The Kingdom's top pest control services provider used some 200 tonnes of termiticides over two years and had a client list of nearly 6,000 by the end of 2001, according to details the company released.

Masa Establishment for Pest Extermination Services also announced the launch of a fresh marketing drive to gain new customers and spread awareness on the need to apply pesticides to save property and promote good health.

The company has signed up with Riyadh Exhibition Company for participation in four major international exhibitions in 2002, namely Saudi Medicare, April 7-11; Saudi World Trade Fair, May 20-24; Saudi Build, 6-10 October, and Saudi Agriculture, 27-31 October.

"Our regular participation in these exhibitions provides awareness and education to our customers and the public. Also it generates an increase in our sales," Masa owner and general manager Mousaied Shieshakly said.

He said branches would be opened in areas such as Hafr Al Batin, Hail, Yanbu, Taif and Al Baha, adding to a current network that covers a number of cities.

The company was established in 1980 and is a member of 16 international pest control associations.

"Masa has been awarded the ISO 9002 certification by SGS International Certification Services, a world-renowned organisation in recognition of our commendable services," said Shieshakly. "As such, Masa is the first and only professional pest control company ISO 9002-certified in the Kingdom and in the Middle East.

He added that Masa had increased pesticide imports and that some of the consignments were being used in the company's own pesticide-treatment operations, with the rest going to meet the general sales demand.

"Use of imported termiticides alone registered almost 200 tonnes from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2001. In Saudi Arabia, Masa is the number one user of termiticides. This specialised service protects our customers' investments against damage brought about by termites. In public health pest control, the approach - particularly in food chain restaurants and factories - is to use chemicals and non-chemicals. This programme is called Integrated Pest Management (IPM)."

In addition to termiticides, the company imported some 100 tonnes of other pesticides particularly rodenticides and insecticides during a two-year period ending December 31, 2001.

"The company's comprehensive pest-control contract covers preventive measures, management reporting procedures and a documented system of measures which provides appropriate evidence for defence in a charge of 'due negligence' against closure and against prosecution and its consequences," said operations manager Valentin Diego.

"Masa also provides the necessary documentation and risk assessment for employers to meet the requirements of any legislative body.