be worn with pesticide splash and can be worn with eyeglasses.eyeglasses.

Regular eyeglasses are not considered to be Regular eyeglasses are not considered to be adequate PPE for pesticide use.adequate PPE for pesticide use.

Clothing is a type of PPE since in some Clothing is a type of PPE since in some sense and to some degree it keeps sense and to some degree it keeps pesticide from contacting your skinpesticide from contacting your skin

Coveralls worn over your regular clothing provide Coveralls worn over your regular clothing provide additional protection and can be quickly removed additional protection and can be quickly removed if contaminated.if contaminated.

Other types of clothing are specifically designed to Other types of clothing are specifically designed to protect against skin exposure to chemicals; a protect against skin exposure to chemicals; a common example is tyvek.common example is tyvek.

Fabric protectants and even spray starch can Fabric protectants and even spray starch can make clothing more effective in preventing skin make clothing more effective in preventing skin contamination from pesticides. contamination from pesticides.

Protecting People and The Protecting People and The Environment From Pesticides.Environment From Pesticides.

Pesticide misuse, spills, and accidents can Pesticide misuse, spills, and accidents can affect human health, kill non-target affect human health, kill non-target animals and plants, contaminate surface animals and plants, contaminate surface or ground water, pollute the natural or ground water, pollute the natural environment, and cause a wide range of environment, and cause a wide range of impacts ranging in minor to catastrophic.impacts ranging in minor to catastrophic.

Check the label’s environmental hazards Check the label’s environmental hazards section for special warning statements section for special warning statements concerning hazards to the environmentconcerning hazards to the environment

Minimize the risk of exposure to Minimize the risk of exposure to pesticides in the environment by pesticides in the environment by using them judiciously.using them judiciously.

Use pesticides to suppress verified Use pesticides to suppress verified pest problems only after pest problems only after consideration of nonchemical control consideration of nonchemical control options.options.

When use of a pesticide is deemed When use of a pesticide is deemed necessary, choose an effective necessary, choose an effective pesticide product and application pesticide product and application method posing the least hazard.method posing the least hazard.

It is a violation of law to use a It is a violation of law to use a pesticide in a manner inconsistent pesticide in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.with its labeling.

Always read label instructions before Always read label instructions before every every application.application.

Always follow the label instructions Always follow the label instructions for every application.for every application.

You must exactly follow all You must exactly follow all mandatory statements and mandatory statements and instructions on the label.instructions on the label.

A mandatory statement will contain such A mandatory statement will contain such key words as “must,” “shall,” and “will,” or key words as “must,” “shall,” and “will,” or it will use an expression such as “do not,” it will use an expression such as “do not,” “use only,” or “for use only by.”“use only,” or “for use only by.”

Statements containing words like “should,” Statements containing words like “should,” “may,” and “it is recommended that” are “may,” and “it is recommended that” are suggestions only and you may depart from suggestions only and you may depart from them. them.

Use pesticides only if the site of Use pesticides only if the site of your application is specified on your application is specified on

the pesticide label.the pesticide label.

Follow proper pesticide application Follow proper pesticide application procedures and label instructions to procedures and label instructions to avoid injuring wildlife, pets, livestock avoid injuring wildlife, pets, livestock and other non target organisms.and other non target organisms.

Take particular care with Take particular care with rodenticides and avicides.rodenticides and avicides.

When using rodenticide baits and When using rodenticide baits and tracking powders apply them out of tracking powders apply them out of the reach of children, pets, and the reach of children, pets, and wildlife or inside tamper-resistant wildlife or inside tamper-resistant bait stations.bait stations.

ContinuedContinued

Choose formulations that are least Choose formulations that are least susceptible to translocation, which is when susceptible to translocation, which is when rodents (or other animals) carry bait out of rodents (or other animals) carry bait out of treatment site into a new area.treatment site into a new area.

Do not apply an avicide in areas or at Do not apply an avicide in areas or at times when nonpest birds might be times when nonpest birds might be affected.affected.

Secondary poisoning can also occur when Secondary poisoning can also occur when non target predators or scavengers feed non target predators or scavengers feed on poisoned rodents or birds.on poisoned rodents or birds.

A spill is any accidental release of A spill is any accidental release of pesticide.pesticide.

The spill may be minor, requiring little The spill may be minor, requiring little cleanup effort, or it may be major, cleanup effort, or it may be major, involving large amounts of pesticide and involving large amounts of pesticide and serious contamination.serious contamination.

Even a spill that appears minor can Even a spill that appears minor can endanger you, other people, and the endanger you, other people, and the environment, especially if mishandled.environment, especially if mishandled.

Large leaks or spills require specially Large leaks or spills require specially trained and equipped emergency crews. trained and equipped emergency crews.

The steps you take to control a spill can The steps you take to control a spill can reduce or eliminate damage or injury, reduce or eliminate damage or injury, and the faster you act, the less chance and the faster you act, the less chance the spill will cause harm.the spill will cause harm. Carry a spill control kit on your Carry a spill control kit on your

vehicle at all times.vehicle at all times. Be sure you know what to do Be sure you know what to do beforebefore

you have a spill.you have a spill.

If you have a pesticide spill, be If you have a pesticide spill, be calm and reasoned but work quickly calm and reasoned but work quickly to protect people and the to protect people and the environment.environment. Try to enlist responsible help.Try to enlist responsible help. Remember to protect yourself and Remember to protect yourself and

others who are working on the spill.others who are working on the spill. Use Personal Protective Equipment Use Personal Protective Equipment

(PPE).(PPE).

Stop the SpillStop the Spill

Turn off the pump, pinch the hose closed, Turn off the pump, pinch the hose closed, place a leaky container inside a larger place a leaky container inside a larger container– do whatever you need to do to container– do whatever you need to do to limit the size of the spill.limit the size of the spill.

Stopping the spill is usually simple, but Stopping the spill is usually simple, but occasionally is best left to experts; for occasionally is best left to experts; for example, when a spray rig overturns.example, when a spray rig overturns.

Don’t take unnecessary risks.Don’t take unnecessary risks.

Decontaminate and give first aid.Decontaminate and give first aid.

The safety of people in the spill site The safety of people in the spill site is your first priority.is your first priority.

Anyone contaminated by the spilled Anyone contaminated by the spilled pesticide should remove the pesticide should remove the contaminated clothing, wash down, contaminated clothing, wash down, and receive first-aid as appropriate and receive first-aid as appropriate (check the label for first-aid (check the label for first-aid instruction).instruction).

Contain the spillContain the spill Keep the spill from spreading.Keep the spill from spreading. Keep the pesticide from entering storm drains, Keep the pesticide from entering storm drains,

wells, sewers, streams, and other water systems, wells, sewers, streams, and other water systems, or from moving into other occupied areas.or from moving into other occupied areas.

For spills of liquids, create dams and dikes with For spills of liquids, create dams and dikes with sand, sorbent snakes, kitty litter, special spill sand, sorbent snakes, kitty litter, special spill control absorbents or, as a last resort, rags or control absorbents or, as a last resort, rags or paper towels.paper towels.

Outdoors you trench around the spill area and/or Outdoors you trench around the spill area and/or build a dike of soil.build a dike of soil.

Dry spills (wettable powders, dusts, granules) Dry spills (wettable powders, dusts, granules) should be gently covered with a tarpaulin.should be gently covered with a tarpaulin.

Isolate the area.Isolate the area.

Keep people and pets out of the spill Keep people and pets out of the spill area.area.

Rope off the area.Rope off the area. Try to draft someone to act as Try to draft someone to act as

“policeman” while you deal with the “policeman” while you deal with the spill.spill.

Report the spillReport the spill

First, call your office for instructions.First, call your office for instructions. Depending on the material spilled, Depending on the material spilled,

the amount of the spill, and state and the amount of the spill, and state and federal laws, you or your supervisor federal laws, you or your supervisor may have to contact the fire may have to contact the fire department, police, certain state and department, police, certain state and federal agencies, or spill “hotlines.”federal agencies, or spill “hotlines.”

Clean up the spillClean up the spill

Procedures will depend on the Procedures will depend on the pesticide, the amount of the spill and pesticide, the amount of the spill and the location.the location.

Follow instructions from the office or Follow instructions from the office or from a spill hotline.from a spill hotline.

Do not work alone.Do not work alone. Wear appropriate protective Wear appropriate protective

equipment.equipment.

Decontaminate as necessary. Decontaminate as necessary. The manufacturer of the The manufacturer of the pesticide will provide pesticide will provide information on how to information on how to decontaminate surfaces and decontaminate surfaces and materials.materials.

Dispose of contaminantsDispose of contaminants

Recovered pesticide should be saved and Recovered pesticide should be saved and used at a job site, if possible.used at a job site, if possible.

All contaminated materials (such as All contaminated materials (such as absorbents, rags, soil, and wood) must be absorbents, rags, soil, and wood) must be removed from the site and disposed of as removed from the site and disposed of as required by law.required by law.

Place the material in a sealable, leak proof Place the material in a sealable, leak proof drum or, if a drum is not available, in drum or, if a drum is not available, in double heavy-duty plastic trash bags, until double heavy-duty plastic trash bags, until you find out the proper disposal you find out the proper disposal procedure.procedure.

A Leaking pesticide container A Leaking pesticide container demands immediate action.demands immediate action.

Put on any personal protective equipment, Put on any personal protective equipment, such as rubber gloves or goggles, that is such as rubber gloves or goggles, that is required or suggested on the label.required or suggested on the label.

If the leaking is severe, first contain the If the leaking is severe, first contain the leak. A quick way to do this is to leak. A quick way to do this is to temporarily place the container inside a temporarily place the container inside a five-gallon plastic bucket.five-gallon plastic bucket.

Transfer the pesticide container to another Transfer the pesticide container to another container or into a spray tank or other container or into a spray tank or other piece of application equipment.piece of application equipment.

Clean up any spillage. Clean up any spillage.

Ground water can become Ground water can become contaminated with pesticides and contaminated with pesticides and decontamination of this water can be decontamination of this water can be difficult or impossible. Contamination difficult or impossible. Contamination can occur when:can occur when:

Rain carries dissolved pesticide down Rain carries dissolved pesticide down through the soil (a process called leaching).through the soil (a process called leaching).

Pesticide is back-siphoned from pesticide Pesticide is back-siphoned from pesticide tanks.tanks.

