Code of Practice for Anti-Termite Measures in Buildings, Part 2: Pre-constructional Chemical Treatment Measures

IS 6313 Part 2: Scope Overview

• Scope: This standard covers definitions, test result rounding (per IS 2:1960), and references to related Indian Standards for timber preservation and termite control.

• Rounding off values: Final test or analysis results must be rounded as per IS 2:1960, keeping the same significant figures as specified.

• Related IS codes (Annex B) include:

  IS No.	Title
  401:1982	Code of practice for preservation of timber
  632:1978	Gamma-BHC (Lindane) emulsifiable concentrates
  1141:1993	Seasoning of timber - Code of practice
  2568:1978	Malathion dusting powder
  4015:1998	Guide for handling pesticide poisoning - First aid
  8944:1978	Chlorpyrifos emulsifiable concentrates

• Termite infestation recognition (Clause 3.2):

  • Drywood termites leave pellets of excreta.
  • Look for blisters on wood surfaces and hollow sound on tapping.
  • Pellets may be found in tunnels or on the floor beneath attacked timber.

This standard primarily sets the framework for timber preservation and termite detection, referencing detailed procedures in related IS codes.

IS 6313 Part 2 references several key Indian Standards related to timber preservation and pesticide use, listed in Annex B:

Key Notes:

• These standards provide specifications, treatment methods, and safety guidelines for timber preservation and pesticide application.
• They are referenced provisions and should be consulted for detailed procedures.
• Always check for the latest edition as standards are periodically revised.

Example: Preservation Chemicals (from IS 401)

• Gamma-BHC and Malathion are common insecticides specified.
• Application rates and safety measures are detailed in respective IS codes.

flowchart LR
    A[IS 6313 Part 2] --> B[Timber Preservation]
    A --> C[Pesticide Handling]
    B --> IS401[IS 401:1982]
    B --> IS1141[IS 1141:1993]
    C --> IS632[IS 632:1978]
    C --> IS2568[IS 2568:1978]
    C --> IS8944[IS 8944:1978]
    C --> IS4015[IS 4015:1998]

For detailed formulas and treatment schedules, refer to the specific IS codes above.

IS 6313 (Part 2) - Terminology & Key Specifications Summary

Terminology Highlights (Clause 3.2 & Annex A)

• Drywood Termites: Identified by pellets of excreta (partly digested wood) found in tunnels or floors.
• Signs of Infestation:
  • Blisters on wood surface due to chambers just beneath.
  • Hollow sound on tapping timber.
• Termite Classification: See Annex A for detailed termite classes.

Treatment Stages (Fig. 1 to 4)

• A: Bottom and sides of trenches.
• B: Backfill in contact with foundation walls.
• C: Junction of wall and floor.
• D: Top surface of plinth filling.
• E: External perimeter of building.
• F: Soil below apron (for foundations with apron).

Important Specifications

• Expansion Joint Treatment (Clause 7.4): Treat soil beneath joints at 2 litres per linear metre after sub-grade laying.
• Treatment Application: Focus on masonry foundations with voids (Clause 7.3.1).

Referenced IS Codes for Preservation & Chemicals

Visual Summary of Treatment Zones (Mermaid Diagram)

graph TD
  A[Bottom & Sides of Trenches]
  B[Backfill near Foundation Walls]
  C[Junction of Wall & Floor]
  D[Top Surface of Plinth Filling]
  E[External Perimeter]
  F[Soil Below Apron]

  A --> B --> C --> D --> E
  E --> F

Use IS 6313 (Part 2) as a guide for termite identification, treatment zones, and chemical application rates to ensure effective termite-proofing of structures.

IS 6313 Part 2: Site Preparation for Pre-Construction Soil Treatment

Key Specifications:

• Scarification Depth:
  For heavy/clay soils and sloping sites, scarify soil surface to at least 75 mm to improve chemical penetration and prevent runoff (Clause 4.1.1).

• Chemical Emulsion Application Rate:
  Apply chemical emulsion at 5 liters/m² on consolidated earth before laying the apron (Clause 7.7).

