Pest Control on Campus
Insect and rodent infestations are best prevented through effective control of food sources through proper storage, waste handling, good housekeeping, and building maintenance practices. Non-chemical methods are used on campus as much as possible; however, despite best efforts, infestations will sometimes occur, and the use of pesticides may be necessary. If infestations are not controlled either through good practice or chemical methods, health risks may become an issue. The volume of pesticide products used and stored at the University is limited and only used when high infestation occurs. In addition, safe work procedures for the use and handling of chemical pesticides where these are applied are in place, along with training and licensing for anyone who may be required to apply these pesticides.
The Safety Office, in collaboration with Campus Sustainability and Facilities, will continue to investigate alternatives to controlling pest infestations using non-toxic chemicals, where available.
The following is additional information regarding the University's safety procedures on pesticides application so that employees fully understand why the University requires a control program, and the extra measures that are taken to ensure that the application of pesticides is conducted in a safe and responsible manner, particularly in offices, resident areas and day care.
Pesticides may be applied in areas of concern where there is an infestation or possibility of advancing to infestation and which pose a potential risk to health due to the following:
- Rodents may carry Hantavirus and people may become infected through contact with Hantavirus infected rodents or their urine and droppings.
- Feral Pigeon can pose a risk to human health and can cause extensive damage to property.
- Insect sting or bite may result in a potentially lethal reaction for those who are allergic to the insect's venom
Process for Using Pesticides/Insecticides
The Safety Office will be informed of usage of pesticides and monitored for their use on a monthly basis.
Offices and Resident areas:
When using insecticide, Physical Plant staff will follow the procedures below to minimize exposure potential in office and resident areas:
- Insecticides will never be used in the concerned areas without prior notice to the occupants.
- Insecticides will be applied only when the occupants are not in the area, and occupants will not be allowed to re-enter the area until at least four hours have elapsed.
- A notice will be placed on the door indicating that the area is closed and off limits and a time specified.
- Tape will be placed over the door lock as a reminder to occupant(s) not to enter the area
All rodenticides used on campus will be placed in tamper proof containers. They will be monitored until the problem has been appropriately controlled and removed.
Daycare:
Procedure for applying insecticidal spray in Daycare will be conducted on Friday evenings only so that the children will not be present when it is applied, and will be allowed to off-gas for at least two days before normal occupancy resumes.
The University's Health & Safety Office will ensure that any pesticides are used correctly and safely according to procedure. Please contact Kevin Smith, Manager, Safety and Health, in 2C11 at 204.786.9894 if you have concern.