USACE / NAVFAC / AFCESA / NASA UFGS-31 31 16 (August 2008)
---------------------------
Preparing Activity: USACE Superseding
UFGS-31 31 16 (April 2006)
UNIFIED FACILITIES GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
References are in agreement with UMRL dated January 2009
SECTION 31 31 16
SOIL TREATMENT FOR SUBTERRANEAN TERMITE CONTROL
08/08
NOTE: This guide specification covers the requirements for termiticide treatment
measures for subterranean termite control.
Edit this guide specification for project specific requirements by adding, deleting,
or revising text. For bracketed items, choose applicable items(s) or insert
appropriate information.
Remove information and requirements not required in respective project, whether
or not brackets are present.
Comments and suggestions on this guide specification are welcome and should
be directed to the technical proponent of the specification. A listing of technical
proponents, including their organization designation and telephone number, is
on the Internet.
Recommended changes to a UFGS should be submitted as a Criteria Change Request
(CCR).
PART 1 GENERAL
NOTE: Termite infestation exists throughout the United States and overseas
areas with the exception of Alaska. Soil treatment will be specified for all
types of construction where termites are likely to establish colonies and make
concealed access to wood construction, including wood doors, windows, finish,
and trim, or to wood-product, cloth, or cellulose storage in buildings. Soil
treatment will also be required for structures constructed of or containing
wood-preservative-treated items. However, soil treatment is not required for
power plants, central-heating plants, water- or sewer-treatment plants, incinerators,
pump houses, and structures of similar nature which have neither wood in their
construction nor wood or cellulose items stored within, and which have little
chance of conversion to alternative uses.
Modification of this section, including materials, concentrations, or rates
of application, considered necessary because of climatic conditions, porosity
of soil to be treated, type of termite, or heavy infestation of termites, will
be as recommended by the certified installation pest management coordinator.
The modification will be in accordance with the guidance contained in the installation
pest management program. Army Regulation 210-50, Housing Management, paragraph
SPECIAL CONDITIONS, prohibits termiticide treatment through or under concrete
slabs where HVAC ducts or vents are within or beneath the slab. Information
is also available from state and local agriculture agencies and from the EPA
National Pesticide Telephone Network at 1-800-858-7378.
When termites are known to be present on the project site, any crawl space on
the ground level designed in a building needs to be designed for a concrete
cover to be placed over the soil after treatment by a termiticide. Since the
crawl space remains accessible to people and animals, it requires the concrete
cover and signage.
For maximum termite protection, new structures should be designed and constructed
using CCA- or borate-treated lumber, especially for foundation members. Untreated
lumber in existing structures may be treated using rods of CCA or borate salts
which can be inserted into non-treated wood and dissolved with water for absorption
by the wood.
1.1 REFERENCES
NOTE: This paragraph is used to list the publications cited in the text of
the guide specification. The publications are referred to in the text by basic
designation only and listed in this paragraph by organization, designation,
date, and title.
Use the Reference Wizard's Check Reference feature when you add a RID outside
of the Section's Reference Article to automatically place the reference in the
Reference Article. Also use the Reference Wizard's Check Reference feature
to update the issue dates.
References not used in the text will automatically be deleted from this section
of the project specification when you choose to reconcile references in the
publish print process.
The publications listed below form a part of this specification to the extent referenced. The publications are
referred to within the text by the basic designation only.
[U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA)7 USC Section 136Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act]1.2 SUBMITTALS
NOTE: Review submittal description (SD) definitions in Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL
PROCEDURES and edit the following list to reflect only the submittals required
for the project. Submittals should be kept to the minimum required for adequate
quality control.
A “G” following a submittal item indicates that the submittal requires Government
approval. Some submittals are already marked with a “G”. Only delete an existing
“G” if the submittal item is not complex and can be reviewed through the Contractor’s
Quality Control system. Only add a “G” if the submittal is sufficiently important
or complex in context of the project.
For submittals requiring Government approval on Army projects, a code of up
to three characters within the submittal tags may be used following the "G"
designation to indicate the approving authority. Codes for Army projects using
the Resident Management System (RMS) are: "AE" for Architect-Engineer; "DO"
for District Office (Engineering Division or other organization in the District
Office); "AO" for Area Office; "RO" for Resident Office; and "PO" for Project
Office. Codes following the "G" typically are not used for Navy, Air Force,
and NASA projects.
Choose the first bracketed item for Navy, Air Force and NASA projects, or choose
the second bracketed item for Army projects.
