Integrated Pest Management: Ants

HEALTH AND SAFETY NOTES

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: ANTS

Columns of ants marching through playrooms, eating areas and kitchens in early care and education programs are a common problem. Don’t panic! There are safe and effective ways to reduce the number of invading ants. Integrated pest management (IPM) is a strategy to prevent ant invasions, minimize pesticide use and reduce harmful exposure to children, staff and the environment.

When are ants a problem? IPM strategies Some ants bite or sting, but most ants in California do u DON’T SPRAY! not threaten human health, and they help control Spraying pesticides may kill ants, but spraying other pests like fleas, caterpillars and termites. A few will expose staff and children to harmful ants sting, like the native fire ants and harvester ants, chemicals, and doesn’t eliminate ants in their which live outdoors. The most aggressive stinging ant nests. Pesticide residues can build up indoors is the red imported fire ant, which has been found in where children spend a lot of time. Ant southern California. If you suspect a fire ant management should focus on good sanitation infestation, report it to your county agricultural and maintenance, not on spraying pesticides. commissioner. Ant management requires continuous effort and Characteristics and habits its goal is to reduce the number of ants in ECE Ants look for food and water to take back to their programs. You don’t have to completely eliminate nests. They may appear suddenly in buildings if other ants from outdoor areas because ants help food sources become unavailable or weather control other pests like fleas, caterpillars and conditions change. Ants live in soil next to buildings, termites. along sidewalks, and under stones, tree stumps, v KEEP ANTS OUT plants, boards or other protected places. Depending u When you see ant trails in your building, on the ant species and the time of year, ants eat follow the ants to their entry point. Caulk sweets—especially a sticky substance called cracks around foundations or openings that honeydew that is made by aphids—fruits, seeds, provide entry from outside. Pay special cooking grease, dead or live insects or dead animals. attention to where wires and pipes enter the Ants often enter buildings seeking food, water, building, because this is a favorite entry point warmth and shelter, or refuge from dry, hot weather for ants. or flooded conditions. u Keep plants and mulch at least 12 inches from The most common ant in California is the Argentine the foundations of buildings; they provide ant. Other ant pests include the pharaoh ant, nesting sites for ants. pavement ant, odorous house ant, thief ant and w REMOVE ANTS’ FOOD, WATER AND velvety tree ant. SHELTER A new colony is usually established by a newly mated u Store food items such as snacks, sugar, syrup, queen. As the colony grows over the years, it honey and pet food in closed containers. produces winged male and female ants, which leave u Wipe spills from outer surfaces of containers, the nest to mate and form new colonies. Unlike other and from counters, tables and floors. ant species in California, Argentine ants have colonies that blend together to make up one large super u Remove garbage from the kitchen at the end colony with many queens. This is one reason of each day. completely eliminating these ants is impossible. u Repair leaky sinks and pipes.

ACTION PLAN FOR ANTS

WHEN TO TAKE ACTION NONPESTICIDE PRACTICES LEAST HARMFUL PESTICIDE LAST RESORT

u If you see a few ants u Clean up ants using a u Rely on baits, a non-spray u If you hire a PMP, insist inside, there are likely to sponge or paper towel pesticide, to manage the that they use baits be more soon. with soapy water. ants. rather than perimeter treatments or monthly u Fill any ant entryways with caulk or petroleum sprays. jelly.

u Remove infested potted plants.

u Clean up food sources.

u Eliminate leaks or water sources.

When should you hire a pest management professional (PMP)? If ants continue to plague you indoors, work with a PMP who practices IPM to create a management plan. Pesticides should only be used as a last resort.

RESOURCES University of California Statewide IPM— Ants www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7411.html Our Water, Our World— Controlling Ants in Your House ourwaterourworld.org.dnnmax.com/Portals/0/documents/pdf/Ants%2009.pdf County Agricultural Commissioner List (if you think you have red imported fire ants) www.cdfa.ca.gov/exec/county/county_contacts.html

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

Funding for this project has been provided in full or in part through a grant awarded by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR). The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of DPR nor does mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use. HEALTH AND SAFETY NOTES

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: HEAD LICE

Head lice are bloodsucking insects that are commonly Characteristics spread among children. Young children are especially u Head lice can crawl very quickly, but do not prone to getting head lice, because they hop, fly or jump. u play together with close physical contact. u Head lice spread from direct contact between u nap close together. children, or through sharing of combs, brushes, u hug often. scarves, hats, ponytail elastics or bed linens.

u share hats, helmets, combs and brushes. u Head lice cannot live on family pets. Having head lice is not related to hygiene, socioeconomic status or ethnic background. IPM strategies When are head lice a problem? u LIMIT THE SPREAD OF HEAD LICE Head lice do not transmit any infectious diseases; A well-organized and prompt response to the they are just bothersome to their hosts and cause first few cases can prevent a widespread problem. itching. Head lice are a problem because it takes time for parents to treat and remove head lice from their u Children and staff should avoid head-to-head child’s hair, and clean clothing and bedding. contact during an infestation. Transmission most often occurs through direct contact with Habits and life cycle the head of an infested individual. Head lice spend their whole life on the hairy part of u Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats and the head. An adult head louse is about the size of a helmets with others. sesame seed. It has six legs with claws to grab onto hair, is wingless, and ranges from tan to gray in color. u Check all children and other close contacts of Adult lice are often seen in the hair behind the ears a child with head lice. Children with evidence and nape of the neck. Lice eggs, called nits, are laid on of an active infestation should be treated. the head, close to where the scalp and hair shaft meet, Simultaneous treatment of all infested because they need warmth in order to hatch. children is necessary to prevent spread back Depending on hair type, nits that are more than half to previously treated children. an inch from the scalp are usually hatched and empty. v EDUCATE PARENTS ABOUT Unlike dandruff, nits are hard to remove. To remove a MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT OF nit, pull it along to the end of the hair or use a special HEAD LICE fine-toothed lice comb. You can't just pick them off. To prevent the spread of head lice when a case Live head lice move fast, so they’re more difficult to occurs in the child care program: spot than nits. u Educate parents regarding the importance of u Female adult lice produce up to 10 eggs per day. following through with treatment u Nits remain on the hair shaft and hatch after a recommendations at home and to notify the week. program if head lice have been found on any household member. Refer to the California u 7 to 14 days after the nits hatch they mature into adults that can lay their own eggs, repeating the Childcare Health Program Fact Sheet for life cycle. Families on Head Lice. u Caregivers and parents should learn to u Head lice can live about a month on their human host. recognize nits and regularly check children’s hair when there is a known case of head lice in the program. © 2011 UCSF California Childcare Health Program HEALTH AND SAFETY NOTES INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: HEAD LICE

