The safe use of chemicals and preparations

To many people the phrase "pest control" implies the application of chemical pesticides, not least because, historically, this has always been the preferred method, being seen as cheap, quick and effective.  However in recent years there has been a distinct change of emphasis and a general move away from pesticides to "greener", more environmentally acceptable methods of control.

Biological control agents, once rarely seen outside the controlled environment of glasshouses are finding their way into interior landscapes in ever-increasing numbers.  Ideally an integrated system of pest management should be employed, incorporating cultural, physical, biological and chemical methods.  This is safer, and ultimately more effective, than a blanket treatment with chemicals alone.

Several basic rules should be applied before specifying the use of pesticides on interior plants:

• They should be used only when all other forms of control have failed or are inappropriate.

• Professional pesticides may be used only on the recommendation of a competent adviser (e.g. in the UK, someone with a British Agrochemicals Standards Inspection Scheme, known as BASIS, qualification.)

• Anyone applying pesticides must hold an appropriate certificate of competence (e.g. in the England and Wales, an NPTC qualification.)

Pleae note: pesticide legislation varies considerably around the World.  In some areas, the licences required to apply pesticides are held by companies, in other places, the licences are held by the individuals using the products.  The rules surrounding the registration of products also varies.  Please consult your local regulatory authorities before you consider using any form of pesticide.

When mixing or applying any chemicals, the key safety precautions include:

• Ensuring that everyone not involved in the work is excluded from the area during treatment and for any subsequent exclusion period.

• Protecting surrounding areas from chemical spillage, run off or spray drift.

• Always wearing suitable personal protective equipment, such as coveralls, gloves, eye and respiratory protection.

• Always following the instructions on the product label e.g. Spraying to run-off or adding soil drenches at a specified volume per surface area of growing medium.