Soil Fumigation

September 2010

FOR PERSONS SEEKING CERTIFICATION BY THE STATE OF HAWAII DEPARTMENT

OF AGRICULTURE TO BUY, USE, OR SUPERVISE THE USE OF SOIL FUMIGANTS
CLASSIFIED AS RESTRICTED USE PESTICIDES

This study guide was developed for the Pesticide Risk Reduction Education program of the
College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii at Manoa. Please
direct any question or comment about this guide to:
Charles Nagamine
Department of Plant and Environmental Protection Sciences
3190 Maile Way Room 307
Honolulu, HI 96822
Telephone: (808) 956-6007
Email: cynagami.hawaii.edu

DEVELOPMENT OF THIS GUIDE WAS SUPPORTED IN PART BY THE STATE OF HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE .

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This guide mainly consists of text and pictures adapted from the publication “Soil Fumigation” (SM-61, June
1997), O. Norman Nesheim, Thomas W. Dean, and Michael J. Aerts, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences,
Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida.

Chapter 1 Importance of Fumigant Product Labeling was added.

The section “Hazardous Materials Management” in Chapter 6 was significantly revised.

Where trade names are used, no endorsement is intended, nor criticism implied of similar products
not named.

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 Table of Contents
Auger applications
Chapter 1: Importance of
Volatile Liquids ...................................... 14
Fumigant Product Labeling Trench applications
Handgun applications
Shank (chisel) applications
Sweep or blade applications
Chapter 2: Soil Fumigation Drench applications
Learning Objectives ................................ 7 Chemigation

Introduction .............................................. 7 Volatile Solids ........................................ 16

Broadcast applications
Fumigant Formulations and Descriptions 7
Liquified gases Test Your Knowledge ............................. 16
Volatile liquids
Solids
Pests Controlled by Soil Fumigation ....... 8 Chapter 4: Equipment
Nematodes
Soil Fungi Calibration
Bacteria Learning Objectives .............................. 17
Insects
Weeds Calibration Methods .............................. 17
Application over a known area
Factors Influencing Soil Fumigation ....... 9 Useful conversions for calibration
Pest habits Calculate flow rate per unit time
Soil texture
Soil condition Practice Problems .................................. 19
Plant debris Test Your Knowledge ............................. 21
Soil misture
Soil temperature
Application depth
Dosage Chapter 5: Soil Fumigant Uses
Soil sealing
Exposure period and Characteristics
Soil aeration Learning Objectives .............................. 23
Phytotoxicity
Methyl Bromide ..................................... 23
Test Your Knowledge ............................. 11
Chloropicrin ............................................ 23
Metam-sodium ....................................... 24
Chapter 3: Application 1,3-D (1,3-Dichloropro-pene, Telone®) 24
Dazomet ................................................. 24
Principles
Test Your Knowledge ............................. 25
Learning Objectives .............................. 13
Application Techniques and Equipment 13
Liquefied Gas ......................................... 13
Above ground applications
Injection applications
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Chapter 6: Fumigation Safety
Learning Objectives .............................. 27
Introduction ............................................ 27
Safety Precautions For Applicators ...... 27
Personal Protective Equipment ............. 27
Respiratory Protection for Fumigant
Application ............................................. 28
Threshold Limit Values ......................... 28
Fumigant Poisoning ................................ 29
Recognizing Fumigant Poisoning
Symptoms ............................................... 29
Methyl Bromide
Chloropicrin
Metam-sodium
1,3-D (1,3e-Dichloropropene, Telone®)
Dazomet
First Aid .................................................. 30
Personal Sanitation ................................ 31
Other Safety Recommendations ........... 31
Good Practices To Follow When
Fumigating .............................................. 31
Test Your Knowledge ............................. 32

Chapter 7: Storing, Handling,

and Disposing of Fumigants
Learning Objectives .............................. 33
Storage of Soil Fumigants ...................... 33
Disposal .................................................. 33
Hazardous Materials Management ...... 34
Spill and Leak Clean-Up Procedures .... 35
Test Your Knowledge ............................. 35

Glossary................................. 37

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 CHAPTER 1
Importance of
Fumigant Product Labeling
Parts of this study guide discuss instructions and
restrictions for handling fumigant pesticides. These
discussions are general in nature because details for
using one fumigant product may be different from
those for another. Therefore, refer to the labeling
supplied with your fumigant product as you plan a
fumigation job. Let the product’s labeling be your
guide to an effective and safe fumigation job.
Review all of the labeling do’s and don’t’s about
storage, use, and disposal. Be sure you can comply
with the those that apply to you. Some will require
you to have additional supplies or equipment such as
special respirators or gas detection equipment.
Others will require you to post special signs around
the fumigation site before the fumigant job begins.
Illness, injury, or pollution resulting from improper
storage, use, or disposal or the fumigant product will
be investigated and the fumigator may be held partly
or entirely responsible if he or she did not comply
with the labeling.
To get help interpreting a complex instruction or
restriction, consult the product manufacturer’s
representative, or talk to a pesticide education
specialist at one of these the Hawaii Department
of Agriculture offices:
• Honolulu 973-9409 or 973-9424 (for Kauai and
Oahu)
• Kahului 873-3960 (for Maui, Molokai, and Lanai)
• Hilo 974-4143 (for Hawaii)
808 is the area code for all of these phone numbers.
***
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 CHAPTER 2
Soil Fumigation
Learning Objectives volatile liquids, or granules. Due to the high volatility
of these compounds, the fumigant must be
After you complete your study of this chapter, incorporated into the soil during or immediately
you should be able to: following application. At or shortly after application,
these chemicals volatilize, allowing toxic molecules
• Name and describe the three fumigant
to move through the air pores in the soil. Some
formulations.
molecules dissolve in the water film surrounding the
• Name the pests controlled by soil fumigation. soil particles. Soil pests are killed when they come in
• Describe soil characteristics that influence contact with a toxic concentration for a long enough
penetration and movement of fumigants. exposure period.
• Describe the factors that influence fumigant
placement.
• Know the importance of soil sealing in soil Fumigant Formulations
fumigation
and Descriptions
Liquefied gases are gaseous under normal
Introduction temperatures and pressures. The gas is liquid when
held in a pressurized container. When released from
Soil fumigation is a chemical control strategy used a container, the liquid immediately converts to gas.
independently or in conjunction with cultural and
physical control methods to reduce populations of Volatile liquids are liquid under normal
soil organisms. Soil fumigants can effectively control temperatures and pressures but converts into a gas
when in the soil.
soil-borne organisms, such as nematodes, fungi,
bacteria, insects, weed seeds, and weeds. Solids are granular under normal temperatures
but volatilize into a gas when in the soil.
Different fumigants have varying effects on the
control of these pests. Some are pest-specific, while Characteristics of Fumigants. Soon after
others are broad spectrum biocides and kill most fumigants are applied to the soil, they begin to
soil organisms. Soil fumigants are used in agriculture, diffuse through the soil; they move from zones of
nurseries, ornamental plant beds, forest systems, and high concentration to zones of lower concentration.
other areas where soil-borne pests can harm or Also, fumigants are decomposed by soil
microorganisms or by chemical actions within the
devastate desirable plants. Because of treatment
soil. Eventually, their concentration in the soil
costs, applicators use soil fumigants primarily on high
becomes negligible because they diffuse into the
value crops, such as vegetables, fruits, and
atmosphere and they decompose within the soil.
ornamentals. Control of soil-borne pests will
Since seeds and plants in fumigated soil would be
improve plant appearance, quality and vigor, crop harmed by even low concentrations of fumigant in
yields, and ultimately profitability. the soil, growers must delay planting until the
Soil fumigation uses pesticide formulations that fumigant has sufficiently decomposed and diffused
volatilize from a liquid or solid into a gas state. Soil out of the soil. This preplant interval (aeration
fumigants are applied to the soil as liquefied gases, period) will vary with the fumigant, its rate of

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application, and environmental conditions. Most soil
fumigants are labeled for use only as preplant
(before planting) treatments because treatments
made at planting or soon after planting would be
toxic to the seeds and transplants.
Fumigation only controls those target pests
present in the soil at the time of fumigation.
Fumigants have no residual activity and will not
control pests that infest the fumigated soil after the
aeration period.
Pests Controlled by
Soil Fumigation
Soil pests, such as plant-parasitic nematodes,
fungi, insects, bacteria, weeds, and weed seeds, can filaments called hyphae that grow, secrete enzymes,
be controlled effectively by proper soil fumigation.
The label of each fumigant will state the pests it will plant diseases. Some soil fumigants are effective in
control.
eggs.
Nematodes live either in the water film in and
around soil particles and plant tissue, or within plant
tissue. Ectoparasitic plant nematodes remain on the
outside of the plant. Most ectoparasitic nematodes
migrate freely over the root surface, while some
species remain at one point to feed. Endoparasitic
nematodes move into the plant tissues to feed. They
may move in and out of roots or remain sedentary
within the root.At certain life stages, endoparasitic
nematodes are present in the soil.
Soil Fungi. Fungi are plant-like organisms that
lack chlorophyll. This means they must obtain
nutrients from other living sources, such as plants,
animals, or organic matter. Most fungi reproduce by
spores. Fungal spores germinate into thread-like
absorb nutrients, and release chemicals that induce
controlling soil fungi.

