PESTICIDE APPLICATION TRAINING

Category 7A

Wood Destroying Pest Control

K-State Research and Extension Manhattan, Kansas 2 Table of Contents Introduction 4 Biology of Termites 5 Colony Structure Colony Formation Termite Identification Termite Detection Other Wood Destroying Organisms 10 Drywood termites Powderpost beetles Longhorned beetles Carpenter ants Carpenter bees Wood decay fungi Key to insect damage of wood Chemicals Applied for Termite Control 16 Pyrethroids Borates Organophosphates/Carbamates Insect Growth Regulators (IGR's) Biological Agents Structural and Treatment Considerations 19 Diagrams of basic structural members and forms Soil Treatment for Subterranean Termites 22 Preconstruction Treatment Post Construction Treatment Exterior Treatment Methods Interior Treatment Methods Treatment Guidelines Avoiding Contamination 29 Spill Control Special Tools and Techniques Special Treatments 33 Directions for Using this Crawl Spaces Sub-Slab Heating Ducts Manual Basements This is a self-teaching manual. At Veneers the end of each major section is a list Hollow block, tile, and rubble foundations of study questions to check your Wells, Cisterns, and other water sources understanding of the subject matter. Rigid foam insulation By each question in parenthesis is the Wood Treatment page number on which the answer to that question can be found. This will Baiting Technology 37 help you in checking your answers. Fumigation 40 These study questions are repre- sentative of the type which are on the Selection of Fumigants certification examination. By reading Types of Fumigation this manual and answering the study Precautions and Protective Equipment questions, you should be able to gain Respiratory Protection Devices sufficient knowledge to pass the Safe Use of Fumigants Kansas Commercial Pesticide Appli- cators Certification and Recertifica- tion examination. 3 Introduction References for Your Library There are a number of good Several species of insects damage references on fumigation and pests wood in buildings in Kansas. There controlled by fumigation. The also are wood decaying fungi in Manual of Fumigation for Insect Kansas. It is important that the Control published by the Food and commercial pest control operator can Agriculture Organization (available distinguish between damage caused from UNIPUB, Incorporated, 650 by fungi and insects. Correct pest First Avenue, P.O. Box 433, New identification and extent of infesta- York, New York 10016) has a very tion is essential before any control thorough coverage of fumigants and measures are applied. fumigation. Handbook of Pest Control, by Arnold Mallis, MacNair- Required Records or Dorland Company has a good section Statement of Services on fumigation. Urban Entomology, by Walter Ebeling, University of The records required by commer- California, Division of Agriculture, cial applicators are outlined in the Berkeley, California Science. 1975. An Laws and Regulations section in the excellent reference to wood-destroy- General Manual. Questions on ing pests is Truman’s Scientific Guide required records will be included in to Pest Control Operations by Purdue the 7A examination, especially those University (Edgall Communications, requirements that are for wood- Duluth, MN). destroying organisms. A diagram of the structure is absolutely essential for all wood-destroying organisms. Applicators are responsible for following the termite control applica- tion procedures specified in the Kansas Pesticide Law (K.A.R. 4-13-7).

4 Biology of food and feces placed by the termites in the passages also assist in moisture Termites Termites belong to the insect order regulation. Isoptera. In nature, termites are Occasionally, subterranean ter- considered beneficial because they mites can be found above ground, break down dead and dying plant isolated from the soil. This can occur material. It is when termites feed on if moisture is available from a source wooden structures that they become other than the soil. Common sources pests. Three types of termites occur include condensation, and leaking in the United States; dampwood, pipes and roofs. drywood and subterranean termites. Wood is made up primarily of Subterranean termites of the cellulose, a large complex chain of family Rhinotermitidae occur relatively simple chemical molecules. throughout Kansas and are the kind Few animals have the necessary body most commonly encountered. chemistry to break down cellulose Subterranean termites nest in the soil into smaller, more usable nutrients. from which they obtain their mois- Termites accomplish this by the ture. They may attack any wood in presence of protozoa in their hindgut. contact with the soil. If there is no These protozoa break down the direct wood to soil contact, the cellulose into products that the termites may build mud tubes or termites can digest. If these protozoa tunnels within the cracks of founda- are removed, the termites will Termite Map tions or over the outside of concrete eventually die of starvation. to reach wood several feet above the ground. To a limited extent, termites are capable of regulating temperature conditions in the colony. Their galleries often are situated so some run above ground and some below. Therefore, during extremes of hot and cold weather, the termites will be found below the ground where the conditions are more equitable. Subterranean termites need a Slight constant, ample supply of moisture. Part of this moisture is procured from Moderate the products of their own metabolism Heavy and part from soil moisture which Very Heavy diffuses throughout their tunnels or tubes. Since the subterranean termite colony usually obtains its moisture Four Ways to Tell Termites From Ants Termite Ant from the soil, they are generally Compare These Features 1. dependent on soil types. Moisture in 1. Eyes absent 1. Eyes present 2. clay soils is tightly bound to the 1. particles and not readily available to 2. Waist thick 2. Waist thin the termite. Sandy soils allow more 2. 3. Antenne not elbowed 3. Antenne elbowed moisture to be available and, conse- 4. Two pair wings of 4. Two pair wings quently, these termites are more equal length of unequal length 3. 3. prevalent and able to survive in sandy soils. 4. Fungi, when present in the wood, 4. will serve as another source of moisture. These fungi aid in the regulation of humidity in the galler- ies. The plugs of partially chewed Termite identification 5 Biology of The most important and most The workers maintain the shelter Termites prevalent subterranean termite in tubes and close any breaks in the Kansas is the Eastern Subterranean surface of the wood they are infesting Termite Reticulitermes flavipes with the same material. Termites (Kollar). This species also occurs in must have this closed system to Mexico and in the Mediterranean maintain the necessary high level of area of Europe. It attacks wooden humidity. The tubes also serve as a structures and also has been known protective barrier against their to infest telephone poles, fence posts natural enemies, especially ants. and occasionally living trees, shrub- Occasionally, a colony may find a bery, flowers and crops. source of moisture in the wood from a leaking pipe or roof, for example, Termite Identification so contact with the soil is no longer It is the primary reproductives necessary. which are most often discovered by Termite workers are sometimes the homeowner. Many people misnamed “white ants” and can be confuse this winged form with flying found in large numbers in forest logs, ants which also can be found swarm- wood lying in contact with the Winged ing near structures. Termites can be ground, or in the lumber in build- Adult distinguished from ants by compar- ings. Workers mature within a year Queen ing their physical characteristics. and live three to five years. Winged termites (alates) have straight antennae, thick waists, and Soldiers four, long fragile wings of equal size Soldiers have greatly enlarged, and shape. Winged ants have a wasp- dark, reddish-brown heads and like body shape, narrow waists and sword-like mandibles. There are a King two forewings which are larger than relatively small number of soldiers. the two rear wings. The soldier’s job is to guard the colony against predators, primarily Colony Structure ants. The soldiers are so specialized Subterranean termites live in that they cannot feed themselves, so colonies below ground. The subterra- they are fed by the workers. Both the nean termite colony is made up of workers and soldiers are sterile. various types or castes. Each caste is Soldiers mature within one year and specialized for certain jobs or func- live three to five years. tions. The three castes of subterra- Reproductive nean termites are: (1) worker, There are two types of reproduc- Worker Soldier (2) soldier and (3) reproductive. tive termites: primary and secondary. Workers The primary reproductives have Colony structure Worker termites are creamy-white, wings (alate) and are produced in wingless, eyeless insects and they are mature colonies (3 to 5 years and by far the most numerous in the older). They have dark-colored, colony. They are very soft-bodied flattened bodies, and large eyes. and subject to drying out (desicca- Their two pairs of wings are equal in tion). Their primary moisture (hu- length and narrow. The wings are midity) source comes from the soil. used for a single, usually short, flight Their primary function is to perform after which they break off near the the actual work of the colony. They base. There are both males and build the shelter tubes from bits of females. The queens may lay over soil and excretions as passageways 60,000 eggs during her 25-year life from the nest to the food source. time. They find and eat wood, maintain Secondary reproductives develop galleries within the wood, groom and under certain conditions in growing feed the king, queen, and feed the colonies. There are both males and soldiers. females and they are wingless. Worker termite 6 Biology of Female secondary reproductives one central nest containing one supplement the egg production of the queen. Secondary reproductives may Termites primary queen. There is a potential be found at locations throughout the for the secondary reproductives to be colony. present within the structure. Another way colonies may be formed is by “budding” from a well- Colony Formation established colony. Sometimes a Swarming of the Eastern Subterra- number of individuals, including one nean Termite, in Kansas, usually or more secondary reproductives, occurs in April or May. The repro- leave the colony and start a new one. ductives are stimulated to break out This type of colony formation is of the colony by a warm day after a referred to as “budding.” spring rain. The rule of thumb is that Buildings with stone or concrete swarming generally will occur within foundations offer temporary ob- 10 days following a warm spring stacles to termites. If a crack 1⁄64 inch rain. Several swarms may occur from in width develops in these founda- the same colony and usually the first tions, termites can enter and move swarm is the largest. Not all colonies into the wood above unless some will swarm every year. other barrier is present or is added. The swarm is a dispersal flight and Remember, termites can build shelter usually will contain equal numbers of tubes across foundations to reach both male and female reproductives. wood, if distances are relatively As the termites fall to the ground, short. So cracks on concrete, continu- after a short fluttering flight, their ous openings in building blocks, wings break off. Males and females utility openings, expansion joints, pair off and begin excavation for a and wood below soil level offer the new nest. Subterranean termites best and easiest access for termites. usually burrow under trees or decaying wood on or in the soil. They Termite Detection Soldier termite rarely use the crevices of trees to Subterranean termites remain initiate the colony. In a swarm there hidden within the wood. Those are many termites which never find a actually doing the feeding (the mate or a “homesite.” Others are workers) are seldom seen. However, eaten by predators such as birds and the presence of termites can be lizards. detected in several ways. Termites Once a pair find a site and seal usually come to the attention of the themselves in, they will mate, and homeowner in the spring when the the female (queen) will begin egg winged reproductives swarm. laying. The first batch will be small The presence of a termite swarm usually consisting of six to 24 eggs. emerging out-of-doors near the Once these nymph workers hatch, structure does not necessarily mean they begin to eat cellulose and that the structure is infested. How- enlarge the colony area. With a larger ever, this is a good reason to investi- number of nymphs, the queen will gate further. If the swarmers emerge lay increasingly larger numbers of inside, they will be attracted to light eggs. Reproductive forms will not be and their broken-off wings may be produced in the first year. It takes found near windows and doors. three to five years for a newly When looking for signs of termite established colony to begin to do activity, the inspector must also be serious damage to structural wood. alert for those conditions that favor At this time, the colony population termite infestations. The most critical begins a faster rate of increase condition is wood to soil contact. The because the secondary reproductives USDA Forest service has identified Secondary reproductive also begin to lay eggs to supplement 15 conditions that frequently lead to those laid by the queen. There is not termite infestations.

7 Biology of 1. Cracks in concrete foundations If any of these conditions exist Termites and open voids in concrete they should be carefully inspected foundation are hidden avenues and if possible, corrected. of entry. Damaged wood is often not 2. Any wooden posts or supports noticed and the exterior surface set in concrete, may be in contact usually must be removed to see the with the soil underneath. damage. However, galleries can be 3. Concrete porches with earth fill detected by tapping the wood every may provide wood to soil few inches with a screwdriver. contact. Damaged wood will sound hollow 4. Form boards left in place contrib- and the screwdriver may even break ute to the termite food supply. through into the galleries. Subterra- 5. Leaking pipes and dripping nean termite feeding follows the faucets in the crawl space keep grain of the wood and only the soft the soil under the structure springwood is eaten. The galleries moist. will contain soil and fecal particles. 6. Blocking crawl space vents with Subterranean termites do not push shrubbery will cause the air wood particles or pellets (fecal under the structure to remain material) outside the galleries as do damp and warm. other wood boring insects, but rather 7. Construction debris in the use them in the construction of their backfill beside the structure will tunnels. contribute to the termites food Termites can detect vibrations supply. through their legs. They are unable to Termite tube 8. Low foundation walls and hear noises near their nests but are footings will provide wood to immediately aroused when their nest soil contact. is tapped. When alarmed, the soldier 9. Stucco or brick veneer carried termites rattle their heads against the down over the concrete founda- gallery walls to initiate the vibrations tion allows for hidden access to which will warn the colony. Under the structure. certain circumstances it is possible to 10. Soil filled planters built up hear this “ticking” sound. against the side of the structure Other signs of infestation are the allows direct access into founda- presence of flattened, earthen shelter tion cracks. tubes that the termites build over the 11. Forms left in slabs where plumb- surface of the foundation to reach the ing drains enter the structure wood. These tubes are usually 1⁄4 to provide assess. 1⁄2 inch wide. Termites perish rapidly 12. Wooden porch steps in contact under dry conditions and build these with the soil provide direct wood mud tubes to maintain correct to soil contact. humidity throughout the colony. 13. Heating units in the crawl space Buildings should be inspected at least Termite colony in a structure maintain warm soil for termite once a year for evidence of tubes. In colonies year-round. concrete slab construction, closely 14. Paper is a wood product. Paper examine the expansion joints and collars around pipes and ducts cracks where pipes and ducts go can provide access to the struc- through the slab. ture. Termite colonies can develop in 15. Wooden fences, trellises and wood debris and soil, and gain other adornments against the entrance into a building, particularly side of the structure provide at concrete entrance slabs of porches. access.

