Chemicals In Pest & Termite Control - Get 3 Quotes On Pest Control Now!

Chemical Control

While it's not necessary to know all the ins and outs of the many different products being used today, it can be useful to know broadly what's available, and how they work.

Insecticides, rodenticides and herbicides - these make up the majority of chemicals used on pests, and recent work has seen their toxicity and persistence in the environment reduced, while still maintaining efficiency.

Labels on these products give very specific information regarding which pest(s) it is registered to treat, dosage and dilution rates and first aid instructions. Many companies now use products that are considered safe for use in hospitals, children's day care centres and schools and the like, and some new products are low in odour and suitable for use in homes of those who suffer from asthma or allergies.

Ask your pest controller if these are of specific concern to you. Common pesticides include:

• Synthetic pyrethroids - these are used in many products, from sprays and powders to mosquito coils. Pyrethrin occurs naturally in the environment, in the genus Chrysanthemum. Synthetic pyrethroid insecticides are generally odourless, more stable and longer-lasting (more persistent) than natural pyrethrin, and are generally safe to use around humans and pets.
• Organophosphorus pesticides - very widely used, these largely biodegradable pesticides work by interfering with the nervous system of insects. They can more toxic to mammals than pyrethroids.
• Biologically related chemicals, such as insect growth regulators - these synthetic products work by inhibiting a pest's ability to grow and reproduce and have been used on termites, cockroaches and fleas (via a tablet which is added to the pet's food).
• Products include baits, liquids, sprays, gels, dusts (powders), cockroach bombs and fumigants.

Pest control operators must be licensed to use registered pesticides. They will be qualified to handle, use and store pesticides appropriately, as well as answer any questions you may have about the products.