We’re having issues with rodents getting into the warehouse. How can we prevent them from entering and causing damage?
Effective rodent prevention should combine site inspection, exclusion techniques, and targeted treatment. We call this an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy. Exclusion measures include ongoing building maintenance, good storage practices, sanitation, and regular monitoring.
Here are some of the things that you can do:
Regular Warehouse Inspections
- Inspect the warehouse exterior for gaps around doors, pipes, vents, drains, and utility lines
- Use traps, bait stations, and detection devices in appropriate locations, and inspect them regularly
- Record all identified and recurring rodent activity or vulnerable parts of the building
Maintenance and Fixes
- Seal openings with durable, rodent-resistant materials
- Fix water leaks, condensation, and blocked drainage as soon as possible
- Remove damaged stock and clean spillages promptly
- Manage outdoor bins, discarded pallets, and overgrown vegetation regularly and carefully
- Implement rodent exclusion solutions, such as Flexi Armour
Good Warehouse Practice
- Keep loading-bay doors tightly closed at all times when not in use
- Store goods off the floor
- Remove clutter and leave enough space around walls for cleaning and inspection
- Seal food products, animal feed, and other attractive materials in pest-resistant containers
- Place waste in sealed containers and ensure it’s collected regularly
- Check all incoming deliveries, including pallets, vehicles, or shipments
It’s important to remember that pesticides and traps must be used in accordance with their labels and applicable regulations. If in doubt, contact your pest control provider.
Ensure employees are trained to incorporate the above steps within day-to-day routines. Encourage staff to report droppings, gnawing, damaged packaging, and unusual noises immediately.