Termiticides enter wells during termite Termiticides enter wells during termite treatmentstreatments

Pesticides, particularly concentrates, are Pesticides, particularly concentrates, are not disposed of properly. not disposed of properly.

Protect ground water from Protect ground water from contamination by following the label contamination by following the label and good application practices:and good application practices:

Assess the risk of ground-water contamination Assess the risk of ground-water contamination before treatment by checking soil type, looking for before treatment by checking soil type, looking for wells, cisterns, springs, streams, storm drains, and wells, cisterns, springs, streams, storm drains, and other potential routes to ground water in an area.other potential routes to ground water in an area.

Choose products least likely to leach (check label Choose products least likely to leach (check label or call manufacturer).or call manufacturer).

Avoid spills and clean up any spills immediately.Avoid spills and clean up any spills immediately. Use a backflow preventer and/or air gap when Use a backflow preventer and/or air gap when

filling spray tanks.filling spray tanks. Do not apply outdoor applications if rain is Do not apply outdoor applications if rain is

forecast, or if the ground is saturated or frozen.forecast, or if the ground is saturated or frozen.

Check the label for specific disposal Check the label for specific disposal instructions for a specific productinstructions for a specific product Instructions will usually be found in a Instructions will usually be found in a

section called ‘Disposal” or “Storage and section called ‘Disposal” or “Storage and Disposal.”Disposal.”

Sometimes, however, the disposal Sometimes, however, the disposal instructions may be found under a different instructions may be found under a different heading so be sure to read the entire label.heading so be sure to read the entire label.

State rules may sometimes be more State rules may sometimes be more specific on methods of disposal so be specific on methods of disposal so be familiar with them.familiar with them.

Many pesticide containers must be Many pesticide containers must be “triple-rinsed” before disposal, and “triple-rinsed” before disposal, and the steps are as follows:the steps are as follows:

Drain the “empty” container into your application Drain the “empty” container into your application equipment for at least 30 seconds.equipment for at least 30 seconds.

Fill the container ¼ full of clean water, replace the Fill the container ¼ full of clean water, replace the cap, and swish the liquid around.cap, and swish the liquid around.

Pour the rinsate into the sprayer and let it drain Pour the rinsate into the sprayer and let it drain for 30 seconds.for 30 seconds.

Repeat these steps twice more.Repeat these steps twice more. Use the rinse water in the sprayer according to Use the rinse water in the sprayer according to

the product label (as diluent or end-use dilution).the product label (as diluent or end-use dilution). Puncture or crush the container so it can not be Puncture or crush the container so it can not be

reused. (unless it is being returned to the reused. (unless it is being returned to the manufacturer for recycling) manufacturer for recycling)

When you clean a sprayer or other When you clean a sprayer or other application equipment, you can’t just application equipment, you can’t just pour the rinse water down the drain.pour the rinse water down the drain.

The rinse water from this cleaning, called The rinse water from this cleaning, called “rinsate,” contains diluted pesticide.“rinsate,” contains diluted pesticide.

If you can, handle this rinsate just as you If you can, handle this rinsate just as you do for rinsate from triple-rinsed containers– do for rinsate from triple-rinsed containers– use it in a sprayer as diluent or an end-use use it in a sprayer as diluent or an end-use dilution.dilution.

Otherwise, this diluted pesticide must be Otherwise, this diluted pesticide must be disposed of as a hazardous material.disposed of as a hazardous material.

Drift is the movement of the pesticide Drift is the movement of the pesticide away from the site or pest you are away from the site or pest you are treating and into non target areas.treating and into non target areas.

Pesticide drift is the responsibility of Pesticide drift is the responsibility of the applicator and, when it occurs, the applicator and, when it occurs, may be considered a misapplication may be considered a misapplication under under FIFRAFIFRA..

Learn how to anticipate and avoid Learn how to anticipate and avoid problems with drift.problems with drift.

Drift is most common outdoors with Drift is most common outdoors with power sprays.power sprays.

Drift is most likely during outdoor Drift is most likely during outdoor application with wind 10 mph and application with wind 10 mph and higher.higher.

Other factors, such as temperature, Other factors, such as temperature, humidity, and droplet size also humidity, and droplet size also contribute to pesticide drift.contribute to pesticide drift.

When treating outdoors, technicians When treating outdoors, technicians need to check for things that could need to check for things that could be contaminated by pesticide drift,. be contaminated by pesticide drift,. Examples include fish ponds, play Examples include fish ponds, play areas, vegetable gardens, areas, vegetable gardens, sandboxes, swing sets, intake sandboxes, swing sets, intake vents, laundry on the line, lawn vents, laundry on the line, lawn furniture, pet water bowls, pet runs, furniture, pet water bowls, pet runs, bee hives, vehicles, and streams.bee hives, vehicles, and streams.

When treating outdoors, take steps When treating outdoors, take steps to prevent drift.to prevent drift.

Do not spray when wind is blowing Do not spray when wind is blowing towards sensitive areas.towards sensitive areas.

Do not spray when it is windy.Do not spray when it is windy. Use the lowest application pressure Use the lowest application pressure

practicable.practicable. Choose a nozzle that produces a coarse Choose a nozzle that produces a coarse

spray.spray. Use a commercial “drift-reduction” Use a commercial “drift-reduction”

(thickening) agent in your tank.(thickening) agent in your tank.

Pesticide drift can, on rare Pesticide drift can, on rare occasions, occur even hours or occasions, occur even hours or days after an application.days after an application.

A dried wettable powder residue A dried wettable powder residue might be tracked into a restaurant's might be tracked into a restaurant's kitchen on a worker’s shoes.kitchen on a worker’s shoes.

The day after a perimeter treatment The day after a perimeter treatment of a home, a storm can blow piles of of a home, a storm can blow piles of treated leaves into a nearby fish treated leaves into a nearby fish pond. pond.

Pesticide drift can happen during Pesticide drift can happen during indoor applications, as well.indoor applications, as well.

Fans, air conditioners, and blowers Fans, air conditioners, and blowers create indoor wind that moves create indoor wind that moves pesticide where it is not wanted.pesticide where it is not wanted.

Even void treatments can generate Even void treatments can generate drift if applied under too high of drift if applied under too high of pressure, drifting out of the void pressure, drifting out of the void through holes, electrical outlets, or through holes, electrical outlets, or vents.vents.

When power-spraying in attics, When power-spraying in attics, crawlspaces, and other indoor crawlspaces, and other indoor sites, check for air intakes and sites, check for air intakes and turn off all ventilation during turn off all ventilation during treatment.treatment.

PestsPests

ANTSANTS

Ants are among the most successful Ants are among the most successful of insects.of insects.

There are over 12,000 kinds of ants There are over 12,000 kinds of ants worldwide.worldwide.

A few dozen commonly cause serious A few dozen commonly cause serious problems, and ants have replaced problems, and ants have replaced cockroaches as the number one cockroaches as the number one household pest in surveys of pest household pest in surveys of pest management professionals.management professionals.

Ants are social insects (like Ants are social insects (like termites, honey bees, and termites, honey bees, and yellowjackets). yellowjackets).

Ants live in colonies, which are large Ants live in colonies, which are large cooperative groups.cooperative groups.

Two or more generations overlap in Two or more generations overlap in the colony.the colony.

Adult ants take care of young.Adult ants take care of young. Adult ants are divided into castes Adult ants are divided into castes

(queen and kings) and (queen and kings) and nonreproductive castes (Workers).nonreproductive castes (Workers).

Ant colony organization varies Ant colony organization varies greatly from species to species.greatly from species to species.

Some ant species put their trust into a single egg-Some ant species put their trust into a single egg-laying queen (monogyny). laying queen (monogyny).

Others produce multiple egg-laying queens Others produce multiple egg-laying queens (polygyny).(polygyny).

Some species have a single nest, others have Some species have a single nest, others have multiple nests.multiple nests.

Carpenter ants and a few other species can have Carpenter ants and a few other species can have a primary nest plus smaller satellite nests a primary nest plus smaller satellite nests containing workers and brood.containing workers and brood.

Depending on the type of ant, colonies can Depending on the type of ant, colonies can contain anywhere from dozens of workers up to contain anywhere from dozens of workers up to millions, as in the case of the Argentine ant.millions, as in the case of the Argentine ant.

Most ants form new colonies by Most ants form new colonies by swarming, some by budding, swarming, some by budding, and some by both.and some by both.

Most species of ant have a single Most species of ant have a single nest, and form new colonies nest, and form new colonies

through swarming.through swarming.

Ants with a single queen tend to be easier Ants with a single queen tend to be easier to control than those species of ants to control than those species of ants having multiple queens that form new having multiple queens that form new colonies by budding.colonies by budding.

With single-queen, single-nest ants, With single-queen, single-nest ants, technicians can effectively spend their technicians can effectively spend their time finding the nest, so it can be time finding the nest, so it can be removed or treated. removed or treated.

Budding is the breakaway of a Budding is the breakaway of a group of ants from a mature colony group of ants from a mature colony to form a new colony.to form a new colony. The group usually consists of one or The group usually consists of one or

more queens and some workers more queens and some workers carrying larvae.carrying larvae.

Budding is common with species of Budding is common with species of ants, such as, Pharaoh ants, that ants, such as, Pharaoh ants, that have multiple queens.have multiple queens.

Multiple queen, multiple nest Multiple queen, multiple nest ants are opportunistic and can ants are opportunistic and can be more difficult to control.be more difficult to control.

Examples include pharaoh ants, Argentine ants, Examples include pharaoh ants, Argentine ants, odorous house ants, and some fire ants.odorous house ants, and some fire ants.

These ants evolved to quickly take advantage of These ants evolved to quickly take advantage of short-lived, patchy, or scarce resources and so are short-lived, patchy, or scarce resources and so are preadapted for man made environments.preadapted for man made environments.

These ants are distributed widely by human These ants are distributed widely by human commerce.commerce.

When disturbed, even only slightly disturbed, by When disturbed, even only slightly disturbed, by physical changes, flooding, mortality, or chemical physical changes, flooding, mortality, or chemical irritation, these ants disperse or bud into new irritation, these ants disperse or bud into new colonies. colonies.

Continued Continued

Infestations in and around buildings Infestations in and around buildings can ultimately involve dozens of can ultimately involve dozens of small colony units, regularly small colony units, regularly emigrating, dispersing, fusing emigrating, dispersing, fusing together again.together again.

