Lesson 5: Equipment Basics

Objective:

By the end of this training, technicians will be familiar with the basic tools used in general pest control treatments. They will understand the purpose and proper usage of each tool, ensuring effective and safe pest control practices.

Overview:

As a pest control technician at Clements Pest Control, having the right tools and knowing how to use them is just as important as understanding pest behaviors and treatment methods. This lesson will introduce you to the essential tools you will use in general pest control services and explain the function of each tool. Proper use and maintenance of these tools will ensure that treatments are applied safely and effectively.

Basic Tools for General Pest Control:

1. Electric Backpack Sprayer

• Purpose: This sprayer is used for applying liquid insecticides to the exterior of a building.

• Uses: Perimeter treatments, spot treatments, and general surface treatments.

• Key Point: Ensure the sprayer is well-maintained and operates at consistent pressure to apply insecticides evenly.

2. Hand Spreader

• Purpose: Used to spread granular insecticides around the perimeter of a home.

• Uses: Granular insecticides create a long-lasting barrier since granules take longer to break down in the environment than liquid products.

• Key Point: Granules are effective for building a lasting protective barrier against pests.

3. Spider Brush

• Purpose: A long-handled brush designed to remove spider webs and spiders.

• Uses: Sweeps away webs to prevent spiders from forming larger webs over time.

• Key Point: Regular use of a spider brush keeps structures free of spider webs, improving the property's appearance and minimizing spider presence.

4. Rodent Bait Stations

• Purpose: Houses rodenticide baits and protects them from non-target animals and children.

• Uses: Placed in areas where rodents forage, such as landscape hedges or the exterior of buildings.

• Key Point: Always place bait stations in strategic areas for maximum effectiveness while maintaining safety for non-target animals.

5. Handheld B&G Sprayer

• Purpose: A compressed air sprayer used to apply liquid insecticides indoors.

• Uses: Baseboards, behind appliances, furniture, and for spot treatments in small areas.

• Components: The sprayer consists of a wand, hose, nozzle, and pump. Consistent pressure is necessary for even application.

• Key Point: Maintaining the sprayer components and pressure ensures proper application of insecticides, leading to effective treatment.

6. Aerosols

• Purpose: Aerosols and fog generators are used to apply pesticides in hard-to-reach areas or large spaces.

• Uses: Ideal for “crack & crevice” treatments, especially around appliances.

• Key Point: Aerosols allow you to access hidden areas where pests may hide, ensuring a thorough treatment.

7. Gel Baits

• Purpose: Gel baits are used to eliminate pests like cockroaches and ants.

• Uses: Pests consume the bait, which disrupts their nervous system and leads to their death.

• Key Point: Gel baits are highly effective due to their attractiveness to pests and ability to target them directly.