Pest Relief (India) Pvt. Ltd.

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Stack Fumigation

Industries such as food grains, spices, tea, tobacco, textile, timber, etc., which are major items in today's export market, need to move bulk quantities and have to regularly store their cargo before shipment. It is during storage that the precious cargoes are at maximum risk from pests, which can cause extensive damage – in the food industry alone this damage is estimated at around 20% or more. The savings that can result from proper pest control measures is truly phenomenal.  Also, the strict quarantine and regulatory requirements of various nations mandate a pest – free shipment.  Of course, the common-sense bottom line is that pest free cargo translates into profit.

Fumigation as a curative control technique for stored commodities is an indispensable requirement.  It is lethal to all stages of insect development – egg, larva, pupa and adult.  It not only kills live infestation, but also helps to check the spread of unwanted pests from one country to another. Fumigation is the application of a pesticide or chemical to a cargo in order to rid it of insect pests. The most common chemicals used in fumigants and are registered in India are Methyl Bromide and Aluminium Phosphide. These are restricted insecticides and only licensed & accredited firm is authorized to use it. All agro based export consignments, however, small or large being transported by air or by sea, must have undergone fumigation treatment to rid the cargo of any insects. 

The art and science of fumigation is highly specialized and technical, requiring a great deal of knowledge, skill and experience.  PRI is dedicated to providing safe, reliable, quality service that reflects responsible stewardship of the environment and relies on the safe and proper application of every product. 

Stack Fumigation

Stack fumigation involves the application of fumigant gases to treat stack of stored commodities, such as pulses, seeds, spices or other bulk products. The primary purpose of stack fumigation is to eliminate or control insects, other pests that may infest and damage these stored goods.

Proper assessment of the stack for the need for fumigation based on pest infestation levels and the type of commodity to be treated to be done precisely. Determine the appropriate fumigant and application method based on the type of pest and the stack's characteristics. Calculate the volume and dimensions of the stack to determine the required dosage of fumigant. Develop a fumigation plan considering safety, regulation and environmental concerns. Before fumigation, the stack is prepared by ensuring cover or by fumigation sheet & tightly sealed to prevent the escape of gas. The stack is sealed tightly to maintain the concentration of the fumigant gas and prevent it from escaping into the environment. Fumigated stack is kept under exposure period for stipulated time period so that fumigation treatment is done effectively and killing all existing insect pests. Methyl bromide Exposure period is 24 to 48 hrs & Aluminum Phosphide exposure period is 120 hrs

After the exposure period is complete, the stack is aerated to remove residual fumigant gases and make the stored goods safe for human consumption or use. Proper aeration is critical to ensure that no harmful residues remain Aeration Period may last for an hour to one day depending up to achieving zero level of fumigant gas. Continuously monitor gas levels and conditions during and after aeration to ensure that the fumigation has been successful. Ensure that the storage area is safe for human entry and use before unsealing the stack.

Maintain detailed records of the fumigation process, including fumigant application, exposure times, and aeration. Comply with local, regional, and national regulations related to fumigation, including safety and environmental standard is the foremost responsibility of the fumigator. It's important to note that the use of specific fumigants and techniques may change over time due to environmental and safety concerns, so it's essential to stay updates on current regulation and best practices in stack fumigation.