Types of Fumigation

Types of Fumigation

Fumigation treatments are planned using different methods depending on the application area, the nature of the commodity and the purpose of the shipment. The core aim of method selection is to achieve the gas concentration required for the target pest safely and verifiably throughout the entire treatment volume.

Container fumigation

This is the treatment of export or import cargo inside a closed container. The physical condition of the container, its ventilation openings, door seals, stowage arrangement and suitability for gas circulation are all checked. The container is not moved during the treatment, and it is not opened until aeration and the safe-entry measurement have been completed.

Warehouse and silo fumigation

This can be applied in facilities where grain, pulses and suitable dry commodities are stored. The gas-tightness of the structure, the quantity of the commodity, temperature distribution, ventilation infrastructure and the surrounding working areas are fundamental parts of the planning.

Ship hold fumigation

This is the treatment of bulk or packaged cargo in the ship's hold. A clear division of responsibilities between the ship's crew, the port operator, the master and the application team is required. The treatment is carried out together with the relevant maritime safety rules and transport documentation.

Sheeted fumigation

Machinery, palletised goods, timber materials or consolidated cargo are converted into an enclosed volume under gas-tight sheeting. The suitability of the floor, the integrity of the sheeting and the sealing around the perimeter are checked carefully.

Fumigation chambers and vacuum systems

Purpose-built fixed chambers can offer the advantage of controlled gas-tightness, circulation and aeration. For certain commodities and programmes, vacuum-assisted systems may be used; however, their applicability depends on the official treatment requirements.

How is the right method selected?

The commodity type, target pest, total volume, temperature, packaging, stowage method, treatment duration and the requirements of the destination country are assessed together. Even when the type of application area changes, the obligation to maintain a safety zone, take measurements, keep records and carry out controlled aeration does not.

Sources: The official resources of the IPPC (ISPM 15, ISPM 43), the Republic of Turkiye Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the UNEP Ozone Secretariat, the US EPA, Australia's DAFF and New Zealand's MPI have been taken as the basis.