Our Pesticide-Use Policy
Structural Integrated Pest Management (SPM) uses pesticides only where and when necessary, in strict compliance with product labels, and never as routine “preventive” calendar applications. Decisions are driven by inspection and tailored to each site.
Perspectives on Pesticide Use—and Where We Stand
- “Avoid at all costs.” A view that synthetic organic pesticides are inherently undesirable and replaceable.
- “Only the least hazard, as last resort.” A view that allows use but demands added restrictions (e.g., “least toxic,” “reduced risk”), which are not equivalent terms and place nearly impossible conditions on selection.
- SPM position: Pesticides have a necessary and beneficial role—used only where and when needed, per label, never routinely on a schedule, and with the flexibility to adapt to the unique conditions of each structure.
SPM emphasizes solving the building and behavioral causes of infestations first, integrating products only when indicated by inspection findings. See the SPM framework.
Knowing When Not to Apply
A pivotal professional skill is learning not to apply a pesticide when the only reason would be a failure of imagination. SPM replaces automatic applications with problem definition and targeted intervention. See Inspection First.
Selection Criteria Set During Inspection
Before any application—especially in sensitive environments—selection factors are identified during inspection:
- Target site & surface type
- Pest involved and life stage
- Environmental conditions (e.g., moisture, grease/oil)
- Facility type and operational constraints
- Customer concerns (e.g., odors; presence of children, individuals with asthma, or animals)
Performance matters: highly water-soluble products may be poor choices in excessively moist sites, and many formulations are compromised on greasy/oily surfaces. Some products are unsuitable in specialized settings (e.g., effects of dichlorvos on certain museum artifacts; impacts of some insecticides on experimental animal enzyme systems in research environments). See Regulated Facilities.
Integrated with SPM Tactics
Pesticides are one part of a site-specific mix:
- Sanitation (“clean/remove”)
- Repairs (“fix/seal”)
- Perimeter adjustments
- Customer education & coaching
- Targeted application (when needed)
Applications are directed only where needed and use formulations and techniques that minimize hazard. Documentation feeds a written plan. See Mapping & Documentation.
Site-Specific Flexibility, Not Fixed Schedules
Every structure is unique. SPM preserves flexibility to adapt methods to the building, occupants, activities, and conditions—avoiding fixed-price, fixed-schedule habits that encourage routine product use. See SPM and Technician Training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you apply pesticides on a routine schedule?
No. In SPM, pesticides are never applied as routine calendar “preventive” treatments. They are used only where and when necessary, based on inspection.
What determines which product and method you use?
Selection is set during inspection and considers target site and surface, pest and life stage, environmental conditions (e.g., moisture, grease), facility type, and customer concerns (including odors and sensitive occupants).
How do you minimize hazard?
By applying only where needed, choosing suitable formulations and techniques for the site, and following label directions. We also address the building and behavioral conditions that sustain pests.
Are there places where certain products shouldn’t be used?
Yes. For example, dichlorvos can affect certain museum artifacts, and some insecticides may impact experimental animal enzyme systems in research environments. Sensitive sites require product decisions before any application.
Can moisture or greasy surfaces affect performance?
Yes. Highly water-soluble products may underperform in very moist areas, and many formulations are compromised on greasy/oily surfaces. These conditions guide product choice and placement.
Where do pesticides fit in the overall program?
After inspection defines the problem, we prioritize sanitation, repairs, perimeter changes, and customer actions. Pesticides are added only if/where needed.