• Facilitating Emulsion Penetration:
  If soil is impermeable:

  • Make holes 50 to 75 mm deep
  • Spaced at 150 mm centers both ways
  • Use a 12 mm diameter mild steel rod (Clause 7.7, Fig. 3)

Summary Table:

flowchart TD
    A[Heavy Soil or Sloping Site] --> B[Scarify soil surface (≥75 mm)]
    B --> C[Apply chemical emulsion (5 L/m²)]
    C --> D{Is soil impermeable?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Make holes (50-75 mm deep, 150 mm centers, 12 mm dia)]
    D -- No --> F[Proceed with apron laying]
    E --> F

This preparation ensures uniform chemical treatment and effective termite control as per IS 6313 Part 2.

IS 6313 Part 2: Chemicals and Rate of Application Key Points

Chemical Application

• Chemicals are supplied as emulsifiable concentrates; store securely and label clearly.
• Avoid skin contact; wash thoroughly after exposure.
• Use hand-operated compressed air sprayers or watering cans for uniform application.
• For large areas, power sprayers are recommended.

Rate of Application (Clause 7.2.1)

• Treat bottom and sides (up to 300 mm height) of excavation from masonry foundations.
• Apply chemical at 5 liters per m² of surface area.

Safety and Handling (Clause 1.2)

• Prevent contact with concentrates and dilute emulsions.
• Wear protective clothing.
• In case of skin or eye contamination, wash immediately and seek medical aid.

Summary Table: Chemical Application Rate

flowchart TD
    A[Chemical Concentrate] --> B[Emulsify with water]
    B --> C[Apply uniformly using sprayer]
    C --> D[Surface treated: Bottom + sides (300 mm height)]
    D --> E[Rate: 5 liters/m²]
    E --> F[Safety: Protective clothing + wash after exposure]

This ensures effective termite treatment as per IS 6313 Part 2.

IS 6313 Part 2: Essential Requirements for Barrier & Method of Application

Key Specifications & Formulas:

• Barrier Formation (Clause 6.1):

  • Barrier must be complete and continuous under the entire structure.
  • All foundations should be fully surrounded and in close contact with the barrier or treated soil.
  • Each treated area must receive the prescribed chemical dosage uniformly.

• Chemical Treatment (Clause 5.3 Table 5.3):

• Application Rate (Clause 7.5):
  • At wall-floor junctions, create a 30 mm x 30 mm channel.
  • Drill rod holes 150 mm apart.
  • Apply chemical emulsion at 7.5 liters/m² of vertical surface.
  • Soil must be tamped back after treatment.

Important Notes:

• Remove all debris and formwork before treatment (Clause 4.1.4).
• Chemicals are highly poisonous; follow safety precautions (Annex C).
• Avoid contamination of water sources.

flowchart TD
    A[Remove debris & formwork] --> B[Create 30x30 mm channel at wall-floor junction]
    B --> C[Drill rod holes 150 mm apart]
    C --> D[Apply chemical emulsion @ 7.5 l/m²]
    D --> E[Soil tamped back into place]
    E --> F[Complete & continuous barrier under structure]

This ensures a continuous chemical barrier protecting against termite ingress.

IS 6313 Part 2: Pre-Construction Soil Treatment Key Points

1. Purpose

• Pre-construction soil treatment prevents termite infestation by chemically treating soil before building.

2. Site Preparation (Clause 4.1.1)

• Heavy Soils & Sloping Sites:
  • Scarify soil surface to at least 75 mm depth.
  • Ensures uniform chemical penetration and prevents runoff.

3. Treatment Procedure (Clause 3.3 & 7.1)

• Apply chemical treatment early in construction.
• Uniform distribution of the treating solution is critical.
• Site preparation aids penetration and effectiveness.

4. Typical Specification Summary

5. Notes

• Scarification loosens compacted soil, improving chemical absorption.
• Avoid treating soil when wet or during rain to prevent dilution/runoff.

flowchart TD
    A[Site Preparation] --> B[Scarify Soil (≥75 mm)]
    B --> C[Apply Chemical Solution Uniformly]
    C --> D[Allow Penetration]
    D --> E[Proceed with Construction]

This ensures effective termite barrier formation per IS 6313 Part 2 guidelines.