Government approval is required for submittals with a "G" designation; submittals not having a "G" designation
are for [Contractor Quality Control approval.] [information only. When used, a designation following the "G"
designation identifies the office that will review the submittal for the Government.] Submit the following in
accordance with Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL PROCEDURES:
SD-03 Product Data
Termiticide Application Plan[; G][; G, [_____]]
Termiticide application plan with proposed sequence of treatment work with dates and times.
Include the termiticide trade name, EPA registration number, chemical composition, formulation,
concentration of original and diluted material, application rate of active ingredients, method
of application, area/volume treated, amount applied; and the name and state license number of
the state certified applicator.
Termiticides
Manufacturer's label and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for termiticides proposed for use.
Foundation Exterior
Written verification that other site work will not disturb the treatment.
Utilities and Vents
Written verification that utilities and vents have been located.
Crawl and Plenum Air Spaces
Written verification that crawl spaces and plenum air spaces have been located.
Verification of Measurement
Written verification that the volume of termiticide used meets the application rate.
Application Equipment
A listing of equipment to be used.
Warranty
Copy of Contractor's warrany.
SD-04 Samples
Termiticides
Samples of the pesticides used in this work. The Contracting Officer may draw, at any time
and without prior notice, from stocks at the job site; should analysis, performed by the Government,
indicate such samples to contain less than the amount of active ingredient specified on the
label, work performed with such products shall be repeated, with pesticides conforming to this
specification, at no additional cost to the Government.
SD-06 Test Reports
Equipment Calibration and Tank Measurement
Certification of calibration tests conducted on the equipment used in the termiticide application.
Soil Moisture
Soil moisture test result.
Quality Assurance
Pest Management Report and copies of daily records signed by an officer of the Contractor.
SD-07 Certificates
Qualifications
Qualifications and state license number of the termiticide applicator.
1.3 QUALITY ASSURANCE
Comply with 7 USC Section 136 for requirements on Contractor's licensing, certification, and record keeping.
Maintain daily records using Pest Management Maintenance Record, DD Form 1532-1 and submit copies of records
when requested by the Contracting Officer. These forms may be obtained from the main web site:
http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/infomgt/forms/ddforms1500-1999.htm
Upon completion of this work, submit Pest Management Report DD Form 1532 identifying target pest, type of operation,
brand name and manufacturer of pesticide, formulation, concentration or rate of application used.
1.3.1 Qualifications
NOTE: For projects located in North Carolina, add the text enclosed in brackets
to the end of this paragraph.
For the application of pesticides, use the services of a subcontractor whose principal business is pest control.
The subcontractor shall be licensed and certified in the state where the work is to be performed. Termiticide
applicators shall also be certified in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) pesticide applicator category
which includes structural pest control.
[The subcontractor shall:
a. Have personnel with a state of North Carolina certification as required by Pesticide Law of 1971
as amended.
b. Check in with insect vectors personnel prior to application of pesticide and herbicides for projects
located at Camp Lejeune.
c. Provide a submittal with the following information to the Contracting Officer:
(1) Quantity of pesticide used.
(2) Rate of dispersion.
(3) Percent of use.
(4) Total amount used.]
1.3.2 Safety Requirements
Formulate, treat, and dispose of termiticides and their containers in accordance with label directions. Draw
water for formulating only from sites designated by the Contracting Officer, and fit the filling hose with a
backflow preventer meeting local plumbing codes or standards. The filling operation shall be under the direct
and continuous observation of a contractor's representative to prevent overflow. Secure pesticides and related
materials under lock and key when unattended. Ensure that proper protective clothing and equipment are worn
and used during all phases of termiticide application. Dispose of used pesticide containers off Government property.
1.4 DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING
1.4.1 Delivery
Deliver termiticide material to the site in the original unopened containers bearing legible labels indicating
the EPA registration number and manufacturer's registered uses. All other materials, to be used on site for
the purpose of termite control, shall be delivered in new or otherwise good condition as supplied by the manufacturer
or formulator.
1.4.2 Inspection
Inspect termiticides upon arrival at the job site for conformity to type and quality in accordance with paragraph
TERMITICIDES. Each label shall bear evidence of registration under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide
Act (FIFRA), as amended or under appropriate regulations of the host county. Other materials shall be inspected
for conformance with specified requirements. Remove unacceptable materials from the job site.
1.4.3 Storage
Store materials in designated areas and in accordance with manufacturer's labels. Termiticides and related materials
shall be kept under lock and key when unattended.
