A plumbing system is essential for distributing potable water and removing waste in facilities. It also helps heat and cool a building.

If you want to become a plumber, you should take technical courses that will prepare you for the job. This can be done in a trade school or at a community college. After completing your training, you can enter a plumbing apprenticeship program to learn the job while earning. Contact Lexington Plumbing now!

Pipes connect your home’s plumbing system to all of its fixtures and appliances. They also direct sewage and other waste into a sewer system or treatment plant. Pipes have been around for thousands of years, and the materials used in them have evolved over time. Today, there are many different types of pipes to choose from when designing a plumbing system for your home.

The term “pipe” can be confusing, because it can refer to a number of different things. The term can refer to a tube, which is flexible and usually made of a soft material, such as copper or a plastic, or it may be a rigid tube, such as steel or ductile iron. Pipes can also be constructed with a series of fittings, which are like elbows or tees, to create custom configurations.

Some of the most common types of pipe used in plumbing are PVC, PEX, and ABS. PVC is a popular choice for a variety of reasons, including its strength and durability and its ability to withstand high water pressures. It’s also easy to work with, and it can be found in a wide range of colors and sizes. PEX is a relatively new type of pipe, but it’s quickly gaining popularity among plumbers and homeowners alike because of its flexibility and resistance to corrosion. It’s also highly durable, and it can be used for both hot and cold water.

In addition to these types of pipes, there are many other kinds that can be used in plumbing systems. Cast iron pipes are often used for low-pressure applications, and they can be found in homes with older plumbing systems. Other common types of pipes include terra cotta, galvanized steel, and lead.

In urban areas, residential plumbing pipes are typically connected to municipal water and sewage lines that are run by the city or other authorities. This complex network of infrastructure is designed to provide clean, fresh drinking water and direct sewage to treatment plants where it can be treated and cleaned before being returned to the environment. In rural areas, residential plumbing pipes are likely to connect to groundwater sources or septic tanks for drainage.

Fixtures

There are several types of fixtures that help with the distribution and disposal of water in homes and buildings. They include sinks, bathtubs, showers, toilets, and more. Plumbing fixtures are designed for long-term use and exposure to moisture, so they are usually made from materials that can resist corrosion, erosion, and water staining. Some examples of these materials include porcelain, copper, bronze, glass, and stainless steel. Fixtures also have drains that allow water to escape and stoppers that can be manipulated to hold the water in place.

Most residential plumbing fixtures require regular maintenance to keep them in working condition. This includes cleaning the interior and exterior of the fixture, draining the fixtures, and replacing parts when necessary. In addition, some plumbing fixtures have shut off valves that can be turned off to stop the flow of water. This allows for the repair or replacement of a particular fixture without interrupting the entire system.

The most common type of plumbing fixture is the faucet. These are typically located on the walls in bathrooms and kitchens and have a spout for dispensing water. Faucets can be single-hole, double-hole, or 3-hole, and they are available in a variety of styles, finishes, and colors. Some have pull chains, while others are operated by handles or levers. Some faucets are even touchless, making them ideal for people with limited mobility.

A sink is a plumbing fixture that is used to wash dishes, clothes, or hands. It consists of a basin with a faucet and a drain, and it is commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms. Sinks can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, granite, fiberglass, and ceramic. They may also have built-in or separate drains for waste and aeration.

Tubs are plumbing fixtures that are used for bathing and relaxation. They can be freestanding or installed in an alcove or other space. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, including clawfoot tubs and walk-in tubs. Some bathtubs also have features like built-in jets for a massaging effect or adjustable water flow and temperature.

Permits

If you need a plumbing service, you should consider hiring a licensed plumber. Licensed plumbers are required to follow state regulations and adhere to plumbing codes. They are also trained in inspections and repairs. They can also provide you with valuable advice about your plumbing system.

