Pesticides are toxic substances designed to kill or repel pests.  But in addition to being harmful to pests, they can cause acute symptoms in humans, including nausea, headaches, rashes and dizziness. Many are also linked to chronic diseases and conditions such as cancer, birth defects, neurological  and reproductive disorders, and to the development of chemical sensitivities.

Most people have no idea that the majority of health care institutions use chemical pesticides on a regular basis, both inside and outside of their facilities. People generally visit health care facilities because their health is already being affected in some way. They may have compromised immune, neurological, digestive and respiratory systems that put them at increased risk of suffering harmful effects from exposure to pesticides. The elderly, pregnant women, chemically sensitive individuals, and infants and children are especially vulnerable to the toxic effects of pesticides. 

A method of pest control called Integrated Pest Management (IPM) eliminates or greatly reduces the use of these hazardous pesticide products. IPM is an approach to pest management that focuses on preventing and managing pest problems (both inside and outside a health care facility) through nontoxic methods such as improved sanitation and structural maintenance, mechanical and biological controls and cultural practices.

The focus of IPM is on preventing pest problems by reducing or eliminating sources of pest food, water and shelter; blocking pest entry into buildings; and maintaining healthy soil and plants. Chemical pesticides are only used as a last resort and preference is given to the least toxic pesticide that will accomplish the job. On the rare occasion that a toxic pesticide is used, ample notification is given to staff, patients and the public.

For IPM tools and resources, please also see Hospitals for a Healthy Environment.  

Key Resources

Healthy Hospitals Report (pdf)

Pest Management in New York State Hospitals

Beyond Pesticides

Pesticide Action Network of North America