Thermotech Environmental Inc. would like to inform you of the benefits of using a company that has been in business using the Thermapure heat treatment for over 3 years. First off we stand behind our work to rid your structure of the pests that have caused you grief. The Thermapure Heat process is a patented system that when applied properly by trained staff has great advantages of not only getting rid of the bugs, eggs and all stages of the pest. It will also rid the structure of other harmful items such as VOCs, Allergens, bacteria and mould. This process is highly effective if both parties do the required process to get the job done. We encourage people to call us when doing the prep as 5 or 10 minutes on the phone will benefit greatly for a successful treatment. Thermotech provides a detailed prep sheet which must be followed very closely or the job or warranties can be effected. When the workers come on site, they will carefully go through the structure with you and ask questions about the prep process. If we find areas of concern with the prep, they will be explained to you and we can decide to rebook the treatment or come to a decision on implied warranties. Thermotech want to be honest with you up front so there is no confusion after. If we can not get the heat to an area the bed bugs are hiding then we can not effectively treat the structure properly.
Lately there are companies that have started up which do the heat treatment but some of these companies do not have the proper training to do the job properly. They have just watched the You-Tube videos and purchased or rented some equipment to try and do the job. We are now getting calls from people or organisations that stated a heat treatment was done by some other company and they still have the problem. There are also call which state that this item was damaged due to heat or improper handling of the items. One person called and said the workers on site took a lot of items out of the structure which should have been treated. Her biggest complaint was that her computer and laptop were literally thrown into a shed behind her house. When she phoned the company to complain, she was mocked and told she did not know what she was talking about. When she told them she had the evidence, they hung up on her and would not respond to her any further. This all comes down to companies that do not know what they are doing and the person that looses is the client.
Most of these companies have a very limited or non-existent warranty. These companies are just after the money and then will disappear. This bothers us greatly as it is giving the process a bad rap which when done properly has many great benefits. It is known that this process is not cheap and therefore should be done properly. Ask the company you are dealing with if they use the Thermapure Heat process or which process or equipment they use. Also ask them if they have been trained and their success rate and warranties.
I would like to add that warranties are a two way street as they protect you but also protect the companies. Bed bugs are hitchhikers and this is how they will get into your structure. Most cases we are called back to , we investigate closely and find in most cases the pest has been reintroduced back into the unit. This is not covered under any warranty and is called cross contamination. Non-ethical companies will always use this as an excuse and do no investigation into the cause of the complaint.
Their line is "Sorry you brought them back in, too bad for you!" Another good selling trick is the company will have a canine to first identify the issue, then use the same dog to clear the issue. Thermotech does not own a canine for this fact. We recommend the 2 independent Canine inspectors in the area. It is their job to properly identify if the bugs are present. You can always get them back to clear the job after the treatment. Thermapure warned us during training that if you have your own canine, that you had better have an independent source clear the area after treatment
I wish to apologise for the rambling on but it really gets me heated that as always in today's society that a few spoil it for the rest. Thermotech really believes in the Thermapure Heat process as great alternative to the war on these pests and has the added benefit of being "Chemical Free". It is hard to watch other companies spoil the treatment process due to not being trained properly. We have proven time and time again that heat treatment works with out any chemicals and the health benefits are an added plus.
Apartment Fire caused by Heat Treatment -July 12th, 2011
The cause of the fire has been reportedly caused by the direct-fired propane heater set on the balcony along with 2 - 100 lbs. propane tanks to supply the fuel. Thermotech does not use any propane fired heaters of any type. We use two types of heaters to apply the Thermapure Heat process and everything is Diesel fired. The first heater we use for homes or apartments up to 3 stories is an in-direct fired heater that has the heat chamber in the unit and forces fresh air past the heat exchanger. The hot air is then forced into the structure to heat the structure to the required temperature to kill all forms of the pest. The second heater style we use is an electric heater that is triple protected for over heating and also fused against any electrical shorts. This is like using an extremely large hair dryer. All the power for these heaters is supplied by a diesel fuelled generator placed near the structure and connected by large extension cords.
This was an unfortunate occurrence and our hearts go out to the injured and the displaced residence but Thermotech has been treating structures for the last 3 years without any incidents. Thermotech uses only safe equipment to prevent any occurrence of flame inside he structure and along with properly trained employees results in a high safe success rate.
Terminology - Direct Fired heater - the flame is in the incoming air path which forces all the exhaust and the heat into the structure.
In-Direct Fired Heater - The flame is confined in a heat exchanger and air is forced passed the heat exchanger into the structure. All the exhaust is vented outside. This is very similar to the furnace in your house but on a larger scale.
This information was copied from the Edmonton Journal Website.
EDMONTON - A heater being used to exterminate bed bugs caused the major fire at a downtown apartment building last week, officials confirmed Monday.
The heater was fuelled by a propane tank. The fire started when the heater ignited combustible material in a fourth-floor suite.
