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British Pest Control Association (BPCA) - A rat foraging indoors for food Facilities Managers are being urged to weigh up the cost of cutting corners on pest control this winter.

As temperatures start to drop, rats will start to seek shelter indoors where their gnawing activities can cause significant damage, and their foraging habits can spread disease.

Experts at British Pest Control Association (BPCA) are advising FMs to consider the impact of failed treatments attempted by untrained individuals, which can lead to an infestation spiralling out of control.

Natalie Bungay, Technical Manager at BPCA, said: “Businesses have faced a huge number of challenges in recent months and years.

“Many are looking to cut back on costs – but when it comes to pest control, that can prove a false economy.

“During wintry weather, rats will begin to seek food and shelter indoors, posing a potential risk in premises - but a greater risk could be a failed attempt at treatment, which can lead to infestations spiralling out of control.”

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Pest professionals who are members of BPCA are trained, qualified technicians who follow and maintain a continual professional development scheme.

They are also regularly assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636, carry the correct insurances and commit to the Association’s Codes of Practice.

BPCA experts recommend checking the credentials of pest management companies before engaging their services and advise FMs to arm themselves with more information, available at: bpca.org.uk/rats

Natalie said: “In the past, harsh winters were a natural method of culling rat populations, which are estimated to be anywhere between 10.5 million and 120 million in the UK.

“Milder winters in recent years are thought to have helped rat populations flourish, but they will still seek shelter and food indoors as the temperature drops.

“We always advocate a ‘prevention rather than cure’ approach and encourage FMs to consider consulting a pest professional, such as a BPCA member, to offer advice on pest-proofing measures for their premises.”