Saturday 3 August 2013

Regulations for Termite Treatment

According to Kentucky's 302 KAR 29:050 regulation for Commercial structural pest control and fumigation regulations, no person can actually engage in the pest control or fumigation for termites without first getting a license from the department. Applications for the license have to include a background check without felonies or fraud, college transcripts and written verification of pesticide work experience as well as the application being notarized. The license has to be renewed yearly on June 30th, and can be revoked for any false information obtained on an application.

Wood Destroying Organism Reports for Termite Control

    Any person that has a commercial license for structural pest control applicator has to submit a monthly report of any work done for control or even prevention of any type of wood-destroying organism. These reports are made on the same named form and have to be filed no later than the 15th of every month, and must be signed by the applicator and the representative or authorized agent of that company. This is done so that any wood damage can be inspected by the state by way of inspectors for structural integrity.

Fumigation

    In the interest of safety there will be no less than 2 qualified and licensed persons on a crew to release any type of fumigant. It is required that a minimum of 2 persons work together while releasing the fumigants, and prior to the fumigation procedure, an official notice of fumigation must be offered. Written notification is given to the local fire and police departments about the fumigation, at least 3 hours before fumigation begins. The notice includes the address of the fumigated location as well as its use, the name of the fumigant to be used and the date and time of the release. The exposure period and the name and phone numbers of the operators in charge are also to be included on this form.

Methyl Bromide Regulations

    Methyl bromide is still used as a termiticide, and aerates very slowly. This is also known to deplete the ozone layer as well as cause blood and bone problems from long term exposure. Vikane is also used and is a popular fumigation option, as it is able to rid the entire structure of termites when tented. Considering it is odorless and colorless, it leaves no residue and is very toxic. Both of these chemicals are being phased out at this time due to the Clean Air Act Regulations in place to help preserve the atmosphere.

Requirements

    It is required in all 50 states that permission be granted by the homeowner prior to termite treatment taking place. Considering that a visual and in depth inspection is required for most termite infestations to be recognized, permission should already be granted. Fumigation should be used as a last resort, as there are many other ways of ridding the building of termites. Liquid nitrogen can be used in holes that are drilled into infested wood, or an electrogun can be used to rid the area of termites as well. Each of these require a signed permission from the homeowner as well as an authorized agent of the company prior to completion.

Other Treatments

    Orange oil as well as heating and microwave treatments are viable alternatives to pushing your luck with gases and tenting for termite treatment. Licensed professionals are able to obtain these chemicals due to their licensure, whereas homeowners are not. Agents of the company performing the treatment are required to be licensed in order to obtain these chemicals as well as the electrogun and microwave treatments. Although many companies claim that lesser treatments are available for homeowners that are equally potent, this is not possible, as the chemicals required for treatment of termites are only sold to professionals with a valid license in the state.

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