2006 Pest Management Program Checklist

by Ron Harrison
Entomologist, Ph.D. Training Director
Orkin, Inc.

It’s the beginning of another year, and the beginning of another list of New Year’s resolutions. While improving business or expanding your resort may be top of the list, there’s another resolution that shouldn’t be forgotten: “Keep pests out of this resort for good this year.” Why is pest management important to the hospitality industry? First of all, pests can seriously damage your business’ reputation.

Not only could a guest’s negative experience be spread by word-of-mouth, but there is always the possibility that media could cover the story and splash undesirable photos of your resort on the front page. While this scenario is an important reason to keep a close watch on your pest control program, it does not touch on one of the fundamental reasons that effective pest control is necessary for your business – safety. Pests carry numerous diseases, from salmonella to West Nile virus to lyme disease.

Ultimately, a pest infestation can threaten your guests and employees in three direct ways: disease, respiratory problems – which can be caused by inhalation of their exoskeletons and droppings – and physical via direct contact. Indirectly, pests can threaten guests by contaminating food. Pests also can cause physical damage to your resort. Rodents are known to chew through electrical wiring, bird droppings can corrode metal and carpenter ants and termites can destroy the structure. But why do pests want to invade your resort? (TIP: It’s not for the beautiful pool or golf course.) To survive, all pests need sources of food, water, shelter and optimal temperatures.

These four essential needs can often be met in your establishment – if you don’t take measures to eliminate them. So how can you make sure that your resort is protected from pest infestations this year? The following checklist provides tips for working with your pest management professional (PMP) to control pests all year long.

2006 Pest Management Program Checklist

• Review your 2005 pest control program with your PMP, paying special attention to any pest issues you faced in 2005 so you can better prepare for this year. If new construction is occurring in 2006, be sure to discuss pest proofing with your PMP. Taking proactive measures during construction is the best way to provide long-term pest control.

• Inspect your establishment for any new pest hot spots. Pay special attention to areas that provide moisture or optimal temperatures, which could have been created by new construction or the general weathering of your establishment. Eliminate potential pest entry points, harborage points, food sources and water sources. For example:

• Caulk unnecessary cracks and crevices in the exterior of your building with weather-resistant sealant – Pests can enter through even the tiniest openings.

• Trim back vegetation from the side and above of your building – If a branch touches the side of your building, it can act as a bridge for pests to enter your resort

• Make sure all floors are cleaned regularly and free of excess food debris – Your resort’s foodservice is for guests, not pests.

• Repair leaky HVAC units and soda/vending machines – Don’t lead a pest to water and a food source. • Immediately report any pest sightings to your PMP. The earlier a pest can be identified and eliminated, the better. Your PMP should provide you with a detailed logbook, which keeps track of all pest sightings when your PMP isn’t on the premises.

• Remind your employees of the role they play in the success of the program. Encourage employees to eliminate excess food and water and report any pest sightings. What’s more, one often-overlooked way pests enter hotels is on employees themselves. Pests are known to “hitchhike” on items of clothing such as pant cuffs, shoelaces, hats and purses. Education is key: remind employees to keep there eyes peeled for any “hitchhikers.”

• Review the service documentation provided by your PMP. It is vital that this documentation is up-to-date and accurate for the health inspector’s visit.

• Keep up the good work! Pest management is a process, not a one-time event. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance is essential to eliminate pests and protect your establishment once and for all.