Call to check for cockroaches as heating goes on - BCPA

MONEY MATTERS Call to check for cockroaches as heating goes on Heating ducts and pipes can be prime spots for cockroaches as the heating goes on in the autumn, a national trade body has warned. British Pest Control Association (BPCA) has issued a guide with advice for food businesses on preventing the humidity-loving insects getting into premises. cockroach and they cluster around pipes, stoves, the back of refrigerator motors and sinks, especially in humid areas, and will often remain hidden during the day.” The BPCA always recommends proactive pest management approaches. Proofing businesses from cockroaches, rather than trying to deal with an infestation is always more effective. Tips to prevent cockroaches include: - Clean all surfaces thoroughly to remove any food residue The pests can also be found near stoves and sinks, where - Keep bins covered, clean and emptied regularly they can contaminate food, utensils and preparation - Regularly clean areas such as the top and bottom of surfaces as they forage. the fridge, where it is warm and food residue may And they can be vectors of disease, capable of carrying collect the organisms which cause food poisoning in humans and - Make sure you inspect any new products or equipment many other bacteria. delivered to your business as this is how the German Cockroach control is a difficult task, so preventative cockroach sometimes enters a building measures are an important step in keeping premises pest- - Sewer covers should be kept in good repair free. - Proactively monitor for cockroaches by using sticky Dee Ward-Thompson, BPCA Technical Manager, said: traps with a food lure – pest management companies “The two most common species of cockroaches are the provide this service German and Oriental cockroach. They will both feed on Dee added: “Control of cockroaches is seldom easy almost anything, including refuse, faecal matter and food because of the difficulty of getting to the insect. for human consumption. They also require access to water “For any cockroach infestation, we would always and will be generally found in inaccessible harbourages, recommend contacting a professional pest control close to water and food. company, preferably a member of the BPCA. “Cockroaches are rarely able to survive out of doors “They are trained in cockroach control and will have in the British climate but thrive in areas where the access to a range of professional use products which are temperature is more forgiving. For Oriental cockroaches, not available to the public.” this may be around the heating ducts and boiler rooms For more advice about proofing your business against of large, centrally heated buildings such as hospitals, cockroaches, the new online guide is available at: bpca.org. bakeries, hotels and restaurant kitchens, and blocks of uk/cockroaches. flats. When Oriental cockroaches are present, they can sometimes be tracked back to the sewers. To find a BPCA member “German cockroaches are smaller than the Oriental near you visit: bpca.org.uk/find