SOP for pest control or disinfestation in substation and switchgear rooms

1. OBJECTIVE a) To prevent the entry of lizards, rodents, and other pests inside electrical substations, MCC rooms, UPS rooms, battery rooms, substation galleries, VFD rooms, ECS rooms, battery charger rooms, HVAC rooms, and cable trenches/cellars. b) To control pest infestation and avoid electrical flashovers in HT/LT switchgear. c) To ensure pesticide/chemical handling is done safely and judiciously, minimizing health hazards. d) To ensure all building openings, doorframes, window frames, and utility penetrations are screened and sealed to prevent pest ingress.

2. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) Personnel engaged in pest control shall wear the following PPEs: • NIOSH-approved respirator or equivalent • Safety goggles or protective glasses • Chemical-resistant gloves • Safety boots/shoes and helmet • Full-body coveralls or IFR suit • Chemical-resistant apron • Ear protection (if equipment noise exceeds permissible limits) • Any additional PPE as recommended by the pesticide manufacturer • Valid medical fitness certificate from a registered medical professional 3. MATERIALS AND CHEMICALS Any one of the following chemicals (or equivalent) may be used for a minimum area of 100 sq. meters: Sr. No. Material Name Dilution Ratio Solution Quantity (approx.) a Malathion 50% EC 1:100 in water 3.0 L b DDVP 76% EC 1:150 in water 3.0 L c Deltamethrin 2.5% 120 g in 3 L water 3.0 L d Blattanex / Propoxur 20% EC 1:40 in water 3.0 L e Chlorpyriphos 20% EC 1:100 in water 3.5 L f Alphacypermethrin 10% EC 1:100 in water 3.0 L Note: Always refer to the latest Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for safe handling and disposal guidelines. 4. PROCEDURE 1. Preparation: o Verify all PPEs are worn and functional. o Ensure chemical dilution is prepared as per approved ratio. o Isolate electrical panels and sensitive equipment if required. o Display warning signboards – “PEST CONTROL IN PROGRESS – ENTRY RESTRICTED”. 2. Application: o Apply the diluted chemical uniformly using a hand sprayer or approved equipment. o Focus treatment along wall corners, cable trenches, ducts, and behind panels. o Avoid spraying directly on live electrical parts, terminals, or panels. o Ensure adequate ventilation during and after treatment. 3. Post-Treatment: o Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly after the activity. o Remove PPE only after decontamination. o Dispose of chemical containers as per environmental and safety regulations. o Record treatment details in the Pest Control Logbook (date, chemical used, area covered, name of applicator, etc.). 5. FREQUENCY • Spray Treatment: Once every 7 days. • Rodent Baiting: Fortnightly, using 2% Zinc Phosphate bait by weight. • Monitoring & Inspection: Monthly, by SIC/EIC/Safety and Maintenance team. 6. SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS • Avoid overuse of pesticides. • Do not store pesticide containers in electrical or control rooms. • In case of exposure, follow MSDS first-aid instructions and seek medical attention immediately. • Maintain proper ventilation during spraying. • Ensure treated areas are not accessed until the recommended re-entry period lapses. 7. RECORDS AND DOCUMENTATION • Maintain records of: o Chemical inventory and MSDS copies o Pest control treatment log o Inspection and monitoring reports o PPE issuance and medical fitness certificates