Pest Control and Hygiene in Food Safety
Risks Posed by Pests
Pests such as rats, mice, and insects can jeopardise food safety in several ways:
- They can transfer diseases.
- They may contaminate food directly.
- Larger pests can damage equipment and infrastructure.
Main Groups of Pests
There are three main groups of pests to be aware of:
- Rodents: Including rats and mice.
- Insects: Such as cockroaches, beetles, ants, and flies.
- Birds: Including pigeons or seagulls.
Preventing and Managing Pests
To prevent pests from impacting food safety, follow these guidelines:
- Install and maintain appropriate fly control systems.
- Regularly inspect for signs of pests like bodies, damage to food, or scratching noises.
- Report and resolve any pest problems immediately to avoid business closure.
- Exclude pests by sealing gaps with gnaw-resistant materials like cement or wire mesh.
- Keep doors and windows fitted with pest screens to prevent entry.
- Practice good housekeeping to eliminate food debris and reduce hiding places.
Hygiene Practices for Cockroach Control
For effective control of cockroaches, implement these hygiene practices:
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Immediately clean up food debris and waste.
- Fix leaks and reduce access to water sources.
- Remove clutter and seal crevices to eliminate hiding spots.
- Vacuum regularly and dispose of waste properly.
Dealing with Pest Infestations
If a pest infestation is detected, take immediate action:
- Temporarily close affected areas until the infestation is cleared.
- Contact a professional pest control contractor for assessment and treatment.
- Report the issue to the Environmental Health office for further assistance.
- Dispose of any contaminated food properly.
- Avoid closure by ensuring compliance with hygiene regulations.
Effective pest control and hygiene practices are crucial to maintaining food safety standards and preventing business disruptions.
Recommended Products For You
BSI First Aid Kit Small Catering Refill
£10.83 + VAT
Bsi First Aid Kit Premier Small Catering
£13.97 + VAT
HeartSine 350P Internal Package - Special Offer
£875.00 + VAT
Large Premium Burn First Aid Kit
£17.88 + VAT