A license is essential for any professional plumber, but it is not always necessary for homeowners who want to do simple plumbing jobs themselves. However, if you’re planning a major plumbing project, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional and find out whether or not you need a permit. Generally, large projects require a permit because of safety and code regulations. The best way to determine if you need a permit is to contact the local building and safety department.

Many people think that they can do plumbing work without a permit. However, this is not the case. Some plumbing projects require a permit, and doing it without one can result in fines or even criminal charges. Fortunately, most cities and counties have their permit requirements listed online. You can also call your city’s customer service center to ask about permit requirements.

Some of the most common jobs that need a permit include drain line replacement, sewer replacement, and water heater installation. These jobs are considered large because they affect multiple pipes and appliances in your home. Moreover, they can be dangerous if they are done incorrectly.

Licensed plumbers can perform plumbing work on their own or supervise journeyman plumbers. They can also inspect the work and ensure that it meets local regulations. They can also provide customers with valuable advice about their plumbing systems and help them choose the right fixtures. In addition to providing services, plumbers can also help with fire protection systems and backflow prevention devices.

Plumbing apprentices can also assist with plumbing and gas fitting jobs. They are often paid a small salary while they learn the trade from experienced plumbers. Some apprenticeships last up to five years and can be very beneficial for individuals who are interested in becoming a licensed plumber.

Regulations

Plumbing regulations govern the design, installation and operation of pipes, water fixtures and appliances. They ensure health and safety standards are met and protect businesses from costly problems such as leaks and sewer backups. Maintaining compliance requires a framework that includes regular inspections and preventive maintenance. Incorporating technology can also help streamline this process and ensure all employees understand their responsibilities.

The National Plumbing Code (NSPC) sets the minimum standards for the design and construction of plumbing systems and fixtures. It is developed by local and state governments, code administration bodies, and industry organizations, including the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors-National Association.

NSPC 2.7 requires that installers use only pipe and fitting materials that have been tested for abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, and water leakage. The code also requires that piping is properly restrained to prevent strains and stresses that exceed the structural capacity of the system. For example, the code states that pipe runs in floors and walls must be supported at the floor level with braces or other means. It also says that buried pipes must be protected against abrasion and corrosion by covering them with a thick coating.

Additionally, NSPC 2.7 specifies that the ends of all piping must be sealed with appropriate backflow prevention devices. Those that are used with fluid categories 1, 2, and 3 must be equipped with RPZ valves, while category 5 require specialist backflow prevention devices. This is important because these types of devices are designed to protect the public from dangerously high concentrations of harmful substances in drinking water.

Another important aspect of NSPC 2.7 is that all plumbing installations must be performed by qualified individuals. The code dictates that only certified plumbing inspectors can witness tests and perform inspections on plumbing systems. It also specifies the qualifications of these individuals, including requiring them to be licensed master plumbers or registered design professionals with not less than five years of experience.

Besides ensuring the quality of plumbing systems, these codes also promote efficient use of energy and water, which benefits the environment and the community. By following these rules, plumbers can be confident they are installing the best possible plumbing for their clients. They can also advise homeowners on energy-efficient upgrades that will lower their utility bills and impart environmental benefits.

Replacing your window blinds is a big investment, so choosing the best options is essential to your long-term satisfaction. Custom Blinds and Shades KY offer several benefits over pre-cut styles sold in big box stores.

Cellular shades add energy efficiency, while Pleated shades have a unique look. If you want to keep your children safe from accessible cords, choose a cordless option.

Blinds are window treatments that can be adjusted to control light, privacy and temperature. They are available in a variety of colors, sizes and styles that suit any décor. Window blinds feature easy-to-operate slats that can be opened to let in light or closed to block out light and privacy. Window shades are similar in that they can be rolled or stacked to reveal a fabric print. They can also feature folds that add textural interest and help soften the appearance of a room or a home.