Proper identification of a pest is crucial to the Bacteria. Some bacteria that cause plant
success of the fumigation process. Understanding diseases also live in the soil. Bacteria are small, one-
the life cycles and habits of different pests helps celled organisms that reproduce by simple fission.
determine the proper application timing to target the They obtain nutrients from plant cells and generally
susceptible stage of the pest.Also, proper infect plants by entering through a wounds or a
application depth can be determined to ensure plants’ natural openings.
adequate contact with the pest. Insects. There are several insects and insect
For some pests, especially nematodes, a soil relatives that live in the soil and are pests of plants.
analysis is necessary for proper identification. The The insects are generally immature stages of beetles
diagnosis of nematode injury based only on and flies. These two groups of insects undergo
nonspecific foliar symptoms is usually quite difficult, complete metamorphosis, which means they go
if not impossible. The affected host must be carefully through four distinct stages of development from the
examined to eliminate other possible causes of egg to an adult. These stages are egg, larva, pupa,
decline. An accurate diagnosis of a nematode and adult. It is usually the larval stage that causes
problem, however, can only be made on the basis of damage, though some adults will also feed on
a soil analysis. For assistance in pest identification underground plant parts. Some soil fumigants are
and taking soil samples for analysis, contact your successful in controlling soil insects.
county extension agent. Weeds are unwanted plants that compete with
Nematodes are tiny, transparent, unsegmented, desirable plants for space, water, nutrients, and light.
round worms, varying in size from 1/300 to 1/3 inch These pests increase maintenance costs and may act
long. Several thousand species are known, but only as alternate hosts for insects and diseases. Some
a few of these are plant parasites. Plant parasitic fumigants control weed seeds and germinating
nematodes attack small, succulent feeder roots. weeds.
Their needle-like mouthparts puncture plant cells
and suck out the contents. They reproduce by laying

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Factors Influencing
Soil Fumigation
Many factors affect soil fumigation and its
effectiveness for pest control. The pest and its habits fumigant to attain a lethal dose. Generally,coarser-
will affect fumigant selection, application rate,
fumigant placement, and necessary length of
exposure. Soil factors also play a key role in
fumigation. Soil texture, soil condition, debris, soil soils high in organic matter require more fumigant.
moisture, and soil temperature may affect the
volatility, movement, and availability of the fumigant of clay content or organic matter in soils.
once applied. Fumigant dosage is both pest- and
soil-dependent. The following section discusses
some of these factors in greater detail.After
fumigation, aeration is important to make sure
phytotoxicity does not occur.
Pest habits. Proper identification of the pest(s)
is crucial. Once you have properly identified the
pest, you can find out about pest life cycles and
habits. Understanding the pest’s habits provides
information for proper timing of fumigant application
to target the susceptible stage of the pest and for
proper application depth to ensure adequate contact
with the pest organisms. (Contact your local
Cooperative Extension agent for assistance in pest
identification.)
Soil texture influences fumigant movement and
availability due to its effects on the amount of soil
pore space (air spaces) and the number of
Know Where the Pests Live
adsorption (binding) sites. Fine textured soils, such
as clay, have many adsorption sites per unit area and
many pore spaces. Coarse-textured soils have
relatively few binding sites and few air spaces. For
these reasons, soils high in clay content require more
textured soils require less fumigant than fine-textured
soils. Organic matter in soil greatly increases soil
holding capacity and number of binding sites; thus
Read the label for any statements regarding amount
Soil condition is a major factor in fumigant
penetration and diffusion. Fumigants do not move
uniformly through the soil. Compacted soil limits the
amount of diffusion and penetration. Cultivation of
soil prior to fumigation is essential. Cultivate the soil
to the level where the fumigant needs to diffuse.
Break up or remove soil lumps, clods, and
undecomposed organic matter. Pulverize and
smooth the soil surface before fumigation to aid post
application sealing, if required. Sealing prevents
fumigant vapor from escaping too quickly. Improper
soil preparation is the major reason for fumigation
failures. Fumigate soils before applying manure,
sawdust, or other organic matter.
Plant debris can pose problems to shank-type
fumigation, if excessive amounts of fresh or decaying
plant material are present. Organic matter binds with
the fumigant, making it unavailable for free
movement. If a high concentration of organic matter
is near the soil surface, it may impede proper
diffusion of the fumigant and it may create avenues
(chimneys) for gas to escape.Work all vegetation
into the soil thoroughly. Allow vegetation plenty of
time to decompose before fumigation. Do not
fumigate soils that contain excessive amounts of
organic matter.
Soil moisture affects the diffusion of the
fumigant. Most fumigations are conducted when the
soil reaches 50%–75% field capacity of moisture.
Fumigation requires a certain amount of soil moisture
to ensure that the fumigant does not escape too
quickly. Though too much moisture may impede
fumigant movement because soil pores filled with
water do not allow the gas to move. Cold, wet soils
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retard diffusion and require a longer than normal
exposure period. The soil moisture requirements
necessary for effective fumigation differ among
fumigants; read the product label directions carefully.
Soil temperature correlates directly with fumigant
volatility and movement. Soil temperature determines
the fumigant state (solid, liquid or gas).As
temperatures increase, fumigant volatility and diffusion
increase. Generally, soil temperatures of 45–80°F at
the depth of fumigant injection are best for
volatilization. Temperatures below the label minimum
reduce volatilization and penetration, and the fumigant
persists longer in the soil profile.Temperatures above
the label maximum increase fumigant volatilization and
soil penetration to the point where it breaks down or
is lost from the soil before it reaches a level that is
toxic to the target pest(s). The effect of soil
temperature differs among fumigants; some are active
at 40°F, while others remain in the nongaseous state
at that temperature.
Split Application for Pest Control
Application depth is variable. Proper fumigant
placement depends on a combination of factors, will be planted. Perennial plants, trees, and vines
including where the pest organism lives, soil require more fumigant than annual plants for which
temperature, dosage, vapor pressure, and soil type. If less control, and short-term effects are acceptable.
the application is deep, the rate is too low, and the Follow label directions. Performance data indicate
pest organisms are relatively shallow, the fumigant label rates are effective. Applications above label
may not diffuse far enough upward to contact the pest rates are illegal and may damage the crop.
at a sufficient dose (concentration, in ppm× time, in Applications below label rates may not provide
hours) to obtain control. If the application is too adequate pest control.
shallow, the fumigant may not diffuse far enough
downward to reach the pests. The fumigant may Soil sealing is especially important in soil
actually dissipate upward and out of the soil. Split fumigation. Seal the soil immediately following
depth applications may be necessary if soil condition fumigation, the sooner the better. The seal caps the
is marginal and if broad depth control is required. For soil surface, minimizing the amount of fumigant that
example, the fumigant may need to be placed at escapes into the atmosphere. For effective pest
depths of 6 to 8 inches and 16 to 24 inches for even control, keep the seal in place long enough to maintain
diffusion. Read the label for application depth a lethal gas concentration for the exposure period. It
directions and know the pest habits. For proper may be necessary to cover the area with a plastic tarp
placement, you must know the pest habits and follow when using highly volatile chemicals, such as methyl
the product label instructions. bromide or chloropicrin, or when trying to control
pests at or near the soil surface.Two other soil sealing
Dosage depends on several factors. Different soil methods are mechanical compaction (cultipacking,
types require different rates, given the amount of pore rolling, dragging) and light irrigation. If injection shank
space and amount of adsorption to clay and organic traces are present after treatment, disc them before
matter. Some pests, such as endoparasitic and cyst sealing. For water seals, lightly water (to wet) the top
nematodes, require higher dosages than other pests. inch or so of soil. Maintain that soil moisture
Rates also vary depending on what plants or crops throughout the exposure period. For optimum
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effectiveness, seal the soil as the fumigation
progresses.
Exposure period varies depending on the pest
organisms, the fumigant type and rate, soil moisture,
and soil temperature.After the application and soil
sealing, leave the soil undisturbed for the specified
amount of time specified by the product label.
Soil aeration may be necessary at the end of the
fumigation “exposure period” to allow any fumigant in
the soil to dissipate. Once the soil is properly aerated, Q. What factors are important in determining
growers can plant the crops or plants without concern
for phytotoxicity. Application rate and depth, soil
moisture, soil temperature, and sealing methods
govern aeration times. Cool, moist soils tend to retain
fumigant longer, requiring longer aeration periods.
Cultivating the soil to the depth of fumigant application
often aids aeration. Refer to the label to determine
exposure times and aeration recommendations.
Planting a test sample of seeds may be warranted in
certain situations to ensure that no phytotoxic effects
occur on highly susceptible plants.
Phytotoxicity refers to plant injury and is a major
concern when using soil fumigants. Most soil
fumigants need to be applied weeks or months prior
to planting because of potentially phytotoxic effects.
Some plants or crops are very sensitive to small
traces of soil fumigants, and phytotoxicity occurs
when they are planted into soils where fumigant is still
present. Read the fumigant label for specific
precautions when planting certain plant varieties after
fumigation. A minor concern is off-target movement
(such as drift and runoff). Fumigant may escape
through the soil surface and drift onto nearby
susceptible plants. Rain or over irrigation may cause
runoff. Pay close attention to what is planted on or is
inhabiting areas near the application site.
Test Your Knowledge
Q. What are the three fumigant formulations
and what do they have in common?
A. Liquefied gases, volatile liquids, and solids. They
all convert to or volatilize into a gas when
released into the soil.
Q. What pests may be controlled by soil
fumigation? Why is it important to know
about their life cycle and habits?
A. Soil pests, such as plant parasitic nematodes,
fungi, insect, bacteria, weeds and weed seeds.
Understanding their habits gives you information
for proper timing of fumigant application and to
target the susceptible stage of the pest.
the placement of fumigants in soil?
A. A combination of factors are important in
determining where to place the fumigant in the
soil. These include where the pest organism
lives, soil temperature, dosage of fumigant, soil
type, and vapor pressure of fumigant.
Q. What influence does soil texture have on
fumigant movement and availability? What
type of soil requires more fumigant to attain
a lethal dose?
A. Soil texture influences the amount of soil pore
space and the number of adsorption (binding)
sites. Clay soils require more fumigant because
these fine textured soils have many more binding
sites and pore spaces than coarse textured soils.
Q. What is the purpose of sealing the soil
following fumigation? Must all soil
fumigations be covered with a plastic tarp?
A. Sealing the soil maintains a lethal gas
concentration for the exposure period by
minimizing the amount of fumigant that escapes
into the atmosphere. Plastic tarps are used for
methyl bromide and chlorpicrin soil fumigations,
but soil compaction and water seals are used for
other fumigants.
***
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 CHAPTER 3
Application Principles
Learning Objectives
After you complete your study of this chapter,
you should be able to:
• Identify application techniques and equipment
used to apply fumigants to soil.
Application
Techniques and
Equipment
Various types of soil fumigant application
equipment are commercially available.Appropriate
soil incorporation equipment and soil sealing
equipment should follow or be attached to the
fumigant equipment. Good fumigation equipment is
expensive to build and maintain. Sometimes it is
necessary to buy custom designed and built
equipment for specific purposes. Because fumigants
are highly corrosive, equipment manufacturers must
construct equipment from materials tolerant or
resistant to these chemicals. Proper care of
fumigation equipment is essential. Clean application
equipment immediately after use, and cover or coat
all parts with a lightweight fuel oil before storing. methyl bromide, apply the fumigant using a tractor
Liquefied Gas
Example: methyl bromide
Above Ground Applications. Several devices
are commercially available for applying liquefied
gases to small areas, such as greenhouse growing
media and nursery soil. Cover soil to be treated with depend on equipment speed and flow rate of the
plastic. Release fumigant through a plastic tube to an chemical.
evaporation pan placed under sealed plastic.
The fumigant flows under pressure from the
container to the soil to be fumigated. Large cylinders
require valves and pressure regulators to control the
Aboveground Application onto an
Evaporation Pan under a Tarp
delivery of the gas to the evaporation pan. Use a
separate pressurized cylinder of nitrogen to maintain
a constant pressure to the fumigant cylinder,ensuring
a uniform application rate. Equipment used with
pressurized cylinders can be complex. The
applicator must be certain that the application
systems are designed to deliver and withstand the
pressurized fumigant.
Injection Applications. For overall field
(broadcast) application of liquefied gases, such as
with sufficient horsepower to pull shanks (chisels)
through the soil at the required depth
and speed. For shallow applications (6–12 inches),
mount shanks 12 inches apart on a tool bar
connected directly to a machine that lays a plastic
tarp. For deep applications (18–30 inches), mount
shanks up to 66 inches apart, depending upon
fumigation conditions. Fumigant delivery rates
The most commonly used machine to seal the
soil with a plastic tarp consists of two discs that
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open small furrows immediately outside the area to
be treated. These discs connect to a device that
unrolls polyethylene plastic over the treated area.
Small press wheels insert the plastic into the open
furrows. Closing discs seal the plastic by throwing
soil back into the furrow.
To treat a field on a broadcast basis, apply one
strip as described above, then remove and replace
one set of discs with an adhesive dispenser.Seal one
side of the second plastic sheet using the adhesive to
the first plastic sheet, and seal the other side of the
second plastic sheet in the furrow made by the
remaining discs. Repeat to fumigate and cover the
entire field with plastic. The same type of fumigating
equipment also is suitable for band applications
(strip or row applications). For deep (18–30 inches)
injections, sealing with a plastic tarp may not be
necessary, depending on the target pests.
Auger Applications. Use augers in perennial
crops, such as deciduous fruits, nuts, vineyards, etc. Trench Application
Use them with either 1- or 1½-pound seamless cans
or with large cylinders of gaseous fumigants.After
the auger digs a hole approximately 5 feet deep,
release the fumigant into the hole at the proper
dosage, and then fill the hole and compact for a soil
seal.

