and control techniques. Vectors are similarly listed in table 11-2.
The Navy has recognized that the application of pesticides ashore and afloat requires a high level of training to ensure both safety and effectiveness. Three basic types of training are available through the DVECC or EPMU system. The enabling instructions are listed below:
Shipboard Pest Management Specialist (NAVMEDCOMINST 6250.13 series)
Vector Control Specialist (NAVMEDCOMINST 6250.12 series)
Department of Defense Pesticide Control Operator (DODINST 4150.7 series)
Shipboard pest management specialists are corpsmen who are either responsible for the application of pesticides or who are the senior MDR on board Navy vessels. Completion of a 1-day class and one-half day on-the-job training session is required. Attendance at a shipboard class is required annually to keep this category current.
Shipboard pest management specialists are authorized to use noncontrolled standard stock pesticides. These pesticides are ready-to-use formulation (which do not require dilution) and have labels that allow safe application for a variety of situations. The label on the product and the Navy Shipboard Pest Control Manual will guide personnel in the proper use of these pesticides.
Vector control specialists are preventive medicine technicians (PMTs) who have received specialized training in the control of insects and rodents that are vectors of human illness. This training is of special use in preventive medicine support of the Fleet Marine Force and in contingency situations. This initial training is conducted at DVECC Alameda. Recertification is required every 3 years and is held at EPMUS and DVECCS.
All pesticides sold in the United States are required by law to carry a label that lists the ingredients and outlines the basic safety information for that product. Take the time to review the label each time before using any pesticide rather than relying on your memory.
Pesticides vary considerable in toxicity. But consider all pesticides to be potential hazards to human life and follow basic safety precautions rigidly. Regardless of the insecticide in use, it is standard practice to protect food, cooking utensils, and food preparation surfaces and to avoid human contact with the pesticide.
The individual facing the greatest potential hazard in these operations is the applicator. To minimize his exposure, certain safety precautions are required of applicators:
Take a shower after you are through with the job. If you did get some pesticide on you and were not aware of it, this will minimize your exposure.
FLIES. Flies transmit many human and zoonotic diseases that may seriously hamper military activities. The annoyance created by all fly species seriously impacts on morale. One of the most serious of these pests is the house fly, which is capable of transmitting disease-producing organisms through its vomitus and excrement and on its contaminated feet, body hairs, and mouth parts. Chief among these organisms are those that cause cholera, dysentery, and typhoid fever. All flies have two wings and four major developmental stages, e.g., egg, larva, pupa, and adult.