Cabin fumigation involves using a lethal gas to exterminate pests within a sealed enclosed space. It’s a method used to eliminate pests in various settings, including aircraft cabins. For example, aircraft cabins can be treated with approved residual insecticides on a scheduled basis or with aerosol spray cans during flights.
Methods of Cabin Fumigation:
- Sealing and Fumigation:The structure (e.g., aircraft cabin) is sealed with plastic, tape, or other materials, or enclosed in a tent.
- Gas Fumigation:Gaseous chemicals are used to penetrate and eradicate pests.
- Fogging/Spraying:A fogging machine aerosolizes a disinfectant, coating all surfaces within the cabin.
- Herbal Steam Fumigation:A steam cabin with a heating system is used for herbal treatment and other purposes.
Example: Aircraft Cabin Fumigation:
- Airlines may use residual insecticides on a scheduled basis to treat the entire cabin.
- Alternatively, they can use aerosol spray cans during flights, either while passengers are onboard or on a scheduled basis.
- In some cases, applicators board the aircraft and spray surfaces with a solution containing permethrin.
- Common fumigants used in aircraft include methyl bromide, but its use is now restricted in many countries due to ozone depletion.
Considerations for Cabin Fumigation:
- Safety: Proper preparation is crucial, including sealing openings and removing chemicals that could react with the fumigant.
- Personal Protective Equipment: Workers need to wear appropriate PPE during fumigation.
- Duration: Fumigation typically involves leaving the sealed space with the gas for a certain period (e.g., 12-24 hours).
- Post-Fumigation: After fumigation, the area needs to be thoroughly aired out and cleaned before it can be reoccupied.
- Children and Babies: They may be more sensitive to the effects of certain fumigants.
