Indiana Category 7a - Structural Pest Control Bundle
This course bundle is designed for the Indiana Commercial Structural Pest Control Applicator. The course bundle contains 20 continuing certification hours (CCHs) of training approved by the Indiana Office of the State Chemist. Please click on course details for a list of specific courses.
BUNDLE CONTENTS:
- Inspecting Structures for Wildlife – 2 CCHs
- Environmental Fate and Transport of Pesticides – 1 CCH
- Intro to Mosquito Control – 2 CCHs
- Common Pests of Residential, Industrial & Institutional Structures – 3 CCH
- Pesticide Application Procedures – 1 CCH
- Reading the Pesticide Label: Beyond the Basics – 2 CCHs
- Pesticide Emergency Management and Environmental Protection – 1 CCH
- Pesticide Formulations – 1 CCH
- Review of Pesticide Use Hazards – 1 CCH
- Pesticide Labeling – 1 CCH
- Personal Protective Equipment and Emergency Response – 1 CCH
- Pesticide Labels and Safety Data Sheets – 1 CCH
- Mice: The Ubiquitous Commensal Rodent – 1 CCH
- Pest Management – 1 CCH
- Understanding Rodenticides & Their Labels – 1 CCH
Inspecting Structures for Wildlife
Course Description
If you do not diagnose the problem correctly you will spend a lot of time treating something that is not there. Identify correctly and gather evidence and determine the extent of potential problems. This course will cover the basics of what to look for while inspecting a structure that has potentially been invaded by wildlife.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Discuss the different health risks associated with routine wildlife inspections.
- Identify common wildlife pests and their sign.
- Describe the differences between domiciled and transient wildlife damage.
Environmental Fate and Transport of Pesticides
Course Description
Pesticides are a key factor in pest management but it is important to understand what happens to those pesticides after the application. This course will review some key characteristics of environmental factors that can affect how pesticides move and degrade in the environment.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Describe the elements of the environment that can play a role in chemical processing such as soil composition and moisture
- Describe the role of microbes and the factors that change populations
- Identify the factors that affect pesticide drift
- Explain the ways that pesticides can be decomposed
- Identify the connections between pesticide properties and potential for groundwater contamination
- Explain application techniques that can minimize impacts
Intro to Mosquito Control
Course Description
Mankind has been battling mosquitoes since before the first settlers landed on the continent. Mosquitoes are vectors for a multitude of diseases that are harmful to humans, livestock, and pets. To effectively manage a mosquito population as part of an integrated pest management plan applicators must be familiar with mosquito physiology, the lifecycle of the mosquito, and various collection and surveillance methods for both adult mosquitoes and larvae. It is also important to have a good understanding of the diseases that are commonly vectored by mosquitoes. The course will talk about surveillance methods, mosquito anatomy, and touch on the diseases that are most commonly vectored by mosquitoes in the United States.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Describe the different stages in the mosquito lifecycle.
- Explain the differences between male and female mosquitoes.
- Suggest different surveillance and collection tactics to efficiently trap mosquitoes in the target area.
- List and describe several commonly mosquito vectored diseases.
Common Pests of Residential, Industrial & Institutional Structures
Course Description
This course, which is approved by the Office of Indiana State Chemist, teaches pest managers how to identify and control pests found in residential, institutional, and industrial buildings. Exterior and interior pests covered in this course include weeds, insects, rats, mice, bats, fungi, and certain birds. The course also outlines management methods for the pests listed above.
To protect wood foundations, interior furnishings, stored food, and people, pest managers must know how to control these pests properly and safely.
After completing this course, Indiana pest managers will be able to:
- Identify common stored-food pests and know how to avoid them
- Identify common vertebrate and invertebrate pests and create effective management strategies
- Describe wood-destroying pest damage and explain the importance of treating wood prior to use
- Identify and manage common fabric pests Identify and manage common parasitic, biting, and stinging pests
German Cockroach Control
Course Description
German cockroaches can be a difficult pest to control. The temptation for most pest control operators is to reach for the pesticide right away, but there is much more involved in controlling a German cockroach infestation. This class will focus on an eco-friendly approach to German roach control strategies in the most difficult environments.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Describe German cockroach anatomy, biology, and preferred environment.
- Outline common management tactics.
- Describe the pesticides commonly used to control German cockroaches.
