 Facility sanitation inspections. Insect and rodent elimination. Microanalytical entomology. IPM services, consultation, and troubleshooting pest problems.Morrell Associates is a public health consulting firm committed to the protection and promotion of public health and the environment.
We believe that the key to an effective pest control program is Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
IPM addresses two health and safety concerns:
- Biological Hazards: Pests contaminate food, food contact surfaces, foodservice equipment and utensils with pathogenic microorganisms, which are carried in their excreta and on their bodies. These pathogens are known to cause mild sickness to death.
- Improper application and use of pesticides cause chemical hazards to foods, and cause pests to develop a resistance to the pesticide.
IPM focuses on identifying the target pest, understanding the pest's habits and life cycle, utilizing non-chemical methods to control target pests and chemical methods as a last resort. An IPM specialist, a trained professional in pest management, is required to design, develop, and implement the IPM program. For IPM to be successful, the cooperation of the client and IPM specialist is essential.
IPM utilizes non-chemical measures first and chemical controls when necessary through:
- Improved sanitation
- Emphasis on pest-proofing (eliminate pest entry)
- Utilization of non-chemical control devices (insect traps, glue boards, mechanical traps)
Before considering chemical controls, our IPM specialists will work with you to prevent pest problems by suggesting improved sanitation methods, locating possible pest entry locations, and monitoring problem areas in your facility through the use of non-chemical control methods. Our IPM specialist will also educate your foodservice management as to the importance of their active role in the IPM program. Chemical controls are the last resort in a cooperative effort to keep your facility free from pests.
A successful IPM program consists of:
- Inspecting the foodservice establishment to identify target pests, pest infestation and factors that favor pests' survival.
- Establishing a program utilizing non-chemical methods and chemical methods as a last resort.
- Educating foodservice management as to the importance of their active role in the IPM program.
- Communicating with foodservice management after conducting an inspection or treatment.
Contact Morrell Associates when you are ready to begin an IPM program. |
