Pest Control Technicians
Pest control technicians work with pesticides every day and crawl into attics, crawl spaces and wall voids that most workers never see. The two big rules: follow the label exactly, and treat tight, hot or dirty spaces as hazards of their own.
- Pest Control
- Service
The label is the law
Under federal law (FIFRA), using a pesticide in a way that doesn’t follow its label is illegal. The label tells you:
- The signal word: Caution (lowest hazard), Warning, or Danger (highest)
- The required PPE, such as gloves, eye protection or a respirator
- Mixing rates, where and how to apply, and re-entry times
- First aid steps and storage and disposal rules
Keep the label and the safety data sheet with you on every job. See Safety Data Sheets.
Licensing
States license or certify pest control applicators, usually by category (structural, termite, lawn, fumigation). Restricted-use pesticides may only be applied by a certified applicator or someone working under their direct supervision. Check your state agriculture or pesticide agency for its rules.
Mixing, spills and exposure
- Wear the label’s PPE when mixing. Concentrates are the most dangerous form.
- Mix outdoors or in a ventilated area, and never with your bare hands.
- Carry a spill kit and know how to contain, absorb and report a spill.
- Wash hands before eating, drinking, smoking or using the restroom.
- Wash work clothes separately from family laundry.
Signs of pesticide poisoning can include headache, dizziness, nausea, sweating, blurred vision and trouble breathing. Get to fresh air, remove contaminated clothing, rinse skin, and call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or 911.
Fumigation
Structural fumigants are extremely toxic. Fumigation requires specialized certification, sealed structures, warning signs, clearance testing before anyone re-enters, and usually at least two trained people on site. Never enter a building under fumigation.
Attics, crawl spaces and wall voids
- Heat: attics can be over 130°F in summer. Work early, take breaks and drink water. See Heat Illness.
- Falls through ceilings: step only on joists or boards.
- Electrical: watch for damaged wiring, and don’t spray near live electrical parts.
- Tight spaces: some crawl spaces are confined spaces with poor air. Tell someone where you are.
- Animals and droppings: rodent droppings can carry hantavirus. Don’t sweep or vacuum them dry. Wet them with disinfectant first and wear a respirator. See Biological Hazards.
- Stings and bites: carry an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed. See Allergic Reactions.
Vehicle checklist
- Pesticides locked in a secured compartment, not in the cab
- Containers labeled and lids tight
- Spill kit, clean water and soap on board
- Label PPE stocked and in good condition
- Labels and safety data sheets on hand
Standards & references
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