IS 6313 Part 2: Treatment for Masonry Foundations and Basements

Key Specifications (Clause 7.2)

• Surface Treatment Rate:

  • Bottom and sides of excavation (up to 300 mm height):
    5 L/m² of surface area (Clause 7.2.1)

• Backfill Treatment Rate:

  • After masonry foundation and basement retaining walls are constructed:
    7.5 L/m² of vertical surface per side (Clause 7.2.2)

• Method of Application:

  • If water is used for ramming earth fill:
    • Rodding at 150 mm centers parallel to the wall surface.
    • Spray chemical emulsion at specified dosage.
    • Tamping soil after treatment.
  • Treatment is applied in layers as earth is returned.

Purpose (Clause 7.3.1)

• To prevent termite entry through voids in masonry joints by chemical barrier treatment.

Summary Table of Chemical Dosage

flowchart TD
    A[Excavation for Masonry Foundation] --> B[Treatment of bottom & sides (5 L/m²)]
    B --> C[Masonry foundation & retaining wall construction]
    C --> D[Backfill in layers]
    D --> E[Rodding at 150 mm centers + spraying (7.5 L/m²)]
    E --> F[Tamping soil after treatment]

This ensures a continuous chemical barrier protecting masonry from termite ingress.

IS 6313 Part 2: Treatment for RCC Foundations and Basement

Key Specifications (Clause 7.3 & 7.5):

• Concrete Mix: RCC foundation concrete should be dense, minimum 1:2:4 (cement:fine aggregate:coarse aggregate) by volume or richer.
• Termite Penetration: Dense RCC concrete is termite-resistant; hence, treatment need not start from excavation bottom.
• Treatment Depth: Start chemical treatment 500 mm below ground level (adjusted if ground level changes after casting).
• Vertical Surface Treatment: Soil immediately in contact with vertical surfaces of RCC foundations must be treated.
• Chemical Dosage: Apply chemical emulsion at 7.5 liters/m² of vertical surface area.
• Backfill Treatment: After masonry or retaining walls are constructed, backfill soil in contact must be treated similarly.

Treatment Method (from 7.2.2 for masonry, applicable to RCC vertical surfaces):

• Rodding soil at 150 mm centers parallel to wall.
• Spray chemical emulsion at 7.5 l/m².
• Tamping soil after treatment, layer-wise.

Summary Table:

flowchart TD
    A[Excavation] --> B[RCC Foundation (Dense 1:2:4 or richer)]
    B --> C{Ground Level Changes?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Treatment depth adjusted from new soil level]
    C -- No --> E[Treatment starts 500 mm below ground]
    E --> F[Chemical Treatment on vertical surfaces]
    F --> G[Apply 7.5 l/m² chemical emulsion]
    G --> H[Backfill soil treated in layers]

This ensures effective termite barrier while leveraging RCC's inherent resistance.

IS 6313 Part 2: Treatment of Top Surface of Plinth Filling

Key Specifications & Formulas

• Chemical Emulsion Dosage:

  • Top surface of plinth filling: 5 l/m² before sand bed/sub-grade.
  • Vertical surfaces of backfill in contact with foundation: 7.5 l/m² per side.
  • Bottom and sides (up to 300 mm height) of excavation: 5 l/m².

• Surface Preparation:

  • If surface is impermeable, drill holes 50-75 mm deep at 150 mm centers both ways with a 12 mm mild steel rod to aid emulsion penetration.

• Application Method:

  • Spray emulsion uniformly.
  • For backfill, rod earth at 150 mm centers parallel to wall before spraying.
  • Tamping after chemical treatment is mandatory.
  • For fills > 300 mm, chemical treatment must extend full depth to ground level for continuity.

Summary Table

Visual Concept (Mermaid.js)

flowchart TD
    A[Consolidated Earth Surface] -->|Chemical Emulsion 5 l/m²| B[Top Surface Treatment]
    B --> C{Is surface impermeable?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Drill holes 50-75 mm deep at 150 mm centers]
    C -- No --> E[Spray emulsion directly]
    F[Backfill vertical surfaces] -->|Chemical Emulsion 7.5 l/m²| G[Rod earth at 150 mm centers]
    G --> H[Spray emulsion]
    I[Filling > 300 mm] --> J[Treat full depth to ground level]

This ensures a chemical barrier preventing termite ingress and moisture penetration as per IS 6313 Part 2.

IS 6313 Part 2: Treatment of Soil Along External Perimeter of Building

Key Specifications & Formulas

1. Chemical Soil Treatment (Clause 5.3 & 7.5)

• Purpose: Create a chemical barrier against termites.

