How Can I Involve My Employees In Workplace Pest Control?
Preventing pests in the workplace is not only good for business, it's a legal obligation for you as an employer. The best approach to workplace pest control is having an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan. The results of an effective IPM plan are that you'll be able to monitor, detect, and eradicate pests in the earliest stages before you have a serious infestation on your hands. Getting your employees involved in workplace pest control is a key part of IPM.
Workplace pest control is everyone's responsibility
Workplace pest control shouldn't just be your responsibility, everyone has a role to play. If your employees understand potential pest issues and the problems they can cause as well as the role they have to play, your IPM plan will be so much more effective.
How to involve employees in workplace pest control
Talk to employees about pest control
Make time in staff meetings to talk about your IPM plan. Discuss any pest management obligations or initiatives including the need to report pest sightings and report any concerns. Make sure employees are aware of when your pest control company is coming to carry out a service. It's also a good idea to include pest control information in your internal communications to keep it top of mind. For example, you could include seasonal pest risk information in a quarterly newsletter.
Make sure employees understand their workplace pest control duties
Emphasise the need for good housekeeping in the workplace-cleaning up spillages immediately. Encouraging employees to keep their workspaces clean. Emptying bins regularly and getting rid of clutter.
Encourage employees to report any issues that could increase the risk of pests
Ask employees to be vigilant about spotting and reporting anything that could increase pest risk. This includes things like structural damage to the building, leaky pipes, broken windows, or gaps under doors.
Provide staff training
Ask your pest control provider if they can provide staff training for your team. Training should include what a good IPM plan looks like as well as giving employees an introduction to common pests, what attracts them, and where they are likely to get in and hide out. Offering staff training is a proactive approach to workplace pest control and that's what IPM is all about.
Keep up the good work
Even if you have a comprehensive IPM plan in place and your employees are clued up, there's still a risk that pests will get in. Employees need to know exactly what they should do if and when a pest issue occurs. Employees should:
- Document when and where the pests were spotted in as much detail as possible.
- Notify a supervisor/manager as soon as possible
- Keep detailed checklists to ensure thorough cleaning and maintenance of potential pest hotspots
Need help with workplace pest control?
If you need help putting a comprehensive pest management plan in place, call Contego. We'll help you protect your business, employees, and customers, and meet your legal obligations. When it comes to pest control on your premises, you don't have to go it alone.