Populations of these ants are often Populations of these ants are often best controlled through baiting, best controlled through baiting, because insecticide spray or dust because insecticide spray or dust may trigger budding and dispersal. may trigger budding and dispersal.

Knowing the food habits of the Knowing the food habits of the particular ant species is important particular ant species is important in ant managementin ant management

It can help you find and eliminate the It can help you find and eliminate the food that is attracting them to the food that is attracting them to the site.site.

It can help you locate foraging trails It can help you locate foraging trails to track the ants back to their nest.to track the ants back to their nest.

It can help you choose an effective It can help you choose an effective bait.bait.

Ant’s feed on many different types Ant’s feed on many different types of food.of food.

Some species will feed on practically Some species will feed on practically anything; others may limit their food to a anything; others may limit their food to a narrow range.narrow range.

Ant’s infesting structures are typically Ant’s infesting structures are typically feeding on “people food,” in storage feeding on “people food,” in storage (sugar, cakes, cookies, breakfast cereals, (sugar, cakes, cookies, breakfast cereals, etc.) and food from spills and garbage.etc.) and food from spills and garbage.

Ant’s may also be preying on other Ant’s may also be preying on other insects, or scavenging on dead insects in insects, or scavenging on dead insects in windows or lights.windows or lights.

Food preferences of Ant’s are often Food preferences of Ant’s are often seasonal.seasonal. When the queen is actively laying When the queen is actively laying

eggs, worker ants typically gather eggs, worker ants typically gather protein-based foods for the queen.protein-based foods for the queen.

At other times they may avoid At other times they may avoid protein foods completely and restrict protein foods completely and restrict their foraging to sugars and greases.their foraging to sugars and greases.

Knowing the ant’s food preference at Knowing the ant’s food preference at a particular time is important so you a particular time is important so you can choose the best ant baits. can choose the best ant baits.

Many ants obtain sugar by feeding Many ants obtain sugar by feeding on “honeydew” secreted by aphids on “honeydew” secreted by aphids and other plant sucking insects. and other plant sucking insects.

Worker ants often defend these insects Worker ants often defend these insects from predators and tend them as if they from predators and tend them as if they were their personal herd of “cows.”were their personal herd of “cows.”

Indoor infestations of ants are occasionally Indoor infestations of ants are occasionally traced to large populations of aphids on traced to large populations of aphids on outdoor foundation plants or indoor outdoor foundation plants or indoor houseplants.houseplants.

You should typically spend 80% of your time You should typically spend 80% of your time on ant jobs inspecting the account, and 20% on ant jobs inspecting the account, and 20% on control action, not the reverse.on control action, not the reverse.

You can spray insecticides and kill hundreds of You can spray insecticides and kill hundreds of individual ants without ever solving your ant individual ants without ever solving your ant problem.problem.

Proper inspection and monitoring allows you to Proper inspection and monitoring allows you to identify the ant species causing trouble and locate identify the ant species causing trouble and locate where the workers are feeding, their foraging where the workers are feeding, their foraging trails, and their nest sites indoors and out.trails, and their nest sites indoors and out.

Ants causing troubles inside a structure more Ants causing troubles inside a structure more often than not are nesting outside and coming often than not are nesting outside and coming inside to feed.inside to feed.

Ants can also be nesting in walls, behind a Ants can also be nesting in walls, behind a baseboard, under the house, or in decayed or baseboard, under the house, or in decayed or rotting wood in the house.rotting wood in the house.

Some ants follow definite trails.Some ants follow definite trails. If possible follow these trails to the nest.If possible follow these trails to the nest. If there are children at the account ask them if they have If there are children at the account ask them if they have

seen ants and where,. Children like to watch ants and can seen ants and where,. Children like to watch ants and can be very useful in tracing their trails.be very useful in tracing their trails.

Ants often trail along baseboards inside rooms and Ants often trail along baseboards inside rooms and hallways.hallways.

Ants may also trail Ants may also trail behindbehind the baseboard. Try putting a the baseboard. Try putting a putty knife under the baseboard to entice the ants out or putty knife under the baseboard to entice the ants out or even consider removing a section of the baseboard.even consider removing a section of the baseboard.

If you see ants in a carpeted room but cannot find their If you see ants in a carpeted room but cannot find their foraging trails, use a pair of needle- nose pliers to pull up a foraging trails, use a pair of needle- nose pliers to pull up a small sections of carpet edge and check for ants.small sections of carpet edge and check for ants.

Other areas to check include behind switch plates, on Other areas to check include behind switch plates, on window sills, inside light fixtures, and inside plumbing window sills, inside light fixtures, and inside plumbing inspection areas at tubs and shower pans. inspection areas at tubs and shower pans.

Some infestations may require an Some infestations may require an intensive survey program using intensive survey program using nontoxic baits to determine likely nontoxic baits to determine likely nesting sites.nesting sites.

Good baits are jelly, honey, peanut butter, bacon Good baits are jelly, honey, peanut butter, bacon grease, or raw liver.grease, or raw liver.

Place the baits (or a combination of the baits) Place the baits (or a combination of the baits) inside a commercial ant bait station or on small inside a commercial ant bait station or on small pieces of cardboard, aluminum foil, masking tape, pieces of cardboard, aluminum foil, masking tape, or plastic pill bottle lids.or plastic pill bottle lids.

Place baits throughout the building and Place baits throughout the building and periodically check them for feeding ants.periodically check them for feeding ants.

Note active sites on a survey diagram. Over a Note active sites on a survey diagram. Over a period of days, the survey diagram will pinpoint period of days, the survey diagram will pinpoint areas of activity.areas of activity.

Be sure to inspect for ant nests or Be sure to inspect for ant nests or trails.trails.

Look for “ant hills” or mounds and disturb them to see if Look for “ant hills” or mounds and disturb them to see if they contain ants.they contain ants.

Nest’s may also be constructed next to or under the Nest’s may also be constructed next to or under the building’s foundation, under sidewalks, driveways, and building’s foundation, under sidewalks, driveways, and patios, or in decaying logs or tree trunks.patios, or in decaying logs or tree trunks.

Turn over rocks, boards, flagstones, and similar things near Turn over rocks, boards, flagstones, and similar things near the structure.the structure.

Check leaf litter and grass against the foundation walls.Check leaf litter and grass against the foundation walls. Check inside equipment and other items that may provide Check inside equipment and other items that may provide

nesting sites or moisture (in-ground sprinkler heads, yard nesting sites or moisture (in-ground sprinkler heads, yard lights, water meter boxes, flower pots, statuary, porch lights, water meter boxes, flower pots, statuary, porch columns, sand boxes, and children's play items).columns, sand boxes, and children's play items).

Look for trailing ants along the edges of sidewalks, walls, Look for trailing ants along the edges of sidewalks, walls, tree trunks, tree branches touching the structure, fences, tree trunks, tree branches touching the structure, fences, downspouts and utility linesdownspouts and utility lines

For some nocturnal species, such For some nocturnal species, such as carpenter ants, you may need to as carpenter ants, you may need to conduct evening inspections (a conduct evening inspections (a couple hours after sunset) when couple hours after sunset) when the ants are most active.the ants are most active.

Caulking and otherwise sealing cracks Caulking and otherwise sealing cracks and crevices used by ants can help and crevices used by ants can help suppress the populationsuppress the population

Silicone sealers and expandable caulk Silicone sealers and expandable caulk products are easiest to use.products are easiest to use.

Caulking is particularly useful where Caulking is particularly useful where ants are trailing into a building from ants are trailing into a building from outside through holes around electric, outside through holes around electric, gas, and cable service lines, or gas, and cable service lines, or around deteriorated window frames. around deteriorated window frames.

There are two steps that customers can There are two steps that customers can take to help reduce ant pressure.take to help reduce ant pressure.

Trim the branches of trees located close to Trim the branches of trees located close to structures so the braches do not act as structures so the braches do not act as runways from nest sites to roof or siding.runways from nest sites to roof or siding.

Alter landscaping to minimize the number Alter landscaping to minimize the number of aphids and other honeydew-producing of aphids and other honeydew-producing insects that attract ants.insects that attract ants.

Firewood kept indoors should be moved Firewood kept indoors should be moved outdoors or regularly inspected for ants. outdoors or regularly inspected for ants.

There are only limited ways to eliminate There are only limited ways to eliminate ants without the use of insecticides.ants without the use of insecticides.

Ground ant nests can be destroyed in certain Ground ant nests can be destroyed in certain instances by digging them up and destroying the instances by digging them up and destroying the nest structure.nest structure.

Steam and heat injection units have been Steam and heat injection units have been developed for fire ant control but can also destroy developed for fire ant control but can also destroy other mound builders such as harvester ants and other mound builders such as harvester ants and Allegheny mound ants.Allegheny mound ants.

Ants can be discouraged from foraging in certain Ants can be discouraged from foraging in certain limited sites with sticky barriers. For example, limited sites with sticky barriers. For example, commercially available sticky repellants or commercially available sticky repellants or petroleum jelly can be applied in a narrow band petroleum jelly can be applied in a narrow band around table legs to prevent ants from walking up around table legs to prevent ants from walking up to the tabletop. Double-sided tape can also be used.to the tabletop. Double-sided tape can also be used.

Large numbers of workers ants can be mopped or Large numbers of workers ants can be mopped or sponged up with soapy water, but this will only have sponged up with soapy water, but this will only have a temporary effect. a temporary effect.

Baits have many advantages for Baits have many advantages for managing ants.managing ants.

There is no odor.There is no odor. There is no risk of drift.There is no risk of drift. Phytotoxicity is not an issue.Phytotoxicity is not an issue. Most baits are ready-to-use.Most baits are ready-to-use. Customers view baits as clean, safe Customers view baits as clean, safe

and high-tech.and high-tech.

But successfully controlling ant’s But successfully controlling ant’s with baits requires knowledge and with baits requires knowledge and fine tuning on the part of the fine tuning on the part of the technician.technician.

Each species of ant has its own food preferences, Each species of ant has its own food preferences, which can change abruptly with conditions of the which can change abruptly with conditions of the season.season.

What works today may not work tomorrow, even What works today may not work tomorrow, even against the same ants in the same location.against the same ants in the same location.