[IPM strategies continued] Children with head lice should u Lice and nits can be removed using a fine- not be excluded toothed lice comb (a pet flea comb may also Children should not be sent home early from work). childcare or school because of head lice. Parents of

u Wet-combing and occlusive methods (like affected children should be notified and informed petroleum jelly or dimethicone lotion) are that their child must be properly treated before safe ways to manage head lice. returning to school the next day. Other close contacts should be checked to determine if there are other u Although head lice are not able to survive off cases. If your facility is having a problem with head of humans for more than a few days, it is lice, you should conduct morning “head checks” recommended to wash clothes (including hats before the children socialize together. and scarves) and bedding in very hot water, and vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture “No-nit” policies requiring that children be free of nits in rooms used by persons with head lice. before they return to child care are not recommended. Combs and hair brushes may be soaked in hot Regardless of the policy, children need to be checked (149º F (65º C)) water for at least one hour. for new nits for ten days after treatment. Remember, if lice or nits are found, all family members, children and staff should be inspected. ECE programs need to work together with families to control an infestation. ACTION PLAN FOR HEAD LICE

WHEN TO TAKE ACTION LIMIT THE SPREAD EDUCATE PARENTS BE SAFE

u When you discover nits u Transmission most often u Educate parents about u Never try to eliminate a or head lice on hair occurs through direct detecting and managing lice infestation by shafts. head-to-head contact head lice. spraying a pesticide with an infested around a room, or on individual. bedding, clothing or stuffed animals. u Perform a well-organized and prompt response to u Never use a fogger to the first few cases to treat a room for lice. prevent further Pesticide sprays and infestation. fumes will endanger children and won’t kill the lice.

RESOURCES Kids Health University of California Statewide IPM Program: Head Lice kidshealth.org/parent/infections/common/lice.html www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7446.html eXtension School Integrated Pest Management Action Plans American Academy of Pediatrics: Head Lice www.extension.org/pages/School_Integrated_Pest_ pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/126/2/392 Management:_Action_Plans California Childcare Health Program: What Child Care Providers Should Know About Head Lice www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org/pdfs/illnesses/ Head%20Lice_0509.pdf

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: MOSQUITOES

Mosquitoes are small flying insects that have been How do mosquitoes find you? around for millions of years. Female mosquitoes bite Female mosquitoes bite people, pets and livestock. The because they need blood to nourish their eggs. While males don’t bite at all. Female mosquitoes can detect their bites are annoying to humans, mosquitoes chemicals in your sweat and heat from your body. They provide food for fish, birds and bats, and they even also notice when you move, especially when you wear pollinate flowers. clothing that’s a different color from your surroundings. When are mosquitoes a Most mosquitoes come out at dusk. problem? Mosquito bites can cause allergic reactions, pain, IPM strategies irritation, redness and itching. Children who scratch It’s impossible to eliminate mosquitoes. The goal is to their bites a lot, especially with dirty fingers, may also reduce mosquitoes to a tolerable level for humans. develop secondary bacterial infections. In some areas, Sprays do not necessarily keep mosquitoes away and mosquitoes spread serious diseases such as West Nile they expose everyone to pesticides and solvents. virus and Western equine encephalomyelitis virus. These diseases are rare but can be serious in children, u KEEP MOSQUITOES OUT people with weakened immune systems and the u Make sure windows and doors are covered by elderly, and can lead to death. mesh screens that don’t have holes.

Characteristics and habits u Avoid places with lots of mosquitoes.

u Avoid being outdoors at dusk.

u Wear protective clothing outdoors. v REMOVE MOSQUITOES’ WATER AND SHELTER Mosquito Any object that can hold water for more than a Eggs few days should be drained, discarded, filled with Pupa soil or cement, treated with Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (a safe microbial insecticide usually Larva called Bti) or stocked with mosquito fish.

Life cycle of a mosquito u Eliminate standing water that mosquitoes breed in. Mosquitoes go through several stages. Female w Check small containers like cinder blocks, mosquitoes lay their eggs in still or standing water in flower pot saucers, old tires or crotches of surface pools, tree holes and even old tires (like those trees for water present more than a few days. used in a tire swing). The mosquito larvae, or wigglers, swim in this water and soon develop into pupae. w Remove toys that collect water. When the pupae develop into winged adults, they w Change water in pet dishes, watering troughs leave the water and become flying land insects. Adult and bird baths at least weekly. mosquitoes normally live less than a week or two. w Avoid overwatering lawns and gardens, which lead to standing water.

w Keep litter and garden debris out of street gutters.

[IPM strategies continued] w Products containing DEET (N,N-diethyl- metatoluamide) are also effective, but may be u Cut down tall grass and weeds in outside areas where mosquitoes rest during the day when it’s more toxic at high doses. Some people dislike hot and dry. the odor and that it irritates the skin. DEET confuses the chemical receptors of u Don’t use electric bug zappers because they kill mosquitoes, making it harder for the beneficial and neutral insects, but very few mosquito to find you. Special formulations for mosquitoes. children contain low concentrations of DEET w KEEP MOSQUITOES AWAY in an oil-based medium that slowly releases u Use insect repellents if mosquitoes are really the compound and limits the absorption. bothersome and you have to be outdoors. w Other effective repellents include the Some effective repellents are: biopesticides oil of lemon, eucalyptus and w Picaridin is as effective as DEET, but with IR3535, which are derived from natural fewer health risks. Unlike DEET, Picaridin is materials. odorless, does not feel greasy or sticky and is u Repellents are effective for only 4 hours or less less likely to irritate the skin. depending on wind, temperature, humidity and sweating.

ACTION PLAN FOR MOSQUITOES

WHEN TO TAKE ACTION NONPESTICIDE PRACTICES LEAST HARMFUL PESTICIDE LAST RESORT

u When mosquitoes u Keep window screens in u Use safe insect repellents u Contact a pest become bothersome. good repair. (see above). management professional (PMP) for u Wear long pants and u Treat water with sleeves. mosquito fish or pesticide application. environmentally friendly u Eliminate standing water. u Outdoor insecticide bacteria such as Bti, that sprays can temporarily u Use a flyswatter or target just mosquitoes. reduce the number of newspaper to individually adult mosquitoes, but kill mosquitoes. u Mosquito fish are most effectively used in small, they don’t last long. u Report problem to your man-made bodies of Some also have harmful mosquito abatement water, such as ponds that health effects. district. Call the California cannot be drained and Mosquito and Vector don’t connect with Control Association at natural waters. Never put (916) 440-0826. fish in a natural pond, lake, creek or river.

