What Retail Stores Need To Consider About Pest Management
Having pests in a retail environment is damaging to the business. Customers will not want to shop there, and sometimes products are damaged. In severe cases, your business will be shut down. Pest control for retail management is similar to that of other industries. It focuses on professional prevention and elimination.
Professional pest control experts will suggest the following considerations about pest management:
Work With Professionals
The best way to manage pests is to work with professionals. They will examine your property and locate potential pest entry points and nesting areas. They will create an IPM (integrated pest management) program to control infestations. Professionals may suggest preventative or corrective measures you would not otherwise know about.
Remove Entry Points
You must look for openings along the building’s exterior that provide an entry point for the pests. Seal all gaps, cracks, and holes, no matter the size. Insects can fit in tiny spaces. If windows are open, install screens to prevent bugs from entering.
Regularly Inspect the Exterior
Some retail managers focus their pest management on the interior, but this alone is not enough. You need to examine the exterior of the building and surrounding property. Eliminate standing water if necessary. Take away debris, like junk pallets or empty boxes. Routinely clear out trash, and make sure there are no spilled food items. Place garbage and discarded cardboard in the appropriate dumpsters.
Maintain a Clean Area
Apart from pesticide use, keeping the area clean is the best way to manage pests. Spaces with garbage or empty containers provide shelter for pests and areas for them to hide. Leaving out food, including in sealed containers, may give the pests a meal. This encourages them to stay. Pay close attention if you sell food products. Don’t forget to clean up leftover food items in the break room!
Consider Dumpster Placement
Proper dumpster placement is an important part of inspecting the exterior and keeping the business clean. Aim to put the dumpster at least several yards away from the building if possible. Dumpsters attract pests, such as insects and rodents. If the dumpster is close to the building, it can attract more pests in your establishment.
Train Employees
Daily pest prevention needs to include all employees, not just the management staff or pest control professionals. Ask your pest management professional to provide employee training. Staff members must learn how to prevent pests by closing windows and doors and throwing away food, including food left out in the break room. Have a professional teach employees how to recognize an infestation. This allows for immediate corrective action before the problem worsens or customers notice.
Use Pesticides
In most cases, strategically placed pesticides, traps, and bait stations will be necessary for pest control. Your pest management professionals will recommend the ideal pesticides and placement. They will evaluate which pests pose the largest threats and make appropriate suggestions. Follow their advice, and check traps and bait stations to dispose of pests and reset the traps.
JP Pest Services is dedicated to solving commercial pest problems. Our service professionals understand the specific regulations and requirements of the numerous different types of commercial industries we provide service for. We offer free staff training for anyone looking to give their employees the resources and knowledge needed to help not only lessen the effects of pest issues, but also to prevent them all together. Request your free consultation today for a thorough examination of your business location and a pest control program tailored to your specific needs.