Just because a manufacturer lists a particular ant Just because a manufacturer lists a particular ant on the label, it doesn’t mean that the ant will be on the label, it doesn’t mean that the ant will be interested in feeding on the bait at your account.interested in feeding on the bait at your account.

The key ant baiting concept to The key ant baiting concept to remember is this– no single bait remember is this– no single bait works against all ants at all times.works against all ants at all times.

It is best to carry a variety of baits and use It is best to carry a variety of baits and use a trial and error strategy.a trial and error strategy.

Include a granular and one or more gels, Include a granular and one or more gels, stations, and water baits.stations, and water baits.

Carry both sugar-based baits to attract Carry both sugar-based baits to attract sweet-feeding ants and protein based baits sweet-feeding ants and protein based baits to attract oil and grease-feeding ants.to attract oil and grease-feeding ants.

Don’t use large granular baits for small Don’t use large granular baits for small ants. They won’t be able to carry the bait ants. They won’t be able to carry the bait back to the nest and recruit others.back to the nest and recruit others.

Be sure to correctly identify the Be sure to correctly identify the species of ant (or ants) causing the species of ant (or ants) causing the problem so that you can determine problem so that you can determine what the ant’s are likely to feed on.what the ant’s are likely to feed on.

Find the food sources the ant’s are Find the food sources the ant’s are using and eliminate them.using and eliminate them.

The ant’s regular food sources compete with your The ant’s regular food sources compete with your bait.bait.

The more you can reduce the ant’s food supply, The more you can reduce the ant’s food supply, the more likely you will get good bait acceptance.the more likely you will get good bait acceptance.

Recommend frequent vacuuming, sweeping, or Recommend frequent vacuuming, sweeping, or mopping of floors and washing of counter and mopping of floors and washing of counter and table tops to eliminate food ants may be foraging table tops to eliminate food ants may be foraging on.on.

Cereals, sugar, and other bulk food should be Cereals, sugar, and other bulk food should be stored in plastic containers with snap-on lids, in stored in plastic containers with snap-on lids, in glass jars with rubber seals, or in a refrigerator.glass jars with rubber seals, or in a refrigerator.

Locate trails and entry points.Locate trails and entry points.

Trails are good baiting sites.Trails are good baiting sites. Don’t forget to bait outside if the problem Don’t forget to bait outside if the problem

ants are nesting there. Most indoor ant ants are nesting there. Most indoor ant problems originate outdoors.problems originate outdoors.

Identify activity areas and food sources Identify activity areas and food sources (garbage, honeydew, dead insects under (garbage, honeydew, dead insects under lights, etc.) and incorporate outdoor lights, etc.) and incorporate outdoor baiting and other control tactics when baiting and other control tactics when practical.practical.

Place your baits directly on foraging Place your baits directly on foraging trails. Some species of ants will not trails. Some species of ants will not wander an inch off of their trail to wander an inch off of their trail to feed.feed. Initially, place small amounts of baits or Initially, place small amounts of baits or

prebaits in dozens, or even hundreds, of prebaits in dozens, or even hundreds, of sites.sites.

Once the ants are feeding, you can Once the ants are feeding, you can concentrate on the active sites.concentrate on the active sites.

Be sure to leave enough bait to last until Be sure to leave enough bait to last until your next service visit.your next service visit.

You may need to return after just a few You may need to return after just a few days.days.

Consider prebaiting with a nontoxic Consider prebaiting with a nontoxic bait.bait.

Prebaiting lets you identify feeding Prebaiting lets you identify feeding areas and determine the best baits.areas and determine the best baits.

Prebaiting allows the ants to Prebaiting allows the ants to establish chemical trails that they establish chemical trails that they will follow when you substitute toxic will follow when you substitute toxic baits.baits.

Other insecticide formulations and Other insecticide formulations and tactics can also be used to manage tactics can also be used to manage ants.ants. When a nest is known to be located inside When a nest is known to be located inside

a certain void, that void can be injected a certain void, that void can be injected with a small amount of aerosol, dust, or with a small amount of aerosol, dust, or liquid residual insecticide.liquid residual insecticide.

Carpenter ants, acrobat ants, and a few Carpenter ants, acrobat ants, and a few others may nest inside structural wood. In others may nest inside structural wood. In these cases, holes are drilled in the wood these cases, holes are drilled in the wood in the suspected area and insecticide is in the suspected area and insecticide is injected under pressure into the galleries.injected under pressure into the galleries.

For certain ground-nesting ants that dig For certain ground-nesting ants that dig deep nests outdoors, a soil drench or mound deep nests outdoors, a soil drench or mound drench can be effective when other drench can be effective when other treatments aren’t.treatments aren’t.

A soil drench consist of applying A soil drench consist of applying enough insecticide dilution directly to enough insecticide dilution directly to a mound or nest so that the entire a mound or nest so that the entire nest is “drenched.”nest is “drenched.”

A targeted barrier treatment may A targeted barrier treatment may have a role in keeping outdoor ants have a role in keeping outdoor ants from entering a building.from entering a building. Apply a limited amount of residual Apply a limited amount of residual

insecticide in critical areas such as insecticide in critical areas such as around windows, window wells, door around windows, window wells, door frames, chimney bases, under frames, chimney bases, under deteriorated siding and porches, and deteriorated siding and porches, and in cracks and other openings in in cracks and other openings in damaged foundations.damaged foundations.

Applying undirected, general Applying undirected, general insecticide sprays indoors is a poor insecticide sprays indoors is a poor way to manage ants way to manage ants

The sprays only “harvest” a small The sprays only “harvest” a small portion of the workers, and have little portion of the workers, and have little effect on the colony, the ultimate effect on the colony, the ultimate source of the problem.source of the problem.

Some species are apparently Some species are apparently triggered into “budding” new colonies triggered into “budding” new colonies when they contact insecticide near when they contact insecticide near their nests and foraging sites.their nests and foraging sites.

RodentsRodents

Accurate identification of rodents is Accurate identification of rodents is essential for rodent management.essential for rodent management.

The vast majority of rodents are not pest The vast majority of rodents are not pest at all.at all.

There are over 1500 different species of There are over 1500 different species of rodents in the world, and roughly 500 of rodents in the world, and roughly 500 of these are mouse-like or rat-like.these are mouse-like or rat-like.

The major pest rodents are the Norway The major pest rodents are the Norway rat, roof rat, house mouse, and deer rat, roof rat, house mouse, and deer mouse.mouse.

There are important differences in the There are important differences in the biology and behavior of the four main pest biology and behavior of the four main pest rodents.rodents.

There are differences in where you There are differences in where you find each of the pest rodents.find each of the pest rodents.

Roof rats usually nest in trees, bushes and other Roof rats usually nest in trees, bushes and other dense vegetation, and typically travel above our dense vegetation, and typically travel above our heads, and enter structures up near the roof.heads, and enter structures up near the roof.

The Norway rat prefers to live near the ground, The Norway rat prefers to live near the ground, typically nesting in burrows and foraging at typically nesting in burrows and foraging at ground level when outdoors.ground level when outdoors.

House mice can be found in any dark, sheltered House mice can be found in any dark, sheltered locations in and around structures, from below locations in and around structures, from below ground to upper floors.ground to upper floors.

Deer mice are primarily found outdoors, but may Deer mice are primarily found outdoors, but may move into structures at ground level, particularly move into structures at ground level, particularly during colder weather. during colder weather.

The size of the rodents’ territory The size of the rodents’ territory differ as well.differ as well.

House mice seldom travel more than House mice seldom travel more than 30 feet from their nest.30 feet from their nest.

Deer mice can range 50-200 feetDeer mice can range 50-200 feet Norway rats commonly forage 100 Norway rats commonly forage 100

feet or more.feet or more. Roof rats forage 300 feet or more.Roof rats forage 300 feet or more.

Knowing the typical sizes of the Knowing the typical sizes of the different rodents’ territories is different rodents’ territories is important in their control.important in their control.

It’s not unusual for a colony of rats It’s not unusual for a colony of rats nesting outdoors to be feeding at a nesting outdoors to be feeding at a building more than 100 feet away.building more than 100 feet away.

In contrast, a mouse feeding on a In contrast, a mouse feeding on a countertop is likely nesting nearby.countertop is likely nesting nearby.

Rats and mice react differently to Rats and mice react differently to new objects and change. new objects and change.

Mice tend to investigate new objects in Mice tend to investigate new objects in their territory. They’re curious.their territory. They’re curious.

When something new is added, mice will When something new is added, mice will investigate it thoroughly.investigate it thoroughly.

Most rats are wary of all things strange or Most rats are wary of all things strange or foreign appearing in their territory.foreign appearing in their territory.

Rats tend to avoid anything new– a bait Rats tend to avoid anything new– a bait station, trap, the smell of insecticide.station, trap, the smell of insecticide.

This can make baiting and trapping This can make baiting and trapping ineffective unless special procedures are ineffective unless special procedures are followed. followed.

Feeding behavior also differs Feeding behavior also differs greatly between pest rodents.greatly between pest rodents.

Mice are nibblers, and may feed Mice are nibblers, and may feed twenty different times throughout an twenty different times throughout an evening.evening.

Norway rats are cautious feeders, but Norway rats are cautious feeders, but once they find a food they like, they once they find a food they like, they may consume a large quantity at a may consume a large quantity at a single feeding.single feeding.

Rodents’ food preferences are also Rodents’ food preferences are also different, although all will feed on different, although all will feed on many human foods.many human foods.

Norway rats will feed on almost any food Norway rats will feed on almost any food that people will feed on and are often that people will feed on and are often dependent on human foods and trash.dependent on human foods and trash.

Roof rats outdoors can survive successfully Roof rats outdoors can survive successfully on berries, seeds, fruits, slugs, shellfish, on berries, seeds, fruits, slugs, shellfish, and snails.and snails.

House mice feed on a wide variety of foods House mice feed on a wide variety of foods but seem to prefer cereals and seeds.but seem to prefer cereals and seeds.

Deer mice feed on insects, seeds, nuts, Deer mice feed on insects, seeds, nuts, bird seed, pet food, even other small bird seed, pet food, even other small animals. animals.

A mature Norway rat is 12-18 A mature Norway rat is 12-18 inches from the tip of the nose to inches from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail and usually weighs the tip of the tail and usually weighs less than a pound.less than a pound.

The Norway rat is never “as big as a cat” The Norway rat is never “as big as a cat” as commonly claimed by untrained people.as commonly claimed by untrained people.

