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7 Steps for a Successful Pest Management Program For Food Handling Facilities

In a food processing environment, a high quality pest control program is of the utmost importance. Pests found in your food products can negatively affect your business’s image and even lead to the closing of your establishment. However, as important as it is to be effective, you must also be careful not to contaminate the food products during processing. That is why it is important to apply the principles of the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) which is one of the more effective pest management procedures developed for food processing facilities. Eagle Pest Services will share this IPM pest management and the seven basic steps toward a pest free environment.
 

Step 1. Pest Inspections

The first step to keep pest out of your food processing facility is regular pest inspections. It is a good practice for a food processing facility to schedule weekly inspections. These inspections will be performed in the areas prone to pest intrusion, such as receiving docks, storage areas, employee break rooms and other areas that may draw unwanted pests. Inspections often include point of entry, and a pest’s food or water source.
 

Step 2. Pest Prevention Program

The regular inspection will reveal any weaknesses in your pest management program which can be added or altered as needed. One of the most effective pest prevention techniques is in keeping pests from entering the facility. Most entry areas will be regularly treated chemically to kill any wandering pest. Since you can’t spray hazardous chemicals around the food that is being processed or the equipment used, one of the best ways is to not allow the pest in the facility.
 

Step 3. Identifying Pest Problems

Depending on the facility’s location, it may be prone to certain pests over others. Addressing the most problematic pest first can help reduce the need of excessive use of chemical pesticides. After this problem has been addressed, you can turn your attention back to the facility and look for signs and behavior that may suggest a current pest presence.
 

Step 4. Pest Infestation Analysis

If a current pest has made an appearance around or in the facility, properly indentifying the pest is necessary. Besides the food source which obviously draws them in, there might be other factors luring the pest closer, such as high moisture, humidity, and debris. All of these things can contribute to a pest infestation. Once identified, the problem(s) can be rectified.
 

Step 5. Pest Treatment Options

The identity of the common pests found advancing on the facility will determine the types of pest management treatment methods used. We strongly encourage the use of baits and traps first, before chemical treatments are employed. With the knowledge of the pest control technician, we will be able to place the baits and traps where the pests will most like try to enter and stop them before they cross the threshold. Only under extreme circumstances will the use of pesticides or chemicals be used to manage pests.
 

Step 6. Monitoring the Property for Pests

It is important to train your staff to constantly be monitoring and looking around for pests. If a pest is spotted by you or an employee, it is important to make a record of where the pest was found and what kind of pest it was to further help your pest control company adjust their pest control methods.
 

Step 7. Document Pest Control Program

The last and final step is to map out and document all of your pest management protocols in great detail. This means a complete mapping of the facility where bait and traps were laid and even if the use of chemicals were used and where. Keep receipts and records from the pest control company and what was done during their visits.  
 

Commercial Pest Managment

Eagle Pest Services provide services to commercial and residential properties and can successfully prevent pest infestations. If your home or business is looking for a complete and effective pest control management service, contact Eagle Pest Services today.