How To Know Your Warehouse Has a Pest Infestation
Rats and cockroaches and ants, oh my! Pests are unfortunate, uninvited guests that can complicate warehouse operations, create unsanitary conditions, and cost a pretty penny to remove. To avoid letting small pest infestations become bigger and worse, learn how to know your warehouse has one.
You Notice Droppings, Claw Marks, and Bite Marks
One of the most obvious signs of a pest infestation is the presence of droppings, claw marks, or bite marks. Rodents and insects often leave trails of droppings that have a distinct appearance. Claw and bite marks on containers or pallets further signal their presence.
If you notice these signs, inspect dark and typically undisturbed nooks and crannies for pests.
Something Smells Bad
A lingering, unpleasant odor can quickly alert you to a pest problem. As pests nest and die, the smell they leave behind can become pungent and intolerable. Rodent infestations are particularly bad, often resulting in a strong, ammonia-like smell due to their urine.
Products and Pallets Are Sustaining Damage
If you begin noticing damaged goods, it’s time to investigate further. Pests like rats and insects chew through packaging and damage products, jeopardizing the quality and safety of your stock.
Likewise, they can nest in and deteriorate wooden pallets. So if your pallets are looking worse for the wear or not holding up to regular use, check for pests. After you resolve the issue, you might want to consider using plastic pallets instead. There are many benefits of using plastic pallets, one of which is resistance to decay, whether from mold or pests.
You See Rodents or Insects
This might seem obvious, but it is a surefire way to identify an infestation! One rat might be a one-off occurrence, but it might also belong to a family nesting in your warehouse. The same goes for any number of insect colonies.
Immediately call for extermination services if you notice pests in your warehouse. Because where there is one, there are probably many.
Knowing your warehouse has a pest infestation isn’t fun, but delaying action will lead to higher extermination costs and more operational disruption. If you notice any of the above signs, call a professional exterminator to get things back to their sanitary standards as soon as possible.
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