8 Biology of Questions 6. (7) Termites can enter structures through: Termites 1. (5) Termites belong to the insect a. cracks in concrete order: b. utility openings a. Isoptera c. expansion joints b. Coleoptera d. all the above c. Diptera d. Hymenoptera 7. (8) When looking for signs of termites, the inspector should 2. (5) Termites are more prevalent look for: in ______soils. a. forms left in slabs around a. clay plumbing drains b. silty b. wooden porch steps in soil c. sandy contact d. gravel c. wooden fences, trellises contacting the structure 3. (6) The most numerous members d. all the above in a termite colony are the: a. workers 8. (8) Buildings should be inspected b. soldiers at least once ______for ter- c. primary reproductives mites tubes. d. secondary reproductives a. a year b. every 4 years 4. (6) The termite cast with the c. every 8 years greatly enlarged dark, reddish d. every 15 years brown heads are the: a. workers b. soldiers c. primary reproductives d. secondary reproductives

5. (7) The frst batch of eggs layed by the queen in a new termite colony is: a. 6–12 eggs b. 50–75 eggs c. 100–150 eggs d. 200–300 eggs

9 Other Wood Lyctid Powderpost Beetle Destroying The true powderpost adult is small, slender, flattened, and red- Drywood Termites dish-brown to black in color. It varies Organisms 1 1 Drywood termites are rarely found in length from about ⁄8 to ⁄4 inch in Kansas. When they are, their long. The female lays her eggs in the origin can usually be traced to pores of the wood. So hardwoods, furniture or other wood moved into since they have pores, are the likely Kansas from one of the southern woods to be infested. Only the states. sapwood of these hardwoods is eaten Drywood termites directly attack since only it contains the starch wood and make galleries in it, rather required in the diet of these beetles. than below ground. As they feed, Once hatched, young larvae bore into they cut across the ligneous grain of the wood. Unlike termites, they are wood, excavating large galleries unable to digest cellulose. Conse- which are connected by small tun- quently, most of the wood eaten nels. They produce hard fecal pellets passes through the larva and is left with six distinct concave surfaces on behind as a powdery frass. Thus, the sides. These pellets often are lyctid damage is characterized by the pushed out of the infested wood fine powder falling from the surface through small holes. holes in hardwoods. Control small, localized infesta- Anobiid Beetles tions of drywood termites by inject- These include the furniture and ing insecticides through holes drilled deathwatch beetles. Anobiid beetles into the termite galleries. Furniture 1 are usually slightly less than ⁄3 inch Lyctid beetle and other movable objects may be long, red to brown to black in color. fumigated in special fumigation Their eggs are deposited in cracks chambers. High temperatures of and crevices of all types of seasoned 140˚F for four hours or low tempera- wood. But these beetles seem to tures of 15˚F for four days will kill prefer the sapwood of softwood these termites. trees. Unlike the other powderpost Powderpost Beetles beetles, anobiids have a digestive There are three families of enzyme which allows them to digest powderpost beetles. The most cellulose. An infestation is character- common are the Lyctid and Anobiid ized by a course powdery frass powderpost beetles. The Bostrichids containing bun-shaped fecal pellets. are the least common family. The Within this group, the furniture adults are small and usually reddish- beetle will infest structural wood as brown to nearly black. well as furniture. Small “shot hole” exit openings in The deathwatch beetle prefers the wood surfaces are an indication structural timbers in damp areas. Its Anobiid beetle of a powderpost beetle infestation. name comes from the habit of the Slight jarring of the wood causes a adult in making a ticking sound that fine powder to sift from these holes. can be heard in the quiet of the night. When the wood is cut or broken, the Joists, subflooring, hardwood floor- interior reveals galleries filled with a ing, sill plates, and interior trim are finely-packed powder produced by the parts of buildings deathwatch the feeding of grub-like larvae. Joists, beetles most frequently attack. In subflooring, hardwood flooring, sills, addition, they may damage furniture plates, and interior trim are the parts and other products. of buildings most frequently at- Bostrichid Powderpost Beetle tacked. Furniture and other wood The adult of the false powderpost products also may be damaged. beetle is more robust than that of the true powderpost beetle. Its body is

10 Other Wood cylindrical with a roughened thorax particularly wood that has weathered surface. Its head usually is not visible and begun to decay. Although the Destroying from above. Color varies from dark nest is most often begun in the soft 1 brown to black and length from ⁄8 to wood, later excavations frequently 1 inch. Like the true powderpost are made into perfectly sound, dry Organisms beetles, it digests the starch in the lumber. They may be found in porch wood, but not the cellulose. How- columns and roofs, window sills, ever, false powderpost beetles will hollow core doors, wood scraps in attack softwoods as well as hard- dirt-filled slab porches, and wood in woods. contact with soil. To prevent infestations or to An infestation in a building may control existing infestations, treat be started by a single fertilized wood surfaces. Furniture and other female. But many times it is started movable objects may be fumigated in by a colony or portion of a colony special chambers. moving in from another location. This is especially true in wooded Longhorned Beetles areas. The queen sheds her wings (Cerambycidae) when the new colony is started and Longhorned beetles are large (1⁄2 to remains wingless the rest of her life. 3 inches long) and many are brightly The males are winged individuals colored. They have long, thin anten- and die soon after the mating flight is nae which may be longer than the over. Winged forms usually are not body. Eggs usually are laid on produced in a colony until it is at unseasoned, rough-sawed timbers or least three years old. A large colony logs. The larvae, called round-headed can cause serious structural damage borers, feed in the wood. They bore if not controlled. large, oval holes as they move Carpenter ants do not eat wood (in through wood. contrast with termites), but excavate Bostrichid beetle The most common structural pest galleries in the wood to rear their of this family is the old-house borer. young. Carpenter ants eject the wood The adult is about 3⁄4 inch long, in the form of a coarse sawdust. The grayish-brown to black, and has two characteristic sawdust piles aid in white patches on the wing covers. nest location. They feed on honey- The old-house borer damages only dew excreted by aphids, upon other soft woods such as pine. It can be insects, animal remains, and house- recognized by ripples on the surface hold food scraps. of the galleries. The damage of carpenter ants is For control, infested wood may be easily distinguished from that of drilled to allow penetration into termites. Their galleries are excavated infested areas. Fumigation under a without regard for the grain and Carpenter ant—winged female and two tarpaulin sometimes may be neces- follow the softer portions of the workers sary. wood. The galleries are kept smooth and clean, having a sandpapered Carpenter Ant appearance. Termite galleries are not (Camponotus spp.) smooth and clean. When carpenter ants are found The carpenter ant occurs widely in within a structure, the colony is the United States and is one of the either nesting within the building or largest of our common ants. The they are nesting outside the building adults vary in length from 1⁄4 inch for 3 and entering to forage for food. small workers to ⁄4 inch for a queen. Houses near wooded areas are The body is dark brown to black in especially subject to invasion. color. The key to the control of carpenter Carpenter ants seek soft, generally ants is locating the nest or nests. This moist wood to establish their nests; is the most important part of their

11 Other Wood control and sometimes the most Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa Destroying difficult. If the nest or nests can be found, there is an excellent chance of virginica) controlling this pest. Elimination of Carpenter bees are large (3⁄4 to Organisms the nest outside may be just as 1 inch long), heavy-bodied insects. important as one established in the Their blue-black metallic bodies will building. In some cases, an entire have some yellow or orange hair. colony may migrate from one nesting They resemble bumble bees but can site to another—from a tree outdoors be distinguished by their shiny, to structural timber indoors. black, hairless abdomens. The As an aid to finding the nest abdomen of the bumble bee is yellow indoors, examine these suggested and hairy. Bumble bees also have locations: large pollen baskets on their hind • wood affected by water seepage legs. (porch floors, roofs, porch posts In the spring, carpenter bees and columns). become a nuisance as they fly errati- • wood in contact with soil. cally, close to homes and other • wood adjacent to dirt-filled slab buildings. Males hover like humming porches. birds, waiting for females to emerge Carpenter ants are usually found so they can mate. If the males are associated with a moisture condition. disturbed, they may hover or buzz Carpenter Bee Some signs of carpenter ants to look around the head of a person. Only for when inspecting for a nest the females sting; then only if mo- indoors are: lested. After the mating season, most • piles of coarse “sawdust” on the of the summer is spent loitering floor or foundation. around the nest or nearby flowers. • ant activity, since they frequently Aside from the nuisance of having forage for food in kitchens. carpenter bees around, they also bore However, even when the nest is into seasoned woods, especially soft in a building, very few ants may woods such as cedar, redwood, pine be seen. They are usually active and fir. Damage may occur to soft or at night and often forage outside. weathered woods on porches, decks, • firewood piled in garages or next shed ceilings, railings, overhead trim, to a house. porch furniture, dead tree limbs, Some of the things to look for fence posts,wooden shingles, wood outdoors are: siding, window sills and wood doors. • firewood, stumps, logs and trees The female bees bore circular holes, that might contain nests. about 1⁄2-inch wide, into the wood at • trees with branches hanging over right angles to the surface, for about and touching the roof of a house. an inch. Then they turn sharply, Ants may travel over these boring in the direction of the wood branches into the building. grain for 4 to 6 inches. Sanitation measures such as Structural damage caused by one removing and destroying logs and or two carpenter bees is slight. stumps that harbor nests will help However, tunnels may be used again eliminate the pest. Protection of and lengthened by other broods. The structures from carpenter ants activities of numerous bees over a requires destruction of the nests in period of years is certain to cause and near the structure. some structural damage. Apply insecticides to the nest and Carpenter bees overwinter in nest areas. Spraying or dusting the wood as young adults. The tunnels infested area without locating and are made by the females. Those bees treating the nest usually does not that survive the winter, mate in the provide complete control. spring (April to June) and then begin preparation for the next brood.

12 Carpenter bees do not eat the Fungicides will not stop wood wood they tunnel in, but use these decay once it has started, though they Other Wood tunnels for rearing the young. The sometimes slow its progress. The key female provides her tunnel-nest with to complete control of wood decay is “bee bread” (a mixture of pollen and to eliminate the source of moisture. Destroying regurgitated nectar) which serves as This may be done through: food for the larvae when the eggs • proper drainage Organisms hatch. She makes a cell for each larva • breaking contact between wood and closes each cell with chewed and soil wood pulp. There may be as many as • ventilation six to eight cells in the tunnel. The • the use of vapor barriers time required to complete develop- • other good construction practices ment from egg to adult varies from Pressure treating lumber with one to three months. Though newly- preservative chemicals before use formed adult bees usually emerge in may prevent attack by wood-destroy- late August, these bees will not mate ing fungi. to start the cycle over again until the following spring. Key to Insect Damage to Painted wood is rarely attacked by Wood and Wood Products carpenter bees, so keep all exposed 1. In processed wood, numerous wood surfaces well painted. Wood small holes resembling those stains will not prevent attacks. made by bird-shot in surface of Pressure treated wood with a preser- wood. If piece split open, many vative should be used if painting is frass-filled tunnels can be seen, not practical. most of them running with the Treatment involves applying grain...... Powderpost Beetles insecticide into the tunnel entrance. 1 1 • Exit holes ⁄16 to ⁄8 inch in diam- Treat the opening after dark when eter. More advanced galleries the bees are less active. Do not plug running across the grain. Frass the holes, but allow the bees to pass consists in part of distinct elon- freely so they can contact the insecti- gate or bun-shaped pellets. In cides. The holes should be filled a hard and soft wood ...... Family: day or two later to prevent further Anobiidae use. 1 3 • Exit holes vary from ⁄8 to ⁄8 inch Wood Decay Fungi in diameter due to reentrance as well as emergence of adult. Severe wood decay occurs only in Occasional tunnels going cross- wood with a moisture content greater wise to the grain but majority than 20 percent. Most wood-rotting with the grain. Fine or coarse fungi grow only on wood subject to frass which tends to stick to- wetting by rain, roof leaks, plumbing gether; few if any pellets. In leaks, condensation, or contact with hardwoods such as ash, oak and moist soil. Two species, however, can hickory; sometimes in soft- conduct water directly to wood. woods ...... Family: Bostrichidae Fungi take their food from the 1 1 • Exit holes ⁄32 to ⁄16 inch in sap- wood as they grow and reduce the wood of hardwood lumber in not strength of wood, often making it too old condition. (Common in brown and crumbly or white and poorly seasoned lumber). Frass stringy. Do not confuse discoloration abundant in tunnels but readily and powdery mold growth below the “powders-out.” No pellets in surface of wood with decay. The powder ...... Family: Lyctidae moisture content of the wood may be 2. In either processed wood or measured with a moisture meter to rough timber, occasional holes, accurately determine the need for round or elliptical, considerably control. larger in size than buckshot. Irregular and rather extensive 13 Other Wood tunnels in the sapwood with hard, mastic-like frass. May Destroying usually coarse, packed infest many old cellulose objects frass...... Roundhead or near or in contact with the Longhoned Beetles soil ...... Subterranean Termite Organisms Usually heavy damage of this 6. Wood often with distinct round sort in finished wood. Often, only openings to outside, when split external evidence of injury is one open, it reveals very thorough or two oval exit holes to the excavation. Galleries contain outside ...... Old-House Borer considerable coarse, hard, sand- 3. In rough, bark-covered wood, like frass, each pellet having 1 small escape holes about ⁄8 inch rounded ends and six longitudi- in size. Inner side of bark and nal depressions. No mastic-like surface of wood itself “engraved” frass or very fine powder ...... with galleries (old damage, can’t ...... Drywood Termites reinfest dried wood. No control 7. Timbers with extensive galleries required) ...... which are sandpaper smooth, ...... Shothole or Bark Beetle often with rounded edges, and 4. Pinholes and slender galleries in containing no frass. Coarse sapwood, frequently of southern sawdust may be found near yellow pine. The burrows and damage ...... Carpenter Ants 1 1 area around them stained dark 8. Wood with ⁄3 to ⁄2 inch round by the action of fungi (old holes on side, edge, or end, damage, can’t reinfest dried leading into long tunnel (3 to wood. No control 24 inches). If hole is on side of required) ...... Ambrosia Beetle wood, tunnel turns right angles 5. No openings (or at best, very and continues with the grain of seldom and then they are usually the wood...... Carpenter Bees sealed over). Galleries extensive Adapted from a release by Depart- lengthwise usually in the ment of Entomology, Purdue Univer- springwood and packed with a sity, West Lafayette, Indiana.