RESOURCES Center for Disease Control: Updated Information Regarding University of California Statewide IPM Program: Mosquito Repellents Mosquitoes www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/resources/uprepinfo.pdf www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7451.html EPA: Insect Repellent: Use and Effectiveness Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California cfpub.epa.gov/oppref/insect/index.cfm mvcac.org eXtension School Integrated Pest Management Action Plans EPA: Active Ingredients Found in Insect Repellents www.extension.org/pages/School_Integrated_Pest_ www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/mosquitoes/ai_insectrp. Management:_Action_Plans htm EPA: How to Use Insect Repellents Safely www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/mosquitoes/insectrp.htm

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: SPIDERS

Spiders are beneficial predators of pests such as Other spiders, such as the common house spider, are mosquitoes and house flies. Most spiders are harmless and often found in corners of a house, harmless. The few spiders that might hurt humans, basement or a garage where they make their cobwebs. such as black widows, spend most of their time Habits hidden under woodpiles or in crevices. Brown recluse Only full-sized black widow females bite humans, and spiders do not live in California. only if threatened or if their web is disturbed. If bitten, When are spiders a problem? the reaction can be mild to painful. Death is very Children are very curious, and typically play on the unlikely, but infections are common. If bitten, wash the floor or ground, which puts them at a higher risk for area with warm water and soap, apply an ice pack and rare encounters with spiders. Spiders usually leave contact a health care provider or poison control center people alone unless provoked, and almost all bites (1-800-8-POISON) immediately. blamed on spiders come from mosquitoes, biting flies or fleas. IPM strategies Spiders cannot transmit diseases. Only a few have Most spiders are beneficial and harmless to humans. jaws strong enough to bite through skin, and these Since spiders eat other pests, leave them alone, spiders can inject toxin that may cause illness. Certain especially if you find them outdoors. If you need to spider bites can sicken young children due to their remove a spider indoors, use an empty plastic small body size and weight. A serious infection, container and slide a stiff piece of paper over the Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), container’s top. is not a spider bite but looks like one. Only a health u KEEP SPIDERS OUT care provider can distinguish them. u Install screens. Characteristics u Minimize hiding places and regularly clean Spiders are arachnids, close relatives of insects, and cobwebs with a cobweb brush (for example, have eight legs and two body parts—the head and a “Webster”), or vacuum indoors. abdomen. u Seal cracks in the foundation and openings to Black widow spiders are common keep spiders from entering the building. in California. The female has a v REMOVE SPIDERS’ FOOD, WATER AND shiny black body with a bright SHELTER orange-red hourglass shape on the bottom of her abdomen. She’s u Change outside light bulbs that attract flying usually less than ½ inch long— insects that are food for spiders. Yellow light about the size of your thumbnail. bulbs are slightly less attractive to these Male black widow spiders are insects. smaller than females and lighter in color. Their u Vacuum, dust and sweep regularly. mouthparts are too small to bite humans. u Keep vegetation, especially ivy, at least 12 Black widows are most active in the warmer months. inches away from the building’s foundation. They live in dark, warm, dry and sheltered areas such w MONITOR as garages, sheds, wood piles, stone piles and hollow wood stumps. They’re found under play structures, in u Indoors, spiders are commonly found in either hollow areas of children’s toys and under picnic tables very dry or very moist areas, in dark corners and benches, especially in corners. and crevices where they make webs. Indoor cobwebs are an indication that spiders are

[IPM strategies continued]

u Not every web houses a spider—once a web is u A less toxic way to manage spiders is simply to abandoned, another spider doesn’t move in. move them outside, vacuum them up, crush Also, check outdoor playground equipment, them with your shoe or smash them with a benches and picnic tables. rolled up piece of paper.

x GET RID OF SPIDERS w To remove individual spiders, place a jar over them and slip cardboard underneath to seal u Traps and insecticides don’t work to manage spiders. Spraying is usually not recommended off the opening. Then, take the spider because it won’t kill spiders and leaves residues outside. that may harm children and the environment. w Use a cobweb brush or Webster (an effective Insecticides work only if you are able to cleaning tool which extends to over 5-feet directly spray the spider. long) to clean ceilings and corners.

ACTION PLAN FOR SPIDERS

WHEN TO TAKE ACTION NONPESTICIDE PRACTICES LAST RESORT

u When you see spiders in u Keep your center clean. u Consult with a pest management professional (PMP) if your center. spiders are a concern after regularly using a cobweb brush u Trap individual spiders in and vacuum cleaner. A PMP can spray spiders directly a jar or plastic container only as a temporary solution. PMPs can apply dusts and release outside. containing silica gel and pyrethrins, which may be useful u Vacuum the spiders, in certain indoor situations. cobwebs and egg sacs.

u Screen windows.

u Seal cracks and openings.

RESOURCES Our Water, Our World: Living with Spiders, The Helpful Hunters University of California Statewide IPM Program: Spiders www.ourwaterourworld.org/Portals/0/documents/pdf/ www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7442.html Spiders%2009.pdf

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: COCKROACHES

Cockroaches are common pests in child care. There u Scurry into hiding places when they sense noise, are many kinds of cockroaches. Some live indoors; movement and light. German cockroaches fit into others live outdoors. Only some cockroaches cause spaces 1/16-inch wide. They avoid open spaces, so problems indoors. Many providers respond to any place sticky traps next to walls. cockroach by reaching for the spray can. There are u Reproduce rapidly. One female German cockroach health reasons for wanting cockroaches out of your and offspring can produce 30,000 roaches in a year. indoor environment, but you can actually manage cockroaches much better when you don’t spray. IPM strategies When are cockroaches a u DON’T SPRAY! problem? u Sprays or bug bombs may kill a few cockroaches but Saliva and droppings (feces) from roaches can trigger will not penetrate hiding places or kill eggs, and can asthma, especially in young children. Cockroaches harm people, pets and the environment. also spread bacteria and other harmful germs as they v KEEP COCKROACHES OUT crawl through sewers and decaying substances, and German cockroaches can enter buildings hidden carry these germs into ECE facilities. in grocery bags or in deliveries. Cockroaches sometimes Characteristics and habits slip under doors from nearby infested buildings. Outdoor cockroaches can sneak in through narrow Before you try to eliminate cockroaches, identify what gaps in windows and doorways. kind they are. German cockroaches are the most u Install tight-fitting weather stripping and screens common indoor cockroach in California. on windows, and doorsweeps. GERMAN COCKROACHES: u Seal cracks and crevices in walls and floors. u look like small adults without wings when young. w REMOVE COCKROACHES’ FOOD, WATER AND SHELTER u shed their skin six times as they grow. These cast-off skins become an asthma trigger. u Clean spilled food, dirty dishes and utensils, and surfaces before leaving for the day. u Keep drains, shelves and counters clean. u Store food in containers with tight-fitting lids. u Fix leaks under sinks or dripping faucets. u Vacuum possible cockroach hiding places thoroughly using a strong vacuum with a crevice attachment. German cockroach, young and adult u Empty garbage at the end of each day and keep To identify the cockroaches in your facility, visit: indoor garbage in lined, covered containers. www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7467.html# u Place outdoor garbage containers on hard, IDENTIFICATION or consult with your pest management professional. cleanable surfaces (concrete is best) away from building entrances. ALL COCKROACHES: u Rinse bottles and cans before placing in the u leave droppings (dark spots or smears). recycling bin. u need moisture or a reliable water source to live. u Take supplies out of boxes and store in cupboards Outdoor cockroaches live in moist environments or on open metal shelving. Corrugated cardboard such as sewers. boxes are a favorite hiding place for cockroaches. They eat the glue and lay their eggs in the u are active at night. If you see cockroaches during the corrugation. day, beware—you probably have a large infestation.

