Sustainable Investment in Extractive Industry Development: Implementation of Vector-borne Disease and Pest Control for Workforce Protection in Papua New Guinea

Abstract

Abstract Malaria and other vector-borne diseases can greatly impact industrial activities caused by excess lost work time and reduced production output to compromised quality of life of employees. In response, a major development project in Papua New Guinea commissioned the design and implementation of an integrated vector control program (VCP) and complementary pest control activities on site. The steps and tools required to implement a comprehensive vector control program spanning a large area is outlined. To develop a properly scaled, comprehensive health intervention program, a site risk assessment followed by detailed site-specific program scoping including staff, training, equipment and consumables, transportation needs, and work and storage facilities is an essential first step. Pre-construction building design and standards should be established to reduce vector-human contact and determine locations for accommodations to minimize disease risk. Worker awareness (induction, toolbox sessions, etc.) and personal protection measures (e.g. permethrin-treated clothing, topical repellents and insecticide aerosols) must be freely available. Various anti-mosquito capabilities combining environmentally sound adult and larval control methods are available and used in the most effective and efficient manner possible. Larval mosquito control, combines ‘source reduction’ practices, larval habitat modification and chemical applications where applicable. Use of biological/bio-rational products are directed at specific mosquito habitats. For adult mosquitoes, conservative use of insecticides applied as space sprays are a primary means of control. Enhancing cost-efficiency and program success is based on real-time evidence from temporally-relevant monitoring of vector populations and disease occurrence in workforce. These procedures represent an evidence-based, responsive VCP with a public health pest control component included. For truly sustainable integrated vector management program, a systematic transference of technical and administrative capacity to the national workforce is required. Since the program's inception the site has been effectively free of transmission of malaria, dengue and other endemic insect-borne disease within the control area.