NOTE:
Hydrogen phosphide gas can explode if under vacuum, and must be used
only under atmospheric conditions.
c. Action. Aluminum phosphide leaves treated material and the fumigated
stack within 1 hour with normal ventilation procedures. Under specific atmospheric
conditions involving moisture condensation on the item being fumigated, phosphine will
corrode copper or products containing copper. For this reason, such items must not be
placed in an area where condensation may occur or covered in a manner that may
induce condensation.
d. EPA Label Instructions. In accordance with EPA label instructions,
aluminum phosphide must not be used in such a manner as to allow the pellets, tablets,
or unreacted residues (ash) to encounter any processed food. With this exception, PH3
will not combine in any form to produce a food residue.
e. Phosphine. Phosphine is highly toxic to all forms of human, insect, and
other animal life. For this reason, application must be closely supervised by the
engineer or medical entomologist. Personnel engaged in the application of this
fumigant must be certified and specially trained, and must have proper respiratory
protective devices on hand during the fumigation procedure.
Section VIII. PESTICIDE SAFETY
6-25. GENERAL
Guidance and training of nest control operators in the application of toxic chemicals are
major responsibilities of the military entomologist. Commanding officers depend upon
him for technical advice on the safe and efficient use of these valuable control materials.
a. Responsibilities of Military Entomologist Compared to Responsibilities
of a Physician. The development in recent years of a great many different pesticides
with varying degrees of toxicity and hazard has made this responsibility comparable in
many respects to that of the physician for prescription of drugs. Recommendations
must include the:
Most suitable method of application.
Dosage.
Precautions.
Limitations.
Chemical of choice for each program.
b. Implications of Safe Application of Pesticides. The safe application of
pesticides implies that there will be minimum hazard to desirable species and adequate
MD0152
6-16
Previous Page