Volatile Liquids
Examples: 1,3 dichloropropene, chloropicrin,
metam sodium
Trench Applications. To treat very small areas,
such as ornamental planting beds, place the
prescribed dosage of liquid fumigant in a small
container. Pour the liquid into the bottom of a furrow
6 to 8 inches deep. Cover and seal trench. Form a
water seal using a small amount of water.
Handgun Applications. To treat small areas,
such as experimental plots and nursery beds, use
equipment with a holding tank connected to a hollow Hand-held Ground Injector
pointed base for penetrating the soil.A plunger
device or drip device releases a known quantity of
areas, such as agricultural crops. Make field
fumigant for each penetration.
applications using tractors with sufficient horsepower
Shank (Chisel) Applications. This method is to pull the shanks through the soil at the required
the one most commonly used to treat large-scale depth and speed. Narrow knife-like shanks (such as

14
forward-swept shanks) inject fumigant. Metal
delivery tubes attach to the trailing edges of the
shanks. Delivery tubes release the fumigant in the
bottom of the furrow made when pulling the shank
through the soil. For broadcast applications, shank
spacing usually equals the depth of injection.
Maintain constant pressure to the metering pump,
such as electrical or hydraulic pumps, power takeoff
system (PTO), or ground-wheel drive. Regulate
delivery rate using various combinations of pressure,
nozzle orifice, shank spacing, and speed of travel,
depending on the pressure system serving the
metering pump.
Shank equipment works for broadcast or band
applications. For row applications, use equipment
with either one or two shanks to treat only the soil
where the crop will be planted. Seal the application
with a plastic tarp or by mechanically compacting
soil. If injection shank traces are present, disc soil to the field to the desired moisture level prior to
remove traces prior to sealing the soil.
Sweep or Blade Applications. Attach fan
shaped sweeps or blades equipped with evenly
spaced fumigant outlets to the shanks and draw
them through the soil. Seal the application with a
plastic tarp or by mechanically compacting the soil.
If blade shank traces are present, disc soil to
Basic Schematic of a Shank Applicator
remove traces prior to sealing the soil.
Drench Application. Add the fumigant to water
and drench the soil with this solution. This method is
useful in nurseries, ornamental plantings, and
orchards.
Chemigation. To fumigate soil by chemigation,
meter and inject a liquid fumigant into irrigation
water. Fumigant chemigation is applied through
several types of irrigation systems, most commonly
center pivots. Equipment includes an injection pump
and nurse tank system. Proper setup includes check
valves between the injection pump and both the
fumigant supply and the water source. Keep all
screens and filters clean. Use as large a droplet as
possible to avoid loss of fumigant through
volatilization in the air.
Chemigation often requires pre-irrigation to bring
fumigation. Moisture levels must be even throughout
the field. Chemigation requires a high degree of
attention to detail, an understanding of the equipment
used, and constant monitoring during the application.
Volatile Solids
15
 Example: dazomet
Broadcast Applications. Apply granules evenly
over the soil and incorporate them, or inject the
granules into the soil. For small scale applications,
use a shaker and apply over the area. Incorporate
granules into the soil and seal. For large-scale
applications, use a granule spreader to broadcast
treat and then incorporate, or use a fertilizer drill or
granule distributor that will deliver the granules at the
desired depth. Adjust application rate by changing
the size of the opening from the hopper or by
altering the speed of travel. Immediately after
spreading, incorporate granules into soil to the
proper depth using a rotary hoe or disc. Seal soil
with a mechanical compactor.

TEST YOUR
KNOWLEDGE
Q. Are liquefied gas fumigants applied by
gravity flow or under pressure?
A. Liquefied gas fumigants flow under pressure
from the container to the soil to be fumigated.

Q. Delivery rate of liquid fumigant applications

is affected by what factor(s)?
A. Delivery rate can be regulated by various
combinations of metering pump pressure, nozzle
orifice, shank spacing, and speed of travel.
***

