TR
RA D E N E W S
•••
A full-face
mask with
a filter can is
compulsory when
fumigation is
d
done.
The fumigation guys at Senwes in Klerksdorp.
Renier Vermaak (Head of Fumigation), Abel Kadi
(General Worker), Jacob Dintwe (Driver) and Thinus
Mostert (Assistant-Fumigator).
and acute poisoning. All silos are
limited space environments and
have to be employee-friendly.
Health risks have to be considered, good training is essential and
labels have to be read and understood. The types of toxic substances and the effect thereof on the
applicator must be understood.
INSECTS
There are approximately 2 million
species. The most important storage insects in the Senwes area are
maize-weevils, flat grain beetles,
rust red grain beetles, grain moths
and grain lice, each with its own
subspecies. During the winter, at
temperatures below 15°C, insects
are less active and they do not reproduce. However, at warmer temperatures and in moist conditions,
they flourish.
THE IMPACT OF INSECTS
With every non-effective fumigation, the next generation of insects
builds up a measure of resistance.
Life cycles are between 20 and
40 days. One surviving insect
can lay up to 300 eggs. The larva
consumes everything in its reach
in order to generate a strong insect
and the main purpose of the insect
is to reproduce.
WHAT DO THE INSECTS
TARGET?
Insects target the germ - the part
which germinates and contains
the highest nutritional value. Insect damage affects the grading of
grain.
The rust red
grain beetle is one
of approximately 2
million species.
QUARANTINE
Some years ago the khapra beetle
occurred from time to time, but
fortunately not any longer. The
occurrence of such a beetle would
result in a tota