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.
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