Custom blinds are designed to fit windows perfectly. This ensures they work as intended, which helps to improve energy efficiency, protect privacy and enhance appearance. They are usually of higher quality and durability than ready-made window blinds, which makes them a better investment in the long run. They also tend to be easier to use, with fewer problems like broken slats or poorly functioning cords. If you have children at home, consider choosing a style with a cordless option to reduce the risk of accessible hazards.

Whether you want to bring a modern flair to your living space or frame your windows for a traditional look, you can find the ideal window blinds and shades at west elm. From woven wood and bamboo blinds to faux wooden blinds, you can find the perfect window treatment for your home. Some options can even withstand high heat and humidity, which are common in tropical areas.

The wide variety of choices in window blinds and shades can make it difficult to determine which one is right for your home. Whether you need a simple, functional solution for your bedroom or an elegant drapery to dress up your dining room, west elm has something for every room in the home.

Choose wood blinds with a TruGrain(r) finish for a natural look. Or, try faux wood blinds that are resistant to heat, humidity and fading for a more durable option. Other options include cellular shades, which are engineered to add an extra layer of insulation to your home, and solar shades, which have built-in UV protection to shield your furniture from the sun’s harsh rays.

More Options for Style and Design

While off-the-shelf blinds come in a few standard configurations, custom window treatments provide a wide range of options. If you’re going to spend the money on new shades, you want to make sure you choose a style that suits your space and complements your home.

Shades aren’t just for light control; they can also add visual texture and create a sense of depth in your rooms. Some shades have a more structured look, while others offer soft dimension and a more minimalist design. For example, Roman shades are a popular option for living spaces and bedrooms. They’re available in a range of neutral colors that add a rich color palette to your room without overwhelming it.

Other types of custom window blinds include cellular shades, which add an energy efficiency element to your home by trapping air in honeycomb-like pockets. These insulating shades can save you money on your energy bills all year round, and they’re available in a range of different styles and colors to match any decor. Other window treatment styles include solar shades, which are made of a fabric that absorbs heat and reflects UV rays, and shutters, which provide more privacy than shades because they cover a portion of your windows.

Many homeowners who opt for custom window blinds also opt to go with cordless options, which eliminate the risk of choking or strangulation hazards. However, not all window treatment pros offer cordless options, so be sure to ask before you sign a contract.

Choosing the right color for your shades is essential. If you’re unsure what shade will look best in your room, many window treatment companies will send free samples so that you can see how the color will work before you buy. Then, you can use the True Paint Matchmaker tool to find complementary or contrasting shades for your walls.

Another advantage of custom window blinds is that they’re manufactured in the United States, rather than overseas. That means you’ll get a high-quality product that will last for years to come. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to upgrade your window blinds with extra features like remote controls and motorized operation.

Better Energy Efficiency

As much as 30% of your home’s energy is lost through the windows, if you don’t have the right window treatments. With energy-efficient blinds and shades, you can keep conditioned air in your home while allowing sunlight to shine through when desired. At Custom Shades & Shutters Llc, we offer a range of styles including cellular and Roman shades that provide insulation to help you save on energy bills.

Cellular shades are the most effective window coverings for energy efficiency, as they are able to trap air in distinct honeycomb-shaped pockets. This helps to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This unique design is made even more effective by opting for double-insulating fabrics. These are available in a wide selection of color and design options to fit any style and decor, with blackout and light filtering opacities to maximize energy savings.

Roller and Roman shades are also great choices for energy efficiency. They provide an excellent amount of insulation, and are customizable with liners, top-down/bottom-up functionality, and motorized controls. Opt for darker fabrics and liners to further reduce the amount of heat transferred through your windows.

Drapery is another option that can be highly effective at reducing energy loss through your windows. Like cellular shades, drapes can be customized with blackout lining to keep heat out and sunlight out, keeping your home comfortable and safe for your family.