• Chemicals & Concentration:

  Chemical	IS Standard	Concentration (% active ingredient)
  Chlorpyrifos 20 EC	IS 8944	1.0
  Lindane 20 EC	IS 632	1.0

• Application:

  • Rod earth at 150 mm intervals and 300 mm depth along external walls.
  • Move rods parallel to wall to loosen soil.
  • Pour chemical emulsion at 7.5 l/m² vertical surface.
  • Tamp earth back after treatment.

2. Treatment Under Apron (Clause 7.7)

• Apply chemical emulsion at 5 l/m² on consolidated earth surface before laying apron.
• If earth is impermeable, drill holes:
  • Depth: 50 to 75 mm
  • Spacing: 150 mm both ways
  • Diameter: 12 mm rod used for making holes
• Facilitate saturation of soil with emulsion.

Summary Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[External Perimeter Soil] --> B[Rod at 150 mm intervals, 300 mm deep]
    B --> C[Loosen Soil by Rod Movement]
    C --> D[Pour Chemical Emulsion @ 7.5 l/m²]
    D --> E[Tamp Earth Back]

    F[Consolidated Earth for Apron] --> G[Apply Chemical Emulsion @ 5 l/m²]
    G --> H{Is Soil Impermeable?}
    H -- Yes --> I[Drill Holes 12mm dia, 50-75mm deep @ 150mm spacing]
    I --> J[Saturate Soil with Emulsion]
    H -- No --> J

Safety Notes

• Chemicals are highly poisonous; handle with care (see Annex C).
• Avoid contamination of water sources.

This ensures a durable termite barrier per IS 6313 Part 2.

IS 6313 Part 2: Treatment of Soil Under Apron Along External Perimeter

Key Specifications & Procedures (Clauses 7.5 - 7.7):

• Chemical Emulsion Application:

  • Apply 5 liters/m² of chemical emulsion on the consolidated earth surface before laying the apron (Clause 7.7).
  • If soil is impermeable, drill holes 50-75 mm deep at 150 mm centers (both directions) using a 12 mm rod to aid emulsion penetration (Fig. 3 reference).

• Soil Rodding & Treatment Along Perimeter:

  • After building completion, rod soil at 150 mm intervals, depth 300 mm.
  • Move rods parallel to the wall to loosen soil.
  • Apply 7.5 liters/m² of chemical emulsion on vertical surfaces (Clause 7.5).
  • Tamp soil back after treatment.

• For Fillings > 300 mm:

  • Extend treatment to full depth of filling up to ground level to maintain chemical barrier continuity (Clause 7.6.1).

Summary Table:

flowchart LR
    A[Consolidated Earth Surface] --> B[Apply 5 l/m² Chemical Emulsion]
    B --> C{Is soil impermeable?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Drill 50-75 mm holes @ 150 mm centers]
    D --> E[Apply Emulsion into holes]
    C -- No --> E
    E --> F[Lay Apron]
    G[After Building Completion] --> H[Rod soil @ 150 mm intervals, 300 mm depth]
    H --> I[Apply 7.5 l/m² Emulsion on vertical surfaces]
    I --> J[Tamp soil back]
   

IS 6313 Part 2: Treatment of Walls Retaining Soil Above Floor Level (Clause 7.8)

• Purpose: Prevent termite entry through voids, cracks, and crevices in masonry above floor level by creating a continuous chemical barrier.

Key Specifications:

• Chemical treatment dosage:
  • 7.5 liters/m² of the vertical surface area of the retained soil in immediate contact with the wall.
• Continuity: Treatment must continue from the sub-structure chemical barrier (Clause 7.2.2) to the retained soil above floor level.

Treatment Procedure (per Clauses 7.2.2 & 7.8):

1. Backfill soil immediately adjacent to the wall.
2. Treat soil at 7.5 L/m² vertical surface area.
3. If water is used for ramming:
   • Complete ramming first.
   • Rod soil at 150 mm centers parallel to the wall.
   • Spray chemical emulsion at specified dosage.
4. Tamping soil in place after treatment.
5. Repeat treatment in layers if backfilling is staged.

