Commodity Fumigation License Practice Exam

What must be done if additional grain is added on top of a previously loaded lot?

1. Fumigate immediately

2. Wait to fumigate until all grain has been loaded

3. Inspect the grain before fumigation

4. Only fumigate if the grain is contaminated

The correct answer is: Wait to fumigate until all grain has been loaded

When additional grain is added on top of a previously loaded lot, waiting until all grain has been loaded before fumigation is the correct approach. This is important for several reasons. First, fumigation is most effective when it is applied uniformly to a full and complete load; this ensures that all the grain receives an adequate dose of the fumigant, which is essential for controlling pests effectively. If fumigation were to occur before the loading process is complete, the newly added grain would not receive sufficient treatment and could harbor pests that might spread to the previously loaded grain. Moreover, fumigating prematurely could also lead to unnecessary exposure to fumigants, which can pose safety risks for both workers and the environment. Therefore, prioritizing the completion of the loading process helps in ensuring a thorough and complete fumigation treatment, aligning with safety and efficacy standards in handling stored grain. Inspecting the grain before fumigation or only fumigating if contamination is suspected also leads to potential issues, such as missed opportunities for prevention or the chance of an insufficient fumigation treatment. Hence, waiting for all grain to be loaded is the best practice to ensure efficacy and safety during the fumigation process.