When you opt for high-quality custom window treatments, they will last longer than flimsier options and require less maintenance. This will not only cut down on waste from having to replace your window coverings as often, but will also reduce the amount of time and money you spend on your energy bill. The best part is that you can save even more by automating your window treatment so they will open and close on their own based on the temperature in your home, the time of day, your schedule, and other factors. You can have your shades automatically lower during the hot, sunny afternoons and then let in the warming sun on cold, winter mornings.

Reduced Waste

In this time where sustainable living is all the rage, it’s important to explore eco-friendly options that align with your environmental values. Custom window blinds and shades offer the opportunity to do just that, while also providing energy efficiency and comfort for your home.

One of the main reasons that custom window treatments are more eco-friendly than non-custom cut down alternatives is that they don’t have as much built in waste. These windows coverings are made to order which means that they are cut to exact measurements and fit perfectly on your windows without leaving gaps where light can shine in. This isn’t true for the pre-made blinds and shades found in big box stores.

The other way that custom window blinds and shades are more environmentally friendly than mass-produced alternatives is that they last longer. This is because they are designed and tested to endure longer than ready-made window coverings, reducing the number of replacements needed over their lifespan and lowering their overall environmental impact.

Many of the materials used in custom window blinds and shades are also eco-friendly. Bamboo and woven wood shades, for example, are made from natural, renewable resources and provide a stylish aesthetic that coordinates with any interior design scheme. In addition, many manufacturers now offer a wide range of colors and finishes for their custom blinds, including paints and stains that match trim color precisely, as well as fabrics with coordinating designs.

For those who are looking to make a truly green choice, cellular shades offer a green alternative that utilizes post-consumer recycled plastic and thermal polymers to create the cells that insulate your windows. These cellular shades are made in the USA and are backed by a lifetime warranty, making them an eco-friendly choice that is backed by a company with a commitment to sustainability.

The best way to recycle your old window blinds and shades is to donate them to a clothing donation center, or give the fabric or slats to a school program to use for art projects. If you can’t repurpose them, aluminum blinds can be recycled through most scrap and recycling facilities. Be sure to remove the headrail and cords from your blinds before you recycle them so that they can be properly sorted by the facility.

Dental Implants Las Vegas is the most natural-looking, comfortable, and durable replacement for missing teeth. When properly cared for, they last a lifetime.

Unlike traditional bridges, which require the filing down of adjacent teeth, dental implants replace the root to prevent bone loss. This prevents the sunken-in appearance and bite problems that can occur when teeth are lost.

One of the biggest benefits that dental implants offer is their natural look. The dental crown that the implant rests on is fashioned to look like your natural tooth, so it will blend in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth and contribute to a healthy, balanced smile. Unlike dentures, which can be bulky and have unsightly metal clasps, dental implants have no such distractions. This makes them an attractive alternative for those who are tired of the hassles associated with wearing dentures or don’t want to have good teeth shaved down to wear a tooth-supported bridge.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, dental implants are enduring and durable, and they can potentially last a lifetime with regular oral hygiene. They also don’t require nearby natural teeth to be shaved down, which can improve oral health by avoiding the potential for bacteria and fungus to grow in hard-to-reach spaces under dentures. Brushing and flossing around dental implants will eliminate such issues and keep the replacement tooth and the surrounding gums healthy.

The implant itself is very small, and it resembles a screw or post with holes in the base. It is made from titanium, which is an ideal material because it is biocompatible and highly durable. Titanium is also lightweight, so it doesn’t interfere with jaw movement and speech.

After an initial consultation, a customized treatment plan is created for each patient. This involves a thorough examination and discussion of the patient’s medical history. Patients with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may not be candidates for implant surgery due to the complications that can arise from these conditions. Those who use tobacco or have uncontrolled periodontitis will also likely not be able to receive dental implants.

While some people may be able to tell that an individual has an artificial tooth, the majority of individuals will not. This is because the implant crown will be shaped and colored to match the surrounding teeth, and it will look very natural. Even if someone notices the difference, they will probably have to take a close look and be willing to question the person about their dental history to make the connection.