16
 CHAPTER 4
Equipment Calibration
Learning Objectives
After you complete your study of this chapter,
you should be able to:
• Describe the two basic methods used for
calibrating fumigant application equipment.
• Know which calibration method should be
used with specific types of fumigant
application equipment.
• Learn how to calibrate fumigant application
equipment to deliver desired rate of
application.
Calibration Methods
Calibrate all application equipment to deliver the
desired rate of chemical.All commercially
constructed application equipment is designed to
alter fumigant rates. Applicators use two basic
methods for application equipment calibration. The
first method measures the amount of fumigant
applied over a known area. The second method
collects a volume of fumigant for a specific time
period and then measures the distance covered in
the same time interval for a volume to area ratio.
Application over a known area. This
calibration method is useful for gravity flow and
ground driven metering systems.Apply fumigant
over a small, known area. Measure or weigh the
amount of fumigant used over that area.
Measurement may include determining the amount
delivered by calculating the difference from the
volume or weight at the start and the remaining
volume or weight after the application to the known
area, or simply by collecting the volume or weight
delivered. Compute the amount per acre equivalent
from the amount delivered (per small area). If
necessary, adjust the equipment to more closely
approach the desired amount and repeat the
process. Follow equipment operation instructions to
alter flow rate; methods differ among equipment.
Repeat calibration several times until the equipment
delivers the exact amount required per acre.
Useful Conversions for Calibration
1 acre = 43,560 square feet (ft2)
1 gallon (gal) =
4 quarts (qt) =
8 pints (pt) =
128 fluid ounces (fl oz)
1 gal = 3,785 milliliters (ml)
1 fl oz = 29.57 ml
1 cubic foot of water = 7.481 gal
1 acre inch of water = 27,156 gal
1 pound (lb) =
16 oz =
453.6 grams (gm)
1 mile per hour (mph) =
88 feet per minute =
1.467 feet per second (ft/sec)
Circle circumference = 2 × π × r
r = radius of circle π = 3.1417
Circle area = π × r × r
r = radius of circle π = 3.1417
To achieve the label application rate, use the
following equation to determine the amount of
fumigant that you should apply over the calibration
test area.
17
 W×D×R
= A
43560 ft2
A = Amount of fumigant that should be
delivered over calibration course.
W = Width (feet) of the test swath.
D = Length (feet) of the test swath.
R = Desired amount (pounds or gallons) of
fumigant per acre.
43,560 = Number of square feet (ft2)
per acre.
For example, to calibrate a shank applicator with
a liquid fumigant, measure the effective swath width,
let us say 8 feet wide with 7 shanks. The label rate
for the application is 20 gallons of fumigant per acre.
To calibrate, travel 100 feet with the application
equipment and collect all the fumigant released from
one outlet. (Make sure all nozzles deliver within
10% of each other to maintain a uniform application
pattern. Replace nozzles that do not conform.)
8 ft × 100 ft × 20 gal
= 0.367 gal
43560 ft2
0.367 gal × 128 fl oz/gal = 47 fl oz for
the system
47 fl oz ÷ 7 nozzles = 6.7 fl oz per nozzle
Multiply the amount collected by the number of
shank outlets to get the total delivery rate of the
equipment. How much fumigant should the
equipment deliver from all the outlets if the
equipment is calibrated at 20 gallons per acre?
If the equipment delivered too much fumigant
(more than 6.7 fl oz per nozzle), it is over applying.
If the equipment delivered too little fumigant (less
than 6.7 fl oz per nozzle), it is under applying.Adjust
the equipment until it delivers the proper amount of
fumigant. Follow equipment manufacturer’s
instructions for changes.Adjustments may include
altering pressure, application speed, or nozzle
orifice.
18
Calculate flow rate per unit time. This is the
common method for calibrating metering systems
driven by PTO and electric or hydraulic pumps. For
volatile liquids, measure fumigant flow rate for a
specific time interval and then convert that
measurement to an area basis dependent upon the
application equipment speed. To alter the delivery
rate, adjust the speed of travel, orifice size, shank
spacing or pressure.
0.367 gal/ 800 ft2 is equivalent to
2 gal/acre
For liquefied gases, such as methyl bromide, the
method differs slightly since you cannot collect the
gas. Weigh the gas cylinder first.Then release gas
for a set time. Reweigh cylinders and calculate how
much was released over the time interval. Calculate
the distance the equipment travels for that same time
interval. You now know the amount of fumigant
applied per unit area. Convert to an acre basis.
Adjust the in-line valve to tune the flow rate to the
proper level for the proper delivery rate.
To calibrate a shank applicator with a liquefied
gas fumigant, measure the effective swath width of
the shank row. For this example the width is 8 feet.
The label rate is 350 pounds per acre.Weigh the
cylinder. Release fumigant for 30 seconds. Reweigh
the cylinder. Calculate the amount used in 30
seconds.
Determine the application equipment speed.
Mark the start and finish of a 100-foot speed
course. Time the equipment over the course, once Since each shank covers a swath 1 foot wide by
each direction. 100 feet long (W = 1 ft. and D = 100 ft.):
Example: 33 seconds and 35 seconds
1 ft × 100 ft × 20 gal
Conduct the speed test in the application area = 0.046 gal
with the equipment loaded and the shanks at 43560 ft2
application depth. Average the times determined or
across the speed course and convert to feet per
second. 5.88 fl oz per shank
33 sec + 35 sec. = 34 sec average to
travel 100 ft. Problem 2
2
course
A potato grower wants to broadcast a mixture of
100 ft. ÷ 34 sec. = 2.94 ft. per sec. 1,3-D and chloropicrin at a rate of 27.5 gallons per
acre. The fumigant will be applied 18 inches deep
Calculate the distance covered in 30 seconds. with a tractor-PTO metering system, driven at a
ground speed of 3.67 feet per second (2.5 mph).
2.94 ft/sec. × 30 sec. = 88 ft. The “V” frame applicator treats an area 10.5 feet
wide, with 7 shanks spaced 18 inches apart. How
Now use the formula to determine the amount of much soil fumigant should be deposited in a 30-
fumigant that should be delivered on the 8-foot x second calibration trial?
88-foot area (or in 30 seconds). During the calibration test, the applicator will
cover a swath 10.5 feet wide (W = 10.5 ft) by 110
8 ft. x 88 ft.
x 350 lb. = 5.66 lb. feet long [110 ft = 3.67 ft/sec x 30 sec] (D = 110
43560 ft2 ft).
10.5 ft × 110 ft × 27.5 gal
If the equipment delivered too much fumigant = 0.73 gal
(more than 5.66 lb in 30 seconds), it is over 43560 ft2
applying; reduce the flow rate. If the equipment
delivered too little fumigant (less than 5.66 lb), it is 0.73 gal is for 7 shanks
under-applying; increase the flow rate. Adjust the
flow rate until equipment delivers the proper rate in or
30 seconds.
13.3 fl oz per shank

Practice Problems Problem 3

A grower wants to apply a single shank in-row
Problem 1 treatment of 1,3-D at a rate of 5 gallons per acre.
A carrot grower wants to fumigate a field on a The pesticide will be applied with a ground driven
broadcast basis using a formulation of 1,3-D at 20 pump. The rows will be spaced 3 feet apart. How
gallons per acre. The fumigant applicator is 12 feet much of the fumigant will be deposited in a test row
wide and uses a ground driven pump to supply the 50 feet long?
chemical to the shanks, each spaced 12 inches
apart. How much 1,3-D should be deposited by 3 ft. x 50 ft.
each shank during a calibration test over a swath x 5 gal. = 0.046 gal.
43560 ft2
100 feet in length?
= 2.2 fl oz
19
Problem 4 50 gallons per acre. The center pivot is 1,320 feet to
the end wheel, and the end gun covers an additional
The label rate for methyl bromide in a nursery
operation is a broadcast rate of 400 pounds per
acre for control of nematodes, weeds, and soil- Area:
borne fungi. The effective swath width of the 133.3 acres
application is 10 feet wide. The application Product needed:
6,665 gal
equipment travels 2.2 feet per second (1.5 mph). at 296.6 fl oz/min
How many pounds of methyl bromide must the
fumigant applicator deliver every 30 seconds to
achieve the 400 pounds per acre rate? End Wheel
The equipment will cover a swath 10 feet wide circumfer- Radius:
(W = 10 ft) by 66 feet long [66 ft = 2.2 ft/sec x 30 ence: 1360 ft =
8,294 ft 1320 + 40
sec] (D = 66 ft).

10 ft × 66 ft × 400 lb
= 6.1 lb
43560 ft2

Chemigation Fumigant application through irrigation

-

requires great attention to calibration and operation

details. Failure to calibrate accurately or to monitor
the system continuously during the application can 346 feet in
120 minutes
lead to costly mistakes. Poorly made applications
may result in poor control or expensive and illegal Center Pivot Calculations
applications that are above label rate.
Check sprinkler system for proper operation and 40 feet (radius = 1360 ft), for a total of 133.3 acres.
uniform water distribution. Check irrigation systems When running at 45% on the timer,the center pivot
using catch cups to determine the speed of the applies 1 acre-inch of water. The pivot moves 346
irrigation system needed to provide at least 1 acre- feet in 2 hours at the end wheel.
inch of water delivery. Once the timer is set to deliver
1 acre-inch of water, do not reset it before making the First calculate how much metam sodium is
application. If the timer is reset for any reason, needed for the job:
recalibrate the system to ensure an accurate level of 50 gallons
water delivery. x 133.3 acre = 6,665 gallons
acre
Check the injection pump and nurse tank system Next, determine revolution time. It takes 2 hours
to ensure proper operation. Clean all screens and (120 minutes) to travel 346 feet at the end wheel, so
filters. Make sure check valves are in place between how long will it take to cover the entire circle?
the injector pump and both the water source and the End wheel circumference =
nurse tank. Determine the revolution time of the center
pivot. Place a flag or marker at the end wheel and = 2 × 3.1417 × 1320 ft = 8,294 ft.
measure the distance traveled in a given time interval,
such as 30 minutes.With a calculated circumference, ? minutes
120 minutes
calculate the revolution time. Once the revolution time =
(minutes per revolution) is known, calculate the 346 ft 8294 ft
injection rate and calibrate the injection pump for 120 min × 8294 ft
proper delivery. = 2876.5 min
346 ft
For example, the label rate for metam\ sodium is = 47.9 hours
20
 Set up a ratio calculation to determine end wheel Injection rate calculation
revolution time:
9997.5 gal 128 fl oz 29.57 ml
This means it takes 47.9 hours to cover the entire × × =
circle of 133.3 acres, needing 6,665 gallons of 2369.7 min gal fl oz
metam sodium. Next, calculate the amount of metam 15968.3 ml/min
sodium that must be injected, per minute, into the
irrigation water to deliver 6,665 gallons per 2,876.5
minutes. A reduction in terms is all that is necessary:
gallons to ounces or milliliters, depending upon how
the injection system is set up.
6665 gal 128 fl oz
× = 296.6 fl oz/min
2876.5 min gal
or Test Your Knowledge
296.6 fl oz 29.57 ml
× = 8769.9 ml/ min Q. What are the two basic methods for
min fl oz calibrating fumigation application
equipment?
To achieve an application rate of 50 gallons per
acre in a pivot moving 173 feet per hour,inject A. One method is to measure the amount of
chemical at a rate of 296.6 fluid ounces per minute fumigant applied over a known area and the
(2.3 gallons per minute). other method is to measure the distance covered
in the same time interval for a volume to area
ratio, i.e., calculating the flow rate per unit of
Problem 6 time.
The center pivot irrigation system covers 133.3
acres, with a radius of 1360 feet (1320 to the end Q. Which of these calibration methods is used
wheel plus 40 feet for end gun). In one hour, the end for calibrating metering systems driven by
wheel travels 210 feet.At 50% on the timer, it is PTO or hydraulic pumps?
applying 1 acre-inch of water. To achieve the label
rate for nematode control in potatoes of 75 gallons A. The method that calculates the flow rate per unit
per acre, how many milliliters of chemical need to be of time.
injected each minute?
Q. Why must this method be adjusted slightly
133.3 acres × 75 gal per acre = 9,997.5 for liquefied gases, such as methyl
gal needed bromide?
End wheel circumference = 2 × π × r A. You can not collect the gas as it is released, so
= 2 × 3.1417 × 1320 ft = 8,294 ft you must first weigh the cylinder containing the
gas; release the gas; and then reweigh the
Revolution time of end wheel calculation cylinder. You can then calculate how much was
released.
60 min ? min
= ***
210 ft 8294 ft