[IPM strategies continued]

x MONITOR y MANAGEMENT u Look for cockroaches behind or under cabinets and GETTING RID OF COCKROACHES appliances using a magnifying glass and dental u Don’t spray or use bug bombs – cockroaches will mirror. Check behind bulletin boards, mirrors and just scatter and return later. other wall fixtures. Look for cockroach droppings, cast skins and dead cockroaches. u Bait stations and gels are effective and exempt from the Healthy Schools Act. u Locate hiding places by placing sticky traps under sinks and on the floor next to walls and appliances. Bait stations are:

When traps become clogged with cockroaches, u small plastic containers with a mix of insecticide throw them away and replace with new ones. and bait inside.

u Once you find where cockroaches hide, focus your u placed where cockroaches have been found. efforts there. Put monitoring traps in that area. u effective for several months. u Keep monitoring traps in the same places (don’t Gels are: move them around), and make sure they’re inaccessible to children. u applied with a syringe along cracks and crevices where cockroaches have been found. u Monitor daily during a severe infestation, and write down how many cockroaches you have per trap and u effective for a few days. their age range. A lot of young cockroaches (smaller Boric acid powder is: and wingless) indicate you have an active u not exempt from the Healthy Schools Act. infestation. Keep a written log to monitor where traps are located. u effective when blown into wall voids, behind electrical outlets, appliances or other undisturbed hiding places.

u effective for years, as long as it stays dry.

ACTION PLAN FOR COCKROACHES

WHEN TO TAKE ACTION NONPESTICIDE PRACTICES LEAST HARMFUL PESTICIDE LAST RESORT

u When you see one u Monitor with sticky traps. u Cockroach bait stations or u If you have a serious cockroach! gel applied to cracks and infestation or think an u Caulk and seal hiding areas out of children’s expert would do a more u If you see one cockroach places. reach. thorough job, hire a PMP there are likely more. u Clean all surfaces and who uses IPM practices. store food in sealed containers. u Insect growth regulators applied to areas where u Remove clutter. cockroaches are hiding. u Vacuum with a HEPA u Boric acid powder vacuum. applied to dry, u Fix water leaks. inaccessible areas.

RESOURCES University of California Statewide IPM Program: The Department of Pesticide Regulation, Safely Managing a Cockroaches Cockroach Infestation www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7467.htm www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/pestmgt/pubs/roach_color.pdf

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: RODENTS

The most common rodent pests are the roof rat, the u KEEP RODENTS OUT Norway rat and the house mouse. Mice are more Rodents enter buildings through holes in walls, common and more difficult to manage than rats. To around pipe entries, through sewer outlets and protect the health of children and staff in early care under doors. Mice can fit through a hole as small and education (ECE) facilities, we need strong as ¼-inch. Rats fit through a hole as small as ½- integrated pest management (IPM) programs to inch. manage rats and mice. u Use metal flashing, hardware cloth and copper When are rodents a problem? wool to seal floor drains, vents, holes and gaps Rats and mice can damage buildings, food, clothing around pipes. and documents by gnawing, urinating, defecating and u Install a doorsweep under each exterior door. nesting. Because they gnaw on hard objects, such as u Seal cracks in the foundation and openings to plastic electrical boxes, they can cause fires. Rats bite keep rodents from entering the building. more than 4,000 people a year, mostly young children. The urine, saliva and dander of rats and mice may also v REMOVE RODENTS’ FOOD trigger asthma attacks. House mice may spread In most areas, garbage is the main source of food lymphocytic choriomeningitis, a viral disease that for rats. causes inflammation of the membrane that surrounds u Discard food waste in indoor and outdoor the brain and spinal cord. The disease can be eating areas in domed-lid trash containers transmitted from pregnant women to their unborn lined with plastic bags. infants, and is an under-recognized cause of u Clean garbage cans and dumpsters frequently hydrocephalus (a buildup of fluid in the brain) in to prevent the build-up of food waste. newborns. Mice can also cause salmonellosis, a form of food poisoning. u Keep dumpsters on hard concrete surfaces away from the building. Characteristics and habits w MONITOR Rats often live in packs, so if you see one, there are likely to be more around. Rats and mice reproduce Look for: often. If not properly managed, a rodent infestation u rodent droppings. will rapidly increase. Mice are 10 to 20 times more u burrows in the ground. common than rats in indoor environments. Rats and u nests in ivy or around cluttered areas. mice are most active at night. If you see them during u fruit or nuts that have been gnawed on. the day, you probably have a serious infestation. x IDENTIFY WHAT KIND OF RODENT YOU HAVE IPM strategies Norway rats are the best Many people use poisons to get rid of rodents, burrowers and stay in the but this won’t solve a rodent problem without a basement or ground floor. comprehensive IPM plan. If rodents are killed, but Norway rat Roof rats are clever their food and water, and a place to live are still climbers and like enclosed available, it’s likely that other rodents will soon elevated spaces in attics, walls and false ceilings. appear. roof rat Mice can run up any rough, vertical surface and nest in enclosed places such as drawers and house mouse © 2011 UCSF California Childcare Health Program boxes. HEALTH AND SAFETY NOTES INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: RODENTS

[IPM strategies continued] w Mice seldom venture far from their shelter y GET RID OF RODENTS and food supply, so space mouse traps no more than 10 feet apart in areas where mice u Traps: Use snap traps baited with food (peanut are active. butter is a good bait). u Baits: If the rodent infestation is severe, baiting w Always wear gloves when handling traps to may be necessary, and should be done by a pest protect yourself from diseases. management professional (PMP) who knows w Place traps near openings rodents use to how to use these poisons safely. enter buildings and between walls and w Baits must be placed out of children’s and equipment, with the baited end pets’ reach and in tamper-resistant bait perpendicular to walls so rodents will be stations. caught coming from either direction. w Rodenticide baits shouldn’t be used indoors w Set traps behind objects, in dark corners, and because a rodent could die inside the walls or in places where there’s evidence of rodent ceilings. Carcasses attract flies, which then activity. Make sure traps are placed out of may infest the entire building if the carcass children’s reach. isn’t removed quickly. w To improve success with catching rats, put z CLEAN UP AFTER RODENTS out traps with bait such as peanut butter, but do not set the traps for several days until the Don’t sweep or vacuum rodent droppings, urine or rats are used to them. nesting materials; they can carry diseases. Sweeping or vacuuming will stir up dust and w Use enough traps to make the trapping increase your chance of inhaling viruses. Wear period short and productive in managing gloves and spray the urine and droppings with a your rodent problem. Empty and reset traps mixture of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Let soak 5 daily until no more rodents are caught; then minutes. Use a paper towel to pick up the urine and check them weekly. droppings and dispose of them in the garbage. Mop floors with a bleach solution. Remove and dispose of gloves and wash hands. ACTION PLAN FOR RODENTS

