Integrated Pest Management Basics

Описание: Learn how to enhance your IPM program:    • 6 Tips for a Strong Pest Management Program  

Rooted in inspection, integrated pest management (IPM) exhausts all non-chemical methods prior to using chemical pest management options. Learn more about the primary steps of this industry best practice approach.

What is Integrated Pest Management?
Integrated pest management (IPM) is the best practice-driven approach to pest control.
This approach exhausts all non-chemical control methods before considering the use of chemical options.

Rooted in inspection, IPM attempts to find and eliminate the root cause of pest issues rather than solely treating the symptoms.

No IPM process is identical, but each typically follows these six similar steps.
1. Inspection. This is the anchor of a strong IPM program. Effective inspections are catered to the client's industry and specific pest pressures.
2. Assessment. The PMP works to identify major pest issues, and analyze how and why the specific pest is entering the facility.
3. Exclusion. This is the most effective long-term measure of pest prevention available - it keeps pests out in the first place. Using analysis in the previous step, the PMP implements exclusion methods based on where the pests are coming in.
4. Treatment. IPM emphasizes the use of non-chemical methods first, such as exclusion, baiting and trapping. Chemical methods are reserved for persistent problems or isolated locations only.
5. Monitoring. Management and employees should be educated on the signs of pest problems and encouraged to relay any findings to their PMP.
6. Documentation. This is proof of a strong IPM program. Documentation is especially helpful for facilities which are audited by a third party.

Documentation can take many forms - from detailed service reports to trap layout maps.
There is no magic potion to prevent pests, but having a proactive pest management program in place and open communication with your service provider can help reduce the chance of pest infestation.
Contact Copesan for more information on how an integrated pest management program can protect your business.