60 min × 8294 ft
= 2369.7 min
210 ft
21
 PLACEHOLDER PAGE

22
 CHAPTER 5
Soil Fumigant Uses and
Characteristics
Learning Objectives
After you complete your study of this unit, your
should be able to:
• Describe the characteristics of the chemicals
used as soil fumigants.
• Know placarding requirements for the
transportation of methyl bromide and
chloropicrin.
• Know the purpose and function of chlorpicrin
in methyl bromide formulations.
Methyl Bromide
Methyl bromide is one of the most widely used
soil fumigants. Methyl bromide is registered as a
pre-plant treatment on a limited number of food
crops as a soil fumigant. The food crops include
strawberries, tomatoes, onions (dry bulb), peppers,
cauliflower, broccoli, muskmelon hybrids (excludes
watermelon), pineapple, eggplant, asparagus,
lettuce, and Florida citrus. It also may be used on
nursery and greenhouse soils, seed and transplant
beds and turf, non-food crops, tobacco, and
greenhouse tomatoes.
Methyl bromide is a liquefied gas when it is
stored under pressure in 1 or 1½-lb cans or in
cylinders containing several hundred pounds of
product. The compressed liquid readily vaporizes
into gas when the cans or cylinders are opened in
temperatures above 39°F. Methyl bromide is
odorless, nonflammable, and generally not irritating
to the eyes or skin during exposure but serious skin
or eye injury may appear later.
Since methyl bromide by itself has no irritating
qualities to indicate its presence, many formulations
contain chloropicrin as a warning agent. Chloropicrin
has a strong odor and is very irritating to the eyes.
All methyl bromide formulations registered for soil
fumigation must contain chloropicrin. Mention of
methyl bromide as a soil fumigant in this manual is
with the understanding that chloropicrin is part of its
formulation.
When transporting any amount of methyl
bromide, one should place a warning placard with
the word “POISON” on the outside of the vehicle.
Technically, placarding for methyl bromide is not
required unless it is being transported in containers
larger than 1 liter which includes cylinders or case
lots of 1-pound or 1½-pound cans. Thus, when
transporting only one or two individual 1-pound or
1½-pound cans of methyl bromide, placarding is not
necessary. However, if transporting many individual
small cans, each less than 1 liter, but the gross
weight of all containers and products exceeds 1,000
pounds, then the vehicle does have to be placarded.
To protect human life, if your vehicle is involved in
an accident, it is strongly recommended that you
take all necessary precautions, including placarding
the vehicle, whenever you transport any amount of
methyl bromide over public roads.
Chloropicrin
Chloropicrin has general biocidal activity. It is
most active against soil fungi and insects with limited
activity on weed seeds and nematodes. Chloropicrin
is generally combined with other fumigants, such as
methyl bromide and 1,3-D to increase the range of
pests to be controlled and as a warning agent when
added to odorless methyl bromide. When added to
methyl bromide formulations at a concentration of
23
2% or less, it is considered to be only a warning
agent. When used at concentrations greater than
2%, it is considered to be an active ingredient that
augments the fumigant activity of methyl bromide.
Chloropicrin is a yellowish liquid that vaporizes
slowly when exposed to air at room temperature. It
should not be used at temperatures below 40°F.
Placarding requirements for transporting
chloropicrin are the same as those described for
methyl bromide (except that chloropicrin is not
available in small cans).
Metam-sodium
Metam-sodium (sodium-N-methyldithiocar-
bamate) is also known as metam sodium and
SMDC. It is a nonflammable volatile liquid
formulated in a water-soluble solution and is sold
under a variety of trade names, the most common of
which is Vapam®. It has been registered since 1954
for use as a preplant fumigant on a wide range of
crops. It is active on some weeds, weed seeds,
insects, nematodes, and soil-inhabiting fungi. When it
is applied to soil, it decomposes in water to release
the gas methyl isothiocyanate (MITC).
Do not apply metam sodium within 3 feet of the
drip line of desirable plants. Metam sodium is toxic
to fish; do not apply it directly to water or allow
runoff from treated areas to enter surface water.
Also be aware that metam sodium is corrosive to
brass and copper; use application equipment that is
made of chemical-resistant materials.
1,3-D (1,3-Dichloropro-
pene, Telone®)
1,3-D, sold as Telone®, is an organochlorine
chemical comprised of 1,3-dichloropropene and
related chlorinated hydrocarbons. It is a volatile liquid Q. Describe the characteristics of methyl
and is sometimes formulated with chloropicrin to
increase its efficacy against soil fungi, particularly
24
Verticillium. It is registered for use on a wide range
of field and vegetable crops, ornamentals, turf,
tobacco, mint and some fruit crops. It has activity
against nematodes and certain arthropods, specifically
wireworms and symphylans. It is effective on some
weeds or weed seeds and a few fungi at higher
fumigant rates. It should not be used on heavy clay or
muck soils.
Dazomet
Dazomet is used as a preplant fumigant to control
germinating annual and perennial weeds and other
pests on ornamental seed beds, forest seed beds, turf
seed beds, and in potting soil. It is ineffective against
cyst nematodes.
Dazomet is available in three dry formulations:
wettable powder, granule, and dust.Within 10
minutes after application, dazomet, in the presence of
moisture, begins to break down. This chemical
degradation results in the release of MITC,
formaldehyde, hydrogen sulfide, and
monomethylamine. These vapors interact to produce
a potent killing agent. Soil pH does not affect this
reaction.
Dazomet is toxic to all living plants, therefore do
not apply it within 3–4 feet of desired plants or within
the dripline of trees or shrubs. The vapors are toxic to
crops planted within three weeks after treatment, and
exposure to vapors in the greenhouse can make
workers ill. As with other fumigants, dazomet is toxic
to fish; do not apply it directly to water or allow runoff
from a treated area to enter surface water.Because it
decomposes at high temperatures, dazomet should
not be used when temperatures are above 90°F.
Test Your Knowledge
bromide.
A. Methyl bromide is a colorless, odorless,
nonflammable gas that is a liquid when stored
under pressure.
Q. What purpose does chloropicrin serve when
it is formulated with methyl bromide?
A. Chloropicrin has a strong odor, is very irritating
to the eyes, and is used as a warning agent in
methyl bromide formulations. When it is present
in methyl bromide formulations at concentrations
greater than 2% it is an active ingredient in
addition to being a warning agent.

Q. Are there any methyl bromide formulations

registered for soil fumigation that do not
contain chloropicrin?
A. No, all methyl bromide formulations registered
for soil fumigation must contain chloropicrin.

Q. What must be done when transporting

methyl bromide and chloropicrin?
A. One should place a warning placard with the
word “POISON” on the outside of the vehicle.
Technically placarding is required when methyl
bromide is transported in containers larger than
one liter; however it is recommended to placard
the vehicle when any amount of methyl bromide
is transported.