They Prevent Bone Loss

The loss of teeth leads to a cycle in which the remaining teeth deteriorate and eventually fall out, leading to further bone density loss and affecting the structure of the jaw and temporomandibular joints (TMJ). Dental implants are the only tooth restorations that stop this destructive process.

The titanium used in dental implants has an incredible ability to encourage bone growth around it, similar to the way a natural tooth root does. This process is known as osseointegration, and it is the key to dental implant success. Titanium is bio-compatible, which means your body treats it like a natural part of your teeth and bones. In addition to this biological benefit, titanium is strong and durable. In fact, it can withstand the same chewing forces as your natural teeth, and they will not shift or become loose over time.

Because of this incredible ability to preserve jaw bone, dental implants can replace a single missing tooth, several adjacent teeth or all the teeth in a mouth. They also help prevent the bone loss that would otherwise occur in the areas of the missing teeth, which can affect the overall appearance and health of your smile.

In the past, patients with insufficient jaw bone were not considered good candidates for dental implants, but advances in diagnostics and dental technology have made them possible for many more people than ever before. Your dentist will take a full medical history and X-rays of your mouth and jaw to determine whether you have sufficient bone density to support an implant. If not, a bone graft can be used to add new bone tissue. This can be done using natural bone from another area in the body or a synthetic bone-substitute material. If you are missing a tooth in the upper back of your mouth, a sinus lift may be necessary to raise the floor of the sinus cavity and provide enough bone to support an implant.

The standard method for measuring bone loss around implants is to compare marginal bone levels on radiographs taken at the first and last visits after implantation. However, the precision of this measurement is about 0.2 mm due to variations in exposure geometry, radiation dose and observer perception.

They Prevent Shifting Teeth

After losing a tooth, the surrounding teeth may drift toward the empty socket. In some cases, this can lead to long-term oral health problems like TMJ disorders and uneven wear patterns on your teeth. Using dental implants to replace your missing teeth prevents the surrounding teeth from shifting and protects the remaining bone in your jaw.

Dental implant patients often report less pain and swelling after surgery than patients who have teeth removed or get dentures. However, the surgical process can cause some discomfort for a few days or weeks as the gums heal. Patients can manage pain with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

If you feel your dental implant moving shortly after the procedure, it’s important to call your dentist right away. If left untreated, a problem with the implant known as peri-implantitis can develop. This condition affects the tissues around your implant and can actually lead to implant failure or infection.

Peri-implantitis can be caused by a number of factors, including poor oral hygiene and failing to visit your dentist regularly. It can also occur if your implant is made of titanium, which some people are allergic to. In rare cases, your doctor may need to remove the implant and replace it with a different material.

In the meantime, make sure to clean your dental implant and follow any other recommended routines for your home care. If you do notice that your dental implant moves, schedule an appointment with us at PS Dental right away to diagnose the issue and determine if it’s treatable.

Dental implants are a popular and effective tooth replacement option for many patients who have lost teeth due to an accident, disease, or natural ageing. They can give you back the confidence to smile without feeling self-conscious about gaps in your teeth or having to worry about your loose or uncomfortable dentures. They also help you maintain a full set of teeth for optimal chewing and overall oral health. Dental implants can even preserve the remaining bone in your jaw, preventing it from deteriorating as you lose more and more teeth.

They Preserve Your Jawbone

In addition to the cosmetic benefits of dental implants, they also help preserve bone density. The titanium material that they are made of is biocompatible, and the body treats it like a natural part of the jaw and gums. This is what allows the implants to bond permanently with the bone, a process known as osseointegration. This is not the case with other tooth replacement treatments, such as dentures and dental bridges, which don’t promote bone growth.

The natural tooth’s roots and surrounding bone are stimulated by biting and chewing. This stimulation tells the body that the jaw bone needs to stay dense and strong. When a tooth is missing, this stimulation stops, and the jaw starts to weaken and deteriorate. This can lead to other health problems, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

Dental implants replace both the root and the crown of a tooth, reestablishing the full function of your teeth. This includes the ability to chew and speak normally. Dental implants can even help prevent facial changes due to tooth loss, such as a sunken face and a collapsed jawline.

