J.T. Eaton & Co.: Stinging Insects

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April 29, 2013

By James Rodriguez, Western Territory Manager

Bee, wasp or hornet removal bids can go awry within a split second — from weather, using the wrong product, over-stimulating the colony, or even just poor planning for the removal process.

When bidding on jobs, it’s easy to get comfortable. When the busy season arrives and you’re doing several stinging insect jobs a day, don’t let complacency set in. Precautions should always be taken to protect you, your employees, your customers and the public:

• Ask your employees and customers whether they have any allergies from bee stings. If they do, schedule appropriately to minimize the risk, which may mean a night job when the bees and wasp are less active.

• Use an extension duster, manual or battery-operated, to create distance between you and the infestation.

• Use caution tape around areas during treatments, to protect your customers and the public from being stung.

• Know what liabilities are associated with removing honeycombs or nests that are within walls. Cutting into a wall may require additional testing for lead paint, asbestos remediation or historical home guidelines.

• Leaving honeycomb in the wall can lead to damage in the warmer months because of melting. Protect yourself by recommending a contractor that specializes in such work, and have a signed risk acknowledgement form from your customer.

There is always a sense of urgency when dealing with stinging insects, so never sell yourself short when it comes to charging a reasonable price. Remember, you’re the one who has trained to take the risk.

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