Many of the urban pests that enter a structure originate from the exterior environment. This includes pests like commensal rodents, filth flies and several stored product pests. To prevent pests from entering, pest proofing and exclusion efforts are essential. In addition, recent food safety regulations like the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and current Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) emphasize pest prevention in their rules.

Pest proofing and exclusion efforts can include a variety of methods to help prevent entry and reduce attractiveness of the structure to pests. Sealing doors, screening windows and floor drain screens or one way valves are examples of exclusionary methods aimed at preventing entry. Bird proofing ledges, reducing attractive vegetation and maintaining vegetation free barriers around foundations would be examples of reducing a building’s attraction to pests. Both go hand in hand in pest prevention.

One of the best ways to prevent pest activity is to incorporate exclusion in your pest management program. Pest exclusion not only prevents pests from entering a building but can also prevent interior pest movement. In addition to restricting movement, exclusion can reduce the areas where pests can harbor and food sources can accumulate. It provides long term control and reduces the need for pesticides. Some accreditation programs like LEED and the National Organic Program, will specify non-chemical efforts as the first step in pest remediation. Exclusion can satisfy the need for non-chemical strategies.

The smaller the pest, the greater the degree of sealing or pest exclusion required. Pests have an amazing capability of fitting into and through small cracks and crevices and screened mesh. A variety of exclusion tools and options are available to prevent this form of entry.