WHEN TO TAKE ACTION NONPESTICIDE PRACTICES LAST RESORT

u If you see one rodent. u Clean up cluttered areas. u Contact a PMP to help with rodenticides. Rodenticides can be used outdoors, but u Sanitize and keep things clean. should be placed in a tamper-resistant u Seal all cracks and openings that are bigger bait station and secured to a concrete than ¼ inch. block.

u Identify rodent pathways by looking for rub u Make sure to check the bait stations and marks or trails of urine. replace baits at least once a month to ensure freshness of the bait. u Use traps and make sure they are out of children’s reach.

RESOURCES University of California Statewide IPM Program, Pest Notes: Rats DPR Pest Info, IPM for Schools— Preventing Mice and Rats www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74106.html from Invading Your School www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/pestmgt/pubs/rats_color.pdf eXtension School Integrated Pest Management Action Plans http://www.extension.org/pages/School_Integrated_Pest_ Management:_Action_Plans

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: YELLOWJACKETS

Yellowjackets are wasps that are sometimes called Unlike honey bees, yellowjackets rarely leave a stinger hornets or “meat bees,” although they aren’t bees at embedded in the skin. all. Yellowjackets are important in nature because Characteristics and habits they eat large numbers of caterpillars, house flies and Yellowjackets are yellow and black. Yellowjacket nests: other pest insects. When are yellowjackets a u look like papery gray balls. problem? u are commonly built in holes in the ground, like rodent burrows. Yellowjackets are problematic for children and adults when they search for food or defend their nests. u may be attached to eaves of buildings, Yellowjackets can be persistent and aggressive when undersides of decks, or tree branches. searching for food, and are more likely to sting when u may be in empty spaces in walls or ceilings of swatted or when their nest is disturbed. If their nest is buildings. threatened, yellowjackets will defend it vigorously, u are started in the spring by the queen. and can sting repeatedly, unlike honey bees which From spring to midsummer, young yellowjackets are sting only once. growing in the nest, and many of the new adults are If a child is stung by a yellowjacket: out foraging for insect prey. By late summer,

u Move the child to a safe area to avoid more yellowjackets have switched from insect protein to stings. become sugar-craving adults. They scavenge for sweet food around garbage cans, outdoor eating areas and u Watch for allergic reactions to yellowjacket where ripe or overripe fruit is present. In mild climate stings which can develop anywhere on the body. areas of California, some yellowjacket colonies survive Life-threatening allergic responses require for several years and become quite large. immediate emergency care. u Pain is a common reaction to a sting that ranges IPM strategies from short-term, intense feelings of pain to swelling and tenderness with some itching. u ELIMINATE NESTING SITES u Plug up rodent burrows. u Other reactions to the sting may include hives, swelling, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps u Seal holes and cracks in foundations, walls, and headaches. roofs and eaves.

u Symptoms can occur immediately after a sting, v REMOVE YELLOWJACKETS’ FOOD

or may take longer to appear. They can last for u Remove attractive foods such as sugary several hours. drinks, ripe fruit, meat, pet food or garbage. u To treat a sting: Keep food covered and indoors. Once food is

w Wash with soap and water. discovered, yellowjackets will continue to hunt around the area even after the food is w Apply ice to the area immediately to reduce removed. the pain and swelling. u Use liners in garbage cans. w Apply a baking soda–water paste to reduce itchiness. u Use garbage cans with domed-topped, spring- hinged lids (these are wasp-proof) in outdoor w Call 911 if the person shows signs of a severe eating areas. allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing or dizziness. u Empty garbage daily and replace liners. u Tightly cover recycling bins and clean daily. © 2011 UCSF California Childcare Health Program HEALTH AND SAFETY NOTES INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: YELLOWJACKETS

[IPM strategies continued] w GET RID OF YELLOWJACKETS w Meat baits must be replaced more frequently Traps can reduce yellowjackets, but won’t because yellowjackets are not attracted to eliminate them if other food sources are available. rotting meat. Trapping needs to start in the spring and continue w Periodically check the trap to remove into summer and fall. Place traps at least 20 feet trapped yellowjackets and make sure away from children and staff to avoid attracting yellowjackets are still attracted to the trap. yellowjackets to eating and play areas. x REMOVE YELLOWJACKETS’ NEST u Lure traps can be purchased and are easy to use. If the yellowjacket population persists after They work best as queen traps in late winter and trapping and removing attractive food, it may be early spring. In spring there is a 30–45 day necessary to locate and treat the nest. Call for period when new queens first emerge before professional help to treat a yellowjacket nest. In they build nests. Each queen trapped at this time some areas, the Mosquito and Vector Control represents one less nest of 500–5,000 District may be available to treat nests. To find out, yellowjackets in the summer and fall. Lure traps call the California Mosquito and Vector Control contain a chemical bait. Meat can be added to Association at (916) 440-0826. If this service is not the lure traps to improve trapping. w available, call a pest management professional w Change chemical bait in lure traps every 6 to (PMP). 8 weeks in spring and every 2 to 4 weeks in summer.

w Change bait more frequently when temperatures are high.

ACTION PLAN FOR YELLOWJACKETS

WHEN TO TAKE ACTION NONPESTICIDE PRACTICES LAST RESORT

u When you see five or u Make sure garbage receptacles have lids that u Find nearby yellowjacket nests. more wasps hovering properly seal. around garbage u Hire a PMP to treat the nest directly with receptacles or food, or u Keep food covered and indoors. an appropriate residual insecticide and then remove the nest afterwards. when you see one known u Eliminate sugary drinks . colony within 30 feet of the children’s play area u Remove ripe fruit that drops from trees. or building. u Use yellowjacket traps.

