Why reactive pest control costs hotels more than a systematic, prevention-first IPM program.
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Hoteliers should know the difference between basic pest control and integrated pest management, because your reputation, income, and staff morale depend on it. Basic pest control is reacting to a pest infestation to eliminate pests when they become a nuisance, a pest controller is called in to trap or apply poison only after the problem occurs.
The cost of reacting too late
Taking action only when an infestation has already occurred can have several negative consequences:
Pest population size: pests are more numerous, more widespread, and more difficult to control
Use of toxic chemicals: toxic chemicals may have to be used to get quick results, when they could have been avoided by preventative measures
Damage to reputation: customers encountering pests will damage your reputation and create a media situation that can rapidly spread out of your control
Legal action: if pests are present in areas handling food it may result in legal action by local or state authorities, including closure and fines
Escalating costs: controlling a larger pest population, using toxic chemicals, and legal actions all increase costs while income may be damaged by loss of customers
What integrated pest management is
Integrated pest management (IPM) is an approach to pest control that aims to achieve sustainable pest management by applying a systematic strategy to prevent pests. IPM only uses pesticide chemicals as a last resort and emphasizes materials and methods that minimize the impact on people and the environment. It is implemented as part of the business management plan and involves collaboration of hotel management, staff, and the pest control contractor.
The four components of IPM
Set action thresholds: the contractor works with the customer to determine at which pest population levels action needs to be taken, in a food handling environment this may mean zero tolerance
Monitor and identify pests: requires highly trained technicians, proper inspections, accurate identification, monitoring devices, and active client participation
Pest prevention: good sanitation to eliminate access to food, water, and shelter; excluding access with screens and sealing holes; and using traps to intercept invading pests
Pest control methods: the most effective and safe method is used, physical, mechanical, and (only when necessary) carefully targeted chemical methods
Lady Killers' ERDM approach
Lady Killers Pest Control uses a tailored approach to IPM called ERDM, which stands for Exclusion, Restriction, Destruction, and Monitoring:
Exclusion: preventing pests from gaining access by sealing areas and proofing buildings
Restriction: stopping pests from spreading if they have gained access, and removing food and harborage
Monitoring: ensuring protection measures are working and continue to work even after control has been achieved
Destruction: innovative, market-leading control measures, including non-toxic solutions
The ERDM approach is supported by a technical team and regulatory experts, and Lady Killers’ Integrated Pest Management services are supported by pest awareness training for employees and staff, to help recognize early pest activity.