What’s attracting pests to my business property?
Pests can be a big problem. It’s not a nice feeling if you discover you’ve got unwanted bugs in your office or living space – and that’s on top of the other potential issues you might have to deal with as well, such as horrible smells, droppings and any damage caused by gnawing rodents.
However, it may be that you’re creating a welcome environment for these pests to discover and set up home in without you knowing it. To prevent them from doing so, you should know what types of conditions they might be drawn by and thrive in. These are some items that you could check to make sure that you reduce the likelihood of your working area becoming home to any unwanted guests.
Check the outside of your property
It’s important to check the exterior of your property as well as the interior. In general, cleaning the outside of a building can be just as important as cleaning the interior if you want to have a pest-free workplace. Any scraps and other food matter that might be outside should be kept in sealed bags with the garbage.
Have a look at your indoor plants
Plants are used in many work environments to add a bit of life and color to an office area – and although they might be lifting the spirits of employees, these plants can lead to pests if they’re not treated responsibly. Over-saturation of the soil, for instance, can lead to fungus gnats that then feed on algae, plant roots, and fungi. So not only will these pests kill off your plants but, once they’ve hatched, they’ll also spread pollens – which can lead to mold or other pest infestations.
Tidy your storage areas
Go through your office’s storage areas regularly to discourage any pests from settling down in these places. Plastic and metal containers are also going to discourage pests compared to cardboard boxes. Dark, damp conditions are also where paper lice – otherwise known as mites or bookworms – can be born in paper bundles so, if you’re storing something a pest or rodent may like, then place it in a sealed box or container that they can’t get into.
Keep your workspaces clean
Leftover food can be appealing to pests – even if you leave just a cup of tea on our desk, this could attract them. You should clean and disinfect workspaces regularly, so they don’t move in.
You should also have the floor cleaned regularly, whether that’s sweeping it or by using a vacuum cleaner. Any food and residue should be removed quickly, so bugs aren’t attracted by it – even missing just one day can mean unintended visitors come along. The same goes for any spills: they can also beckon bugs. Make sure that any furniture or appliances are moved so that all the residue can be cleaned. Dishes should be cleaned swiftly, too.
Check kitchens and pantries
If there are any food preparation areas at your office, then there are other steps you can take to make sure pests aren’t tempted. Wipe down the outside of a bottle or jar once it’s been used, as well as the lid because the residue from honey, oil, syrup, and peanut butter can attract bugs. Food should also be stored in containers that seal properly and throw out any fruits and vegetables that are past their best.
Look at outdoor areas
If there’s any foliage near the outside of your office – such as bushes, shrubs, trees, and flowerbeds – then prune it as this can provide an entry point into the property. You should also avoid any standing water because this will be a breeding ground for bugs. For garbage bins and areas, then you should wash the insides and outsides of bins. These bins should also have lids on them.
Why should I practice pest control at work?
If there are signs of any pests in your office, it might indicate that there is a bigger problem. Pests and rodents can cause damage, which can lead to you losing a lot of money. They can also carry diseases that can be passed on to employees. Controlling pests can also protect your image – if you have rodents, then your client might take their business elsewhere.
If you do discover you have a pest problem at your office, then you can speak with pest control specialists such as Moxie Pest Control. These experts will be able to inspect your property and give you a range of options to deal with the situation.
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