Is a pest control service safe during my pregnancy?

People who normally accept the use of pesticides in their environment can become very concerned about pesticides usage when they discover they are going to be parents.

A father-to-be can be concerned about pesticide usage and how it will affect both the mother and the baby. A mother-to-be is also experiencing emotional and physiological changes which can make her more sensitive to a variety of substances and odours. Most importantly, the pregnant woman becomes aware that her environment is now also her baby’s environment.

Questions asked during pregnancy?

• Are these pesticides safe around me? Do pesticides present higher risks of birth defects? All pesticides used by Mostert Pest Control are registered with the Department of Agriculture and approved by law Act no.36 of 1947. The products are continuously examined for relationships between the pesticide and evidence of birth defects in animals and humans. No such products will ever be allowed in South Africa. If you use a SAPCA member company, you’re assured that the correct pesticides will be used.
• Can I stay in the house while treatment is taking place? Resident must vacate their house for 4 to 6 hours after treatment is done. After this period the house will be 100% safe. If baits are used, it will be placed out of reach of toddlers. Rodent bait is placed inside tamperproof boxes which make it impossible for children or pets to get to.

Safety guidelines followed to ensure safe environment for you as the customer:

• All pesticides sold in the R.S.A carry a Department of Agriculture registration number on the label meaning it is safe to use in accordance with the directions on the label.
• Before we apply a pesticide (indoors or outdoors), children, pregnant woman, people suffering with asthma and pets must be removed from the area and they must be kept away for at least 2-3 hours.
• We don't spray outdoors on windy or rainy days. We take precautions to keep the pesticide from drifting or running off into the vegetable garden, pool, or neighbour's yard.
• We ask customers to remove or cover food during indoor applications.
• Communication is very important. We ensure that our clientele know exactly what was done during service. All do’s and don’ts are communicated to our clientele.
• Mostert Pest Control is a member of SAPCA (South African Pest Control Association). SAPCA guidelines are followed in all services rendered.