A new resource from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health provides guidance to multifamily housing managers, owners and procurement specialists in implementing a new IPM programs, hiring contractors, and assessing and improving existing pest management programs. The guide Massachusetts Integrated Pest Management Toolkit includes a self-assessment checklist and resources on hiring outside contractors and the in-house policies and procedures needed to successfully implement IPM in affordable housing. We couldn't say it better than the guide:
"Integrated pest management (IPM} is a prevention-based strategy that can provide long-lasting pest control, improve building conditions, and create healthier conditions for residents, maintenance staff, and pets. Instead of relying on regularly scheduled applications of pesticides, IPM targets the underlying causes of pest infestations, to deprive pests of food, water, shelter, and building access. IPM employs pest-proofing strategies, pest-aware maintenance practices, trash management, and the use of the least-toxic chemicals to reduce or eliminate known pest problems. Sounds great, right? but hiring a pest control company to do all that can be a bit tricky, especially when hiring the lowest bidder."
This guide covers it all, starting with guidance on what IPM is and why it works all the way to providing sample request for proposals (RFPs), example scopes of service for cockroaches, rodents, and bed bugs, tips on hiring a qualified IPM practitioner, policy templates, and even guidance on pest-proofing buildings.
Benefits of an IPM program include:
- A reduction or removal of pest and/or rodent allergens, leading to a reduction in asthma causes and triggers
- Better pest control, leading to fewer pest work orders and pest-related
- Reduced exposure to hazardous
- Improved health and living conditions for residents and property management
- Reduced pest-control costs over time
Get started by downloading the guide here: Massachusetts Integrated Pest Management Toolkit
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