18/05/2018
Warning on use of residential pesticides
In the context of increasing suffocation cases reported in the emirate of Dubai recently, the Pest Control Section of Dubai Municipality warned against the consequences resulting in the use of pesticides in houses without the proper supervision of concerned authorities.
Eng. Hisham Abdul Rahman Al-Yahya, Head of Pest Control Section said it is danger to use toxic and deadly aluminium phosphide in homes for the eradication of rats and insects as this pesticide reacts with moisture, air, and produces phosphine gas. The lack of awareness and misuse may result in poisoning or death.
‘Consumers buy aluminium phosphide, which is usually in the form of tablets in gray colour from individuals not licensed to sell or circulate or not qualified to use. It is packed in cheap plastic bags with no warning labels on them,’ Hisham said.
Ms. Zuhoor Hussain Al Sabbagh, Director of Public Health Services Department explained that the Local Order No 11 of 2003 on public health and safety of the community to Article 37 prohibits importing and trading of pesticides without permission from the competent authority. In addition, the pesticides should comply with the specifications approved by the department, in accordance with the health and environmental standards and technical requirements for the handling of such pesticides and the prevention of risks.
‘The aluminium phosphide to be used only in specific areas by the licensed specialists. The department prepares educational programs designed to raise awareness on the importance of identifying the factors and wrong practices carried out by bachelors and families, causing the spread of rodents and insects at home,’ Zuhoor said.
‘It also provides precautions to prevent the spread of pests at home, as well as educates about pesticide use such as following the instructions and making sure the information on the package including trade name, manufacturer, address, country of origin, production date, expiry, illustrations, appropriate warning, safety guidelines for children and first aid,’ she added.