Keeping rodents and insects out of your food establishment is a never-ending task. You may find it necessary to consult with a professional pest control service. The following suggestions should help in their control.
Cockroaches
1. Be alert to the first signs of infestation (e.g., egg cases, droppings) and destroy infested foods.
2. Check shipments for possible infestation.
3. Seal all cracks and crevices to eliminate harborage.
4. Practice good housekeeping and storage by removing food wastes and spills promptly, and covering foods.
5. Use an approved pesticide and always follow directions carefully.
Rats and Mice
1. Check all possible entrances; rodent-proof foundations; seal cracks at doors; seal around pipes and conduit; eliminate holes in walls.
2. Eliminate potential nesting places by removing all piles of rubbish, inside and outside the premises.
3. Remove food sources by keeping exterior and interior garbage containers closed.
4. Use traps or bait in an approved manner or a professional pest control service.
5. Maintain all storage areas clean and organized to monitor for rodent activity.
Flies
1. Prevent their entry into the facility:
- Keep doors closed.
- Screen doors and windows properly.
- Make sure all exterior doors are self-closing.
- Install overhead fly fans or air curtains at delivery doors.
2. Practice good housekeeping to eliminate their breeding places:
- Keep exterior garbage containers tightly closed.
- Remove food wastes and spills promptly.
- Dispose food wastes in tightly sealed bags.
3. Use an approved insect bait station or fly zapper, which must be at least 3 horizontal feet away from food and food contact surfaces.
Do not use sprays near any food or food contact surface.
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Food Handler's Guide for Retail Food Facilities
Housing Inspection Bureau