Is it safe to use Biflex TC for termite control in my house?

Question

Today I found that my house is infested with termites. It's really scary the way they affect wooden stuff inside the house.

I contacted a few agencies here in my city (Ahmedabad, India). The one that seemed good said that they use Biflex TC to deal with the termites. I wanted to know if anyone here has any idea whether the chemical has been or is probably going to be banned from any countries due to its effects on humans.

I may sound paranoid but I am concerned about my family's health. If the chemical has any adverse effects on human health then I would definitely look for some other option.

PS - I found a termite related question asked earlier on the site but it had no mention of Biflex TC.

Answer 1

Some searching shows that the active ingredient is called bifenthrin. It has been banned for use as a pesticide in the EU.

Some more links that you may find helpful:

• US National Pesticide Information Center: http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/biftech.pdf
• EU European Food Safety Authority: http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/doc/186r.pdf

They have a lot of information, so they should help you decide whether or not it's right for you and your family.