WARNING – some readers may find some images distressing.
Rodenticides containing second generation anticoagulants have been on the market for almost 40 years. They are efficient and practical solutions to controlling rodent infestations in many situations, however, they are hazardous to non target species presenting cross contamination risks to many predatory and scavenging species of mammals and birds. SGARs continue to be an essential product within the pest control industry, but other control methods should be considered when dealing with rodent infestations.
Our senior technician, Trevor Gough, opted to use the trapping method after carrying out a risk assessment of the premises in which he was servicing. By using the trapping method, Trevor was able to deploy mouse traps in purpose made boxes to completely eradicate any exposure of rodenticides to non-target species.
If SGARs are to be used in order to gain control of a rodent infestation, a comprehensive search for rodent bodies should be carried out in order to remove the possibility of secondary poisoning to non target and protected species. Anticoagulant rodenticides should not be a permanent feature within premises. In most cases, anticoagulant baits should have gained control of the infestation within 35 days. If rodent activity continues beyond this, the likely cause of re-infestation should be identified. This has been introduced in order to help protect non target species. If rodent control programmes continues for longer than 35 days, the reasoning for doing so should be documented, and once control is achieved, anticoagulant baits should be removed and replaced with non toxic monitoring bait.
The rodenticide stewardship regime aims to regulate the pest control industry so professional use products are only used by those who hold the correct, professional certification, thus keeping out the cowboy pest controllers.
Why you should have an integrated pest management program in place
Integrated pest management is a program of prevention, monitoring & control which offers the opportunity to eliminate or reduce the use of pesticides, and to minimise the toxicity and exposure to any products which are used.
IPM does this by utilising a variety of methods and techniques to control a multitude of pest problems.
There a 5 program essentials to making IPM effective:
- Monitoring – This includes regular site inspections to determine the types and infestation levels of pests at each site. Not all insects and other living organisms require control. IPM programs work to monitor for pests and identify them accurately so appropriate control decisions can be made.
- Record keeping – Keeping records is essential to establish trends and patterns of pests. The information recorded at every inspection should include pest identification, recommendations for future prevention and complete information on the treatment action.
- Action Levels – An action level is the population size which requires action for health, economic or aesthetic reasons.
- Prevention – Preventative measures must be incorporated into the existing structures. Prevention is the primary means of pest control in an IPM program.
- Evaluation – A regular evaluation program is essential to determine the success of the pest management strategies.
What we specialise in:
- Pest & Vermin control
- Bird Control
- Wildlife Management
- Supply & installation of fly screens
- Installation of bird deterrent systems.
- Supply & maintenance of electronic fly units.
- Washroom/hygiene services
- Pest Control Audits
Be assured that:
- We carry the latest equipment designed to achieve the safest and most effective treatment application possible.
- We continually monitor products available and chemicals used are “environmentally friendly”.
- We can supply the safest and most effective pesticides available on today’s market.
Whether it is to deal with a one off issue, or for long term pest control services, we will deal with all types of premises including:
- Food – food manufacturing, distribution, supermarkets etc.
- Catering – Catering trade, hotels and food retailing
- Business – For offices and commercial businesses.
- Health – Hospitals, clinics, nursing/residential homes, sports clubs, leisure centres etc…
- Home – For homes of every kind
- Heritage – Museums, beauty spots etc…
- Manufacturing – Industrial units, factories, workshops etc
The specification for each site will be individually designed in conjunction with the client following an initial site survey. We will provide a structured programme of visits carried out by our fully qualified technicians. All of our technicians have up to date CRB checks in place so in situations where there are children or vulnerable adults, you can have complete peace of mind.
AG Pest Management has been established since September 2003 and rapidly earned a good reputation for providing an honest & highly professional service. We are BPCA accredited and members of Safe Contractor and Construction Line. All of our employees are part of the BASIS Prompt scheme, meaning that we are all fully qualified with reputable qualifications and accreditations. Most recently, Adrian Gough the Managing Director, has recently taken AG Pest Management through CEPA Certification proving the professionalism of the company as well as AG Pest Management staff.
CEPA Certified companies are able to protect food security, public and animal health. Companies operating under the CEPA standard utilise integrated pest management strategies which means less biocide product use and more efficient management of pest issues. CEPA Certified companies must only use trained and fully qualified members of staff to carry out pest control activities. Companies who are CEPA Certified are uploaded to the CEPA database to show competence and a demonstration of conformance to the requirements of EN 16636.
If you would like a free site survey for an integrated pest management program at your premises, contact us on 01226 288844 or email us info@agpestmanagement.co.uk.
*Please note, free site surveys only apply to commercial customers.