RESOURCES Our Water, Our World: Controlling Yellowjackets Around Your Home University of California Statewide IPM Program: Yellowjackets ourwaterourworld.org.dnnmax.com/Portals/0/documents/ www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7450.html pdf/Yellowjackets%2009.pdf Department of Pesticide Regulation, IPM in Child Care eXtension School Integrated Pest Management Action Plans apps.cdpr.ca.gov/schoolipm/childcare http://www.extension.org/pages/School_Integrated_Pest_ Management:_Action_Plans

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: SLUGS AND SNAILS

When are snails and slugs a problem? u Use copper barriers around planting beds Snails and slugs are harmless to humans, but they can and trees to give snails and slugs an electric be pests in the garden. They feed on plants by making shock. They’ll stop in their tracks and turn holes in the leaves, devouring seedlings and eating around rather than cross the copper to low-growing fruit such as strawberries. In ECE succulent food. programs, children may find them in the garden or on v REMOVE SNAILS’ AND SLUGS’ FOOD, the sidewalks, pick them up, play with them and even WATER AND SHELTER eat them. u Choose snail-proof plants such as:

Characteristics and habits w Impatiens, geraniums, begonias, lantana Snails have an outside spiral shell that protects their and nasturtiums bodies, while slugs don’t have a shell. Both can vary in w Plants with stiff leaves such as sage, size from a small speck to a few inches long. They rosemary and lavender move by gliding and leaving a slime trail where u Use drip irrigation instead of sprinkler they’ve been. irrigation to reduce humidity and moisture. Snails and slugs hide during the day and come out at Drip irrigation reduces excess water by night to eat since they don’t like heat and bright light. bringing water directly to the roots of plants They’re also active on cloudy or foggy days. They hide and lawns. under boards, stones, garden debris, grassy or weedy w REDUCE THE POPULATION areas, leafy branches close to the ground or in any u Handpicking snails and slugs other cool, moist area. In cold weather, they hibernate w Water the infested area in the late in the soil. During hot, dry periods, snails seal afternoon. themselves off and attach themselves to fences, tree trunks or walls. w Once dark, put on gloves and use a flashlight to find snails or slugs. IPM strategies w Discard snails or slugs g Place them in a plastic bag and dispose You may have an abundance of snails and slugs if of them in the trash. seedlings suddenly disappear, leaves develop irregular holes, slime trails cover walls and g Drown them in a bucket with soapy water walkways or you see snails or slugs gliding across and dispose of them in your compost pile lawns or sidewalks early in the morning. once dead. u KEEP SNAILS AND SLUGS OUT OF g Crush them and leave them in the garden. GARDENS g Remove snails from undersides of wooden decks, meter boxes or low ledges on u Eliminate daytime hiding places by turning fences. over boards or rocks. Take live snails to a duck pond. Snails are much u Grow vegetables and susceptible plants better for ducks than bread. Make sure you and flowers in the sunniest place possible haven’t baited the snails—you wouldn’t want to to avoid snails and slugs hiding in shady poison the ducks. areas.

[IPM strategies continued] x TRAPS y BAITS u Build wooden traps in landscape areas using u Never use baits that contain metaldehyde— 8 inch x 15 inch boards raised off the ground by they’re extremely poisonous to children, dogs 1-inch runners. Scrape off and remove snails and birds. Instead, use baits that contain iron daily. phosphate, which are relatively safe. Be sure to

u Sugar water and yeast mixed together in a follow label directions. plastic container will also attract snails and u Water before applying baits and apply in warm slugs. Make sure to have deep, vertical sides to evenings when snails and slugs are active. keep snails and slugs from crawling out. Scrape u Spread bait in moist areas, like sprinklers, off and remove them daily. where snails and slugs travel. If you have a lot of snails or slugs, repeat this daily. After a few days, most will be gone, then monitor weekly.

ACTION PLAN FOR SLUGS AND SNAILS

WHEN TO TAKE ACTION NONPESTICIDE PRACTICES LEAST HARMFUL PESTICIDE LAST RESORT

u When you see snails or u Eliminate daytime u Use iron phosphate baits. u Consult with a gardener slugs, their slime trails, or hiding places. familiar with IPM. leaves with a lot of u Grow plants that snails irregular holes. and slugs like to eat in sunny areas where they are less likely to travel.

u Use copper barriers.

u Eliminate moisture by using drip irrigation.

u Grow plants that snails and slugs don’t like to eat.

u Build wooden traps

RESOURCES University of California Statewide IPM— Snails and Slugs www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7427.html Our Water, Our World— Controlling Snails and Slugs in Your Garden ourwaterourworld.org.dnnmax.com/Portals/0/documents/pdf/Snails%20and%20Slugs%2009.pdf

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: MOLD

Mold and mildew are fungi found indoors and outdoors. Mold grows where there’s a lot of moisture u Fix leaks and other water problems in the air, or when leaks or condensation cause immediately. surfaces, furnishings or building materials to be damp. u Install carpets away from moisture-prone We often clean up the mold, but don’t fix the source areas. of the problem and so the mold returns. It’s important to take the steps to minimize moisture. v MONITOR FOR MOLD When is mold a problem? Check the following places for mold: Mold can trigger asthma, allergic reactions and other u Ceilings and walls, especially exterior walls respiratory problems for children and staff. These u Surface of walls behind furniture reactions can be immediate or delayed. (condensation can occur because there is Characteristics and habits less ventilation) Mold grows anywhere moisture is present. It u Underside of carpets and pads produces spores to reproduce and grow. These spores u Under sinks and around pipes (leaks or travel through the air until they settle on a moist, condensing pipes) humid place. In buildings, mold may be found around u Heating ducts windows, walls or ceilings if there are leaks or GET RID OF MOLD condensation problem. Mold is also common in w bathrooms and damp areas under sinks. You can u You can clean up the problem if it’s small detect mold by its musty smell or dark stains on walls (a 3x3 feet patch). or underneath sinks. u If the heating, ventilation or air conditioning system has mold present, don’t use it and IPM strategies read EPA’s guide Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned? u KEEP MOLD AWAY BY REMOVING (www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/airduct.html) MOISTURE x BEFORE CLEANING MOLD u Inspect regularly for water droplets collecting on walls or windows. u Wear a mask, such as the N-95 respirator available at hardware stores. u Open windows to increase air circulation. u u Use exhaust fans in bathrooms, and when Wear gloves that cover your arms too. cooking, dishwashing and cleaning. u If you are cleaning a ceiling area, wear

u Be sure that stoves, dryers and other goggles in case there are drips. moisture sources vent to the outside. u Wear long sleeves and pants. u Systematically clean the facility. Remember y ONCE YOU’RE READY TO CLEAN to clean roof gutters and air conditioning u Scrub the mold off with detergent and water. drip pans. u Completely dry the area. u Take action within 48 hours when you see u Replace absorbent materials like ceiling tiles damp or wet building materials or and carpets. furnishings. If wet or damp areas are dried within 24–48 hours, mold usually won’t grow.

