Are Pest Control Chemicals Harmful?
Integrated pest management, or IPM, techniques are growing in popularity. In environmentally friendly states like California, they’re even outpacing traditional alternatives that rely on pesticides and poisons. Of course, this begs the question: Are pest control chemicals really that harmful? Here’s the definitive answer.
The Reality of Chemical Pest Control
The chemicals that are designed to target insects and pests function in various ways. Some simply repel them, while others kill their offspring, inhibit their reproductive cycles or introduce microorganisms that are lethal to specific species.[1] Unfortunately, these substances have numerous side effects that can impact humans and other animals that shouldn’t be harmed.
In truth, it’s not a question of whether pesticides are harmful but rather how much harm each one can do. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, pesticide exposure can cause mild symptoms, such as headaches or nausea, but it may also contribute to severe reproductive health issues, respiratory ailments or cancers.[2] The National Pesticide Information Center suggests that because many pesticides contain cocktails of distinct ingredients, it may be difficult to evaluate how hazardous they are and minimize your risk.[3]
Why Integrated Pest Management Is so Much Better
The California Department of Pesticide Regulation promotes the idea that people should avoid pesticide exposure by using alternate methods to prevent infestations from occurring in the first place.[4] IPM follows similar principles and combats the root causes of pest problems instead of simply relying on harmful poisons that fight the observable symptoms.
IPM techniques include regular inspections that gauge safety and efficacy as well as in-depth analyses of pest species and behaviors. By using biological controls, exclusion and sanitation, these methods can create environments that are naturally inhospitable to pests. When pesticides must be used instead of natural controls, IPM strategies diligently monitor safety factors to minimize exposure risks and environmental fallout.
What Makes Pinpoint Your Safest Option?
Pinpoint’s IPM expertise is well-known. We serve California schools, water districts, municipalities and agencies like CalTrans by providing them with vital instructions on how to safely control pests and avoid exposure to harmful chemical substances.
Our experts are constantly learning new ways to mitigate and prevent infestations. After spending decades honing our pest control skills, we’re ready to put them to work on your behalf.
When Should You Contact an Expert?
It’s never too early to call a pest control professional. Seemingly small infestations may hide huge colonies of ants, bees, wasps and other insects. A few visible rat droppings could be indicative of hundreds of hidden individuals. No matter what kinds of pests you’re up against, calling Pinpoint now is the best way to take advantage of everything IPM has to offer. Learn more by obtaining your free estimate today.
