'Rodine' rat poison, Scotland, 1948-1950

Made:
1948-1950 in Perth
Boxed tin of "Rodine" rat poison, by Thomas Harley Ltd

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Boxed tin of "Rodine" rat poison, by Thomas Harley Ltd
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Boxed tin of "Rodine" rat poison, by Thomas Harley Ltd., Perth, Scotland, 1948-1950

Rats have long been associated with disease and public health problems and various methods have been devised to trap or poison them.

The active ingredient in this rat poison is highly toxic yellow phosphorous, which is commonly used in pest control – the poison swiftly and fatally dehydrates the rats. Phosphorous can be lethal to humans if swallowed. The box has recommendations from satisfied customers to inspire confidence in the product.

Details

Category:
Public Health & Hygiene
Object Number:
1984-653
Materials:
iron, cardboard and paper
Measurements:
overall: 19 mm x 78 mm x 78 mm, .08kg
tin: 17 mm 75 mm, .08kg
type:
rat poison
credit:
British Museum (Natural History)