No one has ever officially recorded a No one has ever officially recorded a Norway Rat bigger than a pound and a Norway Rat bigger than a pound and a half.half.

Young rats are much smaller.Young rats are much smaller. Individual Norway rats vary greatly in Individual Norway rats vary greatly in

color, but are usually in various shades of color, but are usually in various shades of brown and gray.brown and gray.

The Roof rat is sleeker than a The Roof rat is sleeker than a Norway rat Norway rat

A mature roof rat is about 14-16 A mature roof rat is about 14-16 inches from the tip of the nose to the inches from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail (similar to the Norway tip of the tail (similar to the Norway rat)rat)

The Roof rat usually weighs much The Roof rat usually weighs much less– from a quarter-pound to a little less– from a quarter-pound to a little over a half pound for a mature adult.over a half pound for a mature adult.

Most are black or nearly black with a Most are black or nearly black with a gray belly.gray belly.

The small size of the house mouse The small size of the house mouse often surprises people. often surprises people.

An adult mouse usually weighs less An adult mouse usually weighs less than an ounce.than an ounce.

It measures about 7 inches from the It measures about 7 inches from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail.tip of the nose to the tip of the tail.

Color is variable but there is typically Color is variable but there is typically no significant color change between no significant color change between the back and the belly.the back and the belly.

The Deer mouse is roughly the The Deer mouse is roughly the same size as the House mouse.same size as the House mouse.

About 6 inches from the tip of its About 6 inches from the tip of its nose to the tip of its tail.nose to the tip of its tail.

A deer mouse weighs about an ounce A deer mouse weighs about an ounce or less when mature.or less when mature.

Deer mice are bicolored --- grayish Deer mice are bicolored --- grayish buff to deep red-brown above and buff to deep red-brown above and white below.white below.

Where the ranges of the Norway rats Where the ranges of the Norway rats and Roof rats overlap, you need to and Roof rats overlap, you need to know how to tell them apart.know how to tell them apart.

The best characteristic is the tail length. If you The best characteristic is the tail length. If you pull the rat’s tail over its back, a Norway rat’s tail pull the rat’s tail over its back, a Norway rat’s tail will not reach beyond its ears, a Roof rats tail will not reach beyond its ears, a Roof rats tail reach its nose or beyond.reach its nose or beyond.

The Norway rat is stockier and heavier-looking The Norway rat is stockier and heavier-looking than the roof rat, and typically lighter colored.than the roof rat, and typically lighter colored.

The Norway rat’s ears and eyes are smaller and The Norway rat’s ears and eyes are smaller and its nose is blunter compared to the large ears, its nose is blunter compared to the large ears, large eyes and pointed snout of the Roof rat.large eyes and pointed snout of the Roof rat.

The Norway rat’s ears are so large that they can The Norway rat’s ears are so large that they can be pulled over its eyes.be pulled over its eyes.

Female Roof rats have 10 teats while the female Female Roof rats have 10 teats while the female Norway rat has 12 Norway rat has 12

A very young rat and a very large A very young rat and a very large mouse also can be confusedmouse also can be confused

A young rat is like a puppy: its feet A young rat is like a puppy: its feet and head look proportionately bigger and head look proportionately bigger than they should.than they should.

A young rats hind foot will measure a A young rats hind foot will measure a inch or longer, while a mouse’s will inch or longer, while a mouse’s will be much shorter than an inch long.be much shorter than an inch long.

House mouse and Deer mice can House mouse and Deer mice can be told apart by their tails. be told apart by their tails.

The house mouse’s tail is almost The house mouse’s tail is almost naked.naked.

The deer mouse’s tail is covered with The deer mouse’s tail is covered with short fur. It’s tail is also sharply short fur. It’s tail is also sharply bicolored dark above and white bicolored dark above and white belowbelow

Carefully inspect a structure and Carefully inspect a structure and surrounding areas outdoors when surrounding areas outdoors when rodents are a problem.rodents are a problem.

Check for rodent activity, estimate Check for rodent activity, estimate populations, identify travel routes, and populations, identify travel routes, and pinpoint where rodents are feeding, pinpoint where rodents are feeding, drinking, nesting and hiding.drinking, nesting and hiding.

Also identify factors that contribute to Also identify factors that contribute to rodent feeding or harborage, such as poor rodent feeding or harborage, such as poor trash handling practices, debris piles, lunch trash handling practices, debris piles, lunch food trash not disposed of properly, weeds, food trash not disposed of properly, weeds, etc. etc.

Rodents give various signs that Rodents give various signs that they are inhabiting an area.they are inhabiting an area.

The most useful signs are burrows The most useful signs are burrows (especially Norway rats), visual (especially Norway rats), visual sightings of live or dead rats, sightings of live or dead rats, droppings, tracks, gnawing damage, droppings, tracks, gnawing damage, and grease marks.and grease marks.

The extent of the signs present can The extent of the signs present can be a rough guide to the population be a rough guide to the population level.level.

Rodent populations increase as Rodent populations increase as their resources increase.their resources increase.

The more food and cover, the more The more food and cover, the more rats and mice.rats and mice.

Reducing the rodents’ access to food Reducing the rodents’ access to food forces them to try for bait in traps or forces them to try for bait in traps or to feed on any rodenticide baits you to feed on any rodenticide baits you may have placed in their territory.may have placed in their territory.

Clutter provides cover for rodents Clutter provides cover for rodents to nest, hide, and travel unseen to nest, hide, and travel unseen and protected.and protected.

Both rats and mice are attracted to clutter Both rats and mice are attracted to clutter indoors in storage areas and other sites.indoors in storage areas and other sites.

High grass, debris piles, abandoned High grass, debris piles, abandoned equipment, and stacks of wood and equipment, and stacks of wood and construction materials are a magnet for construction materials are a magnet for both rats and mice outdoors.both rats and mice outdoors.

When clutter is located near a food source, When clutter is located near a food source, such as a dumpster or lunch area, the area such as a dumpster or lunch area, the area becomes a prime nesting site.becomes a prime nesting site.

Eliminating clutter drives infesting Eliminating clutter drives infesting rats and mice away from the area.rats and mice away from the area.

For mice, it also makes trapping For mice, it also makes trapping more effective, because disturbance more effective, because disturbance in their territory drives them to in their territory drives them to reinvestigate everything new.reinvestigate everything new.

When clutter is eliminated, rats and When clutter is eliminated, rats and mice are not attracted as strongly to mice are not attracted as strongly to the site.the site.

Dense vegetation draws rodents Dense vegetation draws rodents Thick ground covers provide rodents with hiding Thick ground covers provide rodents with hiding

areas and protection from predators.areas and protection from predators. The same is true for mound-shaped, ground-The same is true for mound-shaped, ground-

hugging shrubs.hugging shrubs. Dense vegetation is a food and trash trap Dense vegetation is a food and trash trap

providing rats and mice with food and nest providing rats and mice with food and nest materials.materials.

Dense vegetation is difficult to inspect for Dense vegetation is difficult to inspect for burrows, and rodent activity.burrows, and rodent activity.

Thorny shrubs such as pyracantha are especially Thorny shrubs such as pyracantha are especially difficult to inspect and prone to capturing difficult to inspect and prone to capturing windblown trash.windblown trash.

Trees should not be close enough Trees should not be close enough to touch a building because the to touch a building because the rodents can use the branches to rodents can use the branches to find entry.find entry.

Ivy, shrubs, or other plants against Ivy, shrubs, or other plants against walls should be avoided for the same walls should be avoided for the same reason.reason.

Dumpsters at a commercial Dumpsters at a commercial establishment are the most common establishment are the most common source for food for urban source for food for urban populations of rats.populations of rats. Always inspect dumpsters when Always inspect dumpsters when

servicing commercial accounts, servicing commercial accounts, whether they be restaurants, whether they be restaurants, apartments, malls, office buildings, or apartments, malls, office buildings, or food plants. food plants.

Dumpsters should be placed properly, Dumpsters should be placed properly, emptied and cleaned regularly, and kept in emptied and cleaned regularly, and kept in good condition. Good dumpster good condition. Good dumpster

management includes the following:management includes the following: Dumpsters should be located 100 feet Dumpsters should be located 100 feet

from outside doors, if practical.from outside doors, if practical. Dumpsters should be on a concrete Dumpsters should be on a concrete

pad.pad. No thick ground covers or dense No thick ground covers or dense

vegetation near dumpsters.vegetation near dumpsters. Eliminate weeds and trim grass short. Eliminate weeds and trim grass short.

Schedule frequent pickups to avoid Schedule frequent pickups to avoid overflowing trash.overflowing trash.

Drain plugs should be in place except Drain plugs should be in place except during cleaning.during cleaning.

Replace dumpsters if damaged, Replace dumpsters if damaged, leaking, or rusted through.leaking, or rusted through.

Rodent-proofing a building means sealing or Rodent-proofing a building means sealing or otherwise eliminating the openings and otherwise eliminating the openings and pathways that rodents use for entry.pathways that rodents use for entry.

To exclude rats, eliminate every critical opening To exclude rats, eliminate every critical opening ½ x ¾ inch or larger.½ x ¾ inch or larger.

To exclude mice, eliminate openings ¼ x 3/8 of To exclude mice, eliminate openings ¼ x 3/8 of an inch.an inch.

Mouse proofing is very difficult because of the Mouse proofing is very difficult because of the amount of labor necessary to find and close the amount of labor necessary to find and close the large number of ¼ x 3/8 inch holes found in a large number of ¼ x 3/8 inch holes found in a typical structure.typical structure.

Trim trees 6 to 8 feet away from the structure. Trim trees 6 to 8 feet away from the structure.

Rodents commonly use doors to enter Rodents commonly use doors to enter buildings, but they typically go under them buildings, but they typically go under them rather than thru them.rather than thru them.

Depending on type of door, and the size of the Depending on type of door, and the size of the opening, install door sweeps, weather seals, and opening, install door sweeps, weather seals, and thresholds.thresholds.

Fit older wooden doors with a metal cuff and Fit older wooden doors with a metal cuff and channel, a kick plate, or sheet metal around the channel, a kick plate, or sheet metal around the bottom and 3 inches up each side.bottom and 3 inches up each side.

Install retrofit weather seal kits for garage doors Install retrofit weather seal kits for garage doors which include heavy rubber gasket that the door which include heavy rubber gasket that the door closes down onto.closes down onto.

