This class presents an overview of the threat of Global Warming to the pest control industry. A survey of invasive insects in Florida affected by temperature rises is provided. Considerations to protect pest control operators from increasing temperatures and UV light are presented, including the use of sunscreens, protective clothing and information and warnings about heat illness.
This class will look at pesticide safety in terms of personal, customer and environmental safety. It will include a basic overview of what chemicals are and how they are rated in terms of human toxicity. The concept of the Lethal Median Dose will be examined and related to the standard Pesticide Toxicity categories. Common materials will be compared to pesticides to understand relative toxicities. Also considered: safe handling, use and storage of pesticides, safety equipment, as specified in product labels.