Four people from the same family were injured during the fire at the four-storey Royal Scot apartment building at 105th Avenue and 92nd Street on July 12.
Residents reported hearing an explosion during the blaze, which about 60 firefighters battled.
Damage estimates are up by $1 million since last week, now totalling $4.5 million.
lcuthbertson@edmontonjournal.com
This was an unfortunate occurrence and our hearts go out to the injured and the displaced residence but Thermotech has been treating structures for the last 3 years without any incidents. Thermotech uses only safe equipment to prevent any occurrence of flame inside he structure and along with properly trained employees results in a high safe success rate.
Terminology - Direct Fired heater - the flame is in the incoming air path which forces all the exhaust and the heat into the structure.
In-Direct Fired Heater - The flame is confined in a heat exchanger and air is forced passed the heat exchanger into the structure. All the exhaust is vented outside. This is very similar to the furnace in your house but on a larger scale.
This information was copied from the Edmonton Journal Website.
EDMONTON - A heater being used to exterminate bed bugs caused the major fire at a downtown apartment building last week, officials confirmed Monday.
The heater was fuelled by a propane tank. The fire started when the heater ignited combustible material in a fourth-floor suite.
Four people from the same family were injured during the fire at the four-storey Royal Scot apartment building at 105th Avenue and 92nd Street on July 12.
Residents reported hearing an explosion during the blaze, which about 60 firefighters battled.
Damage estimates are up by $1 million since last week, now totalling $4.5 million.
lcuthbertson@edmontonjournal.com
© Copyright (c) The Edmonton Journal
Bed Bugs carry Disease - New Study from Thermapure
This is the new study from Thermapure released on June 7th, 2011.
This are the links for the complete document. http://www.cnbc.com/id/43309735
Scientific Link Found in ThermaPure Supported Study
Demonstrates Bed Bugs Are Carrying and
Exposing Disease to Humans
Study Also Finds Engineered Heat or “Structural Pasteurization” Most Effective Treatment to
Kill Bed Bugs Plus Microbes That Cause Disease
Patent Thermapure Heat Process
Thermotech Environmental Inc. is the only Thermapure Licensee provider with local offices in the Edmonton Area. We have been providing this service of a One-Time Chemical Free process to the area for over two years. We have a very high success rate due to the training we have received from Thermapure. We are certified as Heat Technicians by ThermaPure. The Certification training includes the appropriate use of heating equipment, monitoring temperatures, and protection of heat sensitive items. This system is patented in the US and in Canada. There are some Pest control companies that are just buying some heaters and figure they can provide this service. We have found out from people trying the other companies that they are not as trained as our staff and failure rate is higher or it does not work at all. We have had reported cases to us that after treatment from another company, that live bugs were still seen running around. They asked them why and they were told “Don’t worry they will die.” This was not the case as we got the calls days after treatment and then had to go in and treat the unit properly. The process does take approximately 8 hrs. to complete.
Thermapure has launched an Infringement of Patent suite in the US against various companies.
The suites can viewed at http://news.priorsmart.com/thermapure-v-temp-air-lYh/#pat-6327812 which is one of several against these companies. ThermaPure has been successful in prior infringement cases. In one case the patents were upheld and in another case the technology was determined to be valid. One of these cases was a jury trial in U.S. Federal court.
The main point of the above infringement suite is that companies that are just starting up and doing the heat process may be infringing on ThermaPure’s patents. Thermapure is aggressive in protecting its patents and other intellectual property. Companies or entities that hire contractors or subcontractors that are infringing on intellectual property may be determined to have infringed by inducement. In other words the hiring company is not actually infringing, but the company they have hired may be an infringer, therefore, they may be inducing infringement.
Thermotech Environmental, Inc. is licensed to provide the Thermapure technology. We are trained and Certified by Thermapure. We have completed hundreds of successful projects and have satisfied customers. We have invested both time and money to provide you with the best possible combination of equipment and knowledge and can provide the best solution to your bed bug problems.
Thermapure has launched an Infringement of Patent suite in the US against various companies.
The suites can viewed at http://news.priorsmart.com/thermapure-v-temp-air-lYh/#pat-6327812 which is one of several against these companies. ThermaPure has been successful in prior infringement cases. In one case the patents were upheld and in another case the technology was determined to be valid. One of these cases was a jury trial in U.S. Federal court.
The main point of the above infringement suite is that companies that are just starting up and doing the heat process may be infringing on ThermaPure’s patents. Thermapure is aggressive in protecting its patents and other intellectual property. Companies or entities that hire contractors or subcontractors that are infringing on intellectual property may be determined to have infringed by inducement. In other words the hiring company is not actually infringing, but the company they have hired may be an infringer, therefore, they may be inducing infringement.
Thermotech Environmental, Inc. is licensed to provide the Thermapure technology. We are trained and Certified by Thermapure. We have completed hundreds of successful projects and have satisfied customers. We have invested both time and money to provide you with the best possible combination of equipment and knowledge and can provide the best solution to your bed bug problems.
