The short answer
Yes — when applied correctly by a licensed professional, the products used in domestic pest control are safe for children and pets. All products used by Universal Pest Control are registered with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) for domestic use and are applied in accordance with the label directions. The key is following the technician's advice about re-entry times and precautions.
How pest control products work
Modern pest control products are designed to target specific pest biology while having low toxicity to mammals (including humans and pets). They're applied at very low concentrations — often less than 1% active ingredient — and are targeted to areas where pests travel, not where people and pets spend time. The residual effect that keeps working for months after treatment is designed to affect insects, not mammals.
Safety precautions for families
- 1Stay out of the home during treatment and for 2–4 hours after, until all surfaces are dry
- 2For infants, pregnant women and people with respiratory conditions, stay out for 4–6 hours
- 3Cover or remove food, utensils and children's toys before treatment
- 4Wipe down food preparation surfaces after returning home
- 5Keep children away from treated skirting boards and external walls for 24 hours
- 6If you have concerns about specific products, ask the technician — they can tell you exactly what they're using and why
Safety precautions for pets
- 1Remove pets from the home during treatment and for 2–4 hours after
- 2Cover fish tanks with a damp towel and turn off the air pump — fish are particularly sensitive to airborne pest control products
- 3Remove or cover pet food and water bowls
- 4Keep dogs and cats away from treated external areas until surfaces are dry
- 5For reptiles and birds, which are more sensitive, keep them out for longer — ask the technician for specific advice
- 6If a pet accidentally contacts wet product, wash them with mild soap and water
Low-toxicity and natural options
If you're particularly concerned about chemical use, talk to us about low-toxicity options. We can use products with lower toxicity profiles, focus on physical controls (sealing, trapping) where appropriate, and minimise the use of broad-spectrum sprays. For some situations — particularly German cockroach infestations — gel baits are actually more effective than sprays and use less product in more targeted locations.
The biggest safety risk in pest control isn't the products — it's improper application. Licensed, insured professionals who follow label directions are the safety measure that matters most. Always use a licensed pest controller, not a handyman or DIY product applied incorrectly.