Pest control services

It is important to hire a professional pest control operator when you have pest problems that are too difficult to manage yourself. Because of the risks involved in handling pesticides, many places require anyone who uses pesticides as part of a pest control business to hold a pest control license issued by the relevant licensing or health authority.

Although pesticides are toxic and there are risks associated with their use, licensed pest control operators are trained to handle, store and apply these substances safely. When the right precautions are taken to minimize exposure, the risk to health is greatly reduced.

Why hire a licensed operator#

A pest control license is typically issued to people who hold an appropriate qualification. That qualification usually includes training in:

• the safe handling, storage and application of pesticides
• the identification and management of pests.

Where licensing applies, it is illegal to apply pesticides in a pest control business without a license. A licensed operator should be able to:

• identify the pest and its habitat
• determine an appropriate pest management plan
• apply, handle and store pesticides safely
• provide information and advice about the pesticides they use
• answer your questions.

A license may also authorize the operator to use only certain types of pesticides, for example products for arthropods (such as spiders, cockroaches, termites, ants, fleas, mites, bed bugs, silverfish, flies, wasps, mosquitoes and beetles), rodents, birds, fungi, or pest animals such as rabbits and foxes. Some specialized work, such as fumigation, may need a separate authorization. If your pest problem is not covered by an operator’s authorizations, ask them or your local authority for advice.

Choosing a pest control operator#

When choosing an operator, make sure you:

• get several quotes for the job
• talk to neighbors for recommendations
• check that the person applying the pesticides holds a valid, current license, and verify their details with the relevant authority if you are unsure
• check they have enough insurance
• ask any other questions you may have.

Safety precautions#

If you use a commercial pest control operator, you should:

• Ask for the full chemical name of the pesticide they will use, in case it is needed for first aid in an emergency.
• Relocate pets during treatment and until the pesticide is dry.
• Make sure food, clothes, toys, toothbrushes, bedding, towels, vegetable gardens and barbecues are protected or removed before treatment.
• If the pesticide is applied outdoors, make sure all doors and windows are closed.
• Vacate the premises while the pesticide is mixed and applied, and until it is dry. Four to six hours is often recommended, but your operator will advise the appropriate time for the specific treatment used.
• If the pesticide is applied indoors, make sure benchtops and kitchen utensils are thoroughly cleaned before preparing food, and ventilate the home by opening doors and windows for a few hours on your return.
• It is a good idea to let your neighbors know in advance of any external pesticide treatment.

Raise any concerns, such as how the pesticide could affect pregnancy, young children or allergies, with your operator before they start work. This gives them a chance to discuss treatment options with you. A good operator will listen to your concerns and address them by using the most appropriate method.

Finding further information#

You can get more information about pesticides from the pesticide manufacturer, your pest control operator, or your local health or licensing authority. In the event of poisoning or suspected poisoning, contact your local poisons information service for first-aid advice and prevention information.

Key points#

• When the right precautions are taken to minimize exposure to pesticides, the risk to health is greatly reduced.
• Use a licensed, insured operator and get several quotes before deciding.
• Relocate pets during treatment and until the pesticide is dry.
• Let your neighbors know in advance of any external pesticide treatment.
• Raise concerns about pregnancy, children or allergies before work begins, and know how to reach a poisons information service in case of poisoning.

Where to get help#