Thermotech at ASCHA Tradeshow
Thermotech Environmental Inc. attended the Alberta Senior Citizens' Housing Association Trade Show at the Mayfield Trade Center on March 14th and 15th, 2011. The show was very interesting as it allowed us to meet with a lot of managers and owners of these facilities. Most were unaware of our process and feedback indicated they were very pleased with an alternative to the traditional chemical treatment. They were also informed that the air quality in the unit treated would be cleaner and healthier for the tenant. We setup a plastic tote with a heater attached so we could have people feel the temperature required to reach a thermal death point to kill the pests. Most were very surprised with this and it afforded us to spend more time explaining the process and benefits associated with the heat.
I would like to thank the ASCHA for inviting us to attend their Trade Show.
Apartment Complexes or Multi Unit Complexes
These structure are more than likely to have bed bugs spread though them more easily than a single family unit. The reason is the closeness of the units and the number of people in the complex. Also they can travel from unit to unit by various openings in the wall and under the common wall between units. One area of particular concern is the Hot Water heating pipe that goes from room to room. The basic setup is a 1" pipe usually going through a 2" hole. This is a large opening the bug can crawl through from unit to unit or room to room. We need these spots closed off before treatment due to the fact if the bug can escape the heat, they can survive. It is recommend to apply Diatomaceous Earth in these areas and then seal the holes with Spray Foam. We recommend to seal the wall to the floor by removing the baseboard, applying silicone along the gap where the wall meets the floor and applying a light dusting of the Diatomaceous Earth before putting the baseboard on. All this is for is to prevent movement from unit to unit and therefore reducing the spread. Another conduit through the building is the water pipes and drain pipes in the building. It is also recommended to seal these holes as well.
Allot of this is for an education purpose and though our process we come across various items that are good to pass along. Education is the big point here and the more we learn the quicker we can respond and treat the situation properly. Here is an scenario we ran into. Treatment of 25 rooms was done to a hotel and all was good for about 6 months. The first treatment was done in May and all was good through the summer and when fall came around, 3 particular rooms kept getting bugs in them every 2 months. It was hard to believe that people could always bring them back into those 3 rooms. A close inspection of the room found mouse dropping behind the baseboard and we traced the problem to a large hole under one of the common walls for electrical service. The hotel arranged to seal this hole, first by packing with steel wool and then spray foaming it in place. The steel wool prevents the mice from chewing the foam and gaining access. These 3 rooms were treated again and the problem was solved. Further investigation on the Internet confirmed that mice can transport the pest through the structure.
Another point I would like to make is the way the Chemical companies are doing their treatment. They must obviously know their product spreads the bug through the complex. This is why they are treating a total of 9 unit to treat one single unit. They are HOPING to trap the bug !! Seems odd as we can treat the one unit and not spread them through the building, provided this is the only unit affected. We are at a facility now that 3 months ago had 28 room that required treatment. I went to talk with the manager and found out that actually they had 6 rooms that had confirmed bed bugs. They had already committed to the chemical treatment and proceeded that route. So 28 units went through the Chemical process procedure of washing and bagging ALL clothing and moving ALL furniture to the center of the room etc. etc. etc. Now I get a call 2 1/2 weeks ago and we have to go to the complex to treat the ORIGINAL units that had the bugs. Expensive live and learn process as we were originally HALF price to do the treatment due to the fact we only had to treat the affected units.
Thermotech does believe our process is effective and more environmentally friendly as way to control these pests and make the whole process easier to deal with. One Time, Chemical Free process seems like a better solution than trying and hoping to trap the bug.
Allot of this is for an education purpose and though our process we come across various items that are good to pass along. Education is the big point here and the more we learn the quicker we can respond and treat the situation properly. Here is an scenario we ran into. Treatment of 25 rooms was done to a hotel and all was good for about 6 months. The first treatment was done in May and all was good through the summer and when fall came around, 3 particular rooms kept getting bugs in them every 2 months. It was hard to believe that people could always bring them back into those 3 rooms. A close inspection of the room found mouse dropping behind the baseboard and we traced the problem to a large hole under one of the common walls for electrical service. The hotel arranged to seal this hole, first by packing with steel wool and then spray foaming it in place. The steel wool prevents the mice from chewing the foam and gaining access. These 3 rooms were treated again and the problem was solved. Further investigation on the Internet confirmed that mice can transport the pest through the structure.
Another point I would like to make is the way the Chemical companies are doing their treatment. They must obviously know their product spreads the bug through the complex. This is why they are treating a total of 9 unit to treat one single unit. They are HOPING to trap the bug !! Seems odd as we can treat the one unit and not spread them through the building, provided this is the only unit affected. We are at a facility now that 3 months ago had 28 room that required treatment. I went to talk with the manager and found out that actually they had 6 rooms that had confirmed bed bugs. They had already committed to the chemical treatment and proceeded that route. So 28 units went through the Chemical process procedure of washing and bagging ALL clothing and moving ALL furniture to the center of the room etc. etc. etc. Now I get a call 2 1/2 weeks ago and we have to go to the complex to treat the ORIGINAL units that had the bugs. Expensive live and learn process as we were originally HALF price to do the treatment due to the fact we only had to treat the affected units.
