Field Readiness: Protection and Recovery
Effective pest control is physically demanding work. Between handling desiccants that strip moisture from your skin and navigating crawlspaces or attics filled with sharp hazards, **pest control is extraordinarily hard on the hands**. Professional-grade gear isn't just about safety—it's about ensuring your body can handle the daily rigors of the "reckoning."
Field-Tested Technician Gear
Primary Use: Durable footwear for long days on your feet.
Technicians cover miles of ground, often on uneven terrain or in slick industrial environments. These composite toe shoes provide the necessary protection against falling equipment without the heavy weight of traditional steel toes. They offer the puncture resistance and stability required for safe movement through treatment zones.
Primary Use: Waterless removal of greases and chemicals.
When you're in the field, you don't always have access to a sink. GOOP is a legendary waterless degreaser that removes stubborn insecticide residues, dirt, and oils without needing a drop of water. It's an essential first step in cleaning up after a treatment to prevent chemical transfer to your vehicle or home.
Primary Use: Repairing skin damaged by chemicals and dust.
Pest control is extraordinarily hard on the hands; desiccants like Cimexa are designed to suck moisture out of bugs, and they do the same to human skin. O'Keeffe's is the industry gold standard for healing cracked, split skin. It creates a protective layer that helps maintain moisture even during repeated exposure to the elements.
Primary Use: High-level protection for hands in hazardous areas.
Whether you're reaching into a dark corner or clearing debris, you need more than just a latex glove. These Level 5 puncture-resistant gloves protect against needles, sharp metal, and bites. They provide the grip and armor necessary to work confidently in high-risk environments where your hands are most vulnerable.
Maintenance Tips for Your Gear
- Glove Inspection: Always check your puncture-resistant gloves for "weak spots" before starting a job. One small tear can lead to chemical exposure.
- Skin Hydration: Apply O'Keeffe's before bed. Giving the cream 8 hours of undisturbed time to work is the best way to combat the drying effects of pest control dusts.
- Boots and Traps: Keep your footwear clean of mud and debris to prevent tracking hitchhiking pests or allergens from one job site to another.