Rodent Health Risks in the Workplace

October 28, 2021

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A rodent infestation is risky business in any work environment. In addition to ruining reputations, rodents are known for spreading diseases, bacteria and viruses everywhere they go. Protect your workforce – and your customers – from these health risks by maintaining a clean facility and keeping an eye out for rodent activity.  

Rodent populations on your property can risk the health and safety of employees and customers alike. As rodents travel around your facility, they can cause the following damage: 

Product Contamination

Rodents leave behind droppings, urine, fur and saliva as they travel through your business. So, just because a rodent doesn’t take a bite out of a product doesn’t mean it isn’t contaminated.  

Disease

Rodents are known to carry many diseases, including Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which is fatal in about 36% of cases. Furthermore, if their droppings are not removed properly, they can release harmful airborne particles into the air.  

Fleas And Mites

Fleas and mites are rodents’ partners in crime and hitchhike on the backs of these furry pests.  

Keeping rodents at bay can be challenging without a proactive control plan in place. Be sure to implement an effective facility maintenance schedule to remove any potential rodent attractors and prevent these persistent pests from invading your workplace. For more information on rodent behaviour and steps you can take to prevent this common pest, contact Orkin Canada or download this guide to preventing rodent health risks.

Commercial Rodent Health and Safety Risks Guide

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Alice Sinia Quality Assurance Manager – Regulatory/Lab Services

Reviewed by Alice Sinia, Ph.D., MSc on October 25 2021.

Master of Science Degree in Pest Management (MSc.) – Simon Fraser University; BSc. (Hons) Biological Sciences (Entomology & Parasitology) – Makerere University; Advanced Level Certificate of Education – Trinity College; Ph.D. – University of Guelph)

With more than 20 years of experience, Alice is responsible for the management of the Orkin Canada Quality Assurance Laboratory located at our GTA Training Centre. She performs analytical entomology (investigates product adulteration using biochemical and comparative tissue methods), and provides technical support in pest/insect identification to branch offices and clients nationwide. In addition, Alice also prepares scientific reports for Orkin Canada clients, updates Orkin management on any changes or updates to any government regulations pertaining to the pest control industry. Alice also performs quality assurance account compliance audits.

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