There is no magic potion to prevent pest infestations, especially if the facility has many repair and cleaning opportunities. However, Copesan has found that a mutual partnership with our clients, including corporate, facility managers and employees, promotes the most effective and cost efficient pest management program that prevents pests long before an infestation occurs.
The best way to achieve this mutual partnership is by following a few best practices:
1. Talk to your pest management professional (PMP).
Talk to your PMP during every pest management service visit. Tell the PMP where you and your employees have seen any pests and ask them what the most important issue currently needs your attention. Also, request that the PMP show you any and all areas of concern. This way you can promptly arrange for any maintenance, if needed.
2. Insect incoming products and pallets.
Inspect incoming items as they’re removed from the delivery truck to ensure that pests or infested items are not brought into your facility. Look for evidence of pests (e.g., product damage, droppings, live or dead insects under the shrink wrap, mouse nests, etc.). A bright flashlight can help in this inspection. Remember, the best prevention is keeping pests out in the first place.
3. Always look for openings that pests can use to enter the facility.
An opening could be a door propped open, cracks and holes where you can see exterior light, holes in common walls or ceilings, any openings in the structure, etc. Correct or fix the problem as quickly as you can, certainly before dark as many pests enter a facility at night, especially on warm nights.
4. Thoroughly clean the inside of your facility on a weekly basis.
This is especially important in areas you can’t see or are difficult to reach and clean. Many pest species (e.g., flies) develop into adults within 7 to 10 days, so monthly deep cleaning is not adequate to prevent a pest infestation. On a weekly basis, clean drains with a stiff brush and vacuum up spillage on and under shelves and in corners of racks and equipment.
5. Remove clutter.
If it’s not needed, get rid of it. Cockroaches, rodents and other pests are difficult to control if they have “clutter” to hide in during the day or use for their nests.
6. Teach your employees about the importance of pest reporting.
Train new employees and annually review with all employees the importance of pest reporting to you or to the PMP, the importance of pest exclusion, and the importance of store cleanliness and sanitation. You may want to consider training employees on proper cleaning techniques for spills and other food messes. When not cleaned thoroughly and properly, spills and food messes may attract pests.
Partner With The Best
Copesan’s extensive, coast-to-coast coverage, paired with our network of local experts, assures geographically-specific pest protection – no matter where your facilities are located. Contact Us Today!
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