There are five (5) pests commonly found in offices in the Philippines, namely:
- rats
- cockroaches
- bed bugs
- ants
- and termites
Read on to learn how to keep them away from your workplace.
1. Rats
Rats are one of the most common causes of pest management problems in the Philippines. Rats and rodents can do significant damage to the workplace. They can eat stored files and chew on electrical wires if left unattended. Rats also multiply very quickly. If your office is infested with rats, you can find urine, feces, and dead skin around your office. Breathing these in can immediately cause allergies and asthma attacks. Rat waste can also cause food poisoning if accidentally ingested.
To keep away these pesky rodents, you need to keep your workplace and the surroundings. You also need to repair any leaks from faucets and pipes. This can serve as a water source for the rats. Cut the water source off and they will find the office a much less appealing living space. Make sure that your trash is also secure and take it out daily. Any leftovers and waste can be a potential food source for rats.
Lastly, make sure that all cracks are sealed with concrete or metal flashing. This can prevent the entry and exit of rodents within the premises.
2. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are one of the most annoying pests you can encounter in the office. They tend to appear out of nowhere. They’re often found in dirty pantries and moist, unsanitary bathrooms.
Cockroaches love to eat. They will often feast on various office supplies such as glue, paste, paper, and even wallpaper. If left unattended, they can transfer microbes, pathogens, and viruses to your food containers and more. They also produce odorous secretions that can exacerbate allergies, asthma, and food poisoning. Don’t let these pests win.
Start by keeping your office as clean as possible. Start the day clean and end the day clean. Pay attention to your break room area and pantry. Don’t leave unwashed dishes there and don’t leave the leftovers out in the open. If you have a refrigerator, use it to store your leftovers. Pay attention to spots behind the cabinets, tables, and refrigerators. Do a thorough cleaning of these areas when you have time.
3. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are common household pests, but they are also fairly common pest management issues in many workplaces. One way they can get to your workplace is by traveling with you, for example, through an office pillow that you brought with you from home.
To prevent bed bugs in the office, your office needs routine vacuum cleaning. This has to be done in all areas, especially in carpets and corners. Such areas for vacuuming include work areas, lobbies, and bathrooms.
You need to regularly inspect areas for signs of bed bugs. This can be checked by looking at the seams of furniture and upholstery. Look for an obvious brown or red spot. Storage areas with lots of clutter are very inviting for bed bugs.
Did you know that bed bugs can also live in electrical sockets, surge protectors, and behind picture frames? Be vigilant and check in these spots as well. Clean up any clutter as soon as possible.
4. Ants
It does not take much to attract ants to your workplace. As soon as they find crumbs or leftovers, they will begin to treat your office as a potential foraging ground. Ants are persistent and will always find a way to get into your office.
The first step you can do to prevent ants from invading your workplace is to seal off any potential entrances for ants. Ask your building administrator to survey your building. Any crack and open space is an instant invite for these ants.
Once your building administrator identifies these entrances, they will seal them accordingly. Like the other pests on this list, make sure that everything is kept clean. Apply this to all surfaces, especially ones with food.
5. Termites
Termites are tricky pests; this is why special termite control programs are formulated for them, especially in the Philippines.
Termites rarely appear out in the open. They mostly come out when no one is present. You need to start by testing walls, window sills, and door jambs. Tap these surfaces with a screwdriver. If the screwdriver breaks through or if you hear a hollow sound, you may have a termite infestation. Proceed to look for signs of an infestation. This can come in the form of mud tubes and mazes. If you see any of these, you need to call a professional immediately so they can deal with the termites.
To summarize, pest control in the workplace should be done regularly and routinely. Employees can help prevent infestations by being vigilant and practicing good habits. As long as the area is maintained and clean, you can prevent any pest problem in the office. If pest management problems persist, it is always a good idea to ask a professional service for help.
Need professional pest control help and advice? A quotation for pest management services?
Learn more about Entech’s pest control services here. You can also reach us via our Contact Us page.
