BPCA publishes tool to help food businesses reduce risks posed by mice

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) has published a new online guide for food processing businesses, with an accompanying video, to highlight the signs and consequences of a mouse infestation.

“Property owners have a legal obligation under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949 to keep premises rodent free, or, if rodents pose a threat to health or property, to report infestations to the local authority,” said Technical officer at BPCA, Natalie Bungay.

“Environmental Health Officers can issue enforcement notices to business owners who do not have adequate pest management procedures in place. And if a company or organisation has a highly publicised mouse problem, then it will heavily impact its reputation. 

“If clients and customers spot evidence of rodent infestation in the premises you manage, they are unlikely to want to do business with you. And several widely shared social media posts can help spread a negative image.”

Mice can be a problem year-round as they do not hibernate, but cold weather is said to make the possibility of an infestation more likely as they head indoors to seek warmth and food.

Within the BPCA’s online guide is information about the lifespan, habits and breeding cycle of mice, as well as advice on preventing infestation and ways to tackle the presence of the pest.

“It is important to get rid of mice quickly, as mice are adaptable, highly mobile and breed rapidly – this combination can make mouse control a difficult task for the untrained individual,” Bungay added.

“For any mouse infestation, we would always recommend contacting a professional pest control company. They are trained in mouse control and will have access to a range of professional use rodenticides which are not available to the public.”