Pest management in healthcare facilities is an integral part of keeping patients healthy and safe. Even though the majority of healthcare facilities outsource this vital task, it is crucial for employees to be aware of areas where pests tend to accumulate and what to do if problems develop. Patient rooms are not often overlooked due to the constant influx of traffic in and out of these areas. However, pest problems can also develop in less common areas such as the ones mentioned below. 

Parking lots 

Parking lots are often an overlooked area concerning pest control. However, it is not uncommon for major pest problems to exist in parking lots. For starters, these open areas often have bright lights that can attract many types of insects. Parking lots are also a prime area for the accumulation of trash or food scraps that can attract rodents and cockroaches. Keeping your parking lot clean and free of pests can help deter them from gaining access to your healthcare facility.

Receiving areas 

Receiving areas where large shipments of goods are brought in and delivered is another frequently overlooked area where pest problems can originate. If you receive shipments from other locations, pests such as rodents or insects can sometimes be hiding in the boxes that you receive. Empty boxes and storage containers left behind in these areas can also attract many types of pests. It is important to keep your receiving areas clean and well-maintained at all times. 

Food storage and preparation areas 

Cockroaches, rodents, ants, and many other types of pests are naturally drawn to any area where food is present. If these pests get into the food supply, the entire thing can quickly become contaminated. Food waste due to contamination from pests can create a serious problem and negatively affect the bottom line of your business. All previously opened food items should be stored in airtight containers. Additionally, clean up any food spills promptly to avoid drawing rodents, ants, and roaches to the area. 

Exterior perimeter and trash bins

Many healthcare facilities have large outdoor trash bins that can be a hotspot for the accumulation of rats, mice, and roaches. Ensuring that your trash is picked up and disposed of regularly can help keep this problem at bay. Filling in any cracks and crevices in the perimeter of your building can reduce the degree of access that any existing pests have to your facility.

Managing pests in residential nursing homes, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities is an essential part of maintaining the health of everyone who enters. Many types of pests that are common in these facilities can spread bacteria or transmit diseases to humans that come in contact with them or their waste materials. At Presto Pest Control, we understand that you pride yourself on patient safety and satisfaction. If you are in need of pest control services for your healthcare facility, please contact us today to find out how we can be of assistance to you.