Performance Standards and Acceptable Test Conditions for Preventive Termiticide and Insecticide Treatments, Termite Baiting Systems, and Physical Barriers for New Structures or Buildings under Construction (Pre-Construction; During Construction; Post-Construction)

Florida Administrative Code (FAC) 5E-2.0311, “Performance Standards and Acceptable Test Conditions for Preventive Termite Treatments for New Construction,” approved in 2003, currently remains without change as originally written. This Code requires broad revision to include updating existing and new termite management methods and technologies, describing acceptable testing protocols that objectively evaluate termite management product efficacy, and clearly and accurately define product performance standards required for approval and use in Florida, USA. This manuscript provides modification and expansion of the existing Code, first in outline form, then followed by a proposed complete revision including detailed explanations for each outline heading and sub-heading. Efficacy requirements, acceptable test conditions, and performance standards requirements are described for termite management products, materials, and non-chemical physical exclusion barriers. We also include testing protocols for field plot and structure efficacy tests. Minimum performance standards also are described for field plots and structure tests to include: (1) termiticide applications to soil, (2) termite baiting systems, (3) pesticides applied directly to wood and building components, (4) pesticide combination mixtures, and (5) new application technologies, products, and methodologies. Although this manuscript addresses revision of a specific Florida Administrative Code, it also is appropriate for consideration by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) as well as regulatory entities in other states responsible for pesticide regulation and consumer protection services when writing or revising their code requirements for termite management.