In every commercial establishment dealing with food one of the major factors owners need to consider is pest control. Food establishments such as restaurants invest a lot to maintain the highest possible pest prevention tactics to avoid encountering any such form of pest problems. Though due to unforeseen circumstances or several acts of god, pest problems are a natural occurrence. What entrepreneurs could do is to strictly follow preventive measures and impose rules as to control possible pest control problems. Common pests include ants, mosquitoes, roaches, spiders and rodents.
Pest control also varies depending on the environment (e.g. weather conditions, country). For Singapore which is characterized as hot and humid. It is one of the countries in Southeast Asia that can be considered to have a tropical climate. Rainfall is most common during the later parts of the year. In line with this weather conditions, restaurants are more susceptible to pest problems. Though a well managed restaurant will have a program to prevent this problem which was stated above. Below are some ideas that a restaurateur in Singapore can consider to be a part of their pest prevention program.
– A thorough inspection of every spot in the establishment.
Daily, Weekly and/or Monthly routines should be different. It is important to know that doing inspections are needed to be able to prevent and detect pest problems that might be developing. Restaurants should consider having General Cleaning routines, meaning the restaurant should be cleaned in every possible way available. Professional cleaning services, pest control personnel and anyone else needed should be involved. If this will not be possible to be done at the same time, restaurateurs can schedule every service in different times/days. Depending on the need and ultimately the final decision of the management a scheduled routine inspection should be considered a standard operating procedure.
– Sanitation.
This will always be reiterated and practiced at all times. Trash should be disposed properly to prevent pests harbouring and making your trash a place to live in. Recycling should be practiced at all times. This will help in the preservation of the environment as well as a great preventive measure for pest control. All equipment, utensils and floors should always be maintained and cleaned. Pest’s infestation can easily occur especially if your workplace is unkempt and unsanitized. If seats are cushioned make sure that they are cleaned routinely. Have a professional clean it to check for mites as well. A clean restaurant is a pest free restaurant.
– Be aware of the current weather or climate.
As stated above Singapore is mainly hot or humid which prime seasons for insects are. Many insects and arachnids become active with hot weather since they seek food, water and shelter. Once the rainy season comes in water stored in unclean restaurant utensils are a good harbouring agent for mosquitoes to live and procreate in. Prevent this from happening by being familiar with the must do processes in different weather conditions.
– Exclusion.
Small cracks or spots should be dealt with immediately. Don’t ever think it’s just a small area or hole in the wall. Even the smallest portion can be made as a nesting ground for pests. Rat and Spiders s can make small openings in the walls their own which make it easier for them to double their numbers in a short span of time. Doors and windows should never be left unopened in long periods of time. This will prevent mosquitoes entering your premises and infecting people and consumables. Once mosquitoes enter your premises it would be hard to get them out. Equipments that eliminate mosquitoes can be purchased to prevent them multiplying further. Make sure to invest in good quality equipment.
– Proper pest prevention education.
For your pest prevention program to be effective everyone involved in the restaurant should have the proper knowledge on the do’s and don’ts as well as what to expect and how to prevent. They should be well aware of the possibilities and the proper solutions to whatever challenges may come. If needed, seminars or talks should be attended by all personnel for them to be properly aware of the importance of pest prevention and give them proper knowledge on what to do if ever they encounter a pest problem.
– On hand items.
Restaurants should always have on hand items to fight pests that may attempt to enter the restaurant’s premises. Example of which is a handy bug spray just in case you spot a bug lingering in your premises. A lot of products to eliminate and prevent pests are readily available so buying one shouldn’t be any problem. Just make sure that you are using the right product for the right problem. It is always better to be ready and never be complacent. Remember pests are not a minor problem and you are dealing with food, which are most of all delicate and could make or break your restaurant.
– Early detection is always an early solution.
In cases that you encounter a pest problem, never take it lightly. It may be small but it can cause a major problem to your restaurant. As much as possible have someone who knows how to exterminate it as soon as possible. Professional services are up to date and know the best solutions for minor to major pest problems. If you think you wouldn’t need a professional to do it just remember to ask people who knows about it and never be afraid to seek advice. It is better to be sure when it comes to these kinds of problems. Since restaurants are commercial establishments pest control should be a number one priority and cost cutting should never be an option.
These are just some ideas that are commonly used in restaurants for their pest prevention program. Adding to it would be a great idea. The more preventive measures you practice the better. You should never think that pest control could affect your operations since it will also help you in the long run. Prevention is always the way to go.
