This time of year, typically, commercial facility managers take advantage of scheduling a year-end review to see how their pest management programs are performing, and where improvements can be made. It doesn’t matter what type of business you operate. Once inside, pests can spread diseases, cause structural damage, ruin products or supplies, and, ultimately, have a negative impact on your bottom line. That’s why it’s important to understand the elements that go into a successful pest control program.
Integrated Pest Management Program
The best way to keep pests from wreaking havoc is to implement an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. IPM is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. If you already have a plan in place, consider how effective your IPM program is.
Program Review
A program review is an opportunity for facility and QA managers to sit down with their pest management service provider to share successes and failures of the current pest program over the past year. A program review lets the client and pest professional know where they stand.
Risk Assessments
The information gathered in the review should be followed up with a physical risk assessment of the facility. A risk assessment looks to identify areas where the pest management program can be improved, and greater efficiencies can be gained. It also can spot new or potential hazards that could negatively affect the performance of the plan.
Annual Follow-up
Conducting regular program reviews and risk assessments also aligns with mandates of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which calls for a preventive approach to pest management. Setting aside time to schedule an annual program review and/or risk assessment may seem like a daunting challenge, but the rewards are well worth it.
At EcoTech, we service a variety of different commercial industries including food and beverage processing/service, healthcare/hospitality, logistics, retail, schools, factories, and general offices, to name a few. If your company is looking for a pest management partner that understands your business, and can help you protect your products, employees, and customers, call EcoTech at (763) 785-1414.