Q. Both metam sodium and dazomet

decompose (break down) in the presence of
water/moisture to release what gas?
A. Both fumigants release methyl isothiocyanate
(MITC) in the presence of water/moisture.
***

25
 BLANK PAGE

26
 CHAPTER 6
Fumigation Safety
Learning Objectives
After you complete your study of this unit, you
should be able to:
• Select and use personal protective equipment
to protect yourself when working with
fumigants.
• Select and use respiratory equipment for the
fumigant you are using.
• Know how fumigant poisoning can occur and
how to recognize the symptoms.
• Know the general first aid procedures for
fumigant poisoning.
• Know personal sanitation, safety and other
good practices to follow when working with
fumigants.
Introduction
Fumigants pose very special hazards and are
extremely toxic to all forms of life, including humans.
Only certified, knowledgeable applicators who are
equipped to handle fumigant chemicals safely should
attempt fumigation.
The first step in fumigation safety is toread the
label of the fumigant product.Also read the material regardless of how minor they seem.
safety data sheets (MSDS) and any other labeling
that accompanies the product. The fumigant label
contains important information about the fumigant.
Pay particular attention to these sections of the label:
Precautionary Statements, Work Safety
Requirements, Agricultural Use Requirements,
Directions for Use and Storage, and Handling and
Disposal Information.
Safety Precautions For
Applicators
The next step to fumigation safety is to make sure
all applicators and persons who will be in the
application area are properly trained about the
hazards of fumigants. Make sure they have received
training in the proper operation and handling of
safety and application equipment and proper use of
the fumigant. Never fumigate alone.
Methyl bromide, chloropicrin, and 1,3-D are
restricted use pesticides which means that they must
be applied by or under the direct supervision of a
certified applicator. Two trained persons must be
present when methyl bromide is applied. Metam
sodium and dazomet are not restricted use
pesticides in Hawaii.
Make certain that applicators/handlers know
what to do if a spill, leak, or accident occurs.All
persons who apply fumigants must be trained in the
proper use of safety and application equipment and
instructed in first aid and other emergency
procedures, including personal decontamination.All
accidents must be reported immediately to the
employer or supervisor. Any indications of illness or
physical discomfort should also be reported,
Personal Protective
Equipment
The best way to avoid fumigant poisoning is to
always wear the proper personal protective
equipment. Each fumigant has specific personal
protective equipment (PPE) requirements. Read and
follow the label for specific PPE required for
application and handling of each fumigant product.
27
The liquid and dry fumigants metam sodium, 1,3-D,
and dazomet require the use of various types of
PPE, such as gloves, boots, and coveralls.
However, when handling or applying methyl bromide
or chloropicrin wear a loose fitting or well ventilated
long-sleeved shirt and long pants, shoes and socks,
full face shield or safety glasses with brow arid
temple shields. Do not wear jewelry, gloves,
goggles, tight clothing, rubber protective clothing or
rubber boots when handling methyl bromide or
chloropicrin. These fumigants are heavier than air
and can become trapped between such items and
the skin, causing skin irritation or injury.
Keep an emergency supply of water available at
all times for rinsing the body and eyes. Some
fumigants are irritating to the skin or eyes, and a few
are vesicants (cause burns and blisters on the skin). tasks with the liquid soil fumigants, 1,3-D and
All fumigants can cause poisoning by a single
large exposure. Some can cause poisoning through
repeated small exposures. Keep soil fumigants off
clothes, especially shoes. Wash all contaminated
clothing separately from your regular laundry, and
shower daily when exposed to fumigants. Keep an
extra set of clean coveralls available.
The label describes the hazards of specific
fumigants, symptoms of poisoning, and first aid in
case of poisoning. Read these instructions carefully.
The label also provides information for physicians
when treating fumigant exposure.Take the label or
MSDS to the physician when seeking treatment for
fumigant exposure.
Respiratory Protection
for Fumigant
Application
Read the label to determine the appropriate
respiratory protection for the fumigant you are using.
Respiratory protection is needed when fumigating
soil with methyl bromide and/or chloropicrin, if the
air concentration level in the working area is above
0.1 ppm for chloropicrin or above 5 ppm for methyl
bromide. The respirator must be one of the following (dermally), or by breathing vapors (inhalation).
28
types:
(a) a supplied-air respirator (MSHA/NIOSH
approval number prefix TC-19C) or
(b) self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
(MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix TC-
13F).
Under normal out-of-doors soil fumigation
conditions, the air concentration levels of
chloropicrin and methyl bromide in the working area
will not generally exceed these levels; therefore, no
respiratory protection is required to be worn.
However, the specified respiratory equipment is
required to be available at the fumigation site in the
event of a leak or spill.
When handlers are performing direct contact
metam sodium, they must wear a respirator with
either an organic vapor-removing cartridge with a
prefilter approved for pesticides (MSHA/NIOSH
approval prefix TC-23C) or a canister approved for
pesticides (MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix
TC-14G)
Threshold Limit Values
The Environmental ProtectionAgency (EPA) has
established Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) for
several fumigants. The TLV is the maximum
concentration of fumigant in the surrounding air that
unprotected workers can be exposed to over the
course of an eight-hour work day with little or no
risk to one’s health. Anyone entering areas which
exceed the established TLV must wear respiratory
protection. The TLVs for the following fumigants
are:
• 5 ppm for methyl bromide
• 0.1 ppm for chloropicrin
Fumigant Poisoning
A person can be poisoned by a fumigant in three
ways: by mouth (orally), by skin absorption
Inhalation of a fumigant is the most common and
most serious type of exposure.
A fumigant applicator may be poisoned orally by:
• not washing hands before eating, smoking, or
chewing tobacco.
• accidentally applying fumigants to food.
• carelessly or accidentally splashing the liquid
phase of a fumigant on the face.
Dermal poisoning may occur by:
• accidentally or carelessly splashing skin with
the liquid phase of a fumigant.
• allowing contaminated clothing to touch skin
or wearing contaminated clothing.
• applying fumigants in windy conditions.
Inhalation of fumigants can occur by:
• inhaling fumes from fumigants during
application (This is almost impossible to avoid broncho-pneumonia.
if you are not wearing a respirator.)
• inhaling fumes when aerating treated soil or
removing gas-confining tarp.
• inhaling fumes while preparing fumigants
(opening cans), or disposing of containers.
(See label for respiratory protection
requirements when handling containers.)
Recognizing Fumigant
Poisoning Symptoms
Every applicator must learn the symptoms of
pesticide poisoning. Signs of illness may include, but
are not limited to, any or all of the following
symptoms: dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, headache,
and lack of coordination. The symptoms of specific
fumigant exposure or poisoning are described
below:
Methyl Bromide
Methyl bromide can produce chemical burns on
the skin, respiratory tract, and other exposed tissue, Metam sodium (Vapam®)
cause pneumonia, kidney damage, and extreme
nervousness. Any of these effects can be fatal. If
smaller amounts of methyl bromide are inhaled,
symptoms are similar to drunkenness. Methyl
bromide is cumulative, that is, repeated exposures to
doses will accumulate in the body tissue. Such
exposure may produce skin rashes, mental
confusion, double vision, tremors, slurred speech,
and lack of coordination. Since methyl bromide by
itself has no irritating qualities to indicate its
presence, chloropicrin is added as a warning agent
to many formulations. Chloropicrin emits an odorous
gas and is very irritating to the eyes.
In acute exposures to methyl bromide, the effects
are on both the respiratory and the central nervous
system. The onset of respiratory distress may be
delayed four to twelve hours after exposure. Methyl
bromide may act as a lung irritant causing mild
bronchitis to respiratory failure. Symptoms may
include cough, chest pain, labored breathing, and
eventually wet breathing, often complicated by
Central nervous system effects usually
accompany or are followed by several hours of
respiratory effects. Symptoms include intense nausea
and vomiting, dizziness, double or blurred vision,
unusual fatigue, headache, loss of appetite,
abdominal pain, staggering gait, and slurred speech.
Convulsions may result as symptoms progress.
Following excitation, central nervous system
depression may intervene. Muscle weakness and
respiratory paralysis may occur.
Chloropicrin
Chloropicrin is severely irritating to the upper
respiratory tract, eyes, and skin. It is a powerful tear
gas. Chloropicrin has a strong odor and is very
irritating to the eyes at concentrations as low as 1
ppm. If taken orally, it can cause nausea, vomiting,
colic, and diarrhea. Severe skin injury can result
from dermal exposure. Inhalation of an irritant
concentration sometimes leads to vomiting.
Prolonged respiratory exposure may lead to severe
lung injury.
Metam sodium is irritating to the eyes and skin,
and may be fatal if absorbed through the skin.
29
Inhalation of MITC may cause irritation to mucous
membranes and respiratory distress. The earliest
symptoms of inhalation exposure include tearing and
a runny nose, followed by coughing if the exposure
continues. These symptoms disappear soon after the
victim gets to fresh air. Dermal exposure may cause
bums; repeated or prolonged exposure may cause a
hypersensitive type dermatitis. Contamination of the
skin should be treated immediately with copious
amounts of water to avoid burns and corneal injury .
If skin or eye irritation persists, seek medical
attention.
1,3-D (1,3-Dichloropropene,
Telone®)
The liquid and gaseous forms of 1,3-D are toxic.
Label warnings indicate it may be fatal ifswallowed,
absorbed through the skin or inhaled. Exposure to
l,3-D causes substantial, but temporary eye injury.It
causes skin irritation and, if confined, skin bums. It
may cause an allergic skin reaction. Prolonged
contact may cause lung, liver, and kidney damage
and respiratory system irritation.
Dazomet
Oral exposure to dazomet may produce
symptoms of nonspecific irritation of the
gastrointestinal tract: nausea, vomiting, cramps, and
diarrhea. In severe cases, central nervous system
depression may result. Skin or eye contact may
result in irritation, and occasional individuals may
exhibit allergic reactions. Inhalation of the dust or
powder may result in nonspecific irritation of the
upper respiratory tract.
First Aid
First aid instructions are on the fumigant label and the following:
material safety data sheets (MSDS). Some general
first aid procedures may involve the following:
• For inhalation, remove exposed person from
contaminated area. Keep warm. Make sure
person can breathe freely. If breathing has
stopped, begin artificial respiration. If not
30
unconscious, rinse mouth out with water. Do
not give anything by mouth to an unconscious
person.
• For dermal exposure, immediately remove
contaminated clothing, shoes, and any other
items on skin. Wash contaminated skin area
thoroughly with soap and water.
• For eye exposure, hold eyelids open and flush
with a steady, gentle stream of water for at
least 15 minutes.
• For ingestion, if a liquid or dry fumigant has
been swallowed, the most important
consideration is whether or not to induce
vomiting; the decision must be correct and
accurate. Always refer to the pesticide label
for help in making that decision. If vomiting is
recommended, the label will give specific
instructions on how vomiting should be
induced. Never induce vomiting if the victim is
unconscious or is having convulsions.
In all cases of overexposure to fumigant
pesticides, get medical attention immediately. Call
911. Take the victim to a doctor or emergency
treatment facility. Take the fumigant labeling with you
so the doctor will know how to treat the patient or
can call a poison control center and get advice on
proper treatment.
Antidotes are remedies that may relieve or
neutralize poisoning. Antidotes may be suggested on
some pesticide labels, but should be given only by
physicians or others who are trained in their proper
use.
Personal Sanitation
One way to avoid being poisoned by fumigants is
to practice good personal sanitation habits such as
• Always have detergent and clean water close
by in case of skin or eye contamination.
• Have a complete, clean change of clothing
ready in case clothing is contaminated.
• If clothing or shoes become contaminated or if
a fumigant gets on the skin, remove
 contaminated clothing and shoes, thoroughly
wash exposed areas with detergent and water,
and put on clean clothes and shoes.
• Wash all contaminated clothing separately
from your regular laundry.
• Bathe and change to clean clothes daily.
• Do not smoke, drink, or eat while loading or
applying a fumigant or while repairing,
calibrating, or cleaning equipment.
• After fumigation operations always wash your
hands and face with detergent and water
before smoking, drinking, eating, or using the
bathroom.
Other Safety
Recommendations
Never fumigate alone! There should be at least
two persons for a fumigation job. When a fumigated
area must be entered, use a “buddy system” of at
least two persons. Make sure that employees
actively taking part in a fumigation procedure are in
good physical condition. Fumigators should have a
physical examination at least once a year and more
often if health conditions require it. Fumigation
businesses should maintain up-to-date health
records for each employee. Fumigators should
abstain from alcoholic beverages and taking any
drug for 24 hours before and 24 hours after a
fumigation job. Fumigators should not participate in
a fumigation procedure if they have a cold or other
respiratory problem that makes breathing difficult.
They should not participate in a fumigation
procedure while undergoing continuing medical or
dental treatments unless authorized to do so by the
physician or dentist in charge.
Good Practices To
Follow When
Fumigating
• Become fully acquainted with the fumigation
site. Know the number and identification of the
persons who routinely enter the area and the
proximity of other persons and animals. Know
the location of the nearest telephone or
communication facility.
• Post, or have with you, current emergency
telephone numbers, such as the fire
department, police, hospital, and physician.
• Select a fumigant registered by the EPA for the
work involved.
• Study directions, warnings, antidotes, and
precautions on the label and on the
manufacturer’s instruction manual. Follow all
the precautionary statements when handling
the fumigant. Always wear the protective
clothing and equipment specified on the
fumigant label.
• Arrange for standby equipment, replacement
parts, and an alternate plan of action. Besides
the precautions previously mentioned, there
are other general precautions to take when
fumigating:
• Inform all employees of the operational
schedule, potential hazards to life and
property, and the required safety measures
and emergency procedures.
• Prepare warning signs for posting treated
areas. Have available first aid equipment and
antidotes where applicable. Be alert to the
symptoms and signs of poisoning.
• Make sure there are no open fires or motors
within the area to be fumigated.
• Make a final check to clear all persons and
animals from the area to be fumigated.
• Do not work alone when handling or applying
fumigants.
• Obey reentry and aerating precautions.
Position yourself upwind when aerating soil
(removing a gas confining tarp).
Test Your Knowledge
Q. What is the best source of information
31
 regarding personal protective equipment to
use when working with fumigants?
A. The fumigant label is your best source of
information about the kind of personal protective
equipment must be worn when using fumigants.
A. There should be at least two persons for a
fumigation job. Methyl bromide labels require at
least two trained persons be present.
***

