Pest Control

• 22.02.08
• Debansu Das

Orbis, which clears, cleans and secures more than 35,000 properties a year, has now become a member of the British Pest Control Association – to ensure it provides accredited standards of pest control for clients.

 

The Association promotes professional standards of pest control and is committed to controlling, pests, without risk to the general public, the environment and other animals.

 

Oliver Madge, Chief Executive Officer from the BPCA, added: “In becoming a member of the British Pest Control Association, companies like Orbis are giving a clear message that they are not only committed to our own professional standards, but are also committed to continuing the latest training programmes for their employees.”

 

Orbis’ training manager Jim Allen, who holds the RSHP/BPCA (Level 2) Certificate in Pest Control, now trains crews in pest control at more than 10 depots for Orbis, the UK’s leader in empty property protection and integrated property services.

 

Jim said: “I knew nothing about rats when I started out, but there is very little I don’t know now about how to deal with rats and other pests in an effective, safe and humane way – which is important to both us and our clients.”

 

To pass the RSPH/BPCA Certificate in Pest Control exam, Jim had to learn all about the biology, behaviour and control of rodents, foxes, and birds; insect control and health and safety.

 

He added: “Learning about what pests are out there, and how you can identify them, is crucial if you want to see them gone for good.”

 

And although it might not be everyone’s dream job – Jim said there is definitely an art to successful rat control management. Droppings, trails through undergrowth and even footprints on household surfaces can all be tell-tale signs that rats are about – but just putting bait down won’t always do the trick.

 

Rattus Norvegicus – or Norwegian rat – is the most common in the UK and is attracted to sources of food, water and suitable habitats to make a home. It might be the Chinese Year of the Rat, but the rodents are still unwelcome guests in most neighbourhoods.