Thermotech does believe our process is effective and more environmentally friendly as way to control these pests and make the whole process easier to deal with. One Time, Chemical Free process seems like a better solution than trying and hoping to trap the bug.
CBC News Articles
On Monday Sept. 20th, CBC Radio phoned us and wanted an interview with Thermotech.
Upon arrival, CBC TV also came along. Here are a few of the links to CBC's Website to see
an view the articles. I am not sure how long the links will be good for but try them . You may
have to copy the link into your browser.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/story/2010/09/21/edmonton-bedbugs-count.html
This is at least a positive sign that Edmonton as a city is getting involved. I am sure this
will help but this is far from being over soon. As I have always stated that EDUCATION
is the big factor to get control of this latest pest to invade our homes. Another wish I have
is to make sure the landlord or property managers fill the survey out honestly so we can
really see how bad this is.
Upon arrival, CBC TV also came along. Here are a few of the links to CBC's Website to see
an view the articles. I am not sure how long the links will be good for but try them . You may
have to copy the link into your browser.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/story/2010/09/21/edmonton-bedbugs-count.html
This is at least a positive sign that Edmonton as a city is getting involved. I am sure this
will help but this is far from being over soon. As I have always stated that EDUCATION
is the big factor to get control of this latest pest to invade our homes. Another wish I have
is to make sure the landlord or property managers fill the survey out honestly so we can
really see how bad this is.
HEAT TREATMENT CATCHING ON !
We are getting more and more calls from people saying " After doing lots of research on the Internet, your process is the only one that works"! After explaining that our process is more expensive than conventional methods, the caller says " The benefits far out weight the cost"! We are very happy to hear this and this has greatly increased our work load recently. We are going to be doing allot of travelling to areas where they have been struggling with the pests for the last two years. Conventional methods are not working and these people are desperate to find alternative solutions.
One point that might be of interest to home buyers or Realtors would be to heat treat the home before move in. This would ensure a sanitizes structure from allergens, bacteria and any pests left behind. There is nothing worst than moving into a place and then having to deal with an unexpected surprise. This could be done when the structure is empty between move out and move in. We will be talking to Realtors at the EAA Tradeshow on Sept. 28th to get their reaction to this idea. I can not count how many times I have had calls stating that someone has just moved into a new place and they now have bed bugs. Some people have just bought new furniture and are really upset at the thought of having to throw these items out. I do sympathise with them but explain our method can save all their items from being thrown out. We offer the service if they are moving out to bring the items to the shop and have them heat treated before going to their new place.
As I have always stated that education is the real solution to solving this problem. Speak up and let people know as soon as possible instead of waiting until it is too late. We have to get over the idea that if you have bed bugs, you are a dirty person. This is quite the opposite as we have treated spotless home and hotels that have the pest. We have to remember these little pests are hitchhikers. This is their main mode of transportation around the world. This is definitely not a localized problem as we have seen in all the news reports lately. Thermotech is just providing a positive way of dealing with this problem in a friendly environmental process.
If you have any comments to any of these posts, please feel free to add your thought or email me at admin@tteheat.com .
One point that might be of interest to home buyers or Realtors would be to heat treat the home before move in. This would ensure a sanitizes structure from allergens, bacteria and any pests left behind. There is nothing worst than moving into a place and then having to deal with an unexpected surprise. This could be done when the structure is empty between move out and move in. We will be talking to Realtors at the EAA Tradeshow on Sept. 28th to get their reaction to this idea. I can not count how many times I have had calls stating that someone has just moved into a new place and they now have bed bugs. Some people have just bought new furniture and are really upset at the thought of having to throw these items out. I do sympathise with them but explain our method can save all their items from being thrown out. We offer the service if they are moving out to bring the items to the shop and have them heat treated before going to their new place.
As I have always stated that education is the real solution to solving this problem. Speak up and let people know as soon as possible instead of waiting until it is too late. We have to get over the idea that if you have bed bugs, you are a dirty person. This is quite the opposite as we have treated spotless home and hotels that have the pest. We have to remember these little pests are hitchhikers. This is their main mode of transportation around the world. This is definitely not a localized problem as we have seen in all the news reports lately. Thermotech is just providing a positive way of dealing with this problem in a friendly environmental process.
If you have any comments to any of these posts, please feel free to add your thought or email me at admin@tteheat.com .
