You Can Prevent This Implementing an integrated pest management (IPM) program. Working with a pest control operator (PCO)

Rules of an IPM Program Deny pests access to the operation. Deny pests food, water, and a hiding or nesting place. Work with a licensed PCO to eliminate pests that do enter the operation.

Keeping Pests Out of the Operation Use approved, reputable suppliers. Check all deliveries before they enter your operation. Refuse shipments in which you find pests or sings of pests.

Doors, Windows, and Vents Screen all windows and least with at least 16 mesh per square inch screening. Larger mesh sizes can let in mosquitoes or flies, which can lead to contamination from bacteria, such as shigella. Check screens regularly, and clean, patch or replace them as needed.

Pipes Mice, rats, and insects use pipes as highways through a facility. Use concrete to fill holes or sheet metal to cover openings around pipes. Install screens over ventilation pipes and ducts on the roof. Cover floor drains with hinged grates to keep rodents out.

Floors and Walls Seal all cracks in floor and walls. Seal spaces or cracks where stationary equipment is fitted to floor.

Denying Pests Food and Supplier Garbage Disposal: Throw out garbage quickly and correctly. Recyclables: Store them in clean, pest-proof containers. Food and Suppliers: Keep food away from walls. Use dehumidifiers to keep humidity at 50 %. Refrigerate foods like powered milk, cocoa, and nuts. Cleaning: Clean up food spills. Clean the restrooms. Train employees to keep lockers clean. Keep cleaning tools clean and dry.

Hiring a Pest Control Operator (PCO) Check references and make sure that the PCO is licensed. Make sure they are a member of a pest management association. Make sure you understand what the pest problem is, how bad the problem is, and what must be done to get rid of it before signing a contract.

Identifying Pests: Cockroaches They can carry pathogens like Salmonella. Live in dark, warm hard-to-clean places. Signs for Roaches: Strong, oily odor. Droppings that look like grains of black pepper. Capsule-shaped egg cases that are brown, red, or black.

Identifying Pests: Rodents Signs for Rodents: Gnaw Marks Droppings and Urine Stains Tracks Nests Holes

Using Pesticides Pesticides that are applied the wrong may be ineffective or harmful. Pests can develop resistance and immunity to pesticides. Prepare the area by removing all food and movable food-contact surfaces. Wash, rinse, and sanitize food-contact surfaces after the area has been sprayed.

Storing Pesticides Keep pesticides in their original containers. Store them in a secure location away from where food, utensils, and food equipment. Check local regulations before throwing out pesticides. Keep a copy of MSDS on the premises.