Individuals who are interested in the field of pesticide fumigation can complete college certificate programs that last less than a year or two-year associate degree programs in pesticide technology or a related area such as turf grass management technology, which covers the application of pesticide chemicals in its program of study. Students in a pesticide fumigation training program learn how to eradicate common pests such as mice, roaches, termites, rats, spiders and other creatures that infest businesses and homes at schools.
Students in a pesticide fumigation training program learn about the proper way to use pesticide application equipment. Industry production trends and various environmental laws that deal with pesticide fumigation also are part of the course. Students additionally study how choosing the correct pesticide equipment and calibrating it correctly can provide adequate pest control without causing unnecessary environmental contamination.
Pesticide fumigation training courses cover pesticide safety procedures and the proper way to store and handle pesticides as well. Students review the importance of reading pesticide labels and following the instructions carefully as well as wearing protective clothing and using other personal protective equipment during the fumigation process. Mixing, applying and disposing of pesticides -- which includes those used in horticulture -- also are covered in a pesticide fumigation training course. In addition, students go over the effects of pesticides on organisms such as birds, bees, fish and insects.
Pesticide technicians in all states must be licensed. Although licensing requirements vary by state, they generally involve training and passing an examination. For example, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture requires aspiring certified pesticide applicators in Pennsylvania must pass two exams to be eligible for certification. Meanwhile, individuals in New York must have a college degree that covers certain pesticide concepts or have two years of experience as an apprentice in this field.