Dubai Municipality warns on use of Aluminium phosphide

In the context of increasing pesticides poisoning cases reported in the emirate of Dubai recently, the Public Health Pest Control Section of Dubai Municipality has warned against the consequences resulting in the use of pesticides in houses without the proper supervision of concerned authorities. Eng. Hisham Abdul Rahman Al-Yahya, Head of Public Health Pest Control Section said that it is dangerous to use toxic pesticides specially deadly Aluminium phosphide in homes for the control of bed bug, as this pesticide when come in contact with warm & moisture will release highly toxic phosphine gas. The lack of awareness and misuse may result in poisoning or death. “Consumers obtained Aluminium phosphide, which is usually in the form of gray colour tablets from illegal sellers, which neither licensed & nor qualified to sell or use this product. This product is packed in cheap plastic bags with no warning labels on them,” he added. Ms. Zuhoor Hussain Al Sabbagh, Director of Public Health Services Department stated that the article (37) in the Local Order No 11 for the year (2003) Concerning Public Health and Community safety in the emirate of Dubai is clearly prohibits importing, handling and trading of pesticides without permission from the competent authority. In addition, the pesticides should comply with the specifications approved by the Department, in accordance with the health and environmental standards and technical requirements for the handling of such pesticides and the prevention of risks. The Aluminium phosphide has been registered by the Ministry of Water & Environment for use in specific areas only by the licensed specialists.