Q. Why should you not wear rings, wrist

watches, or gloves or goggles when
handling methyl bromide or chloropicrin?
A. These fumigants are heavier than air and can be
trapped between such items and the skin,
causing injury.

Q. Is respiratory protection required when

fumigating soil out-of-doors with methyl
bromide or chloropicrin.
A. It is required to be worn, if the air concentration
in the working area is above 5 ppm for methyl
bromide and above 0.1 ppm for chloropicrin.
Under normal out-of-door soil fumigation
conditions, the air concentration levels for these
fumigants will not generally exceed these levels.

Q. What kind of respirator do I need for methyl

bromide and chloropicrin?
A. An air supplied respirator or a self-contained
breathing apparatus. This equipment must be
available when fumigating soil out-of-doors in
case of a leak or spill.

Q. Inhaling small amounts of methyl bromide

produces symptoms similar to ______?
A. Drunkeness.

Q. What are the symptoms to metam sodium

(Vapam) exposure?
A. Exposure to metam sodium produces skin and
eye irritation and respiratory distress.

Q. How many people should be present when

applying fumigants?

32
 CHAPTER 7
Storing, Handling, and Disposing of
Fumigants
Learning Objectives
After you complete your study of this unit you
should be able to:
• Know how to store soil fumigants.
• Know how to dispose of soil fumigants.
• Know what must be done to manage
hazardous materials.
• Know how to manage a soil fumigant leak or
spill.
Storage of Soil
Fumigants
Store fumigants in a locked, dry, cool, well
ventilated area. Post the area as a pesticide storage
area. Cylinders containing methyl bromide may be
stored outdoors in a secure manner under ambient
conditions or indoors in a well ventilated area. Do
not contaminate water, feed, or food by storage. Do
not store in buildings where humans or animals live. proper disposal of excess fumigant and its container.
To shorten the storage period, purchase
fumigants just before you use them or have them
delivered just before you use them. Post temporary them out of lakes, streams, and ponds. Do not
storage areas as a pesticide storage area.Vapors
can escape from faulty valves or from damaged or
corroded cans and build to dangerous
concentrations in closed storage rooms. Install an
exhaust fan for ventilation to help reduce high
concentrations of toxic vapors and to hold
temperatures down. Run the ventilator to clear the
air before anyone enters the storage area. Check the Recovery Act (RCRA). If such wastes cannot be
containers and valves frequently for possible leaks. used according to label directions, they must be
Fumigant cylinders should not be subjected to
rough handling or mechanical shock such as
dropping, bumping, dragging, or sliding. Do not use
rope slings, hooks, tongs, or similar devices to
unload cylinders. Store cylinders upright, secured to
a rack or wall to prevent tipping.Transport cylinders
using a hand truck, fork truck, or other device to
which the cylinder can be firmly secured. Do not
remove the valve protection bonnet and safety cap
until immediately before use. Replace the safety cap
and valve protection bonnet when cylinder is not in
use.
When the cylinder is empty, close the valve,
screw the safety cap on to the valve outlet, and
replace the protection bonnet before returning the
cylinder to the shipper. Do not use cylinders for any
other purpose.
Store 1-pound and 1½-pound cans of methyl
bromide fumigant in the same manner as cylinders.
Disposal
Fumigant labels provide instructions for the
Always refer to the label for such information.
Fumigants are toxic to fish and wildlife. Keep
contaminate water when cleaning equipment or
disposing of pesticide wastes.
Wastes containing methyl bromide or 1,3-
dichloropropene (the latter being an ingredient of 1
,3-D) are considered hazardous by the EPA.
Therefore, disposal of such wastes is strictly
regulated under the Resource Conservation and
disposed of in a licensed hazardous waste
management facility.
33
 Return empty cylinders of methyl bromide to does not count as a spill or leak.)
your chemical supplier or manufacturer. Be sure to The federal law that set up this reporting system
follow their recommendations when transporting and is the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-
returning emptied cylinders. Before you return a Know Act (EPCRA). This law is also called “SARA
partially filled cylinder, contact the manufacturer or Title III” because it is actually part of a more
supplier for specific transportation instructions, and comprehensive law known as the Superfund
tag the cylinder so that the person receiving it will Amendments and ReauthorizationAct (SARA).
know it is not empty. Likewise, tag any cylinders
which are or seem to be defective in any way . The quantities that trigger the reporting
requirements are set (and may be changed) by the
Emptied smaller containers (1-pound and 1½- US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a
pound cans) of methyl bromide may not require branch of the federal government.
special treatment but should be crushed after
aeration. Thoroughly emptied and aerated containers When considering fumigants instorage, the
may then be disposed of in a sanitary landfill. threshold planning quantity (TPQ) is the number
of pounds of fumigant active ingredient that triggers
Follow label directions relating to container the reporting requirement whenever the fumigant is
management for 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D, present at a facility. For example, EPA set 1,000
Telone®) products. Follow cleaning and handling pounds as the TPQ for methyl bromide. This means
directions in user’s guide for the product for that when 1,000 pounds or more of the active
refillable containers and follow label directions for ingredient methyl bromide is present at a facility,the
nonrefillable container disposal. owner or manager or the storage facility must make
Return empty cylinders of chloropicrin to the the report. Reports must be madeannually to: (1)
supplier or manufacturer. Plastic containers of the Hawaii State Emergency Response
chloropicrin and metam sodium (Vapam®) should be Commission, (2) the local emergency planning
triple or pressure rinsed and offered for recycling or committee for the county in which the fumigant is
disposed of in a sanitary landfill. stored, and (3) the fire department for the county in
If you have any questions about disposal of which the fumigant is stored.
fumigant waste, contact one of theeducation Hawaii has four counties: Kauai, Honolulu City &
specialists at the Pesticides Branch, Hawaii County (for Oahu), Maui (for Maui, Molokai, and
Department of Agriculture: Oahu 973-9401, Maui Lanai), and Hawaii.
873-3555, Hawaii 974-4143. The area code for When considering a fumigantspill or leak, the
these telephone numbers is 808. reportable quantity (RQ) is the number of pounds
of active ingredient that triggers the reporting
requirement for the fumigant that has spilled or
Hazardous Materials leaked. For example, EPA set 100 pounds as the
RQ for 1,3-dichloropropene (the active ingredient in
Management Telone®). This means that when 100 pounds or
Because pesticides (including fumigants) can be more of the active ingredient 1,3-dichloropropene
hazardous to people and wildlife, reports must be spills or leaks, the owner or manager of the fumigant
made to certain county, state, and federal container(s) must make the report. Reports must be
government agencies for purposes of chemical made immediately to: (1) the Hawaii State
emergency planning and chemical emergency Emergency Response Commission, aand (2) the
response. The reports must be made (1) when a local emergency planning committee for the
specific quantity of a fumigant is stored at a facility
, county in which the fumigant spills or leaks. Further,
or (2) when a specific quantity of a fumigant spills or if the release occurs in a tranport accident (3) the
leaks. (Applying a fumigant according to its labeling National Response Center must be notifed. Also, a

