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Summary.
Successful scientific investigation has established that certain ship-borne pests may
communicate diseases which were the cause of the severe quarantine restrictions imposed on
shipping for many centuries.
Systematic eradication of these pests voluntarily or by means of legislation on an international
scale, has rendered obsolete and protracted quarantine measures unnecessary to the advantage of
the commercial shipping industry.
The rat menace has been relatively controlled and continued efforts are being directed against
the insect pests which can adversely affect the health and welfare of the crew, ravage foodstuffs
and cause delay and expense with consequent loss of operational efficiency.
An insecticidal lacquer is now available which has proved its ability to eradicate insect
pests aboard ship for a period of at least two years, providing it is adequately applied by persons
who are sufficiently skilled and interested in pest control. Moreover, the lacquer must be
dispensed according to the makers' instructions.
While every effort must be made to avoid risk of fire, there appears to be no more danger
arising from this treatment than painting or varnishing operations, since the lowest flash point
of the solvent vapour is 78°F. and it is claimed by some manufacturers that this can be raised
to 98 °F.
If the operation is carried out by competent personnel at a time when the vessel is new, idle
or refitting, there is enough evidence to prove that no other treatment of the spaces will be
required by anyone else until the next refit. The overall results have been exceedingly good and
worthy of consideration.
Acknowledgment.
To the Colonial Research Department for information related to the laboratory tests.
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