INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM)
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common sense practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interactions with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. IPM programs take advantage of all pest management options possible- including, but not limited to, the judicious use of pesticides.
Understanding pest needs is essential to implementing IPM effectively. Pests seek habits that provide basic needs such as air, moisture, food, and shelter. Pest populations can be prevented or controlled by creating inhospitable environments, by removing some of the basic elements pests need to survive, or by simply blocking their access into buildings. Pests may also be managed by other methods such as traps, vacuums, or pesticides. An understanding of what pests need in order to survive is essential before action is taken.
POLICY STATEMENT
Structural and landscape pests can pose significant problems to people, property, and the environment. Pesticides can also pose risks to people, property, and the environment. It is therefore the policy of this location to incorporate Integrated Pest Management IPM procedures for control of structural and landscape pests.
PESTS
Pests are populations of living organisms (animals, plants, or microorganisms) that interfere with use of this location for human purposes. Strategies for managing pest populations will be influenced by the pest species and whether that species poses a threat to people, property, or the environment.
PEST MANAGEMENT
Approved pest management plans should be developed for the site and should include any proposed pest management measures.
Pests will be managed to:
- Reduce any potential human health hazard or to protect against a significant threat to public safety.
- Prevent loss of or damage to location structures or property.
- Prevent pests from spreading into the community, or to plant and animal populations beyond the site.
- Enhance the quality of life for site occupants and others.
INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES
IPM procedures will determine when to control pests and whether to use mechanical, physical, chemical, cultural, or biological means. IPM practitioners depend on current, comprehensive information on the pest and its environment and the best available pest control methods. Applying IPM principles prevents unacceptable levels of pest activity and damage by the most economical means and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment.
The choice of using a pesticide will be based on a review of all other available options and a determination that these options are not acceptable or are not feasible. Cost or staffing considerations alone will not be adequate justification for use of chemical control agents, and selected non-chemical pest management methods will be implemented whenever possible to provide the desired control. It is the policy of this location to utilize IPM principles to manage pest populations adequately. The full range of alternatives, including no action, will be considered.
When it is determined that a pesticide must be used in order to meet important management goals, the least hazardous material will be chosen. The application of pesticides is subject to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 United States Code 136 et seq.), Location policies and procedures, Environmental Protection Agency regulations in 40 Code of Federal Regulations, Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, and state and local regulations.
EDUCATION
Staff, site occupants, pest managers, and the public will be educated about potential location pest problems and the IPM policies and procedures to be used to achieve the desired pest management objectives.
RECORD KEEPING
Records of pesticide use shall be maintained on site to meet the requirements of the state regulatory agency and local requirements. Records must be current and accurate if IPM is to work. In addition, pest surveillance data sheets that record the number of pests of indicators of pest populations are to be maintained to verify the need for treatments.
NOTIFICATION
This location takes the responsibility to notify the staff and site occupants of upcoming pesticide treatments. Notices will be posted in designated areas at location and sent to those who wish to be informed in advance of pesticide applications.
PESTICIDE STORAGE AND PURCHASE
Pesticide purchases will be limited to the amount authorized for use during the year. Pesticides will be stored and disposed of in accordance with the EPA-registered label directions and state regulations. Pesticides must be stored in appropriate, secure site not accessible to site occupants or unauthorized personnel.
PESTICIDE APPLICATORS
Pesticide applicators must be educated and trained in the principles and practices of IPM and the use of pesticides approved by this location, and they must follow regulations and label precautions. Applicators should be certified and comply with this locations IPM policy and Pest Management Plan.