However, the success of dental implant surgery depends on the patient’s overall health and their commitment to conscientious home care. Smoking and other unhealthy habits can interfere with the healing process and make patients more prone to infection. In addition, it’s important to see your dentist regularly to ensure that your gums are healthy.

The best candidates for dental implants have adequate jaw bone density and good general health. They should be free of chronic illness, such as diabetes or leukemia, that could interfere with the recovery process from surgery. Additionally, smokers should quit smoking to improve their chances of a successful dental implant procedure.

Pests are organisms that damage or spoil crops, property or living areas. They also carry diseases and cause a variety of illnesses in people and animals.

Preventing pests can be done through a combination of tactics. The first step is learning about the specific pest and its control options. Contact Pest Control Meridian ID now!

Pest identification is the first step in developing a pest management program. It ensures that the correct control method is used and reduces the risk of non-target effects, such as killing beneficial organisms or damaging the environment. It also enables the selection of cultural practices, tools, and pesticides that are specific to the pest.

A pest is any organism that negatively impacts human activities, including agriculture, forestry, recreation, or home and garden use. An organism may become a pest for many reasons, such as its ability to cause disease or interfere with the growth and/or quality of crops, plants or animals. It may also cause economic or aesthetic problems.

Insects are the most common pests. Some insects, such as flies, mosquitos and caterpillars, are considered pests because they can transmit diseases to humans. Other insects such as wood-boring beetles, ants, and aphids, damage crops by chewing leaves, stems, or fruit. Invasive species and weeds are also considered pests as they compete with crops for space and nutrients.

Properly identifying the pest is important as it provides valuable information regarding the life cycle and biology of the organism. In addition, it allows for the development of management strategies that are specific to the pest’s needs and environment – thus minimizing potential side-effects.

There are a number of resources available for pest identification, such as online guides and printed reference books. These tools can be helpful for beginners or experienced growers alike.

To help identify pests, consider their morphological characteristics – such as size, shape, color, number of legs or wings, antennae, and mouthparts. The location, timing and type of damage observed also provide valuable information.

UF/IFAS offers several online pest identification guides. These guides can be used to help determine whether an insect is a nuisance pest that requires treatment, or if the pest can be tolerated and should not be removed.

Pest Prevention

Pest prevention aims to keep pests from invading homes or businesses. It is usually done through a combination of strategies, with vigilance in checking for signs of infestation and modifying cleaning practices that don’t invite pests. It also includes identifying possible entry points and sealing them, such as keeping exterior doors shut and closing gaps around utility lines. It also means storing food in tightly-covered containers, disposing of garbage regularly and removing it promptly from the property, and keeping landscaping away from structures.

Clutter provides places for pests to breed and hide and makes them more difficult to get rid of. It is important to clear away clutter, such as stacks of newspapers or cardboard, in addition to caulking cracks and crevices to prevent pests from entering buildings. Garbage should be stored in tightly-covered receptacles and the home’s foundation, roof and utility lines should be inspected regularly for openings.

It is also important to learn as much as possible about a particular pest, including its lifespan and life cycle. Knowing these details can help determine when an action plan is needed. For example, if pests are found in a business, it might be possible to take action only once their population reaches an unacceptable level—or even eliminate the problem completely with the right biological, cultural or chemical controls.

Pest control involves a complex mix of natural, biological, chemical, mechanical and physical methods. It is designed to protect the environment, human health and economic well-being from organisms such as bacteria, fungus, rodents, birds, nematodes, insects, plants and weeds that interfere with occupied spaces, disturb or destroy property, damage or displace desirable species, and transmit diseases to humans.