Commercial bay doors that close over rail tracks Commercial bay doors that close over rail tracks can be fitted with special devices to block rodent can be fitted with special devices to block rodent access at the track.access at the track.

Roofs can be a major entry point, Roofs can be a major entry point, not only for Roof rats, but Norway not only for Roof rats, but Norway rats. rats.

Rat-proof entryways in and around head houses, Rat-proof entryways in and around head houses, elevator shafts, air conditioning units, and other elevator shafts, air conditioning units, and other roof structures on flat-topped commercial roof structures on flat-topped commercial buildings. buildings.

Rat-proof openings around pipes and utilitiesRat-proof openings around pipes and utilities On the roofs of residences and garden On the roofs of residences and garden

apartments, check for loose and damaged soffits, apartments, check for loose and damaged soffits, fascia boards, and shingles, and check for fascia boards, and shingles, and check for unscreened attic vents.unscreened attic vents.

Chimneys should have caps, mostly to exclude Chimneys should have caps, mostly to exclude squirrels and raccoons, but also to keep out rats.squirrels and raccoons, but also to keep out rats.

There are many entry points at There are many entry points at walls and the foundationswalls and the foundations

Screen vents and exhaust fan openings in Screen vents and exhaust fan openings in basements, crawlspaces, bathrooms and basements, crawlspaces, bathrooms and kitchens.kitchens.

Check for damaged or poorly-fitted dryer Check for damaged or poorly-fitted dryer vents, which are a common rat entry point vents, which are a common rat entry point in apartments.in apartments.

Seal cracks and gaps around ground floor Seal cracks and gaps around ground floor and below-grade windows, and repair any and below-grade windows, and repair any damaged bricks or blocks, major concrete damaged bricks or blocks, major concrete cracks, or other breaks in the building cracks, or other breaks in the building foundation walls.foundation walls.

Entry points Entry points Seal holes around pipes, utility lines, and Seal holes around pipes, utility lines, and

cables to prevent rat entry.cables to prevent rat entry. Don’t ignore pipes running up into the Don’t ignore pipes running up into the

structure from the crawlspace, which are structure from the crawlspace, which are primary rat entryways.primary rat entryways.

Install collars or guards around utility lines Install collars or guards around utility lines to prevent roof rats, in particular, from to prevent roof rats, in particular, from accessing the building.accessing the building.

Floor drains in commercial buildings Floor drains in commercial buildings should be covered with brass or bronze should be covered with brass or bronze drain cover or perforated metal cap.drain cover or perforated metal cap.

Pest proofing inside a building can Pest proofing inside a building can create separate compartments, like create separate compartments, like

waterproof doors do on a ship.waterproof doors do on a ship. Close openings around pipes, utility lines, and Close openings around pipes, utility lines, and

other entries into the voids between rooms to other entries into the voids between rooms to isolate infestations in one area, prevent pests isolate infestations in one area, prevent pests from spreading throughout a facility, and make from spreading throughout a facility, and make them easier to control.them easier to control.

Pest isolation is especially useful in food plants Pest isolation is especially useful in food plants and large retail food stores where high-risk pest and large retail food stores where high-risk pest areas, such as the loading dock, receiving, and areas, such as the loading dock, receiving, and damaged-goods storage, can be physically damaged-goods storage, can be physically isolated from the rest of the facility. isolated from the rest of the facility.

FliesFlies

Those flies that breed in organic waste are Those flies that breed in organic waste are generally called filth flies.generally called filth flies.

Filth flies include house flies, blow flies, Filth flies include house flies, blow flies, bottle flies, and flesh flies.bottle flies, and flesh flies.

They are attracted to rotting and decaying They are attracted to rotting and decaying plant or animal materials like manure, plant or animal materials like manure, garbage, and carcasses of dead animals.garbage, and carcasses of dead animals.

Filth flies can transmit disease-causing Filth flies can transmit disease-causing organisms because of their habits.organisms because of their habits.

Another group of pest flies could be Another group of pest flies could be called the “gunk flies.”called the “gunk flies.”

These are tiny flies that breed in the These are tiny flies that breed in the semi-liquid crud or slime that semi-liquid crud or slime that accumulates in drains, cracks, accumulates in drains, cracks, garbage cans, and other sites.garbage cans, and other sites.

This group includes Fruit flies, Moth This group includes Fruit flies, Moth flies and Phorid flies.flies and Phorid flies.

The female fly deposits her eggs on The female fly deposits her eggs on the surface of a good food material the surface of a good food material for the larvae or maggots.for the larvae or maggots.

This may be fermenting fruit in the case of This may be fermenting fruit in the case of Fruit fly or cow manure in the case of the Fruit fly or cow manure in the case of the house fly.house fly.

The larvae feed in the food material for The larvae feed in the food material for several days, then crawl to drier areas, or several days, then crawl to drier areas, or even leave the food to pupate.even leave the food to pupate.

Under optimum conditions, both the house Under optimum conditions, both the house fly and the fruit fly can develop from egg to fly and the fruit fly can develop from egg to adult fly in as little as 8 days.adult fly in as little as 8 days.

Adult filth flies feed on a wide variety of Adult filth flies feed on a wide variety of foods, that range from human foods to foods, that range from human foods to manure or carcassesmanure or carcasses. .

The adult fruit fly eats by The adult fruit fly eats by regurgitating fluid onto its food and regurgitating fluid onto its food and then sopping up the dissolved result then sopping up the dissolved result with its sponging mouthparts.with its sponging mouthparts.

Filth flies also leave fecal deposits Filth flies also leave fecal deposits wherever they feed.wherever they feed.

The breeding site for filth flies is almost The breeding site for filth flies is almost always within 100 yards of the problem area, always within 100 yards of the problem area, but they can travel a mile or more from the but they can travel a mile or more from the breeding site.breeding site.

The number one breeding site for house flies is The number one breeding site for house flies is animal manure, while blow flies and flesh flies animal manure, while blow flies and flesh flies prefer dead animals.prefer dead animals.

Filth flies will also breed in garbage.Filth flies will also breed in garbage. The closer a dumpster or compactor is to a The closer a dumpster or compactor is to a

building, the more likely it is to be the source of building, the more likely it is to be the source of the fly problem.the fly problem.

Look for open dumpsters with crud and liquefying Look for open dumpsters with crud and liquefying garbage in the bottom, or food garbage spilled garbage in the bottom, or food garbage spilled nearby.nearby.

Breeding sitesBreeding sites

Other breeding sources for filth flies Other breeding sources for filth flies include rotting garbage in the bottom of include rotting garbage in the bottom of garbage cans, overlooked and rotting garbage cans, overlooked and rotting fruits and vegetables in loading docks or fruits and vegetables in loading docks or other out-of-the- way sites, grease barrels, other out-of-the- way sites, grease barrels, rotting grass clippings or spoiled grain.rotting grass clippings or spoiled grain.

Filth flies can often be traced to the Filth flies can often be traced to the carcass of a dead rodent or other animal in carcass of a dead rodent or other animal in a wall void.a wall void.

Fruit flies are attracted to ripe or Fruit flies are attracted to ripe or rotting foods and breed in moist, rotting foods and breed in moist, fermenting foods and liquids. fermenting foods and liquids.

They’re found in the semi-liquid gunk They’re found in the semi-liquid gunk that accumulates around leaky soda that accumulates around leaky soda and beer dispensers, unclean or and beer dispensers, unclean or clogged drains, in recycling clogged drains, in recycling containers, the bottoms of garbage containers, the bottoms of garbage cans or refrigerator drip pans, in dirty cans or refrigerator drip pans, in dirty mop buckets, even in catsup and wine mop buckets, even in catsup and wine bottles. bottles.

Fruit FliesFruit Flies

Overlooked and rotting fruits and Overlooked and rotting fruits and vegetables are a prime source.vegetables are a prime source.

Because fruit flies need such a little Because fruit flies need such a little amount of material in which to amount of material in which to breed, there are usually multiple breed, there are usually multiple breeding sites in an account.breeding sites in an account.

Moth flies and Moth flies and phoridphorid flies are found in moist flies are found in moist areas with organic matter such as sewers, slimy or areas with organic matter such as sewers, slimy or clogged drains, dirty garbage cans, garbage clogged drains, dirty garbage cans, garbage disposals, and dirty drip pans.disposals, and dirty drip pans.

When you can’t find the source of Moth or When you can’t find the source of Moth or phorid flies in an account, it may mean phorid flies in an account, it may mean there is a break in the main sewer line there is a break in the main sewer line under the slab.under the slab.

You can check for gunk-fly larvae You can check for gunk-fly larvae by using a spatula to scrape the by using a spatula to scrape the goo or debris out of drains or goo or debris out of drains or crevices.crevices.

Spread it on a flat surface, shine your Spread it on a flat surface, shine your flashlight across the surface, and look flashlight across the surface, and look for wiggling maggots.for wiggling maggots.

You can check for flies escaping from You can check for flies escaping from drains by taping a plastic bag over drains by taping a plastic bag over the drain opening, or suspend a the drain opening, or suspend a sticky trap over the drain.sticky trap over the drain.

Flies are not necessarily Flies are not necessarily breeding in the same room breeding in the same room where they are causing the where they are causing the problem.problem.

There are sticky traps with an There are sticky traps with an attractant lure available for both attractant lure available for both house flies and fruit flies that can house flies and fruit flies that can help pinpoint breeding sites.help pinpoint breeding sites.

Fruit flies like to fly upwards to land Fruit flies like to fly upwards to land on a surface so place sticky traps just on a surface so place sticky traps just above potential breeding sources above potential breeding sources with the sticky surface facing down.with the sticky surface facing down.

Insect Light Traps (Insect Light Traps (ILT’SILT’S) can be ) can be effective monitoring tools and as an effective monitoring tools and as an “early warning system” to alert you “early warning system” to alert you to fly problems in an account to fly problems in an account Check collection trays or glue boards in Check collection trays or glue boards in

ILT’s often, usually once a week.ILT’s often, usually once a week. If large numbers of flies suddenly are If large numbers of flies suddenly are

found in the trap, you can be fairly certain found in the trap, you can be fairly certain there is a nearby breeding source.there is a nearby breeding source.

It may also be that they are flying in from It may also be that they are flying in from outside through an open window or door. outside through an open window or door.

