IMPROPER USE OF AN INSECTICIDE AT A KINDERGARTEN

In a German kindergarten cockroaches were destroyed by a commercial fi rm. A preparation containing pyrethrum and its synergist piperonyl but oxide and the organic phosphorus pesticide chlorpyriphos was sprayed. While cleaning the roams, the staff complained of health effects. Ther eupon the kindergarten was closed until further notice, samples were t aken by the health authorities for chemical analysis, and an environme ntal medical evaluation was initiated. The analytical results are pres ented. The toxicological significance of the employed insecticides, th eir environmental persistence, and the problems associated with pest c ontrol in such institutions are discussed and recommendations given.