Vapona Application Label Changes

January 2023 Issue: Vapona Application Label Changes

By:  Jeff Waggoner, ACE

January 2023 Issue: Vapona products, also called DDVP containing dichlorvos are without a doubt the most effective fogging material available today.  Vapona lives somewhere between pyrethrins and fumigants.  While much more cost-effective than a fumigation it is not as efficacious as a fumigant.  Vapona volitalizes when applied and has some exceptional lateral movement and penetration qualities.  It becomes a vapor that is not visible, so somewhere around 5 microns.  Typical fogging agents are 15 microns during ULV applications.

Dichlorvos is in the organophosphate class of chemicals.  This carries with it some serious exposure concerns.  Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can mitigate the risks concerned with using these products.  Always consult the specific product label to ensure you are abiding by the registrant’s specific recommendations.  As a result of such a classification and in efforts to reduce worker exposure to aerosolized vapona products, all applications as of October 28, 2022 must be performed from outside the target “area” or “structure”, depending on the product label instructions. 

This change has come about quietly.  Vapona is a Restricted Use Product (RUP) and may only be used by properly licensed applicators.  Many may not have heard and will not know about this recent change and may be at risk for making improper and illegal applications of the product.  Illegal applications of pesticides can come with hefty fines and put your organization at risk.  FSS, Inc. has developed a compliant application process for our clients.  There are also other methods of compliant applications available.  The additional labor and equipment will increase the cost of vapona applications so expect that to come.  However, these applications will still be a great value as an integral part of any successful IPM program.

To learn more about these changes, discuss your options and ensure you are compliant with these new EPA label changes, contact FSS, Inc