14 Other Wood Questions 4. (11) Carpenter ant nests can be found in: Destroying 1. (10) Small “shot hole” openings a. window sills in wood surfaces are an indica- b. hollow core doors Organisms tion of ______infestation. c. wood in contact with soil a. powderpost beetle d. all the above b. drywood termite c. dampwood termite 5. (12) Carpenter bees are large, d. subterranean termite heavy insects with a. blue-black metallic bodies 2. (10) Beetles in the family ______b. red-orange shinny bodies have an enzyme which allows c. light and dark green striped them to digest cellulose. bodies a. Bostrichida d. light tan bodies b. Lyctidae c. Anobiidae 6. (13) Carpenter bees feed their d. Carbidae young: a. wood from the tunnel 3. (11) The most common structural b. bee bread pest in the longhorned beetle c. other insects family is the: d. seeds from flowers a. Bronze birch borer b. Old-house borer 7. (13) The key to complete control c. Cherry-shelf borer of wood decay fungi is to: d. Powderpost beetle a. treat with borates b. treat with insecticides c. eliminate the moisture source d. lower the temperature to 45˚F

15 Chemicals opt for a different pyrethroid active Applied for ingredient, limit their exposure, or choose a formulation of wettable Pyrethroids powder or micro-encapsulation. Termite Control The pyrethroids are a large family of modern synthetic insecticides that Borates are similar to the natural pyrethrins. Borate is a generic term for com- They are highly repellant compounds pounds containing the elements to termites which may contribute to boron and oxygen. Boron never the effectiveness of the termiticide occurs alone naturally, but as calcium barrier. They have been modified to and sodium borate ores in several increase their stability in the natural places in the world. environment. They are widely used Borax and other sodium borates in agriculture, homes and gardens. are used in numerous products such Some examples include: cyfluthrin, as laundry additives, eye drops, cypermethrin, deltamethrin and fertilizers, and insecticides. While its permethrin. toxic mechanisms are not fully Pyrethroids are formulated as understood, boron is very toxic to emulsified concentrate (EC), wet- insects and decay fungi that com- table powder (WP), granular (G), and monly damage wood in structures. Aerosols. They may be applied alone However, boron is only minimally or in combination with other insecti- toxic, and perhaps beneficial at low cides. levels, to humans and other mam- Although certain pyrethroids mals. Use of borate-treated wood for exhibit striking neurotoxicity in construction of homes and their laboratory animals when adminis- wood-based contents appears to offer tered by intravenous injection, and many advantages to today’s environ- some are toxic by the oral route, mentally sensitive world. systemic toxicity by inhalation and Unlike most other wood preserva- dermal absorption is low. There have tives and organic insecticides that been very few systemic poisonings of penetrate best in dry wood, borates humans by pyrethroids. Although are diffusible chemicals—they limited absorption may account for penetrate unseasoned wood by the low toxicity of some pyrethroids, diffusion, a natural process. Wood rapid biodegradation by mammalian moisture content and method and liver enzymes (ester hydrolysis and length of storage are the primary oxidation) is probably the major factors affecting penetration by factor responsible. Most pyrethroid diffusion. metabolites are promptly excreted, at Properly done, diffusion treat- least in part, by the kidney. ments permit deep penetration of Extraordinary absorbed doses may large timbers and refractory (diffi- rarely cause incoordination, tremor, cult-to-treat) wood species that salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and cannot be well treated by pressure irritability to sound and touch. treatment. The diffusible property of Extreme doses have caused convul- borates can be manipulated in many sions in laboratory animals. Some ways; suitable application methods persons may experience a skin range from complex, automated sensitivity (paresthesia) with symp- industrial processes to simple brush toms similar to “sunburn” sensation or injection treatments. of the face and especially the eyelids. Application methods include a This is a temporary effect that wide array such as: momentary dissipates within 24 hours. If this immersion by bulk dipping, pressure condition occurs, washing in water or combination pressure/diffusion and the use of vitamin E creams may treatment, treatment of composite help alleviate the condition. Persons boards and laminated products by experiencing this condition should treatment of the “wood furnish,” hot 16 Chemicals and cold dip treatments and long of insect hormones. Hormones soaking periods, spray or brush-on regulate a wide array of body and Applied for treatments of wood with borate growth (physiological) functions. slurries or pastes, and placement of Some examples include interfering fused borate rods in drilled holes in with molting, interfering with pupal Termite Control wood in use. emergence, and interfering with body wall formation. Organophosphates and IGRs often are specific for an Carbamates insect species or group of very These are two very large families closely related species. They often of insecticides. Indeed they have have delayed effects because they are been the primary insecticides for the taken into the insect and “stored” past 25 to 30 years. They range in until the insect reaches the right toxicity from slightly to highly toxic. growth stage. This may range from They are formulated in all kinds of days to weeks or even months. For ways from highly concentrated EC to example, if the IGR stops the insect very dilute G formulations. from molting, and a given insect is These insecticide families are exposed just after a molt, it would similar in their mode of action. They continue to function normally until are all nervous system poisons. the next molt before dying. Insects and all other animals includ- In the case of termite control, the ing humans have nervous systems slow action of the IGR allows the that are susceptible. Both families are chemical to be widely spread efficiently absorbed by inhalation, throughout the colony as the termite ingestion, and skin penetration. To a workers feed and groom each other. degree, the degree of poisoning The IGRs are, in general, environ- depends on the rate at which the mentally safe and they have very low pesticide is absorbed. For organo- mammalian toxicity. Some examples phosphates, breakdown occurs include hexaflumuron, pyriproxyfen chiefly by hydrolysis in the liver; and fenoxycarb. rates of hydrolysis vary widely from Biological Agents one compound to another. In the case of certain organophosphates whose Biological control agents such as breakdown is relatively slow, signifi- disease causing fungi and bacteria, cant temporary storage in body fat and parasitic nematodes continue to may occur. be studied as possible termite control The organophosphates and or termite reduction options. In some carbamates replaced the chlorinated cases, these agents will be released hydrocarbons for all uses, including into the soil and in other cases, they termite control. At the present time, will be injected into the above- the pyrethroids are gaining signifi- ground termite galleries. cantly in some aspects of termite As with all new methods of applications. control, more research is needed to determine the advantages and Insect Growth Regulators limitations of such organisms. The insect growth regulator (IGR) chemicals are often synthetic mimics

17 Chemicals Questions 4. (17) Organophosphate insecti- Applied for cides are broken down in hu- 1. (16) A large family of synthetic mans mainly in the: Termite Control insecticides closely related to the a. liver natural pyrethrins are the: b. kidney a. borates c. blood b. phosphates d. skin c. pyrethroids d. carbarnates 5. (17) An example of how an insect growth regulator functions in an 2. (16) Borate is a term for com- insect is by: pounds containing: a. interfering with respiration a. carbon and hydrogen b. interfering with mobility b. calcium and sodium c. interfering with molting c. lead and argon d. interfering with sight d. boron and oxygen 6. (17) Biological control of termites 3. (16) Application methods of may include the use of such borates to wood may include agents as: a. momentary immersion a. fungi b. pressure treatment b. bacteria c. spray or brush-on c. nematodes d. all the above d. all the above

18 Structural and has unique areas vulnerable to termite entry. This is particularly true Treatment of slab construction. It is important to Types of Contruction remember that termites can enter Knowing the type of construction through any crack, crevice or expan- Considerations 1 (basement, slab or crawl space) is sion joint as small as ⁄64 of an inch. important. Each construction type

Diagrams Identifying Structural Members

Ridge Board Plywood or Lumber Splice

Fascia Rafter Collar Beam Top Plate (Doubled) Roof Rafters Ceiling Joists Cripples

Header Header Joists Bottom Plate

Stud (Walls) Corner Post (Usually Anchor Bolts made up of 3 studs) Sill Plate

Plywood Roof Sheathing Fascia Blocking (2X) Partition Wall (Non-Load-Bearing) Center Bearing Wall and Outside Load-Bearing Wall Plywood Subflooring

Plywood Wall Sheathing or Siding Floor Joists Post Footing Foundation Lumber Post (Concrete block shown)

Lumber Girder Footing (Laminated sill)

19 Structural and Treatment Considerations

Basement Construction

Brick Hollow concrete veneer block wall

Floor joists

Girders Fin

8” min. Masonry grade Pier 18” min. 12” min. Soil

Crawl Space Construction

20 Structural and Slab Construction Treatment Considerations

Concrete slab 4” reinforced concrete slab 6” min

Fin 4”

min

8” grade min Fin 6” min Soil Gravel grade Soil fill Vapor Gravel Soil Masonry barrier fill wall

Monolithic Concrete Slab-on- Suspended Concrete Slab-on- Ground Ground

Filter Concrete slab Filter Concrete slab

Step

Fin grade Fin grade

Soil Gravel Soil Gravel Soil fill Soil fill Concrete Concrete wall wall

Floating Concrete Slab-on-Ground Floating Concrete Slab-on-Ground (Edge of slab rests on ledge of (Slab rests entirely on ground) foundation wall)

Slab

Slab

Fill

Grade Fill

Grade Grade beam Post

Post Hole Support of Slab Interior Grade Beam: Often Found Under Support Walls

21 Soil Treatment for Post Construction Subterranean Treatment Traditionally, chemicals for soil Depending on the type of con- Termites treatment are used to establish a struction, a treatment will include barrier which is lethal or repellent to one or more of the following: termites. Disperse the chemical (1) mechanical alteration, (2) soil adequately in the soil to provide a treatment, (3) foundation void barrier to all routes of termite entry. treatment, (4) wood treatment, and A thorough and uniform barrier also (5) baiting. prevents the termites which are feeding in the structure from success- Application Procedures fully returning to the soil for mois- ture which results in their death by Exterior Soil Treatment either dehydration or contact when Trench earth and/or rod adjacent crossing the residual insecticide. to the foundation and treat the Effective soil treatment depends foundation and soil with chemical upon placing a sufficient amount of (Figure 2). Whenever possible and chemical to establish a barrier practical, the soil should be saturated wherever termite entry points exist in with chemical to the footing. More each type of construction. The often, since trenching requires hard amount of chemical applied is labor, it is more practical to use a rod determined by the concentration of and vertically rod down through the Figure 1. Pre-treatment showing vertical the formulation used and the rate of soil to the footing. The chemical is and horizontal barriers application specified on the product applied as the rod is withdrawn. label. When rodding exterior soil be sure to Proper uniform soil treatment keep rod insertion points close prevents the need for wood treat- enough together to ensure a uniform ment except where a moisture source and continuous chemical barrier. exists above the soil level which If treatment of the exterior soil to could sustain the termite colony. In the top of the footing is not possible addition, wood treatment may be or practical it will be necessary to used as a method of accelerating the indicate clearly to the customer that elimination of active infestations your treatment is considered either a more quickly. “SPOT TREATMENT” or “LIMITED Preconstruction Treatment TREATMENT.” The easiest time to apply a barrier Exterior Slab Treatment is during construction (Figure 1). The presence of an exterior con- Figure 2. Exterior soil treatment Whenever possible, pretreatment crete slab which abuts the structure should be encouraged. The soil below complicates this outside treatment all slabs should be treated before they (Figure 3). Poured slabs such as are poured. Current regulations sidewalks, patios, and carports require treatment both under hori- should be vertically drilled and zontal and adjacent to vertical rodded as deep as possible. It may be surfaces. The concentration and rate necessary to vary the concentration specified on the product label must and volume, as allowed by the be strictly followed. It is illegal to use termiticide label, to treat thoroughly less than or greater than any rate or under slabs. concentration specified on the label for preconstruction treatment. Treatment of Foundation Termite baiting systems also may Voids be used as a preventive method to Drill and treat concrete block detect and prevent termite entry into foundation voids (Figure 4). It is very new construction. Especially in areas important that the holes are drilled at where ground water contamination Figure 3. Exterior slab treatment a height (no higher than three concerns may exist. 22 Soil Treatment for courses of blocks) such that the Interior Treatment chemical reaches the footer. Every Subterranean void should be treated in the block (4 Methods inches to 6 inches apart). In the event Soil treatment of the inside perim- of spillage, the area around all drill eter of a slab adjacent to the founda- Termites holes must be cleaned. After clean- tion can be accomplished by any one ing, fill all holes to prevent exposure of 3 methods (1) vertical drilling, (2) to the occupants. short rodding, or (3) long rodding. CAUTION: Special care must be Vertical Drilling taken to ensure the chemical not This is the most common method puddle and flow out over the inside of treatment of slab construction slab floor. Should the soil line be (Figure 6). Vertically drill through the above the interior slab line it may be slab floor adjacent to the perimeter necessary to trench below the slab foundation no more than 18 inches line to safely treat block voids at a apart. Inject the termiticide under low point of entry below the inside slab pressure so it will overlap in the soil line. between holes adjacent to foundation. In addition, treatment should be Treatment of Brick or made adjacent to each support wall Stone Veneer and wood partition within the Drill and chemically treat brick structure. In the case of a masonry veneer voids only where the brick support foundation which extends Figure 4. Foundation void treatment ledge is below grade level (Figure 5). through the floor resting on a footing, 1 Holes measuring approximately ⁄4 it is necessary to drill and treat soil 3 inch or ⁄8 inch in size must be drilled adjacent to both sides of the wall as from the outside into the masonry well as the foundation voids to between bricks and the void chemi- prevent termite entry. Clean up the cally treated. Generally, these holes drill dust as you proceed. After should be drilled in the masonry at a treatment, be sure that the holes are distance of no more than every other closed and that the surface is finished brick apart. in a manner the customer has previ- Introduce enough chemical to ously agreed upon. completely flood the void to the CAUTION: Special care before footing or base. The hole should not beginning treatment, due to the be drilled above the top of the potential for damage, injury or foundation for basements, or the contamination, must be taken to level of the interior slab in slab identify the location of any heating construction unless the slab is at ducts, water lines or electrical con- Figure 5. Treatment of brick or stone exterior grade level or lower. Use duits which are embedded in the veneer enough pressure to spread the slab. chemical and completely cover the Short Rodding voids. Holes drilled in outside brick Short rodding from the outside walls should be sealed after treat- may be a preferred option when no ment. access is available inside due to an Where it is not possible to drill and obstruction like a bath tub, cabinets, treat below the top of the foundation or shower or when trying to avoid or interior slab level it may be any drilling damage to finished floor necessary to trench and treat the soil coverings inside the perimeter of the to below the brick ledge. This method structure. As shown in Figure 7, in will eliminate the need to drill and order to reach the sub-slab soil area, a treat the void and also reduce the risk hole has been drilled through both of accidental spillage into the interior sides of the concrete block into the of the structure. area precisely below the expansion Figure 6. Vertical drilling