New work for Thermotech
We are about to treat 68 units at a Seniors complex in Edmonton which will keep us busy for a few weeks.This is due to the fact I can only place one crew on-site. The other crew has to handle all the other jobs we are getting. Thermotech has attracted a lot of new clients due to the fact many are getting tired of the conventional chemical pest control method. The prep is far more extensive as furniture has to moved to the center of the room and all clothing has to be washed, etc, etc. we do require clothing to be washed in dressers but hanging clothes are fine or preferred. No furniture needs to be moved as our worker will moved the required pieces and move them back when done. Our prep is less and is far more forgiving than the other processes.
Another point of interest is the Bed Bug problem is getting on the news and in papers more and more. This is an article that ran in our local paper and was on the news.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/edmonton/story/2010/08/18/edmonton-bedbugs-apartment.html
Our process is more expensive than the regular process which we do not hide this fact. We are starting to find the people are willing to pay the price due to a much better treatment and less time dealing with the pests and no exposure to chemicals. We are going to BC next month to treat a house which is plagued with pests and has been treated several time through conventional methods and has failed. The client is willing to pay the travel costs and time to get the job done properly. Due to the distance travelled we are going to extend the time of the heat process slightly to ensure every little nook and cranny is heated and the place is completely sanitized.
Please visit our website at http://www.tteheat.com/ then click on Pest Services for all the information about our process.
Another point of interest is the Bed Bug problem is getting on the news and in papers more and more. This is an article that ran in our local paper and was on the news.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/edmonton/story/2010/08/18/edmonton-bedbugs-apartment.html
Our process is more expensive than the regular process which we do not hide this fact. We are starting to find the people are willing to pay the price due to a much better treatment and less time dealing with the pests and no exposure to chemicals. We are going to BC next month to treat a house which is plagued with pests and has been treated several time through conventional methods and has failed. The client is willing to pay the travel costs and time to get the job done properly. Due to the distance travelled we are going to extend the time of the heat process slightly to ensure every little nook and cranny is heated and the place is completely sanitized.
Please visit our website at http://www.tteheat.com/ then click on Pest Services for all the information about our process.
Update to Blog
Sorry for not updating the blog sooner but we have been very busy this past while.
The heat treatment is catching on with lots of people and organisations. Everyone
is seeing the benefits of the heat treatment. We have used it very effectively in
senior centers with the advantage of being chemical free and one time treatment.
The prep for our treatment is also less which helps especially seniors as they do
not have to move heavy furniture and only require the clothing in their dresser
drawers to be washed and bagged.
We would also like to inform everyone that there is someone else in town that
does do the heat treatment but they are limited to about 1000 to 1200 sq. ft being
treated at one time. If it is larger than this it would require a two day treatment.
From comments with people comparing prices, they are higher in cost than us.
Thermotech can treat up to 3500 to 4000 sq. ft in a single day. We also have
been doing this for approx. 2 plus years and treated 1000s of units or structures.
Our treatment has been very effective with a 93 to 96% success rate. The main
call backs we get have been traced to prep or people bring pests back into the unit by
not knowing they took something out that had the pest hidden in the item. There
has been a few problems with Concrete structures due to cracking and the pest
being able to get away from the heat.
Another comment I would like to make is PREP. Our prep sheet does explain
everything quit clearly which must be followed to have a successful treatment.
We have run into situations of poor prep and have done the treatment only to
be called back. This practice has stopped. We will now have a poor prep sheet
that will be filled out and signed by both parties to indicate which areas of concern
we have. The option will be to go ahead with treatment and possibly forfeit the
30 day guarantee or delay treatment. The cost to do the treatment is costly on
both sides and we want to insure everything proceeds smoothly.
The prep sheet can be found at http://www.tteheat.com/ under Pest Services.
Please feel free to post comments or if you have any questions or concerns
just email us at admin@tteheat.com . We will be more than happy to answer
your questions.
The heat treatment is catching on with lots of people and organisations. Everyone
is seeing the benefits of the heat treatment. We have used it very effectively in
senior centers with the advantage of being chemical free and one time treatment.
The prep for our treatment is also less which helps especially seniors as they do
not have to move heavy furniture and only require the clothing in their dresser
drawers to be washed and bagged.
We would also like to inform everyone that there is someone else in town that
does do the heat treatment but they are limited to about 1000 to 1200 sq. ft being
treated at one time. If it is larger than this it would require a two day treatment.
From comments with people comparing prices, they are higher in cost than us.
Thermotech can treat up to 3500 to 4000 sq. ft in a single day. We also have
been doing this for approx. 2 plus years and treated 1000s of units or structures.
Our treatment has been very effective with a 93 to 96% success rate. The main
call backs we get have been traced to prep or people bring pests back into the unit by
not knowing they took something out that had the pest hidden in the item. There
has been a few problems with Concrete structures due to cracking and the pest
being able to get away from the heat.
Another comment I would like to make is PREP. Our prep sheet does explain
everything quit clearly which must be followed to have a successful treatment.
We have run into situations of poor prep and have done the treatment only to
be called back. This practice has stopped. We will now have a poor prep sheet
that will be filled out and signed by both parties to indicate which areas of concern
we have. The option will be to go ahead with treatment and possibly forfeit the
30 day guarantee or delay treatment. The cost to do the treatment is costly on
both sides and we want to insure everything proceeds smoothly.
