Fumigation is a pest control technique that uses toxic gases to eliminate insects in enclosed spaces. It is regulated by strict safety and environmental laws, and professionals require specialized certification. Common pests such as termites, bed bugs, and ants can be eradicated through whole structure fumigation. After treatment, the area is ventilated and inspected to ensure safety. Fumigators must pass training courses and certification exams, and the type of pesticides used is regulated due to risks to public health and the environment.
Fumigation is a technique used by pest control workers to eradicate insect infestations from enclosed spaces such as homes, warehouses and barns. Professionals release toxic gases within a carefully contained structure, effectively suffocating or poisoning the parasites within. Fumigation is often necessary when less invasive extermination procedures are ineffective in eliminating pest populations. There are strict environmental and safety laws surrounding fumigation processes in most countries, and professional exterminators are often required to hold specialized certification to do the job.
Common pests such as termites, bed bugs and ants can be eradicated by fumigating a facility. For homes and small buildings, a process known as whole structure fumigation or draping is used to ensure all areas are treated. The tent consists of enclosing a structure under an awning made of special rubber and fabric. Exterminators will thoroughly inspect a property and remove any furniture, clothing or other household items that could be damaged by chemical treatments. Once all people and pets have been freed from a home, pest control workers release carefully calculated amounts of fumigants under the tent to permeate the structure and suffocate the bugs.
Depending on the size of a building and the amount of pesticides used, it could take several days to treat an area. After the fumigation procedure, the pest control workers ventilate the tent area using large fans and air filters. The tent is then dismantled and the structure is inspected to ensure all insects have been eradicated. Professionals test the air using specialized equipment to ensure it is safe to breathe. Occupants are generally allowed to return to the premises within a week of venting.
Professional fumigators use extreme caution when fumigating homes and buildings. To learn about safety laws and procedures, exterminators are typically required to pass training courses and certification exams. Interns learn how to prepare a fumigation facility and the best strategies for releasing and controlling chemicals. They also receive specialized information on the types of protective clothing and respirators needed for the job.
Most states and countries regulate the type of pesticides that can be used for fumigation purposes. Some chemicals have been banned due to the risks they pose to the environment and public health. The most commonly used chemicals today include formaldehyde, sulfuryl fluoride, hydrogen cyanide and phosphine. Even though these gases are considered “safe” for use as pesticides, they can still cause permanent damage or death if a person is exposed to them for even a short period of time.
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