23 Soil Treatment for joint at the edge of the slab. The rod access of termites through a crack in Subterranean is then inserted and chemical is the footing. The soil beneath exterior applied under low pressure in order porches next to the foundation to thoroughly saturate the expansion should be treated by vertical drilling, Termites joint area, overlapping between holes horizontal rodding, or excavation to which are approximately 18 inches gain access for treatment. apart and saturating as much of the inside concrete block face as possible. Soil Treatment of Slab In order to do short rodding under Construction with the slab, it is necessary to accurately locate the bottom of the slab. Treat- Concrete Block ment applied a few inches too high or Foundation and Walls too low may not enable you to apply with Floating Slab chemical without leaving untreated areas that would allow termite entry. Termite Entry Points Typical termite entry points are Long Rodding marked (Figure 10). In this type of Long rodding horizontally construction there are three major through the exterior foundation just entry points for the termites. Ter- below the slab level and sliding a mites may come from the sub-slab treatment rod under the slab adjacent area, up through the expansion joint to the foundation is another method at the edge of the slab and into the of treatment for slab construction furred wall as shown, and up where easy access to the bottom of Figure 7. Short rodding through a crack in the floor beneath a the interior slab can be obtained wood partition. They may proceed (Figure 8). As in short rodding it is up this space to feed on door jambs, necessary to determine the precise window frames, and even roof location of the bottom of the slab in construction. order to ensure no untreated soil Termites can gain access into the layer remains above the treatment concrete block voids and travel zone, and to allow for easier insertion upwards into the same areas. This of the rod for the length of the allows them access to nearly all of the treatment to be achieved. This wood structural members in the method has similar benefits to the house, as well as any framing and short rod method with the added molding. advantage of possible access behind Another less common method of concrete porches. However, long termite entry is from the outside soil, rodding for any significant distance up over the surface, into a crack or may leave untreated areas as the rod void in the masonry, and upwards Figure 8. Long rodding may veer away from the foundation through the concrete block voids or or down in the soil. directly over into the furred wall. Soil Treatment—Crawl This occurs more frequently when there is an attached outside slab such Space Construction as a sidewalk or carport which abuts All wooden trash and debris must the exterior structure leaving an be removed from the crawl space. expansion joint as well as a protected These measures will aid in proper cover for termite activity. treatment, reduce chances of future Treatment procedures: attack and aid in future inspections. • Trench and/or rod exterior soil. Treat the soil adjacent to both sides of • Drill and treat beneath exterior foundations and support walls and slabs adjacent to foundation. around piers, plumbing lines or other • Treat interior foundation walls points of access by trenching and/or by vertical drilling, short rodding (Figure 9). If the foundations rodding, and/or long rodding. or piers have hollow voids these • Vertically drill and treat adjacent Figure 9. Crawl space treatment areas must also be treated to prevent to interior walls and partitions. 24 Soil Treatment for • Drill and treat foundation voids. soil around the outside perimeter of • Wood treat accessible termite the building to a point lower than the Subterranean galleries. bottom of the veneer. • Repair all drilling. Monolithic Slab with Tile Termites Completion This composite diagram or Terrazzo Finished Floor (Figure 11) shows the total protection Termite Entry Points to the structure by thoroughly The arrows indicate the very few treating (1) the voids in the concrete possible entry points for termites block, (2) the soil in the sub-slab area under a perfectly formed monolithic at the expansion joint, (3) the soil slab (Figure 14). The figure shows around the outside perimeter of the how termites might enter up the building, and (4) the wood treated outside wall and into the brick whenever there is an indicated need. veneer, particularly if the brick Concrete Foundation with veneer extends down below the soil line. With concrete block construc- Brick Veneer on Wood tion, termites have to come up over Frame Construction the solid foundation and into the block masonry to gain access to the Termite Entry Points house. Typical termite entry points are Therefore, these areas are not the marked (Figure 12). The solid con- main source of problems in mono- crete foundation eliminates some of lithic slabs. These problems are Figure 10. Block foundation entry the voids that commonly permit entirely limited to the openings for termite entry, but termites frequently pipes, plumbing, soil line, etc., and will penetrate up through the slab any faults or cracks, grading stakes or expansion joint. They also will move other embedded articles termites from the outside soil area, through might use to gain access through the the brick veneer, into the void space, slab. Void treatment is not necessary and directly into the wood framing. unless there is a veneer of brick, Less commonly, termites may stone, or stucco that extends below build tubes up over the exterior brick grade. veneer surface, finding openings Treatment procedures: through the masonry and gaining • Trench and treat exterior soil. access to the void space and wood • Drill and treat beneath exterior structural members. slabs adjacent to foundation. Treatment procedures: • Vertically drill and treat adjacent • Trench and/or rod exterior soil. to interior partition walls. • Drill and treat beneath exterior • Drill and treat brick veneer or slabs adjacent to foundation. foundation voids where they Figure 11. Block foundation treatment • Treat interior foundation walls extend below outside soil. by vertical drilling, and/or long • Wood treat accessible termite rodding. galleries. • Vertically drill and treat adjacent • Repair all drilling. to interior walls and partitions. Completion • Drill and treat brick veneer voids. • Wood treat accessible termite This composite diagram galleries. (Figure 15) shows the total protection • Repair all drilling. afforded the structure by thoroughly treating (1) the soil around the Completion exterior perimeter of the building to a This composite diagram point lower than the bottom of the (Figure 13) shows the total protection veneer, (2) the soil beneath interior afforded to the structure by thor- wood partition walls, and (3) founda- oughly treating (1) the voids in the tion voids if they extend below brick veneer, (2) the sub-slab soil area exterior grade level. Figure 12. Concrete foundation entry along the expansion joint, and (3) the 25 Soil Treatment for Special Considerations • Drill and treat any foundation Subterranean Soil treating next to the interior voids. perimeter of the foundation, which is • Wood treat accessible termite required in almost all other types of galleries. Termites construction, may not be necessary in • Repair all drilling. this case. However, soil treatment Completion around the exterior is very important, The composite diagram (Figure 17) particularly if there are veneers (such shows the total protection afforded as brick) near the soil line. Trenching by completion of the following and treating is the most practical treatment procedures. method. Remember to treat any backfill with chemical. Special Considerations Rodding does not need to be done The soil treatment techniques for since there is no advantage here in basements are the same as described deep soil treatment with chemical. for floating slab construction on the Wood treatment also is not re- exterior and interior of the structure. quired unless there is a reason for If treatment of the exterior soil to the doing so. No routine treatment of top of the footing is not possible or wood is done in monolithic slab practical it will be necessary to construction. indicate clearly to the customer that When drilling and rodding, use your treatment is considered either a caution around sewer pipes, heating “SPOT TREATMENT” or “LIMITED ducts, plumbing, plenums, electrical TREATMENT.” Brick and stone Figure 13. Concrete foundation treatment wiring, etc. veneer should be drilled and treated Therefore, on monolithic slabs a only if they extend below grade level, very careful inspection needs to be and then treatment should only be made to determine exactly how made below the top of the foundation termites have gained access and to wall to prevent accidental contamina- find those areas where they might tion of the interior. Hollow founda- gain access. The construction of tion treatment should be made from access plates, doors and panels to the interior in the case of unfinished permit inspection of the entry points walls, and then only at the bottom of plumbing, bath traps, conduits, course of block just above basement etc., constitutes the major part of floor level. In the case of a block, treatment to this type of structure, rubble, or other masonry foundation together with soil treatment around wall with interior finished walls, use the outside perimeter. extreme caution in treating exterior soil and voids in the foundation as Figure 14. Monolithic slab entry Basement Construction seepage of termiticide may occur during treatment resulting in con- Termite Entry Points tamination. Typical entry points to basements are marked (Figure 16). These will be Retreatments for Soil the same as in a floating slab con- struction. Applied Termiticides Treatment procedures: Routine or annual retreatments • Trench and/or rod exterior soil. should never be made. Retreatments • Drill and treat beneath exterior are generally made only if there is slabs adjacent to foundation. evidence of reinfestation, if the initial • Treat adjacent to interior founda- treatment was inadequate, or if the tion walls by vertical drilling. chemical barrier has been broken by • Vertically drill and treat adjacent moving soil around the structure. to interior partition walls. The retreatment is normally a partial • Drill and treat any brick veneer treatment in the areas of infestation Figure 15. Monolithic slab treatment voids. or soil disturbance and should be recorded as a partial or spot treat- ment on the statement of services. 26 Soil Treatment for Wood Over Slab to ensure adequate coverage. The To treat the soil under a slab wooden floor also may be removed Subterranean covered by a wood floor, both the to facilitate treatment. After treat- wood and the slab should be drilled ment, all holes in both the slab and Termites and treated in a checkerboard pattern wood floor must be filled.

Figure 16. Basement entry

Figure 17. Basement treatment

27 Soil Treatment for Questions 6. (24) Post construction treatment Subterranean of crawl space should include 1. (22) The easiest time to apply a treating the foundation, around Termites barrier treatment for termite piers, support walls, and _____. control is: a. floor joists a. April to June b. sill plates b. during construction c. plumbing lines c. when water is around the d. wall studs footings d. August to October 7. (25) Almost all kinds of construc- tion require interior perimeter 2. (22) In treating block foundation treating of the foundation except: voids, treat ______a. monolithic slab a. every void b. block foundation with float- b. every other void ing slab c. every third void c. basement construction d. every fourth void d. crawl space

3. (23) Drill and treat brick or stone 8. (26) Typical termite entry points veneer only when the brick ledge for basement construction are the is: same as for _____. a. 2 feet above grade a. monolithic slab b. floating slab b. 11⁄2 feet above grade c. 1 foot above grade c. crawl space d. below grade d. plenum

4. (23) An option to vertical drilling 9. (26) Routine soil retreatments for of interior slab construction is: termite control should: a. direct wood treatment a. never be made b. trenching b. be applied every 2 years c. short rodding from outside c. be applied every 3 years d. sub-slab fumigation d. be applied every 4 years

5. (24) Long rodding has similar advantages to _____ for treating under interior slab construction. a. short rodding b. vertical drilling c. sub-slab fumigation d. trenching