The prep sheet can be found at http://www.tteheat.com/ under Pest Services.
Please feel free to post comments or if you have any questions or concerns
just email us at admin@tteheat.com . We will be more than happy to answer
your questions.
DIY Treatment Results In Death
Bed bugs are the scourge of most major North American cities and the cost of having a professional service rid them can be cost prohibitive to some. In many of these cases people resort to a Do It Yourself (DIY) approach. Professionals time and again reiterate the importance of reading a pesticide label and following the directions (and safety precautions) precisely. And here is why …
Evaluation of Pesticide Incident Report 2010-1615
Background
Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) collects incident reporting data under the authority of the Pest Control Products Act. If a pesticide manufacturer receives information about an incident involving one of their products, they are required by law to submit that information to the PMRA. All submitted incident reports are made publicly available on the Health Canada website, specifically, on the PMRA Public Registry. It is important to note that the information presented in incident reports reflects the observations and opinion of the person reporting it, and does not include any assessment by Health Canada, nor does it confirm an association between the pesticide and the effects reported.
Health Canada considers the reported information to determine if there are potential health or environmental risks associated with a pesticide and, if necessary, takes corrective action. Such action could range from minor label changes to discontinuation of the product.
Incident Report 2010-1615
Wellmark International received information about an incident related to one of their products, which they submitted to the PMRA on April 29, 2010. The information contained in the incident report indicated that a product containing the active ingredients permethrin and S-methoprene was sprayed between the mattresses and on the perimeter of the floor in a person’s bedroom. The individual slept on the bed the night the product was sprayed and was hospitalized approximately two days later with symptoms including vomiting, chemical taste in the mouth, pneumonia, paralysis, and scarring of the lung tissue. The individual passed away after 18 days of hospitalization. The report indicated that the individual had a history of diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In accordance with the Incident Reporting Regulations classification system, this incident was classified as Human Death. It was also reported that the individual’s daughter, who applied the product, experienced bronchitis, which is considered to be moderate in severity.
As required by the Pest Control Products Incident Reporting Regulations, Wellmark International submitted the incident report to the PMRA and it is posted on the PMRA electronic Public Registry on the Health Canada website.
Health Canada Evaluation
The person who reported this information to Wellmark International was not certain as to the specific product used in this incident. However, it is likely that the product used was one of three domestic-class products registered by Wellmark International for use in Canada: Vet-Kem Siphotrol Forte (PCP Reg. No. 22213), Vet-Kem Siphotrol 1000 Double Action Premise Treatment (PCP Reg. No. 25739) and Vet-Kem Siphotrol 2000 Double Action Premise Treatment (PCP Reg. No. 25582) all containing permethrin and S-methoprene at low concentrations (0.01-0.80%).
Permethrin belongs to the class of insecticides known as pyrethroids. Symptoms of overexposure to pyrethroids in general may include vomiting and irritation of the respiratory tract. S-methoprene is an insect growth regulator that mimics a natural hormone of insects and prevents the maturation and reproduction of young insect pests. S-methoprene has relatively low toxicity and is not associated with adverse reactions in humans.
In this incident, there was no physical evidence, such as laboratory results, available to confirm that exposure to permethrin or S-methoprene had occurred. There may be several other causes of the reported effects that cannot be ruled out. A review of Canadian and U.S. incident reporting information indicated that there is no clear trend for any of the symptoms reported. None of the symptoms reported are expected to result from exposure to S-methoprene. The symptoms of vomiting and chemical taste in the mouth that the individual experienced, as well as the bronchitis experienced by the individual’s daughter, are not inconsistent with the known symptoms of over-exposure to permethrin. However, the more serious symptoms of paralysis, pneumonia and scarring of the lung tissue as well as death are not expected to result from short-term exposure to permethrin.
Health Canada Conclusion
Based on the available information, it is concluded that it is unlikely (where the effect reported is not typical for the suspected pesticide but the possibility that exposure to the pesticide caused the effect cannot be ruled out) that the symptoms of paralysis, pneumonia and scarring of lung tissue, as well as the reported death, are related to exposure to the pesticide product. The health of the individual may have been compromised from other medical issues at the time that the incident occurred; therefore, it is uncertain if the subject’s medical conditions may have been exacerbated by exposure to the pesticide.
It is possible (where there is some correlation between the exposure, the pesticide and the effect) that the vomiting and chemical taste in the mouth reported in the individual that died, and the bronchitis reported in the individual that sprayed the product, were related to exposure to permethrin.
It should be noted that it is not clear what specific product was used in this case. It is also important to note that this incident involved application to a mattress, which is not an approved use for either permethrin or S-methoprene.
The information as noted in the incident will remain in the database and will be routinely re-examined in conjunction with any new data that is received. It is important to note that a product is only registered for use if there is reasonable certainty that no harm will result from exposure to or use of the product as directed on the label.
