Pests in the workplace have been linked with asthma, rabies, and Lyme Disease. One of the most common workplace pests, rodents, including rats, mice and squirrels, are responsible for the spread of several viruses and parasites. However, eliminating their sources of food, water and shelter causes stress for pests by creating an environment where they do not want to stay. So, how do you know if your workplace has been populated by rodents and what steps you must take to make sure they leave and do not come back?

Signs of Infestations

Other that actually seeing a mouse or rat on the premises, droppings are the next most sure sign that rodents have invaded the worksite. They will be found near food sources, which may be nibbled or gnawed, in cupboards, drawers or bins where food is stored, overhead in attics or drop ceilings, or on pathways such as wall studs or beams. If you have confirmed that rodents are in your workplace, you can take the following steps to make the uninvited guests leave.

Prevention and Control

Dry up rodent water sources by repairing leaky faucets or pipes indoors and outdoors, by eliminating bird feeders and bird baths. Next, secure rubbish, especially food waste, in metal or hard plastic containers that can resist gnawing. Decrease natural food sources near the property by gathering any tree fruit and nuts promptly when they fall to the ground. Inspect building openings and utility entries for cracks, ½’ or larger. Seal any cracks with caulk, concrete, mortar, steel wool or metal flashing.

Mount storage sheds on concrete slabs to discourage tunneling. Prune shrubs so that the 6’ of the ground below is visible and trim the height of ground covers to 1 foot or less. Severely cut back vines hanging on buildings and tree limbs overhanging roofs to eliminate overhead building entries.