28 Avoiding are, in general, more susceptible to adverse health reactions due to Contamination exposure to pesticides. The safety of In recent years, concerns for the any chemical is dependent on its presence of termiticide residues and toxicity and the degree of exposure. vapors in structures chemically For a short time following a treated for termites have been termite treatment, the level of growing. Complaints that previously termiticide residue in the air may were dismissed as odor problems exceed the NAS guidelines but is may now be serious “contamination” usually below the OSHA standards. complaints. In some cases, residues Within a few weeks the levels usually and chemical vapors are caused by are within the NAS guidelines. accidents, carelessness, misapplica- Termiticides themselves have little tions or inattention to details of the odor. The odor immediately after structure being treated. The pest treatment is a result of the solvents control operator might even apply used in the formulations. Later, the the termiticide completely in accor- odors may be due to the active dance with the label directions and ingredients of the termiticides in the still be the defendant in a civil action. air of the living area of the structure. The issues involved in termiticide Airborne termiticide residues are residues are very complex, so it is generally higher in damp, poorly vitally important that the applicator ventilated areas. Materials will hold take every step possible to minimize volatile chemicals more strongly structural contamination. Risk benefit when dry than when they are moist. analysis is crucial in order to deter- Termiticide emulsions are absorbed mine which termiticide or by concrete, brick, plaster, unpainted termiticides to use and how or if a wood and other absorbent structural structure may be treated. materials. The importance of avoiding any Training in proper inspection form of structural contamination was techniques is important in the brought to the attention of the pest prevention of contaminating air and control industry, regulatory officials water. Accurate measurements of and the general public as the result of both the interior and exterior are a 1982 report from the National important in preventing termiticide Academy of Science (NAS). The residues. An adequate inspection and Academy set forth interim guidelines description of the structure should be for long-term airborne termiticide made, including any structural exposure. Those guidelines were defects, the proximity of any wells or intended to serve until more research cisterns, the kind of heating system could be completed and some and location of vents, and the loca- standard levels of exposure estab- tion of any underground utility lines, lished. They do not represent a including water lines to outdoor known level at which adverse health swimming pools, wells or cisterns. effects are caused in humans. The Other factors that may affect the only standards that exist at this time treatment or the potential for risk are those established by the Ameri- should be noted, such as the history can Conference of Governmental of the building, and if several addi- Industrial Hygienists and the Occu- tions have been made. When plan- pational Safety and Health ning treatment of structures that Administration(OSHA). Those contain sub-slab heating or unique standards are set for exposure of structural elements, blueprints can be persons in the work place. extremely helpful but may not be The primary route for human reliable. exposure in structures is inhalation. It may be necessary to alter the Young children, older people and structure or make repairs before persons that are not in good health treatment is performed. Many of the 29 Avoiding potential points of termite entry work should be inspected to ensure if Contamination noted in this manual also are poten- it is properly intact and sealed. tial points of entry for termiticides Lowering the pressure at the pump into the living area of the home. to the lowest possible p.s.i. to get the Termiticide may flow through voids, job done in a reasonable amount of expansion joints or cracks in slabs time will aid in preventing indoor air and foundation walls. Termiticide contamination and potential contami- flowing up through adjacent drill nation of groundwater. In some cases holes is another possible source of where there is a high water table, contamination. gravity flow may be the only means Successful termite control usually available to treat soils beneath can be achieved without undue risk exterior slabs. to the building’s occupants. It may Do not treat soils that are water occasionally be necessary to perform saturated or frozen anywhere in the a less than complete treatment to soil profile. Treating such soils may avoid structural contamination. If a result in the termiticide traveling in partial or spot treatment is per- groundwater contamination. Soils formed, the diagram accompanying adjacent to occupied structures are the statement of services must show generally warmer in the winter than the area or areas of the structure the surrounding soils. Applications which were treated, and the contract may be made when the air tempera- must indicate that the treatment was ture is below freezing, as long as the not complete. soil has not yet frozen. Remember Equipment should be maintained that once the soil has frozen, it may so hoses, gaskets or injector tools will take a long time for it to completely not break or leak. When filling the thaw, even though the soil surface tank, use of anti-backflow devices on has thawed to a couple of inches in hoses is required. Use nozzles that depth. are designed to prevent splash-back Soils are saturated when about of the termiticide during application. 95 percent of the total air space is When it is necessary to bring hoses filled with water. The remaining into a home, be sure that the hose is 5 percent is filled with trapped air. It as clean as possible. Plastic sheets or is difficult to determine when the soil some other protective material could adjacent to the structure is saturated. be used under the hose to protect the This is complicated by the presence floor covering from contamination. or absence of footing drainage tiles Carpeting should be pulled back and, in many cases, the fill around from the areas where termiticide is the structure is often a combination injected below the slab. It is recom- of clay subsoil, sand, gravel and mended that electric safety shutoff building debris. It is important that devices and depth gauges be used to none of the soils in the profile from reduce the risk of damage when surface to footings, around the drilling slabs in structures that may structure are saturated. The chemical contain sub-slab or in-slab duct work, barrier will not be complete when a radiant heating or sub-slab utility termiticide is injected into a layer of lines. saturated clay. Soil saturation can be When arriving at a house to do a determined by observing free water post construction application, the in an unlined auger hole adjacent to diagram of the structure should be the structure. Remember that each reviewed to assure that it is correct, side of a structure may have different and any alterations that have been fill material and receives and retains made since the diagram was drawn differing amounts of precipitation so should be noted. Do not begin when saturated soil is in question it treatment until all duct work and may be necessary to make several utility lines have been located. Duct auger holes around the structure for observation. 30 Avoiding Should a Spill Occur Termiticide foam 1. Turn off the pump immediately. Where hollow areas under slabs Contamination 2. Contain the spill to keep it from are suspected of providing termites spreading. the opportunity to tunnel across the 3. Absorb the spillage and collect bottom of the slab, a termiticide foam any contaminated containment generating machine may be used to material. enhance the treatment barrier. 4. Remove the contaminated Treat the soil under the slab first to materials. establish the soil barrier then inject 5. Dispose of in a safe and legal the termiticide foam to fill the void manner. under the slab. This will coat any Specific information on dealing termite tubes on the underside of the with termiticide spills and residues slab. It is important to first make the may be obtained from the termiticide proper soil treatment application at manufacturer or the Kansas Depart- the prescribed label rate and then ment of Health and Environment follow with the foam since the (913-296-1679). diluted termiticide combined with the foaming agent and air will reduce Special Tools and the amount of active ingredient being applied to the void. Additionally, Techniques once the void is filled with foam it In the past, sub-slab treatment may not be possible to inject the relied only on the theory that liquid dilution to the soil. Termiticide foam termiticide application points would create overlapping puddles which Directional tips would establish a continuous treat- Treatment tips of varying styles ment barrier. Uneven grade levels, can be used to direct the termiticide sloping grade away from the founda- under the slab in a manner that tion walls, or physical obstructions assures treatment is achieved in the can result in failure to achieve proper areas intended. When vertically soil treatment barriers under slabs. drilling and using a horizontal Recently, there has been the directional tip, it is necessary to development of tools and techniques determine the thickness of the slab to enhance the ability to achieve a prior to treatment so application can thorough and uniform chemical be made between the base of the slab barrier. Two of these developments and the soil fill below. Be sure the tip are termiticide foam generating is directed toward the location of the machines, and directional or lateral desired treatment barrier, such as dispersion treatment tips. foundation wall, partition wall, crack in floor, plumbing line, or other object which extends through the slab which would provide an access point for termites. Directional tips

31 Avoiding Questions 4. (30) Termiticides contaminate Contamination homes by flow through 1. (29) Chemical contamination can a. voids result from which of the follow- b. expansion joints ing: c. cracks in slabs and founda- a. accidents tions b. carelessness d. all the above c. misapplication d. all the above 5. (31) Should a spill occur, the first action to take is to: 2. (29) The primary route of human a. turn off the pump exposure to pesticides in struc- b. contain the spill tures is c. absorb the spillage a. inhalation (breathing) d. remove the contaminated b. dermal (skin) material c. oral (mouth) d. ocular (eyes) 6. (31) Two recent developments to get uniform coverage in sub-slab 3. (29) To help prevent structural treatments are termiticide foams pesticide contamination, a proper and _____. inspection includes a. drilling more holes b. directional tips a. structural defects × b. proximity to wells and c. applications at 3 the label cisterns rate c. kind of heating system d. making two application, d. all the above 3 months apart

32 Special treat. It also may be acceptable to drill the floor and treat by rodding. Treatments The area may also be treated by Problem Treatments horizontal drilling and rodding. Vent If a structure or an area is identi- the area, if possible. fied as having the potential for a problem in treatment, it is advisable Slabs containing or to have one person inside while covering heating ducts another performs exterior treatment Special care should be taken in soil of the soil, brick veneer, hollow block treatment of buildings that contain or rubble foundations. In some these structural elements. Inspect the structures it will be necessary to drill, ducts as much as possible using a treat and plug one hole at a time to mirror and flashlight. If it appears prevent contamination of the slab by that they are made of cellulose the termiticide flowing out of un- containing material or have soil or plugged drill holes. sand bottoms, standing water, or Crawl spaces appear not to be properly sealed, Soil treatment with most reconsider treatment. Such ducts termiticides should not be done in should be sealed with concrete and structures which use crawl spaces as an alternative air handling system hot or cold air plenums. Check the installed before soil treatment. An aid label carefully to determine if ple- to locating ducts in slabs is to turn on nums may be treated. A plenum is the heating system and place damp any area that circulates air from the newspapers over the suspected area crawl area throughout the structure where the ducts are located. The without ducts. In non-plenum newspapers will begin drying in the structures, air ducts in the crawl area areas immediately over the duct should be examined before treat- work. ment. If breaks or leaks at joints are After drilling is completed, but found, they should be repaired before treatment, close off all vents. before treatment is made. Some air Turn on the fan for the air system. handling units are located in crawl Check each hole for air flow. If air spaces and draw air from the crawl flow is detected, plug the hole(s) and area. It is recommended that they do not treat them. should be ducted to draw in air from Following treatment, if odor of the outside of the structure prior to termiticide is detected, contact the treatment. It also is recommended termiticide manufacturer for instruc- that all crawl areas have adequate tions on dealing with residue re- ventilation to prevent the build-up of moval. odor and airborne termiticide resi- Basements dues. If it appears that odor will be a Before treating, inspect the foun- problem, in addition to covering the dation walls for cracks where seep- treated areas with untreated soil, age of termiticide may occur when covering the area with anchored the soil outside is treated. If cracks or vinyl sheeting is recommended. void areas are present in the founda- Access should be made when tion wall or if inspection cannot be structures have inaccessible crawl made, a second staff member should areas within the foundation. Visually be in the basement to watch for any inspect in order to determine the best leakage through the wall while the method of treatment. If there is soil outside is being treated. It also is sufficient clearance, treatment should recommended to check the basement proceed as in any other crawl area. If wall when treating in the areas of the there is insufficient clearance be- front and back stoops, to assure that tween the floor joists and the soil, the termiticide does not seep over the remove sufficient soil for access and sill plate. If the basement has an 33 Special exposed soil floor, cover the treated should be filled, not just capped. The Treatments area with 2 to 4 inches of untreated closer a water source is to the foun- soil or other impervious barrier after dation, the greater potential for treatment is completed. contamination. In very dry weather, French drains can be a problem. termiticides can move considerable French drains are used to drain water distances along cracks and fissures in into a sump, storm sewer or other the soil. They also can move through area. They usually are found around small void areas that exist between the perimeter of a finished basement. the soil, pipes and casings. Swim- You may want to drill test holes ming pools also might be contami- before proceeding with treatment. If nated in the same manner. Sandy a sump pump is present, turn it off soils lessen the potential for these and inspect the sump. If water is problems. Treat with extreme care present, remove some. Observe the adjacent to walls through which any water level for 15 minutes. If the level water lines run. If the well is ex- of the water rises, delay treatment tremely close to the foundation, until a time when the soil is drier. consider not treating that wall (with Also observe the sump during the the written permission and under- course of treatment for the presence standing of the owner). When wells of termiticide. If termiticide is are in the vicinity, be sure to check present, remove the contaminated with the local authorities to be sure to water and dispose of it in a safe and comply with any special distance legal manner. requirements. A good general practice of treating Veneers soil next to foundation walls near Brick, artificial stone and other wells and cisterns is to remove the veneers which extend below the soil from grade to the footing and exterior grade must be treated. Drill place it on vinyl sheeting. Treat this below the top of the foundation wall soil outside of the foundation and let and use low pressure or trench and it dry thoroughly. It may be appro- treat exterior soil to below the brick priate to line the trench with plastic ledge. sheeting. Return the treated soil to the trench. Hollow block, tile and If the soil around the water pipe is rubble foundations to be treated, remove the soil com- Sometimes termiticide will leak pletely from around the pipe and through these types of construction treat as above. Be sure that the materials or vapor will escape from treated backfill is completely dry the uncapped top of hollow blocks before replacing it in the trench. causing residue problems. If the Alternative treatments to consider potential for this problem is encoun- when well water contamination is a tered, ensure that all cracks and concern include the use of borate openings are sealed. If the mortar wood treatments and/or the use of joints of rubble walls are in poor termite baiting systems. condition, the wall should be sealed with concrete. Low pressure or Rigid Foam Insulation gravity should be used whenever Board treating the voids. Building techniques that use foam insulation in direct contact with the Wells, cisterns and other soil can make termite protection by water sources soil treatment virtually impossible. Do not treat the soil beneath Building methods using insulation structures that contain wells, cisterns that cause a problem for soil treat- or springs within the foundation ment include: walls. Unused wells on the property 1. Insulation forms between which concrete foundations are poured. 34 Special 2. Rigid board foam insulation techniques to provide some protec- extending below grade level. tion from termite attack. Treatments 3. Foam filled concrete blocks. Borates Termites do not eat the foam but The application of Borates in a tunnel through the insulation to water-based dilution to wooden access wood in the structure. This structural components will allow allows them to avoid contact with absorption into the wood fibers. This soil treatment barriers. will prevent termite attack to the Termite infestations in foam treated wood. Because borates are insulation board often are not visible stomach poisons and must be in- during an inspection. It is advisable gested by the termites in order to be to have the property owner remove effective, they will not prevent outside foam to 6 inches above and termites from tubing across treated below grade level to allow for proper wood to reach untreated portions of treatment and future inspection. For the structure. They generally do not crawl spaces, remove the insulation possess any contact residual effect. from the inside foundations in the Borates also are highly soluble in same manner. water and can leach out of treated Control may be achieved by wood after applications have been trenching and treating soil and made. backfill where insulation board has been removed to below grade. As Wood Injection shown in the diagram, this will create Direct injection of residual insecti- Rigid Foam Treatment a soil barrier that interrupts termite cides into termite galleries in the access through the insulation. form of pressurized (aerosol) or Soil treatment will not prevent liquid emulsions can be made where termite entry in structures that termites are actively feeding in wood contain foam filled hollow block portions of the structure. The foundations since voids cannot be termiticide will bond with soil properly treated. Termites can enter particles in the termite galleries just through a crack in the footing in this as they do in soil to provide some type of construction. extended residual. Wood treatment The development of termite with contact residual insecticides to baiting technology has provided a wood surfaces will provide some possible solution to the problems short term barrier effect but will not associated with “in ground” foam provide extended prevention as does insulation since achieving a complete application of insecticide to the soil. and uniform chemical barrier can be It also may be possible to inject difficult if not virtually impossible. aerosol insecticides directly into Baiting technology would allow wood on a limited basis by drilling direct treatment of the termite colony and injecting into wooden structural without regard to the many termite components. However, it is difficult entry points into structures contain- to achieve complete saturation of all ing foam insulation. the wood to prevent termite attack. Wood treatment is most com- Wood Treatment monly used as a supplement to either Since the advent of soil treatment a soil treatment or termite baiting for termites there has been little need system application because of the for extensive wood treatment of difficulty in treating all wooden structures, however, conditions may components. They are, however, an exist in certain structures that can available means of providing limited reduce or even prevent the opportu- control in situations where soil nity of making a soil application of treatment due to ground water termiticide. In these cases, consider contamination or sub-slab heating the following wood treatment duct contamination concerns exist.