1.4.4 Handling
Observe manufacturer's warnings and precautions. Termiticides shall be handled in accordance with manufacturer's
labels, preventing contamination by dirt, water, and organic material. Protect termiticides from sunlight as
recommended by the manufacturer.
1.5 SITE CONDITIONS
The following conditions will determine the time of application.
1.5.1 Soil Moisture
Soils to be treated shall be tested immediately before application. Test soil moisture content to a minimum
depth of 75 mm 3 inches. The soil moisture shall be as recommended by the termiticide manufacturer. The termiticide
will not be applied when soil moisture exceeds manufacturer's recommendations because termiticides do not adhere
to the soil particles in saturated soils.
1.5.2 Runoff and Wind Drift
Do not apply termiticide during or immediately following heavy rains. Applications shall not be performed when
conditions may cause runoff or create an environmental hazard. Applications shall not be performed when average
wind speed exceeds 16 km 10 miles per hour. The termiticide shall not be allowed to enter water systems, aquifers,
or endanger humans or animals.
1.5.2.1 Vapor Barriers and Waterproof Membranes
Termiticide shall be applied prior to placement of a vapor barrier or waterproof membrane.
1.5.2.2 Utilities and Vents
Prior to application, HVAC ducts and vents located in treatment area shall be turned off and blocked to protect
people and animals from termiticide.
1.5.3 Placement of Concrete
Place concrete covering treated soils as soon as the termiticide has reached maximum penetration into the soil.
Time for maximum penetration shall be as recommended by the manufacturer.
1.6 WARRANTY
NOTE: Use 5 years in temperate regions and 3 years in tropical and subtropical
regions. Warranty period and the Contractor's responsibilities during the warranty
period may be modified to be consistent with prevailing state or local practices.
For Navy projects, modifications must be approved by the cognizant EFD applied
biologist. NAVFACENGCOM Headquarters point of contact is the Assistant for
Applied Biology Policy, Code 13411, telephone (703) 325-8183.
The Contractor shall provide a [3] [5] [_____] -year written warranty against infestations or reinfestations
by subterranean termites of the buildings or building additions constructed under this contract. Warranty shall
include annual inspections of the buildings or building additions. If live subterranean termite infestation
or subterranean termite damage is discovered during the warranty period, and the soil and building conditions
have not been altered in the interim, the Contractor shall:
a. Retreat the soil and perform other treatment as may be necessary for elimination of subterranean
termite infestation;
b. Repair damage caused by termite infestation; and
c. Reinspect the building approximately 180 days after the retreatment.
PART 2 PRODUCTS
2.1 TERMITICIDES
Provide termiticides currently registered by the EPA or approved for such use by the appropriate agency of the
host county. Select non-repellant termiticide for maximum effectiveness and duration after application. The
selected termiticide shall be suitable for the soil and climatic conditions at the project site.
PART 3 EXECUTION
3.1 VERIFICATION OF MEASUREMENT
Once termiticide application has been completed, measure tank contents to determine the remaining volume. The
total volume measurement of used contents for the application shall equal the established application rate for
the project site conditions. Provide written verification of the measurements.
3.2 TECHNICAL REPRESENTATIVE
The certified installation pest management coordinator shall be the technical representative, shall be present
at all meetings concerning treatment measures for subterranean termites, and may be present during treatment
application. The command Pest Control Coordinator shall be contacted prior to starting work.
3.3 SITE PREPARATION
Site preparation shall be in accordance with Sections 31 11 00 CLEARING AND GRUBBING, 31 00 00 EARTHWORK,
32 92 19 SEEDING, 32 92 23 SODDING, 32 92 26 SPRIGGING, and 32 93 00 EXTERIOR PLANTS. Work related to final
grades, landscape plantings, foundations, or any other alterations to finished construction which might alter
the condition of treated soils, shall be coordinated with this specification.
3.3.1 Ground Preparation
Food sources shall be eliminated by removing debris from clearing and grubbing and post construction wood scraps
such as ground stakes, form boards, and scrap lumber from the site, before termiticide application begins.
3.3.2 Verification
Before work starts, verify that final grades are as indicated and smooth grading has been completed in accordance
with Section 31 00 00 EARTHWORK. Soil particles shall be finely graded with particles no larger than 25 mm 1
inch and compacted to eliminate soil movement to the greatest degree.
