Expert: Profile Closed - 1/10/2010

Question


I  was just notified that our apt building will be tented for termites and Vikane gas will be used. We are concerned about our and our daughter's health with such a chemical. We are also wondering how much precaution is necessary--e.g. removing couches/beds/bedding/toys, cleaning the carpet--or whether the gas truly does dissipate fully.

I also keep a garden in the adjacent lot and wonder about safety of eating from it after tenting

If you know or know anyone I could talk to about this, please let me know.

Thanks very much.

Answer
Hi, and thank you very much for your question.

I provide a link below which is from the makers of Vikane which covers most of the points you enquired about:

http://www.dowagro.com/ppm/vikane/questions.htm

My own knowledge of Vikane is not comprehensive, but this is a general overview:

Vikane is a trade name of the chemical compound Sulfuryl fluoride. This compound is toxic to humans when directly inhaled, but experience over 40 years of use suggests that if a house is thoroughly aired after fumigation with this compound, little hazard remains. No food or pets should be left in a position where they can be exposed to the gas, and so with reference to your garden, you need to obtain assurance from your fumigator that the fumes will not escape to the area of your garden during the process.

The gas is chemically not very reactive, so the main hazard will be any areas in the house where gas may have entered and not yet fully cleared out. Again, ask the fumigators exactly how they intend to clear the house of fumes. Make sure that you open all cupboards, doors, windows etc when you are allowed back in to ensure that no pockets of the fumigant remain.

If the process is carried out well, then you should have nothing to worry about, but get assurance from the apt. manager or similar that the company doing the fumigation is accredited and licensed - if it is, then the contractors will have a legal duty to ensure that no traces of the compound remain after fumigation.

The symptoms that someone may have inhaled Vikane are weakness, dizziness and sickness - if you feel at all unwell after the process, go to a doctor at once and mention that you have had Vikane fumigation in your apartment.

I'm sorry I can't be of more direct help, as I said, my experience of Vikane use is limited. If you have any questions after reading the manufaturer's site link above, or if you aren't satisfied with the answers given by your apt. manager or the fumigation company, get back in touch and I'll be happy to help.

Have a happy, healthy 2010!

Best Wishes, George