Chapter 12 Integrated Pest Management

You Can Prevent ThisImplementing an integrated pest

management (IPM) program.Working with a pest control operator (PCO)

Rules of an IPM ProgramDeny 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 OperationUse 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 WallsSeal all cracks in floor and walls. Seal spaces or cracks where stationary

equipment is fitted to floor.

Denying Pests Food and SupplierGarbage 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: CockroachesThey 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: RodentsSigns for Rodents:

Gnaw MarksDroppings and Urine StainsTracksNestsHoles

Using PesticidesPesticides 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 PesticidesKeep 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.