Termite Basics and Inspection Recertification | Mississippi Approved

 

Termite Basics: Control and Prevention

This training focuses specifically on termites. The goal is not to provide comprehensive training in any particular area of termite control, but rather to provide a wide-ranging overview of information and issues related to termite control in Mississippi.  Because they are already licensed and professionally employed and experienced in this area, participants will already be familiar with most of the information presented, but hopefully, most participants will also gain a few bits of new information about termites to add to their knowledge base. 


IPM for Termite Prevention

Termites are one of the most destructive pests in the United States. They are responsible for more than 2 million dollars in damage each year. In many states, building codes require the use of liquid termiticide when constructing new structures. But there are several common-sense IPM practices that can be implemented to make a structure less inviting to termites from the start. This course will provide a review of IPM principles, termite biology, and several solid IPM practices to make any structure less attractive to termites.

After completing this chapter participants will be able to:

  • Explain the principles of Integrated Pest Management and how they apply to termite prevention.
  • Describe the life cycle of a termite and be familiar with termite behavior.
  • Recommend several IPM practices that can reduce the risk of a structure being invaded by termites.

 


Termite Inspection and Treatment

Inspecting and treating for termites can be a difficult process. Being familiar with common types of construction is extremely helpful. The following course is a tour of the Mississippi State University Extension termite training facility. The facility consists of 12 different stations, each representing an area of a building or home where termites could enter the structure. The regulations referenced by the presenters are Mississippi regulations for termite treatments. It is the responsibility of the applicator to be familiar with the rules and regulations regarding termite treatment and all pesticide applications for their state.

After completing this chapter participants will be able to:

  • Identify key areas to inspect for termite damage or entry
  • Identify common treatment failure points at each station
  • Discuss treatment strategies for each station

 


Pesticide Labeling

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 chapter 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.