History of Integrated Pest Management
Course Description
What is integrated pest management? The reality is nobody can agree on what integrated pest management is. This course will cover what IPM is and what isn’t and how to be practical about IPM strategies. There is economic viability, the environmental safety of IPM, and social acceptability. As pest control professionals we have a huge responsibility to protect the entire environment. We’re responsible for protecting people, their pets, their property, the plants that they install and, ultimately, the planet from pests with the responsible use of pesticides. That is where IPM comes in.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Outline the principles of integrated pest management
- Identify common reasons why a pesticide application may fail
Pesticide Application Procedures
Course Description
Today’s pest management practices require modern equipment to apply a variety of pesticides. Pesticides may be
applied as sprays, dusts, granules, gases (vapors), fogs, baits, rubs, or dips. The vast array of application equipment must
be matched to the pesticide as well as to the size and type of the job. To make an effective, safe, and efficient application,
read the label first. In addition, you must properly select, operate, calibrate, and maintain your equipment.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Identify the factors (e.g., nozzles, volumes, pressures, and speeds) that affect calibration.
- Demonstrate how to determine the amount of pesticide concentrate and diluent to use.
- Explain how to choose appropriate drift reduction practices.
Reading the Pesticide Label: Beyond the Basics
Course Description
This training will cover many sections of a pesticide label and safety data sheets. Labels are increasing in complexity and depth of information. It is never suggested that anyone try to memorize a pesticide label. By reviewing parts of a label and recognizing label language and use, we hope that you feel more comfortable with the information on pesticide labels and feel confident in understanding the information the present. Many examples of labels are used in this training that cover a variety of types of pesticides and also represent a variety of sites. It’s essential that we look at REAL label language and not simply make generic statements to evaluate.
There is no endorsement for any company or product by representation of information in this training. All material presented is for educational purposes only and is not intended to purposefully include or exclude any company, tradename, product, use, proprietary, or any other information. Whenever you have questions about interpretations of label language, we encourage you to contact your local extension, land-grant university, department of agriculture, product dealer, or the manufacturer for more information.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Discuss different types of pesticide registrations.
- Identify where to find specific information on the pesticide label.
- Identify pests and site usage according to the label, and recognize information on safety data sheets.
Pesticide Emergency Management and Environmental Protection
Course Description
Protect people and the environment from dangerous hazards through careful use of pesticides. This one-credit course is approved by the Indiana Office of the State Chemist to teach the essentials of safe, legal pesticide application.
Pesticide alternatives, when used properly, reduce the need to use pesticides at all. When pesticides are called for, always use a management plan for best results. Notifications and warning signs alert the public to possible dangers.
Service containers permit the safe storage, mixing and transportation of pesticides. Chemical selection, equipment use, application techniques, cleanup, disposal, recordkeeping and liability all offer opportunities to increase safety and minimize risk.
If unsafe conditions arise through misapplications, leaks or spills, this course covers effective emergency response. Misapplications, leaks or spills require immediate and appropriate action. Learn how to provide first aid for exposure to skin, clothing, eyes and the respiratory system.
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
– Identify pesticide safety measures to protect people and the environment from pesticide exposure.
– Discuss effective equipment selection, safe application techniques and proper practices for cleanup and disposal.
– Describe appropriate ways to handle and apply pesticides.
– Explain how to handle pesticide emergencies such as leaks, spills and misapplications.
– Recognize different types of pesticide emergencies and corresponding first aid measures.
Pesticide Formulations
Course Description
A pesticide formulation is a combination of active and inert ingredients that forms an end-use pesticide product. Pesticides are formulated to make them safer or easier to use. There are many formulations available for various pest control sites and situations, and it is important that applicators choose the best one for the job.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Explain why pesticides are formulated for end use.
- List the factors to consider when choosing a formulation for a specific site or situation.
- Discuss the properties of common formulations.
Review of Pesticide Use Hazards
Course Description
This one-credit course, approved by the Indiana Office of the State Chemist, contains important training for the understanding and use of toxic pesticides. Safeguard wildlife, including pets and humans, while protecting plants, soil and water in the environment.
Pest managers must be aware of the potential damage to the environment when applying pesticides. Dangerous outcomes range from human exposure to phytotoxicity in plants. Surface and groundwater contamination, negative effects on non-target organisms and other unintended consequences may result from pesticide use.
Learn more about pesticide classification and designations based on targeted pests, the categories of pesticide toxicity and various toxicity factors. This course is designed to help you prevent hazardous pesticide exposure at all levels.