More information about the Incident Reporting Program is available on Health Canada’s website. Should you require further information please contact the Pesticide Incident Reporting Program.
Article from Bed Bug Resource
Evaluation of Pesticide Incident Report 2010-1615
Background
Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) collects incident reporting data under the authority of the Pest Control Products Act. If a pesticide manufacturer receives information about an incident involving one of their products, they are required by law to submit that information to the PMRA. All submitted incident reports are made publicly available on the Health Canada website, specifically, on the PMRA Public Registry. It is important to note that the information presented in incident reports reflects the observations and opinion of the person reporting it, and does not include any assessment by Health Canada, nor does it confirm an association between the pesticide and the effects reported.
Health Canada considers the reported information to determine if there are potential health or environmental risks associated with a pesticide and, if necessary, takes corrective action. Such action could range from minor label changes to discontinuation of the product.
Incident Report 2010-1615
Wellmark International received information about an incident related to one of their products, which they submitted to the PMRA on April 29, 2010. The information contained in the incident report indicated that a product containing the active ingredients permethrin and S-methoprene was sprayed between the mattresses and on the perimeter of the floor in a person’s bedroom. The individual slept on the bed the night the product was sprayed and was hospitalized approximately two days later with symptoms including vomiting, chemical taste in the mouth, pneumonia, paralysis, and scarring of the lung tissue. The individual passed away after 18 days of hospitalization. The report indicated that the individual had a history of diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In accordance with the Incident Reporting Regulations classification system, this incident was classified as Human Death. It was also reported that the individual’s daughter, who applied the product, experienced bronchitis, which is considered to be moderate in severity.
As required by the Pest Control Products Incident Reporting Regulations, Wellmark International submitted the incident report to the PMRA and it is posted on the PMRA electronic Public Registry on the Health Canada website.
Health Canada Evaluation
The person who reported this information to Wellmark International was not certain as to the specific product used in this incident. However, it is likely that the product used was one of three domestic-class products registered by Wellmark International for use in Canada: Vet-Kem Siphotrol Forte (PCP Reg. No. 22213), Vet-Kem Siphotrol 1000 Double Action Premise Treatment (PCP Reg. No. 25739) and Vet-Kem Siphotrol 2000 Double Action Premise Treatment (PCP Reg. No. 25582) all containing permethrin and S-methoprene at low concentrations (0.01-0.80%).
Permethrin belongs to the class of insecticides known as pyrethroids. Symptoms of overexposure to pyrethroids in general may include vomiting and irritation of the respiratory tract. S-methoprene is an insect growth regulator that mimics a natural hormone of insects and prevents the maturation and reproduction of young insect pests. S-methoprene has relatively low toxicity and is not associated with adverse reactions in humans.
In this incident, there was no physical evidence, such as laboratory results, available to confirm that exposure to permethrin or S-methoprene had occurred. There may be several other causes of the reported effects that cannot be ruled out. A review of Canadian and U.S. incident reporting information indicated that there is no clear trend for any of the symptoms reported. None of the symptoms reported are expected to result from exposure to S-methoprene. The symptoms of vomiting and chemical taste in the mouth that the individual experienced, as well as the bronchitis experienced by the individual’s daughter, are not inconsistent with the known symptoms of over-exposure to permethrin. However, the more serious symptoms of paralysis, pneumonia and scarring of the lung tissue as well as death are not expected to result from short-term exposure to permethrin.
Health Canada Conclusion
Based on the available information, it is concluded that it is unlikely (where the effect reported is not typical for the suspected pesticide but the possibility that exposure to the pesticide caused the effect cannot be ruled out) that the symptoms of paralysis, pneumonia and scarring of lung tissue, as well as the reported death, are related to exposure to the pesticide product. The health of the individual may have been compromised from other medical issues at the time that the incident occurred; therefore, it is uncertain if the subject’s medical conditions may have been exacerbated by exposure to the pesticide.
It is possible (where there is some correlation between the exposure, the pesticide and the effect) that the vomiting and chemical taste in the mouth reported in the individual that died, and the bronchitis reported in the individual that sprayed the product, were related to exposure to permethrin.
It should be noted that it is not clear what specific product was used in this case. It is also important to note that this incident involved application to a mattress, which is not an approved use for either permethrin or S-methoprene.
The information as noted in the incident will remain in the database and will be routinely re-examined in conjunction with any new data that is received. It is important to note that a product is only registered for use if there is reasonable certainty that no harm will result from exposure to or use of the product as directed on the label.
More information about the Incident Reporting Program is available on Health Canada’s website. Should you require further information please contact the Pesticide Incident Reporting Program.
Article from Bed Bug Resource
Is Man's Best Friend Another Weapon In The War On Bed Bugs?
Man’s best friend has been used for years by law enforcement and military agencies to detect drugs, bombs, people and even mould. So why not Bed Bugs?
