What Conditions Make Stores Prone To Pest Infestation?

 Monday, August 22nd 2022, 4:00 AM

Factors That Make Businesses Vulnerable To Pests

San Jose, United States - August 22, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Pests are a nightmare for homeowners and business owners. But the truth is humans also contribute to the spread of pests. While pests are unwelcome anywhere, businesses can incur financial losses from damage, consumer complaints, and loss of business. Businesses that handle food can even be shut down because of pest infestations. Commercial pest control is a vital service for businesses across the US.

Apart from customer dissatisfaction, complaints, and negative reviews, pest infestations of commercial buildings also have adverse effects on employees. According to a publication by IFMA (International Facility Management Association), around 42% of US businesses incurred a loss of at least one working day due to pest infestations. More than 25% of businesses lost at least five working days for the same reason. The presence of pests can also lead to a drop in staff morale, exposure to harmful pathogens, and risk of infections among employees. Once there is a pest problem, professional commercial pest control is needed. Businesses in need of pest control in the Bay Area can get services from Habitat Pest Control. With their experience and the use of eco-exempt products, Habitat Pest Control delivers commercial pest control services that are quick, effective, and safe for employees. In this article, the company shares information on conditions that promote pest infestation in stores.

Knowing what attracts pests will help business owners prevent them better. The following are things to look out for to keep a business free from pests.

1. Doors That Are Frequently Opened

Commercial buildings will need doors to be opened frequently to let customers in and out. Businesses can try to avoid keeping doors propped open and being open for longer than necessary. Door sweeps can be installed. The weather stripping around doors must be checked for cracks or damage that can be access points for pests. Air curtains can be used to keep flying insects out. A vestibule door entrance can also help to keep pests out.

2. Presence of Water and Moisture

Water is essential for the survival of living things, including pests. Any small amount of water can be an oasis that attracts pests. Pipes, drains, water dispensers, and appliances must all be checked for any problems that cause leaks, puddles, or moisture accumulation. Drains must be free of food debris that attract various pests. If possible screens can be used on drains. Spilled liquids must be mopped up, and the area cleaned and dried swiftly. The property must have proper drainage and outdoor drains must be maintained to prevent backing up of drainage. 

3. Carelessly Stored and Handled Food

Even in businesses that are not selling food, there is the presence of food brought in by customers and employees. Leftover food must be disposed of immediately. Any food products stored must be off the floor, on shelves or cupboards, at a suitable temperature, and in containers that keep them sealed and protected from nibbling. Food must never be left open or in unsealed packets that keep pests like flies and ants away.

4. Garbage

Most pests are scavengers, and garbage and trash area bounty for them. Trash or garbage must be emptied at regular intervals throughout the day. This must be done strictly without waiting for it to accumulate before doing so. Dumpsters must be kept away from the store entrance if possible. Trash receptacles must be closed and have well-fitting lids that keep pests out. The dumpster area must be kept clean and cleared regularly. 

5. Inadequate Cleaning

Good cleaning methods that are practiced regularly help keep pests away. Areas where food particles may be present, like break rooms, dining halls, kitchens, and food product aisles, must be swept or vacuumed several times a day regularly. Hidden areas behind furniture, cracks, crevices in the floor and walls, and countertop corners must all be cleaned meticulously. Regular vacuuming of carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture is also helpful.

6. Structural Problems

Since rodents and insects can get in through the tiniest holes and cracks, the structural integrity of a building is important to keep pests at bay. Gaps, cracks, or holes in floors, walls, ceilings, or the foundation must be sealed at once. Openings created for electrical wires or utility pipes must be inspected, and any gaps must be closed. 

7. Deliveries

Businesses get shipments and deliveries all the time. These are ideal vehicles for pests to get shipped right into a business. As far as possible, a dedicated area can be assigned to receive and retain deliveries for opening and inspection. Any signs of pests like ripped or torn packaging, droppings, larvae, or seeing actual pests must be monitored. Compromised shipments can be refused or removed as soon as possible. Cardboard, wood, and packaging materials must be broken down and discarded away from the store as soon as possible as these can harbor pests if kept for more time. 

8. Poorly Maintained Exteriors

Pests, especially rodents, can stay hidden in overgrown areas outside the building. Mowing grass, cutting overgrown tree branches, and keeping the area clear will prevent pests from living there.

All these things should be monitored, and action can be taken to prevent pests from entering a building. But even with all the care, pests can infest a business. In such cases, commercial pest control must be initiated immediately. Business owners with a pest problem can get commercial pest control services in the Bay Area from Habitat Pest Control. The company assures swift, same-day pest control service in the South Bay Area. Habitat Pest Control provides the best pest control with year-round advanced service to eliminate pests all the year. They will handle problems related to pest return for free. Habitat Pest Control can be contacted for a pest control quote by businesses in need of commercial pest control by dialing the number (408) 922-9898 or on their website.