Elimination of shelter and food
- Stringent hygiene and prompt disposal of all refuge in which insects might lay their eggs is essential
- Storage waste bins should be sited away from doors and windows, stored on racks at least 45 cm above the ground, have tight fitting lids, emptied and cleaned regularly, sprayed with an insecticide particularly in warm weather.
- Regular and careful cleaning of all areas where food is received, stored or prepared should be carried out.
- Particular attention should be given to corners and hard-to-reach areas underneath shelving, behind equipment and near cookers.
- Spills, crumbs and food scraps should be cleared away immediately.
- Good ventilation will remove odours that attract insects.
- Check all incoming food deliveries for signs of infestations and keep the food storage area dry.
- Cockroaches thrive in moist, poorly ventilated spaces.
- Follow effective stock rotation procedures to ensure that old stock does not provide a breeding ground for insects.
- All food should be stored in insect proof containers.
- If infestations are found, infested food should be removed and destroyed.
- The area should then be thoroughly cleaned and sprayed with an insecticide.
Insect proofing of buildings