Topic author: Iain
Subject: Equipment 'Starter Kit' for new pest controllers
Posted on: 13 Sep 2006 13:54:34
Message:

Following on from a 'string' in the general Forum, here is a go at some suggestions for an equipment 'starter kit' for new pest controllers. feel free to add your own.

Insect Control

A 5 litre pneumatic sprayer - the 'work horse'
The "Gloria" seems to be the most popular and for the extra �13 I would go for the stainless steel version: �158.43
A seal kit would be useful �7.73
I would also suggest a crack & crevice nozzle �6.90

A 1 litre sprayer for those little jobs
once again, "Gloria" is a good bet �35.72
or alternatively the "Spray Matic" �15.50

A Dust Applicator is essential for wasp nests
Personally I would go for the "Duststick" kit as this comes in a kit with 4 sturdy extension lances, to reach up to 20' away. The dust is kept at the top, so when you finish, you don't have 20' of dust to empty out of the lances. �137.50
A lot of people use the DR5 pressure duster, though, with additional lances to get the reach: �79.50
1.5m extension lances, each: �28.45

A Space Spray applicator. Only really of use if you have house flies or cluster flies, or possibly stored product moths to deal with on a regular basis and then the size of the area you are treating will dictate which machine you get. I am not a believer in the use of 'ULV' for fleas or bedbugs or other crawling insects, except in rare circumstances.

A Decent Torch
loads to choose from, but I would prefer a rechargeable
The "Unilite UK240 Lightweight Rechargeable" �37.31

Personal Protective Equipment
Again, loads to choose from, depending on what work you do.
Several sets of overalls, preferally 'badged'.
1/2 face respirator + A1P3 filters (make sure it fits properly)
Suitable gloves for the work you do.
Safety goggles, hard hat, high vis jacket , safety boots etc etc
Decent 'Wasp Suit', for protection and image.
Suggest either a "Sherrif" all-in-one: �104.91
or "Sherrif" jacket & veil �76.78

Chemical Storage boxes, either for van and or store. There are a few to choose from. I would suggest metal and of a size suitable for your needs: �120 - �200+

Pesticide carry bags or carry cases, to take on site. There are several to choose from. �16 - �70
Personally, I like the B & G case, as you can sit on it when tired!

There are also various plastic tubs and storage jars to keep 'prep' in, rather than lugging 20kg sacks around.

I would also suggest a 25 litre water carrier (with a tap fitted) in case you cannot get a source of water on site. Also useful for washing hands after job done. Alternatively you could use hand wipes or "No Water Required" soap �2.95 - �18.01

If you have liquid pesticides, a small van spillage kit might be advisable: �19.44
A litter picker is useful for picking up dead rodents �11.81
I'm told an "Aspivenin Bite & Sting Reliever" does what it says on the tin. �10.87
...and don't forget a First Aid Kit �7.84

Rodent Control

Wherever possible you should be baiting burrows, so you'll need a good, long Baiting Spoon �23.40

You'll need to decide on which bait stations for mice and rats - of which there are many to choose from. Why not look at the 'Protecta' range as there are lots of different sizes, for all sorts of uses - and they all use the same key to open them!

Paperwork

In time you will want to have your own, but as a starter:
"Treatment Report Pads" 2 part NCR pads, for you to keep 1 and leave 1 with the client, 75 sets per pad �2.95
"COSHH Assessment" sheets and Guidelines FREE
"Risk Assessment" sheets and Guidelines FREE
"Insect Field Guide Book" for help with IDs FREE

I'm sure I've forgotten something, so suggestions welcome.

And then of course, there's the 'prep'. But that's another story...