We tend to think of bed bugs as strictly household pests. But these elusive creatures can also impact businesses. Particularly businesses that directly serve and interact with the public.
If you operate a hotel, daycare, senior living facility, or office complex bed bugs are a major concern. An infestation can not only disrupt daily operations it can also harm your company’s reputation, not to mention bringing discomfort to your employees and your customers.
When bed bugs infest a business swift action is the key. But before you can treat the premises you have to get the site prepped for the exterminators. We have a few tips to help you get your building ready for a successful bed bug treatment.
Understand the Enemy
Bed bugs are nocturnal, feeding primarily on human blood and hiding in cracks and crevices; furniture and fabrics. They multiply quickly and infestations can spread across rooms or units if left untreated. Professional pest control services can effectively eliminate bed bugs, but only after proper preparations have been made.
The Importance of Clear Communication
Transparency is critical when dealing with a bed bug infestation. Start by informing staff and tenants of the upcoming treatment. Maintain an open line of communication and reassure all concerned that steps are being taken for everyone’s safety and comfort.
Provide clearly written instructions outlining what affected parties need to do to prepare for treatment. Be sure to:
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Explain the reason for treatment.
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Provide specific dates and times.
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Designate a contact within your company to answer questions or concerns.
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Stress the importance of preparation for the successful elimination of the pests.
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If your business is in a multi-unit property be sure to notify all neighboring units about the infestation and the upcoming treatment schedule.
Clean and Declutter
Clutter provides hiding spots for bed bugs. It also makes treating for bed bugs more difficult and less effective. Removing clutter allows better access for pest control and prevents bed bugs from escaping detection.
When prepping your property for treatment follow these steps:
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Remove personal belongings from treatment areas.
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Clear floors, windows sills, and under furniture.
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Vacuum all areas, giving any carpeting and baseboards special attention.
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Avoid moving furniture or other items from infested areas without proper inspection. This can spread the infestation and compound the problem.
Secure Your Electronics
While electronics aren’t typical hiding places for bed bugs they will seek refuge in warm devices during severe infestations. To help ensure an effective treatment you should unplug and inspect the following:
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Televisions and monitors
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Computers (both desktop and laptop)
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Printers
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Office phones and related equipment
Once inspected these items should be secured in sealed plastic bags or containers. Do not spray or treat electronic items yourself unless directed by your pest control team. Leave treatment protocols to the professionals.
Plan for Temporary Displacement
Depending on the type of treatment involved you may need to temporarily vacate some or all of your premises. This will impact service hours as well as employee schedules. Coordination is the key, so build your plan with an eye toward limiting any disruption to you, your staff, and your business. Plan accordingly.
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Schedule treatments during off-hours or slow business days.
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Arrange alternate work-spaces as needed.
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Make sure staff are informed of closures, re-entry times, and post-treatment protocols.
Post-Treatment Protocols
Once your team of professionals has completed treating your property you should remain vigilant. Bed bug infestations are notoriously difficult to eliminate, particularly in public spaces where where people are coming and going on a regular basis.
Remember, there is always a risk of re-infestation, so it is important to implement a proactive pest management strategy to help prevent future outbreaks.
Keep the following tips in mind after treatment is concluded:
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Do not clean treated areas for at least 48 hours unless instructed by your pest control team.
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Continue vacuuming and monitoring for signs of bed bugs such as shed skins, small blood spots or live bugs.
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Install bed bug interceptors under furniture legs.
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Educate staff on how to detect early signs of infestation.
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Schedule routine inspections with your pest control provider.
Naturally, at the first sign of re-infestation call your pest control team back in to inspect and confirm the return of bed bugs. In some cases a second round of treatments may be necessary to totally eliminate the infestation.
Document Everything
Business owners know the importance of keeping accurate and up to date records. This holds true for any and all pest control services you contract for your properties.
Keep detailed records for the following:
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Treatment dates
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Treatment methods
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Communication with staff
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Complaints, bites, or sightings
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Pest control invoices and guarantees
This documentation can protect your business from liability while demonstrating due diligence in managing health and safety issues.
Preparing your business for a bed bug treatments requires attention to detail, collaboration, and professional support. The effort you put into preparation will directly impact the success of the treatment and the speed at which you can return to normal operations. With the right approach and a trusted pest control partner, you can effectively eliminate bed bugs and restore confidence in your business environment.
Published by Scott Palatnik
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