The Postal Service™ uses integrated pest management (IPM) practices and techniques to control pests. IPM emphasizes using safer, more environmentally sound pest procedures without eliminating the use of pesticides entirely.
Pesticides include insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and rodenticides, which are all regulated because of the chemicals they contain that can be hazardous to human health, the environment, and water quality. The Postal Service currently has national IPM contracts in place through the Facility Services CMC, which is the preferred method for pest management at all USPS® sites.
When considering pesticide treatments, USPS employees must:
n Use chemical pesticides only as a last resort (using a USPS IPM national contractor for chemical pesticide application). Only contracted, licensed pesticide applicators may apply chemical pesticides.
n Use non-concentrated or pre-mixed pesticides suitable for household use for minor spot treatments. Apply with precision and restraint.
n Never purchase or apply restricted use pesticides or concentrated pesticides that require mixing. USPS personnel are prohibited from applying restricted use pesticides and from mixing or using concentrated pesticides. Check the label to see if a product contains a restricted use pesticide.
n Never apply pesticides (or any chemicals) to stormwater retention or detention basins or ponds and exercise caution when applying pesticides around these areas.
For pesticide storage and disposal, USPS employees must:
n Maintain only limited quantities of pest control products. Do not stockpile.
n Store pesticides in their original containers, keep pesticide containers closed, and follow the storage instructions on the label. If possible, keep all pesticides in a locked cabinet in a well-ventilated utility area.
n Never store pesticides in cabinets near food or medical supplies. Do not store pesticides in places where they might spill or leak into wells, drains, groundwater, or surface water.
n Never pour leftover pesticides down the sink, into the toilet, or down a sewer or street drain. Arrange for off-site disposal using the USPS National Hazardous Waste Management Service contractor available on eBuy+. Maintain shipment and disposal records on-site.
n Never reuse empty pesticide containers. If containers are empty (i.e., all the liquid product has been removed and used), place the container in the trash unless the label specifies a different disposal procedure.
Contractors who apply pesticides must remove all devices and excess products after completion. If USPS-purchased pesticides cannot be properly used, employees must contact the vendor to inquire if the manufacturer will take back the unused product.
For more information:
n Review the following guidance for Integrated Pest Management at blue.usps.gov/sustainability/environmental/_pdf/waste/ecb-pestmanagment.pdf.
n Consult your designated USPS environmental contact at blue.usps.gov/sustainability/contact.htm.
— Environmental Affairs and Corporate Sustainability,
Corporate Affairs, 10-6-22
