Types of Incesticides
- Organic Phosphate Insecticides
- The organic phosphate group of insecticides includes materials such as: methyl parathion, malathion, naled (Dibrom), azinphosmethyl (Guthion), dimethoate (Cygon), diazinon, ethion, acephate (Orthene), methamidophos (Monitor), oxydemeton-methyl (Meta-Systox-R), disulfoton (Di-Syston), fonofos (Dyfonate), phorate (Thimet), phosmet (Imidan) and chlorpyrifos (Lorsban). Some of these compounds are highly toxic while others are relatively safe. All of them, however, can be used safely if you follow the precautions on the label.
- Carbamate Insecticides
- The carbamate insecticides include carbaryl (Sevin), propoxur (Baygon), methomyl (Lannate), carbofuran (Furadan), thiodicarb (Larvin), oxamyl (Vydate) and aldicarb (Temik). Some of these compounds are highly toxic while others are relatively safe. However, use only those recommended for the job and pay particular close attention to applying these types of insecticide in windy areas.
- Synthetic Pyrethroids
- The synthetic pyrethroid group includes esfenvalerate (Asana), permethrin (Ambush, Pounce), cypermethrin (Ammo), zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang), and cyhalothrin (Karate, Warrior).
- Chlorinated Hydrocarbon Insecticides
- Chlorinated hydrocarbon type insecticides include Lindane, 1,3-D (Telone), methyl bromide (Brom-O-Gas, Dowfume MC-2, MC-33, Terr-O-Gas 67), chloropicrin (Chlor-O-Pic, Picfume), and Thiodan. These are generally less hazardous from an acute standpoint than many of the phosphates and carbamates. However some are highly toxic and label precautions should be carefully read before using these compounds.
The key to safe handling is understanding of insecticides is the diligent practice of safe working habits. Accidents with pesticides can be prevented. Some of the major causes are: (1) leaving the material within reach of irresponsible persons; (2) failure to read and follow the use precautions on the label; and (3) carelessness in the disposal of empty containers.