Pest Control and Facility Sanitation
Pests and signs
Rats, mice, cockroaches and flies can spread pathogens and contaminate food. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, tracks, egg cases, live insects, grease smears, and unusual smells. Pests need food, water and shelter; remove these and you make the premises less attractive.
Prevention
Keep doors and windows screened and fitted with door sweeps. Seal cracks and gaps around pipes. Store food in sealed containers off the floor. Remove garbage frequently and clean bins. Fix leaks and eliminate standing water. Keep dry storage tidy and rotate stock. Report signs promptly and cooperate with a licensed pest control operator. Do not apply pesticides in food areas unless trained and authorized.
Facility sanitation
Floors, walls and ceilings should be smooth, cleanable and in good repair. Provide adequate lighting and ventilation. Handwashing stations need warm water, soap and paper towels, and must be accessible. Garbage areas should be clean and enclosed. Grease traps need servicing. Cleaning schedules should cover both routine and deep cleaning.
Traps
Common traps: "one trap will solve the problem"; "pesticides can be sprayed near food if no one is looking"; "cardboard boxes are pest-proof"; "pests only occur in old buildings". Also, staff should not try to handle a serious infestation alone.
Worked example
You see mouse droppings near a dry-storage shelf. Do not ignore them or sweep them into food. Report it, clean and sanitize the area, move food into sealed containers, and arrange pest control. Rule of thumb: deny pests food, water and shelter.