Store food away from walls and at least six inches from the floor · Seal workplace equipment to the floor or elevate it at least six inches above the floor. If you have a dumpster on your property, keep it as far away from the building as possible and make sure the garbage bins (both inside and out) are completely covered and pest proof. Regularly clean and disinfect all garbage bins, recycling bins or green bins, as persistent odors are sure to attract rodents and other vermin. Training all employees to recognize pests and signs of pest infestation is an essential part of any pest control management system.
It may be inconvenient to leave everything to clean a spilled soda, but a pest infestation (especially cockroaches) is much more inconvenient, expensive and takes much longer. If you are engaged in the food industry, it is important that you keep food safe and protected from pests and harmful microorganisms that they can carry. If you need treatment at your facility, make sure your PCO has the tools to treat a food establishment, such as approved pesticides, to help keep your food and equipment safe. If your fly infestation is severe enough that you cannot safely eradicate them on your own, consider enlisting the assistance of a professional pest control operator.
Learning about the pests you have and the options available to control specific pests is the first step. In addition to preventing pests, it is important to know the signs of pests to determine if you have a pest problem. If you are unable to find the infestation yourself, contact a professional to help you identify any underlying or visible pest problems. If traps and glue boards are not an effective method, it is strongly recommended to enlist the help of a professional pest control operator.
Even a spill outside the building can attract pests (including flies) to the area, and it won't be long before they go looking for more food inside. Pests can cause serious problems to a food business, such as foodborne diseases, food waste, health code violations and fines, damage to the building and the company's reputation. Be sure to use pesticides that are approved for use in food facilities and include safety and expiration information. By learning how to prevent pests from entering your establishment, observing and monitoring indicators of pest infestation, and knowing what to do if you suspect you have a problem, you and your employees will maintain a healthy and safe work environment.
Instruct your employees to record the date, time, and location of any pest sightings and to report the sightings to your supervisor or manager. Because of this, pests often find ways to get into homes and buildings, especially if they can spot food. Try to use glue boards or traps first, if they are an effective method for the type of pest infestation you have.
