Thanks everybody. If we do use diatomaceous earth it will be food grade and
the EPA says it's not hazardous to humans or animals unless exposed
directly for an extended period of time. The stuff they use in swimming
pools is the extremely hazardous stuff. Even though it will kill the pest
slowly we want them killed. Sticky traps can only do so much. We've been
researching ways to do more without using conventional chemicals. Thanks
again for everyone's input!

Dave, we do have an IPM system. In fact, I wrote it. Researching
non-chemical alternatives when there is evidence of infestation is a part
of it.

Jessica Knight
Collections Assistant
Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum
Buffalo, Wyoming




On Wed, Sep 11, 2013 at 1:08 PM, David Harvey <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> I would never use diatomaceous earth inside any building where people
> working or visiting or where collections are stored. The fine dust can be
> hazardous. You need to get an IPM (Integrated Pest Management Program) in
> place. That includes monitoring, identifying and closing points of entry,
> reducing food sources for pests, and using "green" methods of pest control.
> Any infested collections should be bagged and isolated from the rest of the
> collection/museum. Sometimes freezing will eliminate pests, sometimes
> anoxic treatment  - it depends on the pest and their life-cycle. Inspect
> ALL arriving objects, art, books, crates, for pests when they arrive.
> Inspect the outside of your building and consider moving/removing landscape
> against the building- eliminate sources of water from basements etc.
>
> You need a strategy.
>
> Cheers!
> Dave
>
> David Harvey
> Senior Conservator & Museum Consultant
> Los Angeles CA
> www.cityofangelsconservation.weebly.com
>
>
> On Wed, Sep 11, 2013 at 9:03 AM, Jessica Knight <[log in to unmask]>wrote:
>
>> Hello Listservers!
>>
>> At my museum we have recently discovered an entry point for pests which
>> explains the influx of roly polys, spiders, crickets, and SILVERFISH. We
>> are in the process of getting the problem fixed, but in the mean time we
>> need to do something about the infestation in this area. Has anyone used
>> diatomaceous earth in their collections area? From what I can gather online
>> there is no risk to people or objects, just the little critters. Any advice
>> would be helpful.
>>
>> Jessica Knight
>> Collections Assistant
>> Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum
>> Buffalo, Wyoming
>>
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