Fly-proofing can be effective in Fly-proofing can be effective in reducing some fly problemsreducing some fly problems

Screens should be installed and any tears Screens should be installed and any tears repaired. Screen size must be small enough to repaired. Screen size must be small enough to keep out the tiniest flies.keep out the tiniest flies.

Doors, windows and vents should be caulked and Doors, windows and vents should be caulked and tightened.tightened.

Door sweeps or weather-stripping should be Door sweeps or weather-stripping should be installed on doors.installed on doors.

Air curtains or air doors should be installed over Air curtains or air doors should be installed over loading docks and other open doorways will keep loading docks and other open doorways will keep flies from entering.flies from entering.

The client must be sure that the doors are not left The client must be sure that the doors are not left propped open.propped open.

Insect light traps (ILT’s) can be either Insect light traps (ILT’s) can be either sticky board traps or electrocuting sticky board traps or electrocuting traps, and can be freestanding, wall-traps, and can be freestanding, wall-mounted, or ceiling-mounted.mounted, or ceiling-mounted.

ILT’s use ultraviolet light to attract flying insects.ILT’s use ultraviolet light to attract flying insects. Flies can see lights from about 25 feet away.Flies can see lights from about 25 feet away. To capture flies, ILT’s should be placed low, no more than 4-To capture flies, ILT’s should be placed low, no more than 4-

6 feet above the floor6 feet above the floor Empty collecting trays and replace glueboards in ILT’s on a Empty collecting trays and replace glueboards in ILT’s on a

regular basis since dead and rotting insects in an ILT will regular basis since dead and rotting insects in an ILT will themselves attract dermestid beetles and other scavenger themselves attract dermestid beetles and other scavenger insects into the area.insects into the area.

ILT bulbs should be replaced at least annually.ILT bulbs should be replaced at least annually.

There are many kinds of traps There are many kinds of traps available for fly control in addition to available for fly control in addition to ILT’s.ILT’s. For house flies, there are various types of For house flies, there are various types of

hanging sticky traps, (bars, tubes, tapes) hanging sticky traps, (bars, tubes, tapes) and station or container traps with an and station or container traps with an attractant.attractant.

For fruit flies, there are both disposable For fruit flies, there are both disposable and refillable station traps or jar traps that and refillable station traps or jar traps that use either a liquid or food attractant.use either a liquid or food attractant.

There are also sticky traps for fruit flies, or There are also sticky traps for fruit flies, or you can use standard insect sticky traps you can use standard insect sticky traps baited with ripe banana. baited with ripe banana.

A sprayer filled with water, A sprayer filled with water, degreaser, and a foaming agent degreaser, and a foaming agent can be used to treat drink can be used to treat drink dispensers, drains, kitchen dispensers, drains, kitchen equipment and other sites equipment and other sites where fruit flies and other gunk where fruit flies and other gunk flies breed flies breed

Strong air currents will keep flies Strong air currents will keep flies from entering areas or landing on from entering areas or landing on surfaces.surfaces.

Air doors or air curtains will keep flies from Air doors or air curtains will keep flies from entering from entering warehouses, grocery entering from entering warehouses, grocery stores, etc.stores, etc.

Strategically placed pedestal or rotating fans can Strategically placed pedestal or rotating fans can be used indoors to keep flies away from produce, be used indoors to keep flies away from produce, salad bars, and drink dispensers.salad bars, and drink dispensers.

Outdoors, fans will keep mosquitoes and other Outdoors, fans will keep mosquitoes and other flies away while people are dining or barbequing. flies away while people are dining or barbequing.

The air movement from the fans will also help to The air movement from the fans will also help to dry out scummy, moist fly breeding sites in hard-dry out scummy, moist fly breeding sites in hard-to –reach areas like under a dishwasher.to –reach areas like under a dishwasher.

The key to indoor fly control is to The key to indoor fly control is to find and eliminate the food source.find and eliminate the food source.

Controlling just the visible adult flies Controlling just the visible adult flies by spraying and trapping will not by spraying and trapping will not eliminate the fly problem.eliminate the fly problem.

The breeding source will continue to The breeding source will continue to produce more adult flies on a daily produce more adult flies on a daily basis until the source is found and basis until the source is found and eliminated.eliminated.

The usual application for adult flies The usual application for adult flies indoors is a non-residual space indoors is a non-residual space treatment. treatment.

The space treatment is designed to kill The space treatment is designed to kill remaining adult flies after breeding remaining adult flies after breeding sources have been identified and removed.sources have been identified and removed.

Be sure there are no people present and Be sure there are no people present and that food and food surfaces are covered.that food and food surfaces are covered.

Be sure to turn off the air handling system Be sure to turn off the air handling system before application.before application.

Residual insecticides are also Residual insecticides are also effective for fly control in certain effective for fly control in certain situations.situations.

A residual insecticide can be applied to window A residual insecticide can be applied to window sills using a paint brush.sills using a paint brush.

Spot residual insecticide applications can be made Spot residual insecticide applications can be made to outside areas where flies land to keep them to outside areas where flies land to keep them from entering the building.from entering the building.

Residual insecticides are a effective tool on and Residual insecticides are a effective tool on and around dumpsters or compactors.around dumpsters or compactors.

There are also wet and dry pesticide baits that There are also wet and dry pesticide baits that can be used outside around trash collection areas.can be used outside around trash collection areas.

Residual insecticides can be applied to panels and Residual insecticides can be applied to panels and around certain fly traps.around certain fly traps.

Technicians and salespeople can Technicians and salespeople can provide effective guidance to clients provide effective guidance to clients to help minimize fly problems.to help minimize fly problems. Food preparation surfaces should be cleaned promptly after Food preparation surfaces should be cleaned promptly after

use.use. Food delivery areas and loading docks should be cleaned Food delivery areas and loading docks should be cleaned

regularly.regularly. Food spillage under equipment and leaks or spills from Food spillage under equipment and leaks or spills from

drink dispensers should be cleaned immediately.drink dispensers should be cleaned immediately. Drip pans under refrigerators and dehumidifiers should be Drip pans under refrigerators and dehumidifiers should be

emptied and cleaned.emptied and cleaned. Drains may need to be cleaned regularly and scrubbed with Drains may need to be cleaned regularly and scrubbed with

a stiff brush and an industrial strength drain cleaner or an a stiff brush and an industrial strength drain cleaner or an enzyme or bacterial cleaner. enzyme or bacterial cleaner.

Minimize fliesMinimize flies

Janitorial mops, buckets, and slop sinks Janitorial mops, buckets, and slop sinks should be checked to make sure they are should be checked to make sure they are not sour and fermenting.not sour and fermenting.

Garbage cans should have tight-fitting lids Garbage cans should have tight-fitting lids and should include plastic liners.and should include plastic liners.

Pet feces or manure and any fallen and Pet feces or manure and any fallen and rotting fruits and vegetables should be rotting fruits and vegetables should be picked up from the grounds.picked up from the grounds.

Grass clippings should not be allowed to Grass clippings should not be allowed to accumulate. accumulate.

CockroachesCockroaches

Only a few of the thousands of Only a few of the thousands of species of cockroaches are regular species of cockroaches are regular pests but these few have adapted pests but these few have adapted totally to the human environment.totally to the human environment. Some can live and breed indoors Some can live and breed indoors

year round.year round. Most hide by day in small cracks and Most hide by day in small cracks and

crevices in human dwellings and crevices in human dwellings and come out at night to search for water come out at night to search for water and small bits of food.and small bits of food.

The German Cockroach, The German Cockroach, Blattella Blattella Germanica, is the most important Germanica, is the most important

domestic species in North America.domestic species in North America. Until recently, this cockroach was the Until recently, this cockroach was the

number one pest faced by a number one pest faced by a technician.technician.

The development of effective The development of effective cockroach baits have greatly reduced cockroach baits have greatly reduced the importance of cockroaches as the importance of cockroaches as pests in many sites.pests in many sites.

Cockroaches are public health Cockroaches are public health pests.pests.

They can be mechanical transmitters They can be mechanical transmitters of human pathogens when they crawl of human pathogens when they crawl over feces or contaminated materials over feces or contaminated materials and then crawl over human food, and then crawl over human food, dishes, etc.dishes, etc.

The shed skins, egg cases, and feces The shed skins, egg cases, and feces of cockroaches can produce asthma of cockroaches can produce asthma or allergic reactions in sensitive or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.individuals.

Cockroaches are cautious and Cockroaches are cautious and nervous.nervous.

They prefer dark corners and stay They prefer dark corners and stay out of sight.out of sight.

The average German cockroach The average German cockroach spends about 75% of its time hiding spends about 75% of its time hiding in cracks and crevices.in cracks and crevices.

Because they like to have a crack to Because they like to have a crack to quickly dart into, they travel along quickly dart into, they travel along the edges rather than striking out the edges rather than striking out across an open space.across an open space.

Cockroaches feed on everything Cockroaches feed on everything people feed on and many things people feed on and many things we wouldn’t consider feeding we wouldn’t consider feeding on.on.

Cockroaches are not attracted to Cockroaches are not attracted to food beyond a short distance.food beyond a short distance.

They must come within a few inches They must come within a few inches of a food or bait, sometimes literally of a food or bait, sometimes literally bumping into it, before they realize bumping into it, before they realize they have found food.they have found food.

Cockroaches learn where food can be Cockroaches learn where food can be found.found.

They travel between nearby daytime They travel between nearby daytime hiding places and their regular hiding places and their regular feeding sites, usually at night.feeding sites, usually at night.

Cockroaches produce egg cases.Cockroaches produce egg cases.

Egg cases can contain 16 developing nymphs Egg cases can contain 16 developing nymphs (oriental) to 40 nymphs (German).(oriental) to 40 nymphs (German).

The cockroach female carries her egg case for The cockroach female carries her egg case for several hours after it is formed. She then deposits several hours after it is formed. She then deposits or glues it in a protected place.or glues it in a protected place.

The German cockroach female is an exception. The German cockroach female is an exception. She carries (and protects) her egg case until only She carries (and protects) her egg case until only a day or two before it hatches.a day or two before it hatches.

Egg cases protect developing nymphs from Egg cases protect developing nymphs from pesticide applications. pesticide applications.

The four pest cockroach species The four pest cockroach species tend to occupy different sites in a tend to occupy different sites in a building.building.

