When a bed bug is found at a workstation, there are many options available to control and prevent an infestation.
First and foremost, it is essential that any insect found is collected and positively identified as a bed bug. The area that the bed bug was found in should be monitored. Underneath each work station in a 10 to 15-foot circumference around the hot spot should have glue boards, Climb Up monitors, and/or SenSci Volcano lures installed. For best results place a minimum of 2 to 5 glue boards under each desk, as well as 2 to 4 Climb Up monitors, and/or 2 to 4 SenSci lures. This entire area should also be visually inspected for live bed bugs.
If bed bugs are detected at a workstation and employees are concerned and want something done other than monitoring, use a vacuum to vacuum all cracks and crevices, under chairs, and any other areas of concern to physically remove bed bugs.
Chemical control options should be considered as a last option. Studies have found that pesticide application is not effective unless you are dealing with an infestation, meaning that multiple bed bugs have been found under a chair or in an area. Bed bugs being “dropped off” (also known as hitchhikers) are rarely ever controlled with insecticides in an office setting.
Insecticide applications need to be done after hours or on weekends when employees are not present. Insecticide applications can be done with people 150 to 200-feet away providing there is no access allowed to the area for 4 to 6 hours or longer, depending on factors that can make staff members more sensitive to the chemicals, such as pregnancy or asthma.
When a bed bug sighting does occur, the best action is to inspect and monitor for additional bed bugs. Catching one or two in a washroom, staff room, or in other resting areas indicates that an employee or outside contractor has likely dropped a bed bug. These hitchhikers are wandering and looking for a secure area where they can feed on people.
If you find yourself with a bed bug problem at your place of work, Poulin’s can help! A Poulin’s professional can come to your office that is having bed bug issues and provide you the best methods and range of treatment options.