A plant that is prone to pest problems can be costly in many ways, from lost production and decreased revenue to product recalls and negative publicity. So it is understandable that facility and quality assurance managers, as well as upper management, want to put in place pest-control programs that are as effective as possible. These programs will allow them to be proud of the products they produce and to avoid embarrassing situations that could damage their reputation.

Pest Control Methods

The goal of pest control is to protect a crop, garden, forest or home from damage by controlling the number of pests. This is achieved by using tactics that cause as little harm as possible to everything except the pests themselves. Pest control methods fall into three categories: prevention, suppression and eradication. Prevention is the best method of pest control because it keeps pests from entering or damaging property.

Preventive measures include physical, mechanical and biological controls. These include removing food, water and shelter sources to prevent pests from living or feeding near desirable plants and homes. Store clothing and linens in plastic bags or boxes to keep moths away, remove roosting sites such as woodpiles and stacks of firewood, and ensure doors and windows are properly sealed. Water sources such as leaky pipes should be promptly repaired.

Biological control uses natural enemies, such as parasites, predators and pathogens to kill or reduce the population of targeted pests. This can be supplemented with chemical control techniques, such as releasing more of the enemy or using pheromones or juvenile hormones to disrupt reproduction and development.

Chemical control includes insecticides, herbicides and fungicides. These kill or inhibit the growth of targeted pests and are usually categorized according to the kind of pest they are intended to target: insecticides, for example, kill insects; herbicides, kill unwanted vegetation; fungicides, control fungi; and rodenticides, kill rodents.

Other chemicals, such as fumigants, can be used to suffocate or dehydrate pests. These are generally more toxic than other pest control methods and may pose a greater threat to humans and pets. Fumigation can also be extremely expensive.

Threshold-based decision-making is a key part of an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy. Regular scouting and monitoring allows you to determine whether or not pest numbers are high enough to warrant action. Knowing a bit about pest biology and ecology can help you decide the right time to act. It also helps you select the most appropriate control method and to apply it with precision, minimizing risk to non-target organisms.

Pesticides

Pesticides are chemicals that prevent, destroy or repel pests. A pesticide can be an insecticide, herbicide or fungicide. It can be liquid or powdered, or a mixture of these. A pesticide must be toxic to the specific organism that it is intended to control. It is also necessary that the pesticide be not harmful to other organisms (including humans) or the environment.

The chemical component of a pesticide that controls the pest is called the active ingredient. Liquid pesticides are usually mixed with water or petroleum products to form solutions, emulsions or suspensions. These mixtures are then applied as spot treatments, crack and crevice sprays, mists or fogs in confined areas or general sprays to larger areas. Liquid pesticides are applied with aerosol dispensers, hand-held compressed air sprayers, backpack sprayers or motorized spray units.

When using pesticides, remember to read and follow the label instructions and safety warnings carefully. Ensure that the area to be treated is well ventilated, and never apply more than what is recommended on the label. Over-application can waste the pesticide and contaminate the environment with excess chemicals.

Whenever possible, use nonchemical pest control methods before applying pesticides. Baits, traps and weed killers are safer than sprays, and they generally don’t leave residual chemicals that can be transferred to people or pets. Avoid spraying in windy conditions, which can carry the pesticide to areas where it is not needed or wanted.

Always be careful when working with any pesticide, especially in and around the home. Keep children and pets away from areas being treated. Cover or remove pet food and water dishes. Thoroughly wash any surfaces where pesticides may come in contact with food or food preparation utensils. Avoid spraying near heating or ventilation ducts.

Some pesticides, such as space sprays, are quick acting and break down quickly in the environment. Others, such as termite treatments or surface sprays, linger in the environment for days or even weeks after they are applied.

If a person is exposed to a pesticide, first rinse the skin and clothing with clean, running water. Be sure to rinse under the eyes, in case the pesticide gets into the eyes. If eye irritation persists, seek medical assistance. In addition, see the OSH Answers document on Pesticide Hazards and Effects on Humans for further information on how to minimize exposure hazards when working with pesticides.