Each species has different Each species has different requirements for temperature and requirements for temperature and moisture.moisture.

The German cockroach can be The German cockroach can be found on the first floor or upper found on the first floor or upper floors of a building.floors of a building.

It likes warm, dry areas but since it It likes warm, dry areas but since it requires water it is most often found requires water it is most often found in kitchens and bathrooms, often in kitchens and bathrooms, often behind cabinets and appliances.behind cabinets and appliances.

It is the most common species found It is the most common species found in food-handling establishments.in food-handling establishments.

The Brownbanded cockroach is The Brownbanded cockroach is less common and tends to prefer less common and tends to prefer hotter and drier locations than the hotter and drier locations than the German cockroach. German cockroach.

The Brownbanded cockroach has less need for The Brownbanded cockroach has less need for water than the German cockroach.water than the German cockroach.

The Brownbanded cockroach is often found on The Brownbanded cockroach is often found on upper floors and is more likely to be found away upper floors and is more likely to be found away from kitchens and bathrooms, invading bedrooms from kitchens and bathrooms, invading bedrooms and living rooms.and living rooms.

The Brownbanded cockroach can be found behind The Brownbanded cockroach can be found behind objects on the wall, inside televisions and other objects on the wall, inside televisions and other appliances, and in furniture.appliances, and in furniture.

The American cockroach is most often The American cockroach is most often found on the ground floor or lower found on the ground floor or lower levels of a building in warm, dark, damp levels of a building in warm, dark, damp areas.areas. American cockroaches are rarely found American cockroaches are rarely found

above the floor of a building and are more above the floor of a building and are more common in commercial building than in a common in commercial building than in a residences. residences.

Typical infestations sites are boiler room, Typical infestations sites are boiler room, vending machine rooms, storage rooms, vending machine rooms, storage rooms, garbage rooms, sewers, and near steam garbage rooms, sewers, and near steam pipes.pipes.

Oriental cockroaches infest the Oriental cockroaches infest the crawlspace or basement level of a crawlspace or basement level of a

building, preferring cool, dark, building, preferring cool, dark, damp, and poorly ventilated areas.damp, and poorly ventilated areas.

Oriental cockroaches are often found in Oriental cockroaches are often found in cellars, crawlspaces, basements, garages, cellars, crawlspaces, basements, garages, or near floor drains, water pipes, water or near floor drains, water pipes, water meter vaults, and sewers.meter vaults, and sewers.

In warm weather, Oriental cockroaches are In warm weather, Oriental cockroaches are often found outside around building often found outside around building foundations. foundations.

Sticky traps are useful monitoring Sticky traps are useful monitoring tools for cockroaches.tools for cockroaches.

Place insect sticky traps along Place insect sticky traps along cockroach travel routes, along edges cockroach travel routes, along edges and in corners of cabinets, counters, and in corners of cabinets, counters, etc.etc.

They should be set out and inspected They should be set out and inspected at least once a week where at least once a week where cockroach populations are high.cockroach populations are high.

If populations are low, traps can be If populations are low, traps can be checked and replaced monthly. checked and replaced monthly.

Trap catches can help you Trap catches can help you determine where to concentrate determine where to concentrate control efforts.control efforts.

A floor plan is useful to indicate A floor plan is useful to indicate where traps were placed and which where traps were placed and which traps caught the greatest numbers traps caught the greatest numbers of cockroaches.of cockroaches.

Make note of possible cockroach Make note of possible cockroach harborage areas around these traps.harborage areas around these traps.

Cockroach-proofing can help reduce Cockroach-proofing can help reduce movement and hiding areas and movement and hiding areas and can improve the effectiveness of can improve the effectiveness of treatments. treatments. Eliminate cockroach habitat by plugging all small Eliminate cockroach habitat by plugging all small

cracks around baseboards, wall shelves, or cracks around baseboards, wall shelves, or cabinets, pipes, sinks, and bathtub fixtures.cabinets, pipes, sinks, and bathtub fixtures.

Screen floor drains and keep drain traps full.Screen floor drains and keep drain traps full. Outdoor cockroach populations can be reduced by Outdoor cockroach populations can be reduced by

moving piles of firewood, stone, leaves, and debris moving piles of firewood, stone, leaves, and debris away from the building.away from the building.

Mulch around the foundation should be removed, Mulch around the foundation should be removed, leaving a 12-inch wide bare or gravel strip leaving a 12-inch wide bare or gravel strip instead.instead.

Cockroach proofing cont’d.Cockroach proofing cont’d.

Openings around ground floor doors and Openings around ground floor doors and windows and around pipes or conduits windows and around pipes or conduits where cockroaches enter the building where cockroaches enter the building should be caulked and sealed.should be caulked and sealed.

Ground level vents should be screened.Ground level vents should be screened. Repairing screens and adding weather-Repairing screens and adding weather-

stripping under doors will help keep stripping under doors will help keep outdoor cockroaches from moving inside. outdoor cockroaches from moving inside.

When cockroach harborage sites When cockroach harborage sites are found, vacuuming can remove are found, vacuuming can remove egg cases, fecal material, and bits egg cases, fecal material, and bits of food waste.of food waste.

Vacuuming with a HEPA (high efficiency Vacuuming with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter will also remove particulate air) filter will also remove allergens to some degree.allergens to some degree.

Use a crack and crevice vacuum tool to Use a crack and crevice vacuum tool to reach areas where cockroaches are hiding reach areas where cockroaches are hiding or use a flushing agent to drive them out of or use a flushing agent to drive them out of hiding so they can be vacuumed.hiding so they can be vacuumed.

Vacuuming is an option in accounts where Vacuuming is an option in accounts where insecticides can’t be used insecticides can’t be used

Sticky traps or pheromone traps can be Sticky traps or pheromone traps can be used as a population reduction method used as a population reduction method in certain sites where insecticides are in certain sites where insecticides are not allowed, such as an animal rearing not allowed, such as an animal rearing room.room.

Place them along edges and corners Place them along edges and corners and where cockroaches or their and where cockroaches or their droppings have been seen.droppings have been seen.

In commercial accounts, technicians or In commercial accounts, technicians or custodial staff can remove accumulated custodial staff can remove accumulated debris, grease, and other potential food debris, grease, and other potential food and harborage for cockroachesand harborage for cockroaches.. Potential sites include food carts, tray carts, drains, trash Potential sites include food carts, tray carts, drains, trash

rooms, trash cans, dumpsters, compactors, and loading rooms, trash cans, dumpsters, compactors, and loading docks.docks.

Power-washing equipment produces a high-pressure stream Power-washing equipment produces a high-pressure stream of water that can be used in some locations, such as of water that can be used in some locations, such as commercial kitchens and trash rooms.commercial kitchens and trash rooms.

Small foamers filled with degreasing chemicals and foaming Small foamers filled with degreasing chemicals and foaming agents are good for drains, equipment, and trash agents are good for drains, equipment, and trash receptaclesreceptacles

The foam enables the degreasing solution to remain in The foam enables the degreasing solution to remain in contact with the grease and filth long enough for it to contact with the grease and filth long enough for it to dissolve, at which point it is simply washed away. dissolve, at which point it is simply washed away.

For insecticide sprays, aerosols, For insecticide sprays, aerosols, dusts, and most baits, the key to dusts, and most baits, the key to controlling cockroaches indoors controlling cockroaches indoors is to place the insecticide in is to place the insecticide in cracks and crevices where the cracks and crevices where the cockroaches hide.cockroaches hide.

Cockroach baits are available as gel Cockroach baits are available as gel bait, paste bait, containerized bait, and bait, paste bait, containerized bait, and granular bait and are very effective for granular bait and are very effective for most cockroaches and sites.most cockroaches and sites.

Apply gel or paste baits in small amounts into Apply gel or paste baits in small amounts into crack and crevices where cockroaches hide.crack and crevices where cockroaches hide.

If controlling American or Oriental cockroaches If controlling American or Oriental cockroaches with containerized bait, make sure you use bait with containerized bait, make sure you use bait stations with larger openings that are designed stations with larger openings that are designed for these cockroaches.for these cockroaches.

To control outdoor populations, there are granular To control outdoor populations, there are granular cockroach baits which can be placed inside bait cockroach baits which can be placed inside bait stations around the foundation.stations around the foundation.

Baits are long lasting. The residual varies with the Baits are long lasting. The residual varies with the bait, but can be six months or more if not bait, but can be six months or more if not depleted by feeding.depleted by feeding.

Insect Growth Regulators are Insect Growth Regulators are often used along with baits or often used along with baits or residual insecticide applications, residual insecticide applications, especially if there is a heavy especially if there is a heavy infestation.infestation.

Outdoor cockroaches can also be Outdoor cockroaches can also be controlled with a perimeter spray controlled with a perimeter spray around the foundation of the around the foundation of the building.building.

A labeled liquid insecticide should be A labeled liquid insecticide should be applied as a coarse fan spray treating soil, applied as a coarse fan spray treating soil, mulch, lower vegetation, and the lower mulch, lower vegetation, and the lower portion of outside walls.portion of outside walls.

Additional treatment should be made Additional treatment should be made around doorways, windows, and openings around doorways, windows, and openings around cables and plumbing.around cables and plumbing.

Customers have a role in cockroach Customers have a role in cockroach management.management.

Cleaning up food and food spills, proper storage Cleaning up food and food spills, proper storage of garbage, draining or repairing water sources, of garbage, draining or repairing water sources, and removal of clutter can make the account and removal of clutter can make the account much less desirable to a cockroach.much less desirable to a cockroach.

Garbage should be placed in sealed plastic bags Garbage should be placed in sealed plastic bags or in containers with tight-fitting lids and taken to or in containers with tight-fitting lids and taken to the trash receptacle, dumpster, or trash chute at the trash receptacle, dumpster, or trash chute at the end of every day.the end of every day.

Pet food should not be left out, especially Pet food should not be left out, especially overnight.overnight.

Stacks of newspapers, magazines, plastic and Stacks of newspapers, magazines, plastic and paper bags, and empty cardboard boxes should paper bags, and empty cardboard boxes should be discarded.be discarded.

Vacuum frequently to remove shed skins, egg Vacuum frequently to remove shed skins, egg cases, and droppings which can attract other cases, and droppings which can attract other cockroaches and cause allergic reactions in some cockroaches and cause allergic reactions in some people.people.