How to Keep Your Business Premises Safe From Pests

Running your own business is a dream that many people have. It’s a way to be in control of your own destiny, make your own rules, and achieve financial independence. But while owning your own business is rewarding, it’s also a lot of work. There are a lot of things you need to take care of, from developing a solid business plan to offering superior customer service. One thing that’s often overlooked is the need to keep your business premises free of pests. Pests can not only damage your property, but they can also pose a health risk to you and your employees. That’s why it’s important to take the necessary steps to keep your workplace pest-free, and here are some of the most effective ones.

1. Conduct Regular Inspections

One of the best ways to keep your business premises safe from pests is to conduct regular inspections. You should look for signs of pests in all areas of your business, including storage rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and office spaces. Pay special attention to dark corners and crevices, as these are often where pests like to hide. The experts over at Integrum Services – a London-based pest control company – note that certain businesses like restaurants, hospitals, and schools need to incorporate suitable pest solutions not just to make sure their premises are pest-free, but also to ensure they’re staying legally compliant. The best way to make sure that you never have to deal with a serious infestation is to conduct regular inspections – preferably on a bi-weekly basis, atop of the other preventative measures you take.

2. Store Food And Garbage Properly

Rodents, insects, and other pests have one thing in common – they are attracted to food and garbage. If you don’t store these items properly, you’re giving pests a free invitation to come into your business premises. To keep pests away, make sure all food is properly sealed and stored in airtight containers in temperature-controlled areas. Of course, hospitals and other medical establishments have a specific set of rules when it comes to garbage disposal due to the risk of infection – so if you work in one of these industries, be sure to follow the correct protocol. In general, though, you should empty garbage cans regularly and clean them out completely on a regular basis – at the end of each day, if possible.

3. Keep The Building Clean And Tidy

One of the simplest – but most effective – ways to keep pests away is to keep your building clean and tidy. Pests are attracted to clutter and dirt, so the cleaner and tidier your business premises are, the less likely it is that pests will want to come inside. Make sure all floors are vacuumed and swept on a daily basis, and that all surfaces are wiped down with a disinfectant regularly. In the kitchen, be sure to wash dishes immediately after use and clean all food preparation areas thoroughly. It’s not uncommon for food to fall into cracks and crevices, so be sure to clean these areas at the end of each day as well. Bathrooms should also be cleaned on a regular basis, as they’re a common target for pests like cockroaches.

4. Use Pest Control Products Correctly

If you do find pests on your business premises, it’s important to deal with them quickly and effectively. There are a variety of pest control products on the market, but it’s important to use them correctly to ensure they work properly. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully, and always wear gloves and a mask when handling these products. It’s also important to know that action should be taken even if it seems like it’s not really an infestation, just a stray bug or two – because those can quickly turn into a full-blown problem if not dealt with right away. As soon as you see any signs of pests, take action to get rid of them as quickly as possible.

5. Seal Up Entry Points

Pests can squeeze into even the smallest of spaces, so it’s important to seal up any potential entry points into your business premises. Check for cracks in the foundation, gaps around doors and windows, and holes in screens. If you find any of these, repair them immediately. Your vents should have screens to keep pests out, and you should also check your ductwork for any holes or cracks. Of course, certain pests like mice, rats, and squirrels can eat through just about anything, so if you have a serious problem with these pests, you may need to call in a professional to help you seal up your business premises.

As you can see, there are a number of things you can do to keep your business premises safe from pests. By taking the necessary precautions, you can avoid infestations and keep your business running smoothly.