[IPM strategies continued] z GET RID OF MOISTURE u If mold has grown on an expensive or Once you’ve removed the mold itself, make sure sentimental item, consult a specialist in to get rid of whatever caused the moisture in furniture repair, art restoration, carpet the first place (i.e., leaking pipes or indoor cleaning or water restoration. humidity). By eliminating the source of moisture, you’ll prevent future mold problems. If you suspect a problem is too big for you to clean up, hire a professional.

ACTION PLAN FOR MOLD

WHEN TO TAKE ACTION FIRST, PROTECT YOURSELF SECOND, ELIMINATE THE MOLD THIRD, FIX THE MOISTURE PROBLEM

u When you see or smell u Inspect thoroughly to u Scrub the mold off with u Eliminate the source of mold or mildew growing. identify where the mold detergent and water and moisture. problem is present. completely dry the area. u If it is too difficult to fix u If the mold problem is too yourself, hire a big, hire a professional. professional.

RESOURCES Environmental Protection Agency— Mold Resources EPA’s guide Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home www.epa.gov/mold/moldresources.html Cleaned? Center for Disease Control— Mold www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/airduct.html www.cdc.gov/mold The California Department of Pesticide Regulation, IPM in Child Care apps.cdpr.ca.gov/schoolipm/childcare

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

SANITIZING SAFELY AND EFFECTIVELY

The California Community Care Licensing regulations What do you use to sanitize and disinfect? state that child care teachers must be trained in Sanitizing and disinfecting are usually done using housekeeping and sanitation, and that classrooms products, called antimicrobials, that kill bacteria, must be kept clean and sanitary. In addition, the viruses, fungi and mold on hard surfaces. Because national quality standards for health and safety in antimicrobials are intended to kill germs, they are child care, Caring For Our Children, recommend that pesticides. All products used to sanitize or disinfect certain surfaces be sanitized or disinfected on a regular must be registered by the EPA. Bleach is the most basis. This helps children and staff in child care centers commonly used product for sanitizing and disinfecting stay healthy by reducing their exposure to the germs in ECE. that cause disease, which are common in child care. Some non-chemical practices such as steaming can Young children readily spread germs because they: also be used to sanitize surfaces in certain situations. u sneeze, cough and drool. New methods, such as devices that convert tap water u use diapers. into ionized water, or high-quality microfiber cloths and mops used with soap and water can reduce germ u are just learning to use the toilet. counts like antimicrobials. More studies need to be u touch everything. done to be sure these alternative methods work as well u put things in their mouths. as chemicals to sanitize in ECE environments. Infants, toddlers and preschoolers also: How do you know which product to use to sanitize u have immature immune systems. or disinfect? The EPA tests each disinfection product to make sure u experience more illnesses than older children, that it kills germs and doesn’t pose unreasonable especially when they spend time in child care. immediate health hazards to those who are using it. If What is the difference between the product passes these tests, the EPA registers the cleaning, sanitizing and product as a disinfectant. Only products with EPA disinfecting? registration numbers on the label can claim they kill Sometimes these terms are used interchangeably, but germs. If a product is not registered with the EPA as a they are not the same. They have different outcomes disinfectant, it should not be used to sanitize or and the United States Environmental Protection disinfect. Proper cleaning (washing and rinsing with a Agency (EPA) defines them this way: soap or detergent) must be done before sanitizing.

u To clean means to physically remove dirt, This step is needed since dirt can prevent disinfectants germs and debris from the surface by from working. In child care settings, sanitizing surfaces scrubbing, washing and rinsing. It is done will kill enough germs to reduce the risk of becoming using soap or detergent and water. ill from touching those surfaces. Disinfecting (the higher level of germ killing) is recommended for blood u To sanitize means to apply a product that kills spills to decrease the risk of spreading blood-borne 99.9% of germs identified on its label. illnesses such as HIV and Hepatitis B. Different disinfectant products kill different germs. You have to read the label to find out if Why do so many child care programs use bleach to the product kills all the germs that you want to sanitize? kill. If used correctly, bleach reliably sanitizes and disinfects hard, non-porous surfaces of most common u To disinfect means to apply a product that kills and harmful bacteria and viruses. Bleach has a short nearly 100% of germs identified on its label. killing time and it does not need to be rinsed since it breaks down quickly. A low concentration is required © 2011 UCSF California Childcare Health Program and it is inexpensive. HEALTH AND SAFETY NOTES SANITIZING SAFELY AND EFFECTIVELY

[continued] What are the problems with using bleach? u Store all chemicals in a secure area, out of There are increasing concerns about the health effects reach of children. of bleach, particularly for children with asthma. When RECOMMENDED BLEACH SOLUTIONS bleach is applied to surfaces, it also gets into the air u For food contact surface sanitizing and can irritate the lungs and mucous membranes (refrigerators, plastic cutting boards, dishes, (the tissues that line and protect the inside of your glassware, counter tops, pots and pans, body like the inside of your nose). For staff who mix stainless utensils, toys that have been mouthed, bleach solutions, contact with full strength bleach can high chair trays): 1 Tablespoon of bleach to a be harmful. It can damage skin, eyes and clothing. gallon of water. Let stand for 2 minutes or Reduce the risk of harm from bleach by air dry.

following these steps when preparing and u For nonporous surface sanitizing and using bleach: disinfecting (bathroom surfaces and fixtures, TO SAFELY PREPARE BLEACH SOLUTION sinks, tile, glass, stainless steel, enamel, hard

u Dilute bleach with cool water and do not use plastic, porcelain, doorknobs): 1/4 cup of more than the recommended amount of bleach to one gallon of water or 1 tablespoon bleach. per quart. Let stand for 2 minutes or air dry. u Make a fresh bleach solution daily; label the Are there alternatives to bleach? bottle with contents and the date mixed. The only program that currently certifies disinfectants u Wear gloves and eye protection when diluting that are safer for people and the environment is the bleach. EPA’s Design for the Environment (DfE) Antimicrobial Pesticide Pilot Project (see Resources). Products with u Use a funnel . hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient are being u Add bleach to the water rather than water to used by some child care programs as an alternative to bleach to reduce fumes. bleach. Hydrogen peroxide breaks down to water and u Make sure the room is well ventilated. oxygen and does not leave harmful residues. New u Never mix or store ammonia with bleach or products containing stabilized hydrogen peroxide products that contain bleach. offer an alternative to more toxic cleaners, because TO SAFELY USE BLEACH SOLUTIONS they do not put irritating fumes into the air. Stabilized hydrogen peroxide is one of the active ingredients that u Apply the bleach solution after cleaning the have been approved by DfE’s Antimicrobial Pesticide surface with soap or detergent and rinsing Pilot Project. Always check the product label for EPA with water. registration and look for the DfE logo as well. Always u Allow for a two-minute contact time (use a follow the directions for sanitizing. timer) or air dry. Do products such as baking soda, vinegar or u Sanitize when children are not present. borax sanitize? u Ventilate the room and allow surfaces to While these products can be used to clean dirt from completely dry before allowing children back. surfaces, they do not kill germs well enough to be sanitizers.

