Organophosphate insecticides are commonly used to control insect pests in bananas, including thrips, caterpillars and borers.

Chlorpyrifos dust is a common option, but it can poison humans as well as insects if absorbed through the skin, inhaled or swallowed.

Under state laws, businesses are therefore required to ensure the health and safety of their workers and others while at work.

The permit for use (PER14240) is held by the Australian Banana Growers’ Council and is current until 30 SEP 2020. It includes all registered products containing 500 g/kg Chlorpyrifos as their only active constituent.

The Australian Banana Growers’ Council has recently updated its fact sheet online, to include the latest information on this insecticide. It is very important the product
is used according to the label, Safety Sheet and permit instructions, including the use of personal protective equipment.

Find the fact sheet at www.abgc.org.au in the Bunch Pests section.