35 Special Questions 4. (34) Veneers which extend below Treatments the exterior grade, the soil must 1. (33) Soil treatment with most be treated to a depth termiticides should NOT be done a. of 3 inches a. as a sub-slab injection b. of 12 inches b. in a crawl space used as a c. of below the brick ledge plenum d. of the footings c. under a hollow block founda- tion 5. (34) A good general practice of d. under a poured foundation treating near foundation walls near wells or cisterns is to: 2. (33) When treating slabs contain- a. trench only ing or covering heating ducts, b. short rod only you should reconsider treating if c. remove the soil to the footings the ducts: and treat it than replace it. a. are made of cellulose contain- d. treat the soil surface with a ing material light spray and cover with b. have soil or sand bottoms bark chips. c. have standing water d. all the above 6. (35) Rigid foam board insulation below grade 3. (33) Before treating a basement a. repels termites 100% on the outside, b. allows termites to avoid soil a. turn all electric outlets off treatment barriers b. fill the sump (if present) with c. provides a good food source water for termites c. check foundation walls for d. is never a factor in termite cracks control d. close all doors and windows

36 Baiting response. However, dose-depen- dency and learned avoidance may Technology The use of baiting materials for limit this type of product to termite termite control is being rapidly reduction in localized areas. developed. The concept is not new, it The “biotermiticide” which is has been studied for several years. As derived from fungi, bacteria, or the understanding of termite biology nematodes, is injected into active and behavior grows, products and gallery sites. The biotermiticide then delivery systems are being developed develops on the infected foraging to administer slow acting toxicants to termites and is spread among the the termites. The products presently colony. Suitable environmental available may; (a) only control conditions (temperature and mois- termites in a localized area; ture), early detection and avoidance (b) suppress the colony or; (c) control will determine the success of this the entire colony by total elimination. treatment. It may provide localized To be successful, the products must area control or, with optimum be readily consumed by termites, conditions, may provide colony non-repellent, and slow acting. suppression. The timeframe for control may be The IGRs offer a variety of deliv- from a few months to many months. ery systems and control measures. The control period depends on such The products in this category include factors as: the product selected; juvenile hormone analogs (JHA), application timing; the time to juvenile hormone mimics (JHM), or “discovery” by the termites; the chitin synthesis inhibitors (CSI). amount of feeding; colony size; and These products disrupt the termites whether or not termites are present. by exhibiting a specific response or The timeframe will be impacted by behavior within the colony or block- the utilization of other control ing the molting process. These are the measures. slowest of the control types but have These products will fit into an greater impact on the colony. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Commercial Baiting termite control program. The elimi- nation of conditions conducive to Products termite infestation, judicious use of Because the baiting technology is liquid soil products either as a spot or just coming into commercialization at limited barrier application, and use the time of the revision of this of wood treatment products in manual, all products presently conjunction with the baiting materi- available are listed briefly below. als will comprise the IPM termite Applicators are strongly encouraged control program. This program will to familiarize themselves with this require more frequent visits to the technology and these and future site to provide ongoing service and products. For additional information monitoring of the control program on termiticies, refer to the section status. entitled, “Chemicals Applied for Termite Control.” Types of Termite Baits There are currently three types of • Active ingredient: bait products available. The types Hydramethylnon are: Manufacturer: American 1. Ingested Toxicants Cyanamid 2. Biotermiticides or “Microbes” Mode of action: Metabolic inhibi- 3. Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) tor after ingestion Each bait type offers unique This product will be placed in and features and will be used differently around the structure. The bait will be in termite control programs. Ingested in stations. Station placement will toxicants will offer the quickest intercept the termite tubes. The 37 Baiting performance is related to the food growth of the fungus inside the Technology used in the formulation. The food termite results in destruction of body source is highly preferred by ter- tissues and death. The spores are mites. The termites will forage, feed carried around by the termites and upon the stations, and then die. transferred to colony mates. The spread of spores in this manner is • Active ingredient: Sulfluramid known as “horizontal transfer.” This Manufacturer: FMC Corporation system will control termites in a Mode of action: Metabolic inhibi- localized area if conditions are right tor after ingestion for the fungus to grow and prosper. FMC Corporation has two sepa- rate systems. The “First Line1” bait • Active ingredient: Hexaflumuron system and the Interceptor1 bait Manufacturer: DowElanco system. Mode of action: Chitin synthesis The Interceptor product is an on- inhibitor the-wall application. The Interceptor1 Sentricon3 Colony Elimination bait station is placed over a termite System is marketed by DowElanco. tube. The tube is broken open to This system utilizes monitoring for allow the termites access to the bait termite activity, baiting to eliminate station. The Interceptor bait station the termites, and continued monitor- contains the sulfluramid bait. Ter- ing to ensure the structure remains mites feed on the bait, and die soon termite free. Stations are placed after. around the structure. Monitoring The First Line bait system consists devices are placed in the stations. The of baited stations placed in termite stations are checked periodically for conducive areas around the structure termite feeding. or next to termite tubes. The termites Once termites feed on the monitor- forage to find the stations, feed on ing devices, the monitoring devices the bait, and die. are replaced with a bait matrix. The termites feed on the bait matrix • Active ingredient: Metarhizium containing the active ingredient. anisopliae Termites pass the active ingredient to Manufacturer: EcoScience colony mates and die during the Mode of action: Pathogenic fungus molting process. The feeding activity BioBlast2 is the tradename for is monitored. When feeding stops, EcoScience’s bait program for termite the bait matrix is removed and control. BioBlast is an EPA registered monitoring devices are again placed wettable powder containing live in the station. Periodic checking spores of the insect-killing fungus, continues to ensure the structure Metarhizium anisopliae. This product remains termite free. is injected into the termite galleries. 1Trademark of FMC Corp. The spores germinate and penetrate 2Trademark of EcoScience the cuticle of the termites. The rapid 3Trademark of DowElanco

38 Baiting Questions 4. (37) The type of termite baiting system that will likely provide Technology 1. (37) Termite baiting systems colony suppression are the presently available may a. ingested toxicants a. only control termites in b. biotermiticides localized areas c. insect growth regulators b. suppress the colony d. physical traps c. provide total colony elimina- tion 5. (37) The slowest acting of the d. all the above termite baiting product types are the 2. (37) To be successful, termite bait a. ingestion toxicants products must b. biotermiticides a. be readily consumed c. insect growth regulators b. be non-repellent d. physical traps c. be slow acting d. all the above

3. (37) The type of termite baiting system that will likely provide localized reduction are the a. ingested toxicants b. biotermiticides c. insect growth regulators d. physical traps

39 Fumigation • The control achieved through fumigation is temporary. There is The General Manual manual no residual action from fumi- informs you of the basic required gants and as soon as the fumiga- information that is common to all tion is completed, the structure pesticide labels including such or commodity fumigated is information as a list of active ingredi- susceptible to reinfestation. ents, type of pesticide, formulation, • Fumigants are toxic to humans EPA registration number, hazard and special precautions must be statement, personal protective taken to protect fumigators and equipment, etc. Specific information, the occupants of fumigated however, varies from label to label, structures. particularly under directions for use • Because fumigants are gases, and recommendations for use. provision must be made to retain Fumigants are pesticides which by the fumigant within the space themselves or in combination with being fumigated. This requires any other substances, are, or become, additional labor. gas or a mixture of gases. Fumigants • Fumigation must not be at- will kill or control a pest and are tempted by one person. Addi- usually poisonous or dangerous to tional labor is required. humans. Various aerosol space • Some commodities or pieces of sprays (a suspension of liquid in air) equipment may be damaged by are not considered fumigants. certain fumigants and must be Fumigants penetrate cracks, either removed or protected. crevices, and the commodity being • The technique of applying treated. They must reach the target fumigants requires special pests as gases to be effective. As soon training for all members of the as a fumigant is diffused from the fumigation crew, adding to target area, pest reinfestation can fumigation costs. occur. Fumigants must be applied in • Fumigation usually requires that enclosed areas. occupants of the structure vacate the building for a number of Advantages of Fumigation hours. This may be inconvenient. Fumigation has several advan- Pests Considered for tages over other pest control proce- dures. Fumigation • Fumigants are usually quick • Drywood termites. Usually acting and can result in eradica- imported in furniture. tion of the pest. • Anobiid powderpost beetles. • Fumigants diffuse through all Usually in soft woods (floor parts of the structure or commod- joists, etc.). ity being treated and thus reach • Lyctus powderpost beetles. pest harborages that cannot be Attack sapwood of hard woods reached with conventional pest (tool handles, flooring, etc.). control materials or techniques. • Old house borer. Attack sapwood • For certain pests/commodities, of soft wood (beams, rafters, etc.). fumigation is the only practical method of pest control. Selection of Fumigants When choosing a fumigant, the Disadvantages of following kinds of factors should be Fumigation considered: There are several reasons why • label approval for intended use. fumigation may not be the best • toxicity to the target pest. means of pest control. These are: • volatility and ability to penetrate.

40 Fumigation • corrosive, flammability and • Full-face shield for eye protec- explosive potential. tion, when handling the liquid • warning properties and detection such as opening the cylinder to methods. introduce gas into a structure. • effect on seed germination or <5 ppm no respiratory protection finished product quality. required • residue tolerances. >5 ppm NIOSH/MSHA approved • availability. SCBA or combination air-supplied/ • ease of application. SCBA respirator. • cost. Uses: Several factors can change the What—Structures and dwellings, efficiency of fumigants. Consider bags, boxes, crates (empty), furniture, these when selecting a formulation lumber and wood products. and dosage: Where—Chamber and vault Temperature—The fumigant may fumigation—vacuum chambers, not kill the pests if the product or tarpaulin fumigation. space being fumigated is below 10˚C Methyl Bromide (MB) (50˚F) or above 46˚C (115˚F). Properties: Moisture—As the moisture Colorless, odorless gas which is content increases, it becomes more heavier than air and readily pen- difficult for a fumigant to penetrate. etrates commodities. Relatively This also increase the potential for harmless to plants and trees. Easily residues exceeding legal tolerances. removed by aeration. Adequate moisture is required for the Fire hazard: generation of some fumigants. Nonflammable at usage level Pests—Susceptibility to fumigants (flammable at 13.5 to 14.5 percent in depends on species, habitat, and air). Extinguish pilot lights and stage development. During some flames in building before using. stages of their life cycle, for example, Explosion hazard: many insects are protected by the Nonexplosive, although product they infest. overdosages of methyl bromide may Structure—Consider the condition create an explosion hazard because of the structure, the type of construc- the gas can expand beyond the tion, and the product it contains. holding capacity of the vault or tarp. A wooden structure, even when Human hazard: sealed well, will not retain fumigants Not as toxic as some other fumi- as well as metal, plastic, masonry, or gants but needs caution because of concrete. Fumigation in vacuum lack of odor. Most suppliers add chambers allows increased efficiency. 2 percent CP as a warning agent although CP may be absorbed by Fumigants for Wood commodities and fail to indicate MB Destroying Insects presence. Liquid MB will cause NOTE: Fumigaton requires severe blisters on contact with skin. specialized equipment and training. Tests with a halide leak detector will The following is generalized informa- indicate dangerous concentrations by tion on fumigant products. Applica- a light green to dark green to blue tors must obtain and follow all green to blue flames. Use detector manufacturer’s and label specific tubes or thermal conductivity appa- directions. ratus for more exact determination of MB in air. Exposure brings neurologi- Methyl Bromide at a glance: cal symptoms (headaches, incoordi- Required Clothing: nation, visual disturbances). Monthly • Loose shirts, long trousers and blood bromide tests are suggested for socks that are cleaned after each those using or exposed to near wearing. Do not wear jewelry or maximum MB levels. gloves.

