Topic · Food Handler Certificate

Pest Control

Pest infestations don’t happen overnight. Be aware of the warning signs of common pests. Pests in kitchen areas can contaminate food and spread diseases to customers, as well as ruining the inventory of stored food products. If you see any indication of a pest infestation, notify your supervisor immediately.

Pest infestation signs:

Droppings and nesting materials indicate the presence of nuisance birds.

In warm conditions and with abundant food, flies will multiply rapidly. Look for larvae and swarms of flies.

When the roach eggs hatch, the oval-shaped eggshells are left behind.

Mouse poop is similar to a grain of rice, and its color varies from blackish brown to gray.

Rat droppings are shiny black and 1/2 – 3/4 of an inch long – larger than mouse droppings

Pest infestation prevention

Pests will only go where they have access to food, water, and shelter. So the best to prevent pest infestation is to limit their access to the building and to take away the things they need to survive.

Clean and sanitize food-contact surfaces daily, including prep surfaces, grills, cooking surfaces, and countertops.
Clean and sanitize underneath equipment and shelves.
Keep screens over windows to keep birds and flies away.
Dispose of garbage properly, keep them closed and, don’t put them near doorways.
Keep cooking equipment free of grease and dirt buildup.
Store food and food stencils at least 6″ / 15 cm off the floor.
When storing food in dry storage, keep food in tightly sealed, food-grade containers.
Stop dripping pipes and prevent pooling of water.

Remove pests from your business, and stop them from coming back!