Fumigation is the spraying
of dangerous chemicals to disinfect or kill pests such as cockroaches, bugs,
termites, rats, etc. These hazardous chemicals can pose a great risk to our
health if we breathe it in or if it comes in contact with our skin or mouth.
So, it’s very important that
we take all necessary precautions to ensure that we do not touch, consume or
inhale these chemicals. In fact, at any time you are able to smell the
chemical, you are within limits of toxicity.
But sometimes, odourless
chemicals may be used to fumigate. However, these substances potentially pose a
greater risk than all others because the fact that you cannot smell it
increases your chance of remaining in the environment and inhaling these toxic
non-irritant fumes.
Signs of toxicity may be
acute (drastic) with symptoms generally appearing within a few minutes or
hours. Instant signs of toxicity include coughing, nausea (the feeling to
vomit), vomiting, laboured breathing, red itchy eyes, etc.
Chronic or long-term effects
may not appear until long after exposure and in some cases these signs may not
be easily associated with the poison. A study found out that both insecticides
and herbicides significantly increased the risk of Parkinson’s disease by 70
per cent. Furthermore, long term exposure to these chemicals has been shown to
produce cancer.
I implore you to get close
to fumigators and ask them a few questions with regards to the hazards
associated with their jobs. You will be amazed at the statistics and feedback.
For example, I had a short
chat with a fumigator a couple of days ago and he said, “I personally know of
three fumigators who have died. That’s why I am scared of fumigating premises
now. All I do is getting the job and sub-contracting it. This way I get the
money without the hazard associated.” Amazing response!
It is evident that quite a
number of fumigators have or are experiencing severe health conditions and even
death because constant exposure to these chemicals has resulted in malfunction
or damage of various organs in the body. So, I advise fumigators to wear all
protective clothing necessary during fumigation. This would help reduce the
amount of toxic substance that gets into your bodies.
In addition, please note
that it is not only the fumigator that is at risk. Anyone who is within the
premises while fumigation is going would partake of the risk. So, if you must
be within the vicinity during fumigation, please wear protective clothing such
as overalls, goggles, boots, facemasks, etc.
In fact, I advise that you
prevent any undesired health consequences by asking the fumigation company for
a written description of the chemicals being used. This information can help
you to know more about the side effects and how to protect yourself.
Here are a few steps in
adequately planning and preparing in advance before you fumigate;
First, ensure you remove or
safely store all foods and medications in sealed nylon bags. Other items that
should be removed include toys, beddings, clothing, open water containers, etc.
And in your refrigerator, empty ice and ice makers to prevent contamination.
Secondly, if you have pets
please relocate them and remove pet toys, bones, bedding, and food/water bowls.
Before returning them back, wash the floor of their house with detergent and
rinse with plenty of water. Afterwards, please do not throw any food or treat
on the floor or surroundings because chemical residues can contaminate
food/treats and harm your pet if ingested.
Thirdly, before you fumigate
please vacate the premises and do not return until 24-48 hours after fumigation
has been concluded because if you return immediately, the space may still
contain these harmful chemicals.
Fourthly, before re-entry
ensure adequate ventilation by leaving the doors and windows open for 15 to 30
hours. Fans can also be turned on to help disperse the fumes.
Finally, it is imperative
that you take note of some signs of toxicity such as coughing, the feeling to
vomit, vomiting, labored breathing, red itchy eyes, and seek immediate medical
attention as soon as you notice any of these signs develop.
Fumigation helps to rid your
environment of pests but great caution should be exercised to avoid the dangers
associated.
Source:
punchng.com
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