The presence of pests in food production and preparation areas has always been unacceptable. Pests in food retail, processing and distribution facilities are not just nuisances; they can lead to significant product loss, regulatory action and a public relations nightmare.
Proper pest management is a vital step in protecting you from these consequences. But it’s not just about throwing money as a pest control service provider, the solution is often in your own “backyard” so to speak as keeping pests out requires proper preventive action.
Landscaping |
Remove excess plant growth. Maintain the lawns and avoid uneven ground to prevent water from pooling and providing breeding areas. |
Building
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A paved area around the building will discourage pest activity. Remove all standing water. |
Exterior
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Install weather stripping around windows and doors to close off any gaps that pests could enter through. Inspect for worn-out door weather strips and sweeps and replace accordingly. |
Vents |
Inspect vents and have them properly screened. |
Walls |
Look for cracks and other damages to exterior wall structures. Make the repairs and seal with weather-resistant sealant. Make sure there are no holes in sheeting however small. |
Roofs |
Inspect the roof for any cracks, holes, missing sheeting, openings and seal these |
Gutters |
Inspect and clean out nests and other debris that can cause pooling water which is a breeding opportunity. |
Location of
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Ensure fixed equipment is positioned so it is possible to inspect and clean all the way around and underneath |
Ceilings |
Drop ceilings must be cleaned and maintained as they easily become harbourage sites |
Pipe work
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Quick fixes such as capping equipment, inlet piping and keeping drain covers and screens/traps for vents in place also help to eliminate simple shelters for pests |
Trunking for
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Although easier to clean than cable racking, these provide an ideal harbourage for cockroaches. Rather avoid. |
Doors |
Keep them closed – install automatic door returns, Install screen doors work on standard doors, install air curtains and strip doors for dock doors. |
Windows |
Keep them closed – weld closed if necessary, remove if possible. Install screens as a last resort. |
Redundant
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Get rid of all equipment, pallets and any other engineering junk that can easily harbour pests. Workshops and spares stores are ideal spots for rodents. |