There are many considerations when using rodenticides as a method of control. Not only during actual use of the poisons do safety precautions have to be exercised, but also with storage, transport and disposal of poisons as well.
Storing Rodenticides:
Keep all poisons secured and out of reach of children and pets.
1. Store in original, tightly closed containers
2. Place in storage area away from non-pesticide material (food, animals) and protected from weather and temperature extremes. Follow all storage directions on container.
3. Display signs warning of pesticide storage.
Transporting Rodenticides:
1. Pesticides must be transported in a separate compartment from driver and passengers.
2. Be sure containers are secure and closed tightly.
3. Some pesticides are further restricted by hazardous material transportation requirements (I.e. hazmat placards, special license or permit, etc.) For more information, contact the California Highway Patrol or California Public Utilities Commission.
Disposal of Rodenticide containers: Follow label instructions! When empty, most rodenticide containers can be disposed of in a sanitary landfill. Contact your Agricultural Commissioner for local or regional regulations on pesticide container disposal.
Disposal of Carcasses: Carcass Disposal Photo Album
Rodents should be collected and disposed of by way of deep burying (10-12 inches below the surface), burning or discarding in the trash.
Follow these directions for sanitary disposal of carcasses:
1. Place an inverted (inside out) Ziploc bag over your hand to act as a barrier when picking up the carcass.
2. Grab the carcass through the bag.
3. Invert the bag around the carcass.
4. Zip closed.
5. Wrap in newspaper or plastic.
6. Discard in trash.
Personal Protection Equipment for rodenticides:
Gloves: should generally be worn when applying rodenticides. Some labels do not require gloves if long handle spoons are used to apply bait. Consult the label for more information.
Bodywear: 1-2 piece garment of closely woven fabric that covers all parts of body except the head, hands and feet.
Eye protection : sometimes eye protection is required. Consult the label for more information
Respiratory protection : sometimes respirators are required. Consult the label for more information.
Foot protection : footwear is required. There are no specific requirements, although appropriate, sturdy footware is recommended.