Pests such as cockroaches, rodents, flies and birds carry disease and contaminate food and surfaces. A clean, well-maintained premises gives pests nowhere to live and nothing to eat — prevention is far more effective than dealing with an infestation.
Signs of pests
Spotting pests early lets you act before they spread. Watch for the tell-tale signs and report them straight away:
- Droppings, especially in corners, cupboards and along walls
- Gnaw marks, chewed packaging or spilled dry goods
- Egg cases, dead insects or a musty smell
- Grease marks or rub marks along skirting where rodents travel
- Live insects or rodents, including during the day (often a sign of a larger problem)
Keeping pests out
The best pest control is denying pests food, water and shelter, and stopping them getting in at all.
- Store food in sealed containers and clean up spills and crumbs promptly
- Remove rubbish regularly and keep bins closed, clean and away from food areas
- Fix leaks and dry up standing water
- Seal gaps, cracks and holes; keep external doors and windows screened or closed
- Keep storage tidy and off the floor so you can see and clean underneath
If you find pests
Report any sign of pests to your supervisor immediately. Do not use household pesticides near food yourself — licensed pest controllers use approved methods that won't contaminate food. Discard any food that pests may have reached.
Practical examples
- Flour is kept in sealed containers so mice and weevils cannot get in.
- Bins are emptied regularly and kept closed and clean, away from prep areas.
- Mouse droppings near the dry store are reported to the supervisor at once.
Key points to remember
- Pests carry disease and contaminate food and surfaces.
- Deny them food, water and shelter; seal entry points.
- Learn the signs — droppings, gnaw marks, live pests — and report them fast.
- Leave pesticide treatment to licensed professionals; throw out affected food.