An Introduction to in-depth Pest Control Surveys: The Role and Responsibilities of the Pest Control Field Biologist

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1 An Introduction to in-depth Pest Control Surveys: BRC Global Standards. Trust in Quality

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3 Introduction to in depth Pest Control Surveys: Introduction to in depth Pest Control Surveys: In-depth pest control surveys are carried out by an experienced pest control expert, who usually, although not always, operates under the title of field biologist. This short guide is designed to help address any confusion concerning the role and responsibilities of the field biologist and the service they provide. 1.0 Requirements of the BRC Global Standard for Food Safety In the BRC Global Standard for Food Safety, Clause states: An in-depth, documented pest control survey shall be undertaken at a frequency based on risk, but typically quarterly, by a pest control expert to review the pest control measures in place. The timing of the survey shall be such as to allow access to equipment for inspection where a risk of stored product infestation exists. 2.0 The role and responsibilities of the pest control field biologist An in-depth pest control survey allows an experienced person to examine controls and pest activity and recommend improvements to the pest management strategy if needed. As it s the pest control technician who delivers the practical routine service, it could be argued that having a second tier of inspection adds complexity and costs to the contract. However, this is not the case. The pest control expert is on hand to lead the pest management program, and should guide the efforts of both site personnel and the pest control technician to eliminate problems and maintain pest-free conditions. In pest control terms, the field biologist is the most important person working on behalf of the pest control contractor in any food site. 3.0 Clearly set out objectives For the survey to be successful, the field biologist must have clearly defined objectives: To determine the current levels of pest activity throughout the site. This should not be a matter of mere bait checking but should encompass the whole of the site, especially in less accessible areas such as voids and cable runs, where pests are more likely to be established To assess the quality of work being carried out by the regular pest control technician, and where appropriate, liaise with the regular technician To review all pest control related documentation To suggest alternative approaches to resolving problems To liaise with senior site or group management It may include checks within the manufacturing plant during shutdown periods, particularly when commodities are being handled or processed that are vulnerable to infestation by stored product insects (e.g. flour silos). It s good practice that in-depth inspections are not carried out at the same time as a routine inspection. F069 Issue 1 Introduction to in depth Pest Control Surveys: 21/1/2014 Page 1 of 6

4 Introduction to in depth Pest Control Surveys: 4.0 Qualifications and experience Most countries will have formal qualifications for those working with pest control, with many countries operating a legally backed licensing system. Anyone working as a field biologist, should at least have a recognised basic pest control qualification available in the country concerned, irrespective of whether it s a legal requirement or not. Few countries have formal higher-level pest control qualifications. However, a Field Biologist should be a senior technician with years of practical pest control experience. Other desirable qualifications, knowledge and skills may include: Possession of a recognised food safety qualification. Field biologists are working closely with food, so should be trained to at least the same level as a food handling employee Membership of a relevant Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme, if such a scheme exists in the country of operation. At the very least they should be able to demonstrate that they keep up-to-date with technical and regulatory developments in the pest control field Knowledge of the scope and content of the food industry Standards the site is working to. For example, do they understand the requirements of the BRC Standard and whether the site has to meet any customer specific requirements? Knowledge and understanding of the food manufacturing processes operating at the site, particularly when commodities vulnerable to infestation by stored product insects are being handled or processed How to use pest monitoring data to effectively target, and measure the success of, control measures. Using monitoring data to generate trend analyses (as opposed to just counts) is key 5.0 Report format and content Every pest controller has their own format for the report. However, it s the content not the format that s all important. The report should include: 5.1 Areas inspected The inspection report should include reference to areas inspected, even where no problems have been found. A list of issues requiring attention without additional detail is unlikely to provide the depth of information the site requires. If an area has been inspected and found clear then it s important that this is recorded: It s the contractor s evidence that they have inspected that area, and the food manufacturer s evidence that they have no problems there. 5.2 Any problems Problems relating to, for example, sanitation and building fabrication should be highlighted. These observations should have as their objective either the eradication of an existing infestation, or the prevention of such. Where it s not immediately obvious, the reasons why the observation is a problem should also be stated, and practical and appropriate recommendations should be made to address these matters. 5.3 Current system review Whether the current pest control system is suitable should be reviewed and, if found to be inadequate or inappropriate, recommendations should be made regarding alternative proactive pest management practices and strategies. F069 Issue 1 Introduction to in depth Pest Control Surveys: 21/1/2014 Page 2 of 6

5 Introduction to in depth Pest Control Surveys: Quick tips Ensure the field biologist is appropriately experienced and qualified Ensure that a sufficient number of in-depth surveys are scheduled throughout the year. The actual number must be based on risk assessment Where appropriate, ensure that these surveys are targeted for relevant seasons or activities (for example, to allow access to stored product silos) Set out clear objectives Ensure the content of the report covers all relevant areas Ensure reports are reviewed and where necessary actions are implemented These short guides are designed for companies involved in the enrolment program and aim to help you interpret the Standard, and design robust systems and procedures that meet the requirements. Examples are given to explain the types of documents and procedures and the level of detail typically required. However, you ll need to consider the context relevant to your business. The implementation of the Standard, and whether a resulting system is considered to be conforming or non-conforming by an auditor, is an objective judgement which can only be based on the evidence collected and observations made during the audit. Further details regarding the BRC Global Standard for Food Safety can be obtained from enquiries@brcglobalstandards.com The BRC gratefully acknowledges the following in the preparation of this short guide: Dr John Simmons Acheta Consulting Ltd F069 Issue 1 Introduction to in depth Pest Control Surveys: 21/1/2014 Page 3 of 6

6 Introduction to in depth Pest Control Surveys: Notes F069 Issue 1 Introduction to in depth Pest Control Surveys: 21/1/2014 Page 4 of 6

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