34
follow-up report must be made after the emergency.
To learn more about TPQs, RQs, and reporting
requirements, consult the Hawaii Department of
Health’s Office of Hazard Evaluation and
Emergency Response (HEER). Here’s the contact
information for the HEER office:
Hazard Evaluation and Emergency Response Office
Hawaii Department of Health
919 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 206
Honolulu, HI 96814
EMAIL heer@eha.health.state.hi.us
TELEPHONE 808-586-4294 (Honolulu)
FAX 808-586-7537 (Honolulu)
From Maui (toll-free): 984-2400 ext 64249
From Hawaii (toll-free): 974-4000 ext 64249
From Kauai (toll-free): 274-3141 ext 64249
From Molokai or Lanai (toll-free): (800) 468-4644 ext
64249
Website: “HEPCRA Compliance Information”:
www.hawaii.gov/health/environmental/hazard/
hepcra.html
Spill and Leak Clean-
Up Procedures
Under normal conditions (outdoor applications, no
spills or leaks), no respiratory protection will be
required during soil fumigation. Because there is a
possibility of a spill or leak, however,the following
spill and leak procedures must be understood and
followed when fumigating the soil with methyl bromide
or chloropicrin products.
If a spill or leak occurs from a cylinder containing earth, or similar adsorbent material. Dispose of
methyl bromide, evacuate everyone from the
immediate area of the spill or leak.Wear personal
protective equipment prescribed by the label
(including a NIOSH/MSHA approved self-contained
breathing apparatus (SCBA) or a combination air-
supplied/SCBA respirator) to go back into the
affected area to correct the problem. The spill should
be allowed to evaporate and no one should enter the
spill area without respiratory protection until the
concentration of methyl bromide is less than 5 ppm.
Remove leaking containers to an isolated area and
cover them with polyethylene sheeting. (tarp) at least
4 mils thick. (A “mil” is 0.001 inch or 1/1000 inch.) A. Storage conditions for fumigants are the same as
Place the edges of the tarp in a trench and seal them
with soil.
With spills or leaks of methyl bromide products
containing high levels of chloropicrin, you must
determine also that the concentration of chloropicrin in
the surrounding air is less than 0.1 ppm before
allowing unprotected persons to enter the area.
A spill of methyl bromide involving 1,000 pounds
(the reportable quantity for methyl bromide) or more
must be reported to the Hawaii State Emergency
Response Commission and two other government
agencies. If there is any contaminated soil, water,and
other debris resulting from cleanup, they are classified
as hazardous wastes.
In case of a rupture of hose or fitting while
applying methyl bromide, immediately stop the tractor
and motor. Evacuate the area. Use a NIOSH/MSHA
approved SCBA or combination air-supplied/SCBA
respirator for entry into the affected area to correct
the problem. Approach the equipment from upwind to
make necessary repairs. Do not reenter the area
without respiratory protection until the spill has
evaporated or the leak has been repaired, and the
methyl bromide concentration in the surrounding air is
determined to be less than 5 ppm.
For spills or leaks involving only chloropicrin, you
alternatively may wear a NIOSH/MSHA respirator
approved for organic vapors besides respirators
approved for methyl bromide. Move the leaking or
damaged container to an isolated location.Work
upwind if possible.Allow spilled material to
evaporate, or adsorb onto vermiculite, dry sand,
contaminated material in accordance with instructions
for soil fumigation. Do not permit anyone to enter the
spill area or cleanup area without appropriate
respiratory protection until the air concentration of
chloropicrin is determined to be less than 0.1 ppm.
Test Your Knowledge
Q. What should be the storage conditions for
fumigants?
35
 for other types of pesticides. Storage conditions
should be dry, cool, and well ventilated.The
facility should be locked and posted as a
pesticide storage area.

Q. What should be done with the empty

cylinders that held methyl bromide and/or
chloropicrin?
A. Return empty cylinders to the dealer or the
manufacturer.

Q. What should you do if there is a spill or leak

from a cylinder containing methyl bromide?
A. Evacuate everyone from the immediate area of
the spill or leak.

Q. What kind of respirator is needed when

repairing a hose or fitting rupture on
application equipment when making soil
applications of methyl bromide?
A. A NIOSH/MSHA approved SCBA or
combination air-supplied/SCBA respirator.
***

36
 Glossary
Adsorption – binding to the surface
Arthropod – organism with an exoskeleton: insects,
mites, spiders, centipedes, scorpions, pillbugs,
shrimps, lobsters, crabs, Daphnia etc.
Bacteria – very small, one-celled organisms that
reproduce by simple fission.
Band Application – placement of a pesticide in a
strip either over or along the crop row.
Biocidal – has action to kill all organisms, including
plants, animals, fungi, etc.
Broadcast Application – application made
uniformly over an entire area rather than only
over rows, beds, or small spots within a general
area.
Chemigation – injecting agricultural chemicals
(fertilizers, pesticides) into an irrigation system.
Complete (Complex) metamorphosis – life cycle
of an insect; consist of four stages: egg, larva,
pupa, and adult.
Cyst – form of some nematode females, oval not
elongate.
Diffuse – move in all directions.
Ectoparasites – live outside of the organism on
which they feed.
Egg – reproductive unit of nematodes, insects, and
symphylans.
Endoparasite – live within the organism in which
they feed.
Fission – division of one celled organisms into two
progeny cells.
Formulation – the active and inert ingredients that
make up a pesticide product (i.e., an emulsifiable
concentrate or a granule).
Fumigant – penetrating gas.
Fungi – plant-like organisms that lack chlorophyll
and conductive tissues; reproduce by spores.
Hazard – degree of danger; risk.
Hyphae – vegetative growth portion of fungi.
Insect – an animal with an exoskeleton and jointed
appendages that has three body segments, three
pair of legs, and sometimes wings.
Larva – an immature stage of an insect that
undergoes complete metamorphosis.
MSDS – Material Safety Data Sheet.
Nematode – generally a microscopic,
nonsegmented threadlike roundworm.
Organic matter – remains of plant and animal
debris found in the soil in all stages of decay.
Organism – any living thing; plant, animal, fungus,
bacteria, insect, etc.
Parasitic – feeds on other organisms.
Phytotoxic – poisonous to plants.
Placard – a poster or notice giving information; to
post a notice.
Pore space – area between soil particles that is
filled with air or water.
Pupa – a stage in insect development between the
larva and adult.
Sedentary – relatively immobile, does not move
much.
Soil condition – usually referred to as soil tilth – is
the physical condition of soil as related to its ease
of tillage, fitness as a seed bed, and its resistance
to seedling emergence and root penetration.
Soil texture – composition of the soil, in particular
soil particle size; sandy (coarse), loamy, clay
(fine).
Soil-borne – live in the soil.
Spore – reproductive unit of fungi.
Stylet – the sharp hard needle-like part in the head
of plant-feeding nematodea; used to puncture
plant cells and feed on the contents.
Symphylan – an animal with an exoskeleton and
jointed appendages that has many body segments
and legs, looks like a centipede.
Symptom – an expression, a sign, an indication of
something wrong.
37
Target organism – plant or animal to which a
control is directed.
Toxic – injurious to plant and/or animal, poisonous.
Vesicant – causes blisters.
Volatile – will evaporate readily.
Volatilize – to evaporate (i.e., to change from liquid
to gas).
Weed – a plant that is undesirable where it is
growing.
***

38 Soil Fumigation Guide 100913v2