Rodents can pose a serious threat to commercial facilities for several reasons. The most prominent being that rodents may put the health of employees and consumers at risk as they can carry several diseases and bacteria which are transmitted through their urine, droppings and saliva. This may lead to food and surface contamination, and even exacerbate allergies in humans.

From a structural standpoint, rodents may cause damage by gnawing through product, drywall, insulation, wood and electrical wiring. A rodent’s unique body shape allows them to gain entry to facilities through the smallest of openings, with mice only needing a quarter-inch opening to gain access and rats needing a half-inch opening.

Lastly, the unsightly presence of rodents within a commercial facility can put a brand’s reputation at risk.

Tips for Preventing an Infestation

Taking steps to reduce pest attraction to your facility and exclude rodents is crucial. Here are a few tips for keeping rodents at bay:

  1. Learn the signs of rodent presence. It is important to be aware of any indicators of a rodent infestation, such as droppings, rub marks, chew marks or nesting materials. Then, share any findings with your pest management provider.
  2. Reduce the number of pest entry opportunities. Seal any gaps or holes that would allow building entry, and repair any damaged vent, window or door screens.
  3. Make sanitation a priority. It is crucial to clean up spills or crumbs immediately, and securely seal any food items left out overnight.
  4. Cover all trash containers. Both interior and exterior garbage bins should be tightly sealed and free of any surrounding debris.
  5. Be mindful of rodent pathways. Rodents can run along electrical wires and cables, watch for any droppings, footprints, tail drag marks or sebum marks (dark rub marks).
  6. Keep any vegetation under control. Trim back any trees, bushes or vines that sit too close to the building. Rodents can use these as gateways into commercial facilities.
  7. Remove all clutter. Unorganized, cluttered spaces like stockrooms may allow for rodents to travel and nest while going unnoticed.
  8. Properly rotate stock using the first in, first out (FIFO) method. Cycling through supplies quickly will disrupt rodent activity and make rodent signs and damage easier to spot.
  9. Inspect incoming goods for any signs of rodent activity, and do not accept any infested deliveries.
  10. Partner with your pest management technician or service manager. Communicating any findings or concerns with your technician will allow them to provide you with the most effective plans and solutions for your location.

If you have questions about rodent prevention or would like to learn more about how to protect your business, contact us!

Still have questions about rodents? Browse through the different types of rodents or check out some of our rodent-related videos on YouTube!