What technique should a pest control professional use to avoid contaminating drinking water while applying termiticides?

Using treated backfill application is an effective technique for pest control professionals to prevent the contamination of drinking water when applying termiticides. This method involves applying the termiticide to the soil that has been excavated during a treatment process. After the application, the soil is replaced as backfill, creating a barrier between the termiticide and any water sources.

This method is particularly advantageous because it allows for targeted treatment in areas where termites are likely to enter structures while minimizing the risk of the chemicals leaching into groundwater or nearby drinking water supplies. By securing the termiticide within the soil and isolating it from surface water and drinking water sources, the treated backfill technique enhances the safety and effectiveness of termite management strategies.

In contrast, other methods of application, such as direct soil injection or surface sprays, do not provide the same level of protection against potential contamination since they may introduce chemicals directly into the soil or onto surfaces that could drain into water sources. The drip application method, while precise, also does not inherently prevent contamination without specific precautions in place. Thus, treated backfill application stands out as the safest option for protecting drinking water during termite treatments.