IPM is based on an understanding of pest biology and habits, and employs a number of strategies, not just pesticides, to control pests. IPM has been used with great success in agriculture for decades. Now these principles are beginning to be applied to schools in Indiana and other states to improve children's health and safety. Pests infesting public schools and childcare facilities, as well as the unrestricted use of pesticides to control these pests, may potentially expose children to health risks.
Research shows that children are more sensitive to pesticide exposure than adults.
Their growing bodies take in more food and water per pound of body weight than do adults. Because kids spend so much time in schools or childcare facilities, it just makes sense to reduce their potential exposure to pesticides as much as possible. In light of these concerns about pesticide exposure of children, the Indiana Pesticide Review Board has written Recommendations For Pest Control By School Districts . These recommendations outline practices they feel will protect the health of children, faculty and staff in public schools. These guidelines address adoption of a pest control policy, notification of staff and parents prior to pesticide applications, and qualifications of pesticide applicators, among other issues.