PEST CONTROL

Types of pest

MAIN GROUPS OF PEST

• Rodents: rats and mice

• Insects : flies and cockroaches

• Birds : sparrows, pigeons and starling

Note : Pest infestation are one of the major reasons for prosecution in catering

industry.

Problems associated with pests

• Pests carry food poisoning bacteria in their dropping, fur, feathers, and feet.

• Rats and mice gnaw on woodwork gas pipes cables etc to wear down their incisor teeth.

• Cockroaches leave very unpleasant smell. They like warm and moist areas, so, they are found behind ovens and hot water pipes. They can squeeze through narrow gaps and emerge when its dark.

• Flies feed on a wide variety of matters like waste food and animal feces. While feeding they deposit feces on food, and also vomit saliva before sucking it up again.

• Bird droppings make building look dirty. It also damages the structure. Birds nest block gutters, causing overflows or blockage of drain.

PREVENTION

To stop pests from entering catering premises:

1. Keep building at good repair.

2. Keep doors shut.

3. Windows closed or covered with fly screen.

4. Check containers at the time of food deliveries

INSPECTION PROCEDURE

• Seal utility entries.• Keep door tight and at good repair.• Keep window screens at good repair.• Keep roof in good repair and free from

standing water.• Check ventilation and exhausts• Keep walls free of cracks and holes.• Clean and cover refuse containers.

• Keep parking areas free of litter

• Keep inside, under, Keep dinning areas free from signs of pest activity.

• Keep kitchen area free of pest activity.

Rats drink three times as much they eat. So they will not stay where water is not available.

Note- pests are attracted to food premises that provide food, water, warmth, and shelter

Signs of infestations

• Live or dead rodents, insects or birds.

• Droppings

• Gnawing marks

• Torn packets, paper or cardboard boxes

• Grease marks on skirting boards

• Footprints on dust.

• egg

CONTROL OF PESTS

• Electrically operated flying insect killer. It has metal grid which are electrocuted and flash light with ultraviolet rays to attract the flying insects.

• Tamper resistant bait box.

• Cockroaches and other insects are treated with insecticide sprays.

• Birds are encouraged to eat food with narcotic drugs that causes deep sleep

MAINTENANCE

Organized inspection procedure: With flashlight and screw driver to

observe hidden areas. Look for signs of pest infestation- dead or

live. Lift the shelves, pull out the drawers,

check behind the cabinets, sinks, check above false ceilings etc.

• Check dinning area including under the tables.

• Check the exterior of the building for cracks and crevices.

• Check refuse areas for cleanliness• Check air ducts and roof top equipments

for accumulation of debris.• Check wooden furniture and fixtures for

signs of pest infestation.

STORAGE

• Area should be locked or have limited access.

• Entrance should be labeled with a sign- “pesticides stored here. Keep out.”

• Pesticides are best stored in original container.

• Must check the pesticides regularly for leaks and tears.

• To keep label intact coat it with lacquer or transparent tape.

• May deteriorate in storage. Specially under conditions of high temperature an humidity.

• They have strong odor, if odor grows may indicate a leak or spill or defective container or deterioration even.

• Storage temperature effect shelf life of pesticides. Ideal storage conditions are cool, dry and out of sunlight .

• Below freezing temperature causes separation of components.

• High temperature may make them volatile or break down rapidly and glass containers to burst.

Note :

When mixing pesticides review the label directions and protect the skin. Wear gloves during mixing.

With proper storage of pesticide products can be carried over for several years.