RESOURCES California Community Care Licensing Regulations, Design for the Environment Antimicrobial Pesticide Pilot www.dss.cahwnet.gov/ord/PG587.htm Project, www.epa.gov/pesticides/regulating/labels/design- dfe-pilot.html American Academy of Pediatrics, American Public Health Association, National Resource Center for Health and Safety EPA (2008) What are antimicrobial pesticides? in Child Care (2005) Caring for Our Children , second edition, http://www.epa.gov/oppad001/ad_info.htm AAP at: http://nrckids.org/CFOC/index.html

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org

GREEN CLEANING

What is “green cleaning”? u Regular cleaning keeps dust, pollen, pesticides and other particles out of the indoor Green cleaning describes the growing trend of using environment and improves indoor air quality. cleaning products and methods that are safer for human health and the environment. By using products u Sanitizers are more effective at killing germs with less toxic ingredients, early care and education when the surface is clean. (ECE) programs can protect the health of children and Please note that green cleaning alone does not staff and protect the environment. Environmentally disinfect or sanitize surfaces. See CCHP’s Health and friendly cleaning is accomplished by establishing Safety Note, Sanitizing Safely and Effectively in ECE policies and procedures and providing staff training in for more information on sanitizers and disinfectants. safe and effective cleaning practices. STEPS TO KEEP YOUR CHILD CARE Green cleaning improves indoor air quality and is ENVIRONMENT CLEAN often less expensive. The goal of green cleaning in ECE u Choose the right equipment and clean programs is to create environments that support regularly to reduce the need for chemicals to healthy growth and learning for children and show a clean, sanitize and disinfect. commitment to a healthy work environment for staff. The key goals of green cleaning are to: u Use a vacuum cleaner with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. HEPA filtration u keep the environment clean to protect children vacuum cleaners trap mold spores, dust, and staff from germs and triggers of illnesses dust mites, pet dander and other irritating such as asthma and allergies. allergens from surfaces . u protect children and staff from unnecessary u Use microfiber mops and cloths. Microfiber exposure to chemicals in cleaning products mops and cloths are made from a strong, lint- that may cause harmful health effects. free synthetic fiber that is very absorbent. To accomplish these goals, choose cleaning products Dust, dirt and germs are attracted to and and develop policies carefully and provide training for held tightly by the microfiber, so they are not classroom, kitchen and custodial staff. In the past, the spread from one area to another. Microfiber main priority for cleaning and sanitizing in ECE mop heads and cleaning cloths hold sufficient environments has been protecting children from the water for cleaning, yet don’t drip, and so less spread of infectious disease. But recent research cleaning product is needed. Microfiber mops suggests that the chemicals used to clean or kill germs are also lighter and easier to use than may have harmful health effects. There are safer ways conventional mops. to protect children from the spread of infectious u Place floor mats at building entryways. Teach disease. For example, teaching children to wash their children to clean their feet when entering the hands and making handwashing a routine practice in building. This may capture 80% of soil entering ECE is an effective policy for preventing the spread of indoor areas and reduces the amount of soil germs that make children sick. that must be cleaned. Regular cleaning is important u Consider a policy that encourages people to The everyday, routine cleaning activities of sweeping, remove their shoes when they come indoors. wiping, vacuuming and scrubbing remove dirt, oils Ask staff and families to provide a pair of and moisture that germs need to thrive. When there is “indoor” shoes or slippers. less buildup of dirt and germs, there is less need for u Decrease clutter to make cleaning easier. strong chemicals to clean and sanitize. Store equipment and supplies in plastic boxes with tight-fitting lids. © 2011 UCSF California Childcare Health Program HEALTH AND SAFETY NOTES GREEN CLEANING

[Steps to keep your child care environment clean continued]

u Repair hard surfaces that have cracks, pits or Many consumers mistakenly believe that if the word chips to reduce the buildup of dirt and germs. “green” appears in the name of a cleaning product,

u Encourage frequent handwashing using then the product is safe. This is not necessarily true. gentle soap and running water. Handwashing The easiest, and most reliable, way to choose safer may play a larger role in preventing the spread cleaning products is to choose products that have of infectious illnesses than sanitizing and been certified by third-party programs such as the disinfecting. Green Seal™ and EcoLogo™ certification programs. See Resources for contact information. These groups u Choose cleaning products that are less toxic. identify cleaning products that: This includes floor-care products used to maintain floor finishes since they are some of u contain the safest possible ingredients. the most toxic products used in building u perform well. maintenance. u are cost-effective.

u Open windows and change filters in your u avoid added fragrances that can cause heating, ventilation and air-conditioning respiratory irritation and trigger asthma. systems to increase air circulation and The certified cleaning product categories include improve indoor air quality. Many illnesses are general purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, bathroom spread by breathing in germs that linger in the cleaners, carpet cleaners and floor cleaners. Choosing air, rather than by contact with germs on certified products that meet green standards is a good surfaces, so be sure to provide good ventilation way to reduce toxins and make an immediate positive in your program. Check with your building impact on the health of the ECE environment. To manager to make sure the heating and quickly identify these certified products, check the ventilations systems are maintained. label for Green Seal or Ecologo certification. Avoid products that say POISON, DANGER, CAUTION Choosing cleaning products that are safer or WARNING. for people and the environment Safer disinfectants Many cleaning products contain toxic chemicals. The only program that certifies disinfectants Children are easily exposed to the chemicals in that are safer for people and the environment cleaning products because they: is the EPA’s DfE Antimicrobial Pesticide Pilot Project.

u breathe in the chemicals that get into If you see the DfE logo on an EPA-authorized the air when these products are used; disinfectant, you will know the product is: u in the least hazardous EPA Toxicity Categories; u absorb chemicals through their skin when they touch surfaces that have chemical residues; u unlikely to have carcinogenic or endocrine

u mouth objects (for example, toys) and surfaces disruptor properties; and swallow chemicals that are on those objects u unlikely to cause developmental, reproductive, and surfaces. or neurotoxic harm.

RESOURCES California Childcare Health Program (2005) Recommendations for Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting A full listing of products certified as cleaners (both household www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org/pdfs/healthandsafety/recom and institutional) can be found online: menEN_adr.pdf www.greenseal.org/findaproduct/cleaners.cfm Rose, L, Westinghouse, C , and the National Cleaning for Ecologo Healthy Schools and Infection Control Workgroup (2010) www.ecologo.org/en/greenproducts/ Cleaning for healthy schools and infection control handbook Design for the Environment www.informedgreensolutions.org http://www.epa.gov/dfe/

California Childcare Health Program, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing • www.ucsfchildcarehealth.org