Monitoring and Inspection
Regular, systematic examination of buildings for signs of pests and conducive conditions using monitoring devices and visual inspection techniques.
Detailed Overview
Effective IPM requires ongoing monitoring to detect pest activity early, identify problem areas, and evaluate control effectiveness. Monitoring includes visual inspections for live pests, droppings, damage, and conducive conditions, as well as use of monitoring devices like sticky traps for insects and glue boards for rodents. Inspections should cover both interior and exterior areas, with special attention to known harborage sites. Detailed records of monitoring results help track trends and guide treatment decisions.
When to Use
Monitoring should be continuous, with scheduled inspections based on building size, pest history, and current activity levels. Monitoring devices should be checked during each service visit and inspection findings documented.
Required Skill Level
Requires some training and experience in pest management
Benefits
- Detects pest problems early before major infestations develop
- Identifies conducive conditions for prevention
- Provides data to evaluate treatment effectiveness
- Helps target treatments to specific problem areas
- Documents pest activity trends over time
Limitations
- Requires time and resources for regular inspections
- Monitoring devices need regular checking and replacement
- May miss pests in hidden or inaccessible areas
Related Concepts
Other principles that may be useful
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
A prevention-based pest management method that provides long-lasting pest control, improves building conditions, and is less harmful to residents and pets than traditional pest control.
Pest Triangle
The four essential requirements pests need to survive: food, water, shelter, and ways to get around. Eliminating any of these makes an environment inhospitable to pests.
Threshold Levels
The point at which pest populations or damage reaches a level that requires action. IPM uses threshold levels to determine when treatment is necessary rather than treating on a schedule.