41 Fumigation Uses: Fire hazard: READ THE LABEL. Not as toxic to Highly flammable at 1.79 percent insects as other fumigants but in air (and up) which is considerably penetration into commodities en- above the usage concentration. Reacts hances its uses. Certain commodities with all metals and especially copper (iodized salt, sponge rubber, leather causing severe corrosion; therefore, goods, viscose rayons, photo chemi- all wiring, motors, switches and cals, etc.) should not be exposed to other equipment must be protected. MB. Human hazard: Aluminum Phosphide, Magnesium Highly toxic to man with the Phosphide [Hydrogen phosphide, lowest threshold working limit of 0.3 ppm (.00003 percent air). Garlic PH3, (Phosphine, Phostoxin, Fumi- Cel, Detia, Fumitoxin, others)] at a odor warns of toxic concentrations glance: but may not always be present when Required clothing: PP is above 0.3 ppm. Detector tubes • Dry cotton gloves if contact with should be used to ensure safe work- the pellets or tablets will be ing levels for employees. Symptoms made. include fatigue, buzzing in ears, Respiratory protection: nausea, pressure in chest, intestinal • Respiratory protection required if pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Notify exposure is likely to exceed the your physician of PP exposure. A 8-hour TWA of 0.3 ppm during special canister is required for gas application, or is above 0.3 ppm masks as protection from PP up to at any time after application has 0.5 percent in air. been made. Uses: Levels: READ THE LABEL. Very highly 0.0–0.3 ppm—No protection toxic to insects although requiring required. 72 or more hours of treatment time 0.3–15 ppm—NIOSH/MSHA (aluminum phosphide tablets evolve approved full-face gas mask— PP rather slowly, needing 24 to hydrogen phosphide canister. 48 hours to react with atmosphere 0–1500 ppm—can use the gas moisture—may take longer at low mask described above for escape humidities). Preadult stages of some only. insects are resistant to short expo- >15 ppm–or unknown level— sures to PP but are controlled by a NIOSH/MSHA approved SCBA. 10-day (or more) fumigation period. Uses: Sulfuryl fluoride (Vikane) at a What—Raw agricultural com- glance- modities, animal feed and feed Required Clothing: ingredients, processed food, tobacco, • Full-body clothing and shoes, no and cretain other non-food items. gloves, no rubber boots. Where—Fumigation of railcars, • Wear goggles or full-face shields bins, silos, under tarpaulins in small when handling the liquid, such sealable structures and enclosures, as opening the cylinder to mills food processing plants and introduce gas into the structure. warehouses. 0-5 ppm none required. Aluminum Phosphide (Phosphine) >5 ppm NIOSH/MSHA self- (PP) contained breathing apparatus, or Properties: combination air-supplied/SCBA Colorless gas which may have a respirator. carbide or garlic-like odor (due to Uses: impurities present when the gas is What—Furnishings, dwellings, generated). Penetration into com- buildings, vehicles. modities is excellent. Aeration Where—Structures, tarpaulins, quickly removes PP after fumigation. chambers. Avoid food, drugs, and plants. 42 Fumigation Sulphuryl Fluoride (SF) (Vikane) method of obtaining a ground seal. If Properties: they are smooth, concrete and Colorless, odorless gas. Noncorro- asphaltic surfaces are satisfactory. sive and unreactive to most materi- Wood surfaces are not. With wood, als. Good penetration of dry wood and soil surfaces, it is necessary to products and fabrics but requires place a section of the tarp material fans to get good distribution. Not an beneath the stack as well as over it. efficient ovacide. There are several methods of Fire hazard: obtaining a good ground seal. Allow Nonflammable. In presence of enough tarp materials to skirt out- open flame or electric heating ele- ward at least 18 inches from the ment, SF forms a very corrosive gas. stack. Loose sand, sand snakes, or Human hazard: water snakes are used to hold the Highly toxic gas requiring proper skirt to the ground surface. Snakes precautions on part of applicator. are merely tubes of cloth or plastic Maximum exposure limit is 5 ppm filled about three-fourths full with for 40-hour week. Special canisters sand or water. The snakes should 1 are required for concentrations above overlap each other about 1 ⁄2 feet. that amount. Exposure symptoms Occasionally, a stack may be too include respiratory irritation and close to a wall to obtain a good depression. Notify doctor in cases of ground seal. The solution is to seal exposure (manufacturer supplies the tarp directly to the wall with first-aid booklet). adhesive tape. Tarpaulin fumigation Uses: may be performed either indoors or Tarpaulin fumigation READ THE LABEL. Not registered outdoors. Outdoor fumigation for any food or drug item. Registered should allow for winds or weather for dry-wood termites, powderpost which may disrupt a fumigation beetles, wood boring beetles, bed- attempt. bugs and clothes moths. Very effec- Advantages: Fumigation is limited tive against larva and adults but not to items under the tarpaulin, eco- effective against egg stage at regular nomical use of fumigant, work may fumigation concentrations. Aeration continue in general area (providing removes fumigant rapidly from tarpaulin is reasonably impervious to treated commodities. (SF may be fumigant vapors). trapped in plastic clothes bags or Disadvantages: Extra labor of waterproof mattress covers). Not placing and sealing tarpaulins, commonly used in Kansas. fumigant may be lost through floor or absorbed by soil moisture. Types of Fumigation Atmospheric Vault Fumigation Tarpaulin Fumigation These are usually small buildings Tarpaulin fumigation involves the located well apart from other struc- placement of a gas-tight material tures. Some are specially built for over the commodity or structure to fumigation, others are modified from be fumigated. The tarps may be other structures. Gas concentrations specially made for fumigation, such can be monitored through a perma- as impregnated nylon, or they may nent arrangement. Cased, bagged or be sheet polyethylene. palleted commodities are easily Polyethylene tarps can be used in moved in and out of the vault 1 thicknesses from 1 ⁄2 mil. up to without special preparation. The 6 mil. Because clear polyethylene fumigator does not have to compute breaks down from exposure to the cube of the structure each time sunlight, use black polylethylene the fumigation will take place. films outdoors. Gas impervious Almost any fumigant can be used. adhesive tape may be used to join And while safety precautions must various sections to polyethylene film. be observed, fewer considerations are Consideration must be given to the necessary. 43 Fumigation Advantages: Good control of Gas concentration test leads must be fumigation, safer than fumigating in run throughout the structure and the buildings, excellent for palleted gas concentrations monitored. cargoes. Electric fans should be placed so the Disadvantages: Initial cost of fumigant will be circulated through- setting up a fumigation vault, cost of out the structure in order to achieve moving the commodity to and from rapid equilibrium of the fumigant. the chamber, the limited quantity of Local fire authorities may require the items that most vaults will hold and use of non-sparking fans. It may be economical utilization of facility. difficult to compute the cube of the Portable Chambers structure. It is very easy to overlook A portable fumigation system, vents, cracks, conduits, etc., that may developed by B & G Equipment permit the gas to escape. Company, Plumsteadville, Pennsyl- Items which could be damaged by vania, brings added flexibility to an the fumigant must be removed. applicator who may need to fumigate Building occupants must be evacu- small quantities of items or com- ated for the entire fumigation and modities in various locations. The aeration period. All pilot lights, components of the system are: two flames, and electrical heating ele- pieces of heavy-duty vinyl sheeting ments must be turned off. If orna- that can be zipped together, similar mental vegetation is too close to the to food storage bags, fumigation structure to permit the tarpaulin to dispensers, connecting hoses, secu- be sealed to the ground, the vegeta- rity lock, gas concentration monitor- tion will have to be moved. All edges ing valve, carrying case, and a gas of the structure which could punc- discharge stand pipe. ture, or tear the tarpaulin must be The system is designed to allow well padded. the operator to develop a vacuum Precautions and Protective inside the bubble. The vacuum will Structural fumigation pull the flexible bubble around the Equipment Fumigants as a class are the most toxic of all pesticides. Because they are highly volatile, penetrating and KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN highly toxic, they are considered a DANGER—POISON—PELIGRO threat to human life if not used with proper precautions. Therefore, it is essential that fumigants always be used with proper precautions, Danger commodity. After collapsing the procedures and protective equip- bubble, the fumigant is applied. ment. Normal safety precautions are You may be cited by EPA, the state necessary, including a self-contained lead agency and/or OSHA for failing breathing apparatus (SCBA), and to follow instructions in the use or monitoring tools to test for leaks. care of protective equipment, as well Structural Fumigation (by taping as the misuse of a pesticide. Direc- and sealing) tives issued by these agencies and This essentially is a modification instructions on pesticide labels must of vault fumigation. No tarp is used be observed. The information given and the entire structure becomes a here is to help you better appreciate fumigation vault. The building must the need for following procedures for be of the proper construction (brick, protection and some general instruc- concrete, stucco, etc.) for a tape and tions. No safety suggestions cover all seal fumigation. The roof may need situations. Follow the label instruc- to be tarped if its construction alone tions. Remember, there is no substi- will not provide a leak-free barrier. tute for good common sense.

44 Fumigation Threshold Limits Warning gasses serve a useful Threshold limit values (TLV) refer purpose, but are not foolproof. Use to airborne concentrations of sub- them as one of the tools, not as the stances and represent conditions only tool! under which nearly all workers may Transporting a Fumigant be repeatedly exposed day after day Due to the highly toxic nature of without adverse effect. Because of a fumigants and the lack of control wide variation in individual suscepti- over fumes released as the result of bility, however, a small percentage of leaks, spills, or other accidents, the workers may experience discomfort Fumigant Gas following precautions should be from some substances at concentra- Under Pressure taken: tions at or below the threshold limit; • Do not transport fumigants by a small percentage may be affected public transportation such as more seriously by aggravation of a subways, buses, trains or taxis. preexisting condition or by develop- • Do not transport fumigants Riser Liquid Fumigant Potential ment of an occupational illness. Tube through tunnels without the Breakage Threshold Limit Values: knowledge and permission of the For Dip Tube The Threshold Limit Value-Time proper authorities. Weighted Average (TLV-TWA) is the • Do not transport fumigants in Problems with Horizontal Transport time weighted average concentration closed vehicles in the same for a normal 8-hour workday and a common airspace as personnel. 40-hour workweek, to which nearly • Mark the vehicle in which the all workers may be repeatedly fumigant is being transported by exposed, day after day, without attaching the appropriate plac- adverse effect. ards as required by the Depart- Warning Gases ment of Transportaion (DOT) to Materials such as chloropicrin may the front, back and sides of be added in low concentrations to an vehicles. odorless fumigant so an individual • Transport cylinders upright and can be made aware of the presence of secured. a harmful gas. However, they must • Mount cylinders so they are not be relied upon as the only safe- protected from rear-end collision. guard for protection, anymore than • Do not remove valve protection you would rely upon the detection of bonnet until immediately before a fumigant by its own odor. It must fumigant application. be stressed that: • Individuals vary in their ability Threshold Limits to detect odors and levels of Parts Per Million (ppm) odors. • The warning gas may have Approx. different physical properties than Odor Threshold TLV-TWA the fumigant and the mixture Methyl bromide Odorless 5 may stratify, separate or be Phosphine 0.14 0.3 absorbed at a different rate Sulfuryl fluoride Odorless 5 providing a false sense of secu- rity. Fumigant Toxicity and Flammability • Odors do not tell you the concen- tration of fumigant present. Toxicity to Flammability (Explosive • You may suffer odor fatigue Fumigant Humans Concentrations in Air) which is the loss of the ability to Phosphine (PP) Very high Very (1.79%)* smell the particular warning Methyl Bromide (MB) Medium Non-flammable agent. Sulfuryl fluoride (SF) Very high Non-flammable *Phosphine reacts with copper alloys, silver and gold, giving severe corrosion. Such metals should be protected from the gas.

45 Fumigation Respiratory Protection 3. Discard any canister used for less than 30 minutes if it is more than Devices 1-year old. The General Manual has addi- 4. Discard canisters with expired tional and similar information expiration dates or more than concerning respiratory protection two years after manufacture beginning on page 96. You are (even if unused) unless instruc- strongly encouraged to be aware of tion sheet specifically says that information as well as the otherwise. following information. 5. DO NOT use a canister-type gas Cartridge Respirator Gas Masks mask to enter a freshly fumigated The respiratory protection devices area. The concentration of that furnish the minimum protection fumigant will overpower the are the full-face gas masks equipped adsorbent material. with canisters. For protection the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus canister must be suitable against the There are two types of these fumigant being used. devices. One is the air pack and the The canisters contain chemicals other is the oxygen breathing appara- that adsorb the fumigant, and may tus (OBA). also contain a filter. The life of the Canister Air Pack canister is limited and varies with the Respirator With this device, the full-face fumigant used and the fumigant mask is attached to a tank of air concentration. The maximum permis- carried on the back of the fumigator. sible limits are usually stated on each This device gives the fumigator the canister. Do not exceed these maxi- mobility of the canister mask and mum limits. The canister color code does not tie the fumigator to an air for the various fumigants are shown pump. Except for concern about skin below. absorption of the fumigant, the There are several reasons for using fumigator can work in any gas. Supplied Air devices other than full-face gas With the popularity of SCUBA Respirator masks with chemical canisters for diving, it is not difficult to get the air respiratory protection. The canisters tanks refilled. Depending upon the have limited life. Special canisters size of the tank, the air supply will must be available for each fumigant. last up to an hour. There usually is a The canisters provide no protection warning bell that can be set to warn at abnormally high fumigant concen- the fumigator when the air supply is trations. They provide no protection running low. The disadvantage of the in spaces where oxygen is deficient. air pack is that the fumigator has to General Rules on Canister Use carry a heavy tank while completing Self- 1. Discard any canister that has the work. contained been used for more than Oxygen Breathing Apparatus (OBA) Breathing 30 minutes (total time) in a The oxygen breathing apparatus is Apparatus fumigant atmosphere. similar to the air pack. Instead of a 2. Discard any canister whenever tank to carry, a special canister an odor of fumigant is detected generates the oxygen supply. The coming through (the adsorption Respiratory Protective Devices canister is lightweight, and is usually material is not working). worn on the chest. To operate, the fumigator places the canister into its Fumigant Color Code place, and blows into the air supply Methyl Bromide Black tube once or twice. The moisture Phosphine Yellow with gray stripe from the breath activates the chemi- cals in the canister, which then Sulfuryl Fluoride White with gray stripe provides a supply of oxygen. The supply is good for about one hour.

