Resolving a rat infestation

Rat problems can affect any business large or small, but those that handle foodstuffs are particularly vulnerable.

Signs of a Rat Infestation

Rats are animals that are naturally active at night, so if you believe you may have a rat infestation, the classic signs to look out for are:

• Droppings (sausage shaped approx. 1 -2 cm long).
• Rat smears - grease marks or smudges from the body of a rat as it repeatedly brushes up against solid objects.
• Damaged merchandise and damage to the fabric of premises.
• Rat nesting materials - shredded insulation, cardboard, wood, plastics etc...
• Characteristic smell - rats will leave behind an ammonia-like smell, that is particularly strong in enclosed areas.

POTENTIAL RISKS FROM RAT

• Rats can spread infections such as Salmonella, Hantavirus, Trichinosis, Rat bite fever, Murine typhus and Weil's disease as well as harbouring ticks, fleas and mites.
• Damage to stock and buildings. Rats sharp teeth can gnaw through cables, plastic, wooden doors and even mild steel.
• Contamination of foodstuffs and goods. On the underside of a rat, wet fur soaked in urine can transmit bacteria and viruses to work surfaces, table tops or anywhere that a rodent has climbed or touched.

Business Consequences of a Rat Infestation

• Damage - to goods, foodstuffs and your health and hygiene reputation. Any rat control problems will have a negative effect on a Score on the Doors food hygiene rating.
• Alarm - immediate loss of customer and employee trust.
• Cost - can be considerable. Temporary business closure may be necessary.

Immediate steps to take for rat control

• Call us to arrange prompt control with rodenticides. All rat services are handled by qualified and experienced Hadan technicians.
• Thermal imaging survey - nocturnal inspections of your premise when rats are active, yet with minimal disruption to your business. Infra-red technology is used to swiftly locate rodent nesting sites in hidden voids (cavity walls, false ceilings) by detecting their body heat.
• Get useful rodent proofing and design advice from Hadan experts. Reduce the chances of rats entering your property with a program of proofing work tailored to your business needs.
• Use tamper resistant bait boxes - designed specifically to encourage rodents to enter and consume rodenticide bait, but not allowing inquisitive children, pets or non-target wildlife to gain access. Keeping staff and customers safe whilst dealing with a rat issue.
• Schedule regular rodent control service visits from local, professional Hadan technicians to help prevent subsequent infestations.