Dogs have 20 to 40 times the number of nasal receptor cells that humans do, they can detect the tiniest levels of odors, even a few parts per trillion and detect bed bugs through all stages of the life cycle from eggs to nymphs to adults. The National Entomology Scent Detection Canine Association states that there are over 100 dogs currently working in the U.S, with that number increasing and not including Canada.
The fact that they can hide almost anywhere and live for long periods of time with out feeding does not make it easy to find or exterminate these pests. Bed Bug detection dogs can find Bed Bugs in places other methods and humans cannot such as walls, cracks and furniture. The speed that the dog can go through and inspect a building is far quicker than that of a human or any current trap system. There seems to be a few different opinions on how accurate they are from 90% to 95% from what I have found. Making them far superior to other methods that I have seen todate. That being said the dog is only as good as its training and handler. I have personally had customers upset from the use of a certain Bed Bug detection dog. The reason being that when a handler is also the one providing the extermination there can be a conflict of interest. This is the main reason Thermotech will not own a Canine detection dog as we do not want to run into this situation.
Unfortunately this leads to bad reputation not only for dog handlers but for the pest control industry as a whole. There is now two Indendant Canine Detection services in the area. They are listed below.
Stephan Lentz with his dog Comet
Sniffer Dog Services Inc.
email: snifferdog@telus.net
off: 780-458-6793
cell: 780-686-6652
toll free: 888-458-6799
Website: http://www.snifferinc.com/
Sue Trautman with her dog Blue
Sleep Tight K9 Bed Bug Detection
off.: 780-484-0451
Cell: 780-991-4796
Website: www.k9bedbugdetection.ca
email: info@k9bedbugdetection.ca
Dogs have 20 to 40 times the number of nasal receptor cells that humans do, they can detect the tiniest levels of odors, even a few parts per trillion and detect bed bugs through all stages of the life cycle from eggs to nymphs to adults. The National Entomology Scent Detection Canine Association states that there are over 100 dogs currently working in the U.S, with that number increasing and not including Canada.
The fact that they can hide almost anywhere and live for long periods of time with out feeding does not make it easy to find or exterminate these pests. Bed Bug detection dogs can find Bed Bugs in places other methods and humans cannot such as walls, cracks and furniture. The speed that the dog can go through and inspect a building is far quicker than that of a human or any current trap system. There seems to be a few different opinions on how accurate they are from 90% to 95% from what I have found. Making them far superior to other methods that I have seen todate. That being said the dog is only as good as its training and handler. I have personally had customers upset from the use of a certain Bed Bug detection dog. The reason being that when a handler is also the one providing the extermination there can be a conflict of interest. This is the main reason Thermotech will not own a Canine detection dog as we do not want to run into this situation.
Unfortunately this leads to bad reputation not only for dog handlers but for the pest control industry as a whole. There is now two Indendant Canine Detection services in the area. They are listed below.
Stephan Lentz with his dog Comet
Sniffer Dog Services Inc.
email: snifferdog@telus.net
off: 780-458-6793
cell: 780-686-6652
toll free: 888-458-6799
Website: http://www.snifferinc.com/
Sue Trautman with her dog Blue
Sleep Tight K9 Bed Bug Detection
off.: 780-484-0451
Cell: 780-991-4796
Website: www.k9bedbugdetection.ca
email: info@k9bedbugdetection.ca
Bed Bug Infested Mattress
Here are photos from a seniors home we treated in Edmonton. The tenant was unaware of the bed bugs.
Bed Bug Feeding
Below is a youtube video of a Bed Bug feeding.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKlHka0SKlo&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKlHka0SKlo&feature=related
Bed Bug History
Bedbugs are on the long list of animals that have evolved strategies to live in the shadows of human civilization — an inventory that includes everything from the Norway rat to head lice.They've been with us — as far as anyone can tell — since Australopithecus took their first tottering steps on two legs more than four million years ago. And, as with most modern insects, bedbugs likely appeared in more or less their present form about 60 to 50 million years before that.They lack wings and they're often confused with ticks because of their rounded, flat appearance. However, ticks have eight legs and are arachnids — close relatives of the spider. Bedbugs have six legs and they're insects.Bedbug remains were found among Egyptian artifacts dating back more than 3,500 years. The ancient Greeks and Romans complained of them, and Pliny the Elder included them in his 77 AD book on natural history. The ancient Chinese recorded their presence, too.
Information from http://www.pestcontrolcanada.com/
Information from http://www.pestcontrolcanada.com/
Bed Bugs! Attack! *EMMY WINNING DOCUMENTARY*
Looking for more information on Bedbugs check out the video below! They show how to inspect for bedbugs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qx751dNw7Q&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qx751dNw7Q&feature=related
Improper Prep!
Items such as clothing that has been cleaned and bedbug free are to be bagged and sealed. This tenant loaded a number of different items full of BugBugs into garbage bags and then left them open in the unit. Because of this we had to open up the bags and empty them to treat the contents.
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