46 Fumigation There usually is a warning bell • persons or animals expected to that can be set to warn the fumigator be at or near the area being that the life of the canister is about fumigated. expired. Care must be taken and • the item, its history and condi- directions closely followed for the tion (previous fumigation, disposal of the oxygen generating temperature, moisture). canisters. • availability of emergency shutoff stations for electricity, water and Symptoms gas. All workers in areas where fumi- • location of nearest telephone, and gants are being used should be aware phone numbers for fire and of the symptoms of light exposure to police departments, hospitals and the fumigants. Such symptoms are physician. warnings that the concentration of Understand label directions, fumigants in the air is too high for warnings, and antidotes. You may continued safety of personnel. need to notify local medical, fire, police authorities and other security Symptoms of Light Exposure to personnel about: Fumigants • chemicals being used. 1. Headache • proposed date and time of use. 2. Dizziness and equilibrium • type of respiratory protection disturbances required. 3. Visual disturbances • fire hazard rating. 4. Irritation of respiratory tract • name and phone number of (leads to more “lung colds,” person to contact in event of asthma attacks, and other lung emergency. and throat problems) Have alternate application and 5. Narcosis (desire for sleep, protective equipment and replace- drowsiness) ment parts available. Display warn- 6. Muscle cramps—especially in ing signs near points of entry and arms and legs provide for security of buildings. NOTE: The ingestion of alcoholic Have necessary first-aid equipment beverages will intensify the symp- available. Before treatment is started, toms and effects of fumigant poison- develop plans to ventilate the area ing. when the treatment period is over. Security guards may be necessary Preparing for Fumigation if the structure is at an exposed All new employees should have a location where the public (especially thorough physical examination children) may attempt unauthorized before performing any fumigation entry. Security guards also may be duties whatsoever. The examination needed if plant operations do not should include a liver function test permit the security of the fumigated and a respiratory capability test (or area. The guards must have the equivalents). authority to refuse entry to anyone All persons working with fumi- not wearing protective equipment. gants should have a complete physi- They should have suitable protective cal examination every six months. equipment available if an emergency Again, the examination should requires entry into the fumigated include liver function capability and area. They should also be trained in respiratory capacity. first-aid procedures for fumigant Understand fully the facility and poisoning and have the appropriate commodity being fumigated, includ- materials readily available. ing the: Precautions include an accounting • design of the structure, as well as of all personnel known to be working adjacent and connecting struc- in the area, a room by room and floor tures both above and below by floor check to ascertain that no ground. 47 Fumigation person has been overlooked and the make a number of decisions. Fre- use of a portable public address quently, the success or failure of the system (bull horn) in each space to fumigation operation will depend warn anyone present of the imminent upon what you learn, what you fumigations. If bells, whistles or other decide and how you plan. Some of devices are used to give warning these questions should include: signals, all personnel must have been • If the structure itself is not instructed as to the meaning of these infested, could the infested items signals. be moved from the building and Doors, windows and other points fumigated elsewhere? of access must be locked or otherwise • Assuming that removal of the secured against accidental or unau- infested items from the building thorized entry into fumigated areas. is not practical, can you fumigate Preferably there should be one the items in place? person ultimately responsible for • Is there enough room between evacuating all people, securing the the items and walls or partitions affected area, and restricting access so you can seal the tarp to the until the area has been cleared of the floor? fumigant. • What is the cube of the items? Notices of fumigated areas must • What is the cube of the building? be provided to night watchmen, • Can the structure itself be made janitors, maintenance crews and reasonably airtight, or will it be others who otherwise might have necessary to tarp the entire master keys and ready access into the building? fumigated area. None of these should • From what construction materi- enter a fumigated area except in an als is the structure built? emergency and then only with • Are there broken windows that adequate protection. must be replaced? Other prefumigation precautions. • Are there cracks in the ceiling, (1) All possible sources of fire must walls or floors that must be be eliminated. Turn off all pilot sealed? lights, gas burners, oil burners and • Are there floor drains or cable electrical equipment; (2) if possible, conduits that will require seal- provide for the start of post-fumiga- ing? tion ventilation by controls outside of • Are there hidden floor drains the fumigated area; (3) if several under stacked items? floors or rooms are involved, re- • How are you going to handle air hearse the fumigation sequence so conditioning ducts and ventila- everyone knows where the others are tion fans? and where to exit the area; (4) discuss • Will interior partitions interfere emergency plans for handling all with fumigant circulation? possible problems; (5) locate a nearby • Are the interior partitions gas- telephone for use in case of an tight so they can be relied upon emergency; (6) have fumigant testing to keep the fumigant from equipment available and check it for entering other parts of the proper operation; (7) have first-aid structure? materials ready and available; and • Are there parts of the building (8) must notify fire departments. not under the control of your customer? Premises Inspection • Can these other operations be Once it appears that fumigation shut down during the fumiga- will be required to control a pest tion? problem, you must conduct a serious • What are building contents? on-site inspection. You must ask • Can any of them be damaged by yourself a number of questions and the fumigant?

48 Fumigation • Can such items be removed (1) What have I overlooked? during the fumigation? (2) Is fumigation still the best • If they cannot be removed, can method of controlling the pest they be otherwise protected? problem? • Where are the electrical outlets? (3) Am I qualified to do the fumiga- • Of what voltage are they? tion? • Will the circuits be live during fumigation? Placarding of Fumigated • Can the outlets be used to Areas operate your fumigant circulat- The applicator must placard or ing fans? post all entrances to the structures • Look outside the building. If you and/or rooms containing equipment DANGER tarp the entire structure, can you under fumigation with signs in make a good, tight ground seal? English and Spanish, bearing: PELIGRO • Is there shrubbery next to the • The signal word DANGER/ AREA AND/OR COMMODITY UNDER FUMIGATION, DO NOT building that might be damaged ENTER/NO ENTRE PELIGRO and the SKULL AND This sign may only be removed after commodity is completely either by the fumigant, or by aereated (contains 0.3 ppm or less phosphine gas). If incompletely CROSSBONES symbol in red. aereated commodity is transferred to a new site, the new site must also be placarded and workers must not be exposed to more than your digging to make an air-tight • The statement “Area and/or 0.3 ppm phosphine. fumigation seal items under fumigation, DO FUMIGATION WITH • Can this shrubbery be moved? NOT ENTER/NO ENTRE.” Brand Name: • How far is it to the nearest • The statement, “This sign may Fumigation Being Performed By Date of Fumigation Emergency Telephones NAME: Date Applied , 19 Day: building? ADDRESS: AM PM Night: only be removed after the items Do not open , 19 • Does that building have air are completely aerated (contains Before AM PM conditioning? 0.3 ppm or less of hydrogen • Does it have air intakes that phosphide gas). If incompletely could draw the fumigant in- aerated item is transferred to a side—particularly during aera- new site, the new site must also tion? be placarded if it contains more • How are you going to aerate than 0.3 ppm. Workers must not your structure after fumigation? be exposed to more than 0.3 ppm • Are there exhaust fans and where hydrogen phosphide.” are the fan switches? • The date and time fumigation • Are there windows and doors begins and ends. that can be opened for cross • Name of fumigant used. ventilation? • Name, address and telephone • Does the building contain any number of the applicator. high-priority items that may All entrances to a fumigated area have to be shipped within a few must be placarded. Where possible, hours notice? placards should be placed in advance • If so, can you make provisions of the fumigation to keep unautho- for interrupting the fumigation rized persons away. Do not remove and aerating the building within placards until the treated equipment a certain time requirement? and surrounding work areas are • Is the structure to be fumigated aerated down to 0.3 ppm hydrogen so located that your operations phosphide or less. may attract bystanders? (If so, you should consider asking for Application police assistance to augment Always assign two persons to each your own guards.) fumigation. Everyone involved in the • Once you are convinced that you fumigation should know first-aid and have covered everything, prepare other emergency procedures, includ- a check list of things to do and of ing personal decontamination. materials needed. Don’t rely Follow label directions exactly upon your memory. when applying a fumigant. Consider Then finally three questions: prevailing winds and other pertinent

49 Fumigation weather factors such as temperature The rate of air exchange and the and humidity. Apply fumigants from temperature controls the amount of outside the exposed areas whenever sorption and the rate of desorption. possible. Free gas should be released and Return to the storage area all items aerated immediately following unused chemicals in clearly labeled, fumigation. It is important to con- original containers. Dispose of empty sider and protect human health at all containers correctly. times. When a fumigation chamber is Provide watchmen when required. inside any other enclosure where Secure entrances with guards or employees are likely to be present, locks. Post warning signs. intake and exhaust stacks should be Report to company-retained provided. The exhaust stack must physician or to designated personnel, lead outside the building. The intake indications of illness or physical and exhaust stacks should be opened discomfort, no matter how minor after the fumigation exposure is they seem. These symptoms and completed. The normal air circulation signs may include dizziness, nausea, equipment in a chamber can be made headaches, and lack of coordination. to conduct air from the chamber to Do not consume alcohol for the outside. 24 hours before or after a fumigation. When a chamber is outside a Do not eat or smoke during applica- building, it may be aerated safely by tion. opening the door slightly at the beginning of the aeration period and After Application turning the blower on. The door Aeration procedures vary accord- should be held in the partially ing to the fumigant being used, the opened position so it cannot acciden- method of fumigation and the items tally close. Air discharged from the being fumigated. Because of these blower should be vented to the factors always read and follow the outside. label instructions for the fumigant Remove and dispose of packaging and situation in which it is being and waste products of solid fumi- used. gants. Before re-entry, use a suitable gas detector, as indicated on the label, to Safe Use of Fumigants determine fumigant concentration. There is a tendency for employees Do not depend on odors. Some who commonly work with fumigants fumigant gases are odorless. Wear to become lax in their safety precau- correct respiratory equipment. tions. ALL FUMIGANTS CAN BE Turn on all ventilating or aerating LETHAL if they are used carelessly fans. Check for gas concentrations in or without adequate safety precau- areas that are expected to aerate tions. slowly. Remove warning signs only Humans can be poisoned by when the gas concentration is within inhaling the gases of fumigants and safe limits for human exposure. by absorption through the skin. Most commercial products have an un- Factors Affecting Aeration pleasant odor but the pure chemicals Time can be either odorless or have a sweet In addition to the characteristics of smell. the fumigant itself, the rate of ventila- Do not wear jewelry, bandages, tion or aeration is affected by several gloves, contact lenses or tight-fitting factors. The more important of these clothing when applying fumigants. are: These articles may trap gases causing • Rate of air exchange. blistering or burning of the skin. • Temperature. • Sorption and desorption.

50 Fumigation Safety Recommendations 11. Hydrogen phosphide fumigants are not to be used for vacuum (Summary) fumigations. 1. Carefully read the labeling and 12. Exposures to hydrogen phos- follow instructions explicitly. phide must not exceed the eight- 2. Post warning placards on fumi- hour TWA of 0.3 ppm during gated areas. application, or a ceiling concen- 3. Prior to fumigation, notify tration of 0.3 ppm after applica- appropriate company employees. tion is completed. Provide relevant safety informa- 13. Fumigated areas must be aerated tion to local officials on an annual to 0.3 ppm hydrogen phosphide basis for use in the event of an or less prior to reentry by unpro- emergency. tected workers. 4. Never fumigate alone from 14. Transfer of a treated commodity inside structures. to another site without complete 5. Never allow uninstructed per- aeration is permissible provided sonnel to handle the fumigant. that the new storage site is 6. Approved respiratory protection placarded if its concentration is must be available for fumigation above 0.3 ppm and workers are inside structures. not overexposed during transfer. 7. Wear dry gloves of cotton or 15. Do not open pouches until just other materials if contact with prior to application of the metal phosphide tablets, pellets Prepacs. or dust is likely. Aerate used 17. Protect or remove materials gloves and other contaminated containing metals such as copper, clothing in a well ventilated area silver, gold and their alloys and prior to laundering. Wash hands salts from corrosive exposure to thoroughly after handling metal hydrogen phosphide. phosphide materials. 18. Do not use metal phosphide 8. Never open metal phosphide fumigant containers for any fumigant pouches in a flammable purpose other than recycling or atmosphere. It is preferable to reconditioning. open them in open air, near a fan 19. Two trained persons must be or other appropriate ventilation present during reentry into which will rapidly exhaust fumigated and/or partially contaminated air. aerated structures or rooms 9. Do not allow the metal phos- housing treated equipment. phide to pile up or contact liquid water. 10. Dispose of empty containers and spent metal phosphide fumigant in a proper manner consistent with the label instructions.

51 Fumigation Questions 7. (46) The respiratory protection device that provides the mini- 1. (40) Pesticides which by them- mum protection is the selves or in combination with a. full face gas mask with other substances become gas are canisters called b. Air Pack a. aerosols c. Oxygen breathing apparatus b. fumigants d. full face mask with supplied c. wettable powders air d. dusts 8. (47) Symptoms of light exposure 2. (41) Even when this building to fumigants include: material is well sealed, it does a. headache not retain a fumigant very well. b. irritation of respiratory tract a. plastic c. muscle cramps b. metal d. all the above c. wood d. concrete 9. (48) Once it appears fumigation is necessary, you must: 3. (42) This fumigant is highly a. call in two consultants flammable in air. b. conduct a serious on-site a. methyl bromide inspection b. phostoxin c. contact the Department of c. vikane Health d. carbon dioxide d. contact the police and fire departments 4. (43) For tarp fumigation, polyeth- ylene tarps with a minimum 10. (49) Warning signs for fumiga- thickness of _____ can be used. tion must be printed in: a. German and French a. 1⁄2 mil. b. 1 mil. b. German and Spanish c. English and German c. 11⁄2 mil. d. 2 mil. d. English and Spanish

5. (44) As a class, ______are the 11. (50) Factors affecting aeration most toxic of all pesticides. time include a. organophosphates a. rate of air exchange b. organochlorines b. temperature c. phenoxy herbicides c. sorption and desorption d. fumigants d. all the above

6. (45) Threshold limit values (TLV) refer to ______concentrations. a. water borne b. soil borne c. airborne d. pesticidal limits

52 Notes

53 Notes

54 Answers to Study Questions

Pages 5–8 Pages 29–31 1. a 2. c 3. a 4. b 5. a 1. d 2. a 3. d 4. d 5. a 6. d 7. d 8. a 6. b

Pages 10–14 Pages 33–35 1. a 2. c 3. b 4. d 5. a 1. b 2. d 3. c 4. c 5. c 6. b 7. c 6. b

Pages 16–18 Pages 37–38 1. c 2. d 3. d 4. a 5. c 1. d 2. d 3. a 4. b 5. c 6. d Pages 40–51 Pages 22–27 1.b 2.c.3.b4.c 5.d 1. b 2. a 3. d 4. c 5. a 6. c 7. a 8. d 9. b 10. d 6. c 7. a 8. b 9. a 11. d

55 Donald C. Cress Extension Pesticide Coordinator

AUTHORS: Appreciation is expressed to the following for prepartaion of the material in this manual: Donald C. Cress, Extension Pesticide Coordinator, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas Steve McKinzie, Kansas Pest Control Assoc., Manhattan, Kansas Jack Watkins, Senior Sales Specialist, DowElanco, Shawnee Mission, Kansas

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: Appreciation is expressed to the following for cooperation in the Pesticide Applicator Training Program: Jeanne Fox, Ecological Specialist, Pesticide Use Section, Plant Health Division, Kansas Department of Agriculture Dan Tuggle, Case Review Officer, Pesticide Use Section, Plant Health Division, Kansas Department of Agriculture

This manual contains information adapted from Daryl Sanders, University of Missouri, and Ronald Garder, Cornell University.

Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service S-8 (Revised) March 1997 Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension Work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, as amended. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and United States Department of Agriculture Cooperating, Richard D. Wootton, Associate Director. All educational programs and materials available without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. File Code: Pesticides—2 3-97—3M 56