3.3.3 Foundation Exterior
Provide written verification that final grading and landscape planting operations will not disturb treatment
of the soil on the exterior sides of foundation walls, grade beams, and similar structures.
3.3.4 Utilities and Vents
Provide written verification that the location and identity of HVAC ducts and vents, water and sewer lines, and
plumbing have been accomplished prior to the termiticide application.
3.3.5 Crawl and Plenum Air Spaces
Provide written verification that the location and identity of crawl and plenum air spaces have been accomplished
prior to the termiticide application.
3.3.6 Application Plan
Submit a Termiticide Application Plan for approval before starting the specified treatment.
3.4 TERMITICIDE TREATMENT
3.4.1 Equipment Calibration and Tank Measurement
Immediately prior to commencement of termiticide application, calibration tests shall be conducted on the application
equipment to be used and the application tank shall be measured to determine the volume and contents. These
tests shall confirm that the application equipment is operating within the manufacturer's specifications and
will meet the specified requirements. Provide written certification of the equipment calibration test results
within 1 week of testing.
3.4.2 Mixing and Application
Formulating, mixing, and application shall be performed in the presence of the Contracting Officer or the technical
representative. A closed system is recommended as it prevents the termiticide from coming into contact with
the applicator or other persons. Water for formulating shall only come from designated locations. Filling hoses
shall be fitted with a backflow preventer meeting local plumbing codes or standards. Overflow shall be prevented
during the filling operation. Prior to each day of use, the equipment used for applying termiticides shall be
inspected for leaks, clogging, wear, or damage. Any repairs are to be performed immediately.
3.4.3 Treatment Method
NOTE: Application shall be as a surface spray and/or by rodding and trenching.
For areas to be treated, establish complete and unbroken vertical and/or horizontal soil poison barriers between
the soil and all portions of the intended structure which may allow termite access to wood and wood related products.
Application shall not be made to areas which serve as crawl spaces or for use as a plenum air space.
3.4.3.1 Surface Application
Use surface application for establishing horizontal barriers. Surface applicants shall be applied as a coarse
spray and provide uniform distribution over the soil surface. Termiticide shall penetrate a minimum of 25 mm
1 inch into the soil, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
3.4.3.2 Rodding and Trenching
Use rodding and trenching for establishing vertical soil barriers. Trenching shall be to the depth of the foundation
footing. Width of trench shall be as recommended by the manufacturer, or as indicated. Rodding or other approved
method may be implemented for saturating the base of the trench with termiticide. Immediately after termiticide
has reached maximum penetration as recommended by the manufacturer, backfilling of the trench shall commence.
Backfilling shall be in 150 mm 6 inch rises or layers. Each rise shall be treated with termiticide.
3.4.4 Sampling
The Contracting Officer may draw from stocks at the job site, at any time and without prior notice, take samples
of the termiticides used to determine if the amount of active ingredient specified on the label is being applied.
3.5 CLEAN UP, DISPOSAL, AND PROTECTION
Once application has been completed, proceed with clean up and protection of the site without delay.
3.5.1 Clean Up
The site shall be cleaned of all material associated with the treatment measures, according to label instructions,
and as indicated. Excess and waste material shall be removed and disposed off site.
3.5.2 Disposal of Termiticide
Dispose of residual termiticides and containers off Government property, and in accordance with label instructions
and EPA criteria.
3.5.3 Protection of Treated Area
Immediately after the application, the area shall be protected from other use by erecting barricades and providing
signage as required or directed. Signage shall be in accordance with Section 10 14 01 EXTERIOR SIGNAGE. Signage
shall be placed inside the entrances to crawl spaces and shall identify the space as treated with termiticide
and not safe for children and animals.
3.6 CONDITIONS FOR SATISFACTORY TREATMENT
3.6.1 Equipment Calibrations and Measurements
Where results from the equipment calibration and tank measurements tests are unsatisfactory, re-treatment will
be required.
3.6.2 Testing
Should an analysis, performed by a third party, indicate that the samples of the applied termiticide contain
less than the amount of active ingredient specified on the label, and/or if soils are treated to a depth less
than specified or approved, re-treatment will be required.
3.6.3 Disturbance of Treated Soils
Soil and fill material disturbed after treatment shall be re-treated before placement of slabs or other covering
structures.
3.6.4 Termites Found Within the Warranty Period
If live subterranean termite infestation or termite damage is discovered during the warranty period, re-treat
the site.
3.7 RE-TREATMENT
Where re-treatment is required, comply with the requirements specified in paragraph WARRANTY.