Bedbugs can be a costly pest to any industry. As well as replacing furniture, bedding, chairs, towels and even electrical items, you may be forced to close until the problem has been contained. What’s more, if word gets out that you’ve had an infestation, it could have a costly and lasting impact on your reputation and profit.
Professor James Logan from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine has warned that “bedbugs are on the increase globally because they’re becoming resistant to the insecticides we normally use to kill them.”
He continued: “We’re also seeing an increase in travel, which helps them to spread.”
With reports of a new bedbug epidemic spreading throughout Europe, businesses are naturally concerned about protecting themselves. Below we share how to keep your business safe from these unwanted pests.
Be vigilant
Because of their name, many people mistakenly think that bedbugs only infest mattresses. However, they can easily move around on clothing, electrical outlets, upholstery, suitcases, bags, carpets, wallpaper and clothing. The reality is that any business, whether it’s a hotel, furniture shop or office, can be infested with bedbugs.
It’s therefore important to be vigilant when it comes to these pests. Familiarise yourself with what they look like (you can see a photo as well as the signs of bed bugs on our bed bug page), be on the lookout for them and have a plan in place for what to do if you do spot an infestation.
Clean regularly
Staying on top of your cleaning regime will not only help to prevent bedbugs, it can also ensure you identify and contain an infestation much quicker. Don’t forget to vacuum areas such as under rugs and inside cupboards where pests can easily hide.
Educate employees about pest control
You can’t be everywhere all the time so it’s critical that employees know the signs and correct prevention techniques if you want to avoid a bedbug (or any other) pest infestation. It’s also a good idea to develop and implement policies so employees know who they should report an infestation to.
Work with a local pest controller
A lot of businesses only think to call pest control when an infestation has already broken out. While they will of course contain and treat the problem in a timely and discreet manner, it’s better to avoid an outbreak altogether.
They can instal prevention techniques, conduct regular checks and ensure your business is complying with the relevant legislation for your industry.
Prokill has two great options for commercial customers, Pest+ and PestAdvanced. Both offerings include a free risk assessment and survey, regular checks, installing pest proofing and baiting, free call-outs and ongoing support.
To find out more about preventing bedbugs, dealing with an infestation or if you would like further information about Pest+ or PestAdvanced, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Prokill today.
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