Summary Table:

flowchart LR
    A[Retaining Wall] --> B[Retained Soil Above Floor Level]
    B --> C[Chemical Treatment @ 7.5 L/m²]
    C --> D[Continuous Barrier with Sub-structure Treatment]
    D --> E[Prevents Termite Entry]

Note: Always ensure chemical emulsion contacts masonry surfaces thoroughly for effective protection.

IS 6313 Part 2: Treatment of Soil Surrounding Pipes, Wastes, and Conduits

Key Specifications (Clause 7.9)

• Inside foundation area: Loosen soil around pipes/wastes/conduits for 150 mm horizontally and 75 mm depth before treatment.
• Outside foundation area: Loosen soil for 300 mm horizontally, unless pipes are at least 75 mm clear from building walls.

Soil Preparation (Clause 4.1.2)

• For sandy or porous soils, pre-moisten soil to fill capillary spaces to reduce loss of treating solution.

Chemical Treatment (Clause 5.3 - Table 5.3)

• Apply uniformly over the soil beneath and around foundations to form a chemical barrier against termites.
• Use with caution due to toxicity; avoid contamination of water sources.

Summary Diagram: Soil Treatment Around Pipes

flowchart LR
    A[Pipes/Wastes/Conduits] --> B{Location}
    B -->|Inside Foundation| C[Loosen soil 150 mm x 75 mm depth]
    B -->|Outside Foundation| D[Loosen soil 300 mm unless 75 mm clearance]
    C & D --> E[Apply insecticide solution uniformly]
    E --> F[Chemical barrier formed]

Note: Always follow safety precautions (Annex C) when handling insecticides.

IS 6313 Part 2 (2001) — Treatment for Expansion Joints: Key Points

1. Special Treatment at Expansion Joints (Clause 7.10 & 7.4)

• Expansion joints at ground floor level are prone to termite infestation.
• After sub-grade laying, treat soil beneath expansion joints with 2 litres of chemical emulsion per linear metre.

2. Treatment Stages (Refer to Figures 1-4)

3. Junction of Wall and Floor (Clause 7.5)

• Create a 30 mm x 30 mm channel at junctions before sub-grade.
• Drill rod holes 150 mm apart along the channel.
• Move iron rod to loosen soil.
• Apply chemical emulsion at 7.5 litres/m² of vertical surface.
• Tamp soil back after treatment.

4. Summary Table of Chemical Application Rates

flowchart TD
    A[Sub-grade Laid] --> B[Treat Soil Beneath Expansion Joint (2 L/m)]
    B --> C[Create 30x30 mm Channel at Wall-Floor Junction]
    C --> D[Drill Rod Holes 150 mm Apart]
    D --> E[Apply Chemical Emulsion (7.5 L/m²)]
    E --> F[Tamp Soil Back]

Note: Ensure continuity of chemical barrier vertically from ground level to filled earth surface to prevent termite ingress effectively.

IS 6313 Part 2 — Safety Precautions for Health Hazards and Handling Chemicals (Annex C, Clause 5.3)

Key Safety Guidelines:

• Hazard Nature:
  Chemicals are poisonous and hazardous, absorbed via skin, inhalation, or ingestion. Skin absorption is the most common poisoning route.

• Labeling & Storage:

  • Chemicals arrive as emulsifiable concentrates.
  • Containers must be clearly labeled and securely closed.
  • Store out of reach of children and pets.

• Personal Protection:

  • Avoid skin contact with concentrates and prolonged exposure to dilute emulsions.
  • Wear clean protective clothing.
  • Wash thoroughly with soap and water before eating/smoking.
  • Remove contaminated clothing immediately.
  • Flush eyes with plenty of water if splashed; seek medical help.

• Fire Hazard:

  • Concentrates contain petroleum solvents (oil solutions).
  • No flames or sparks during mixing to prevent fire.

Summary Table:

flowchart TD
    A[Handling Chemicals] --> B[Check Labels & Storage]
    B --> C[Wear Protective Clothing]
    C --> D{Contact with Skin?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Remove Clothing & Wash Skin]
    D -- No --> F[Proceed with Caution]
    C --> G{Chemical Splash in Eyes?}
    G -- Yes --> H[Flush with Water & Seek Medical Help]
    G -- No --> I[Continue Work Safely]
    F --> I

Always follow these precautions to minimize health risks and fire hazards when handling hazardous chemicals per IS 6313 Part 2.