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the characteristics of various pesticide formulations.
- State appropriate measures to take in case of pesticide accidents.
- Explain pesticide toxicity and the different hazards of human pesticide exposure.
- Recognize strategies to minimize excessive pesticide exposure risk to pets, plants and the environment.
Pesticide Labeling
Course Description
The pesticide label is the main method of communication between a pesticide manufacturer and pesticide users. The information printed on and attached to the pesticide container is the label. By law, pesticide users are required to comply with all instructions and use directions found on the pesticide product label. Labeling includes the label itself plus all other
information about the product referenced on the label and given when you buy the product. Pesticide labeling includes instructions on how to use the product safely and correctly.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Interpret the meaning of label signal words, symbols, and their relative hazard levels.
- Accurately identify the common, chemical, and brand or trade name of a pesticide.
- Describe how to interpret other documents and online resources referenced on the label.
Personal Protective Equipment and Emergency Response
Course Description
PPE comprises the clothing and devices you wear to protect your body from contact with pesticides. Wearing PPE can reduce exposure (dermal, inhalation, ocular, or oral) and thereby lower the chances of pesticide injury, illness, or poisoning. It is important that all pesticide applicators and handlers understand the protections and limitations of PPE. Proper PPE
selection, use, and care are essential.
Although pesticide accidents and emergencies are rare, they do occur. Pesticides spilled on the ground or burning in a fire can contaminate water, soil, and air; damage plants; injure livestock, wildlife, or pets; and endanger the health of the applicator and emergency responders. Pesticide spills and fires may lead to financial loss due to cleanup, liability claims, and fines assessed by government agencies. Do all that you can to prevent accidents, but be prepared in case of emergency.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Identify where on the label to find the minimum clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) required to handle a given pesticide product.
- State the criteria to properly select skin, eye, and respiratory protection required by the pesticide label based upon your expected use and exposure.
- Discuss how pesticide releases from spills and fires can endanger humans and the environment.
- Explain how to execute an emergency response plan.
Pesticide Labels and Safety Data Sheets
Course Description
Pesticide labels and safety data sheets (SDS) appear to contain much of the same information. While the label is the law, an SDS is not considered the law. As an applicator, it is important to understand the difference between a pesticide label and a safety data sheet and know what information can be found in each document. This course will review the various parts of pesticide labels and safety data sheets to identify the similarities and differences.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Identify the content and sections of a pesticide label
- Identify the content and sections of a safety data sheet (SDS)
- Outline the differences between information such as signal words and PPE on pesticide labels and safety data sheets
- Explain how to use pesticide labels and safety data sheets to prepare applications
Mice: The Ubiquitous Commensal Rodent
Course Description
One of the challenges with house mice is that clients don’t take house mice seriously. It’s amazing how people will move heaven and earth when rats are around, but when it comes to mice they will simply say “oh, it’s just a mouse!” This course will help educate applicators on the risks of allowing house mice to remain in a structure.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Identify preferred habitats of mice
- Describe several IPM methods for controlling mice
- Describe the differences in mouse traps and outline which trap is best in a given situation
- Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using rodenticides
Pest Management
Course Description
Civilization has been combating insects and other pests throughout history. A pest is an undesirable organism that injures
humans, desirable plants and animals, manufactured products, or natural substances. Many insects, pathogens (disease-causing organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi), plants (known as weeds), mollusks (slugs and snails), fish, birds, and a variety of mammals (from mice to deer) compete for our crops and livestock. As the battle between humans
and pests continues over time, so will innovative methods of control.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Discuss the importance of pest identification in pest control.
- Describe how pest population levels trigger control procedures.
- Give several reasons why pesticide applications may fail.
Understanding Rodenticides & Their Labels
Course Description
Rodenticides are becoming a widely discussed and concerning topic in the pest control field. There is a growing public concern at the risk of secondary and non-target poisonings when rodenticides are used. As a pest control operator is it your responsibility to understand how rodenticides work and how to read their labels. This course discusses the common types of rodenticides, their appropriate application, the risks involved with the use of each type of rodenticide, and takes a look at specific label language.
After completing this course participants will be able to:
- Outline and describe the primary classifications of rodenticides
- Describe the differences in toxicity and risk between first-generation and second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides
- Describe how to use appropriate baiting techniques and the importance of carcass removal