Vikane

Suzanne Carnes asks about the safety of using Vikane (sulfuryl
fluoride) in fumigation of termites in shelving units. She indicates
that the University is determined to use this approach, so the
question really isn't are there alternative methods, but rather how
to make this approach safe (and effective). In particular she asks,
"how longa period of time should pass before it is safe" to
re-enter.

The very first thing I would recommend is that the Library obtain a
copy of the label and material safety data sheet for Vikane, since
these will address a number of safety issues.  In addition, I would
acquire a copy of the National Pest Control Association's Good
Practice A Checklist for Fumigation, which should also be available
from the firm doing the fumigation.

However, in terms of re-entry time, the typical procedure is to open
the building after the end of the exposure (or soak) time, remove
tarps, open doors and windows, and place fans to assist in
ventilating the building. No one should be allowed back into the
building until the level of Vikane is 5 ppm or less, as determined
by an appropriate detection device, such as an Interscan or Miran
gas analyzer. In particular, care should be taken to adequately
sample all areas of the building, especially those areas that are
difficult to aerate, such as "dead-end" stacks and areas without
adequate ventilation. The product label, for example, notes that "No
one should enter treated areas until provided with a respiratory
protection device (SCBA or combination air supplied/SCBA
respirator)."

Vikane is an acid gas and for levels *under* the TLV of 5 ppm, a
negative pressure respirator with acid gas cartridges (white band)
would be appropriate, assuming the individual wearing the respirator
was appropriately trained and the institution had a respiratory
protection plan in place.

It is a violation of label directions (and hence illegal under
FIFRA) to allow access based on "rules of thumb." In other words,
there is no single answer to the question, "how long." It may be 5
minutes, it may be 5 hours, or it may be 5 days--that will depend on
the levels of Vikane. And these levels can only be determined using
a T/C gas analyzer.

Now, a few things to consider and look for:

    1.  Remember that all fumigants have no residual effect.
        Fumigation *may* be an appropriate technique to rid your
        institution of termites, but it won't prevent their return.
        So, I would recommend establishing a program of inspection
        and modifications, perhaps even baiting, to reduce the
        likelihood of their re-infestation.

    2.  Also remember that the effectiveness of fumigants is tied
        closely to appropriate dosage and soak times. Vikane, for
        example, has several FUMIGUIDEs to determine exactly what
        amounts are needed and how long the fumigant must remain in
        place. Again, do not count on "rules of thumb" achieving the
        kill you need since this kind of guess work can easily lead
        to sub-lethal levels. Demand that the label instructions be
        followed.

    3.  Be aware that there are very carefully devised
        recommendations for (1) preparing the building for
        fumigation, (2) releasing a warning agent, (3) checking for
        leaks, (4) releasing the fumigant, and (5) posting (and
        securing) the building. Vikane is inherently a very
        dangerous fumigant and it must be handled and applied with
        respect and professionalism. Anything less can not only
        result in  inadequate pest control, but also hazards to
        those around the building.

I realize that this is pretty general, but I hope that it begins to
address the concern. I would be happy to discuss this further
directly if anyone has the interest. Best,

Michael Trinkley, Ph.D.
Director
Chicora Foundation, Inc.
PO Box 8664
Columbia, SC  29202-8664
803-787-6910

                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 11:45
                 Distributed: Monday, November 17, 1997
                       Message Id: cdl-11-45-004
                                  ***