They assist applicators by carrying supplies, organizing materials, and preparing equipment. Technicians are licensed to apply pesticides only under an applicator s supervision. Certified pest control applicators, sometimes called exterminators, perform the same tasks technicians do. But they are also certified to apply all pesticides, both general and restricted use, without supervision and are licensed to supervise and train technicians in pesticide use. Within this group of workers are several subspecialties, including termite exterminators and fumigators.
Termite exterminators are applicators who specialize in controlling termites.
They use chemicals and modify structures to eliminate and prevent termites. To treat infested areas, termite exterminators drill holes and cut openings into buildings to access infestations. To prevent further infestation, they modify foundations and dig holes and trenches around buildings. Some termite exterminators even repair structural damage caused by termites. Fumigators are applicators who control pests using poisonous gasses called fumigants.