Misconceptions on what commercial pest control programs include can lead to misunderstandings of their importance. Today, we are breaking down common pest control myths to provide insight into how to build a strong, effective program.

Myth #1: Pest control is just setting traps out.

While trapping is a part of a pest management provider’s job, it is only a small part. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the industry best practice-driven approach that exhausts all non-chemical methods of control prior to considering the use of chemical pest management materials. The practice of IPM is rooted in inspection, the key to identifying the source of an issue, which may be corrected with exclusion and other non-chemical techniques for longer-term control. IPM is designed to find and eliminate the root cause of the pest problem rather than solely treat the symptoms.

Myth #2: Pest management programs are one size fits all.

Every location is different and has unique pest control needs and conducive conditions. For example, home improvement stores have outside garden areas that present different threats than would be found in a restaurant or bakery with food sitting out or warehouses with boxes and conduit lines.

Myth #3: Business participation is optional in the pest control program – it’s the provider’s responsibility.

Effective pest management programs are built on a partnership between client and provider. Clients provide expertise on the products they store and their building’s layout. Pest management professionals (PMPs) offer expertise in pest biology and behavior and prevention strategies. Together, PMPs and clients develop a program strategy that is catered to the specific needs of that location to effectively prevent pests and this partnership is required for a pest management program to be truly successful.

Myth #4: Pest control programs will always stay the same.

As pests adapt their behaviors to human behaviors, we must continually adjust our program to fight against pest presence in commercial environments. If there is an aspect of the pest control program that is not working, the client should voice their concern to the PMP, who can address the issue and adjust accordingly.

Myth #5: Once the traps are set out, no further action is needed.

While traps contribute to controlling existing pest pressures, they also serve as monitoring devices and provide insight into activity going on at a location. While PMPs handle most steps in the IPM process, strong collaboration is an important piece. The client contact and all employees should be aware of signs of pest problems and relay that information back to the PMP during their service visit.

If you have questions about commercial pest control or would like to learn more about how Copesan can help you in your prevention efforts, get in touch with us!