Digital Pest Management – Driving the change

 Within the environmental science sector, and in particular the pest industry, there has been a warm welcome to new technology and the creation of smarter solutions that meet the needs of the supply chain.

Many pest controllers have incorporated new digital technology into their daily lives. From electronic tools, systems, devices and resources, to a whole world of data-driven innovation and communication techniques, change has allowed them to work more effectively and efficiently. 

At Envu - we have dedicated so much time and energy into the development of our digital pest management (DPM) system, and the investment continues. It’s designed to help businesses grow while meeting social and environmental responsibility commitments.

Challenges and solutions

It’s been documented by the International Food Safety and Quality Network that twenty percent of the world’s food supply is believed to be contaminated by rodents. They can also consume food products and cause severe structural damage to facilities*.

This of course will be no surprise to pest technicians and professionals in the food industry. For them, tackling infestations, will continue to be a high priority despite increases in fuel price, staff shortages, and retention, to name but a few of the challenges the industry is currently facing.

Our DPM technology allows pest management companies to integrate with traditional pest practices, offering a value-added set of tools that helps to complete a wider range of solutions, amidst the challenges. But to fully realise its potential there needs to be better awareness of digital technology and an evolution of approach.

Re-thinking the rules

New digital tools, such as our effective monitoring system that sends live data straight to connected devices, throws light onto industry service specifications.

For all food premises or supermarket outlets, there are set pest control service specifications - written guidelines that clarify all the requirements and objectives of each specific stage of the service experience and touch points.

These specifications have been created with traditional pest monitoring practices in mind, and cover several routine checks and visits to sites before giving the much anticipated ‘all-clear’. Auditors and inspectors work to the set specifications and then build and plan pest management for each of the premises with preventative measures to follow.     

Could it now be the time to re-evaluate and if necessary, re-think and review these specifications? Should we now consider new evidence which is based on integrated digital pest management solutions?

This needs to be considered says Independent Auditor/Biologist Anthony Rowe MRSPH from OMNI IPS LTD.

If we can build-in key additional benefits and smart data to the guidance, pest controllers will be able to offer a more effective plan with reductions in time, and more cost-effective options. In turn, it will create opportunities to monitor and review other areas of the site offering preventative measures for the customer.  The ability to ‘do more, with less time’ must not be underestimated and could make a significant difference to both client and incumbent!

Of course, it’s not a one size fits all, and businesses will have their own specifications and needs, but being able to influence change that would see digital pest management and digital rodent monitoring take a greater role in the service delivery into the F&B market and their supply chain could be better for pest control businesses, their customers and the environment. Embrace the change!

 If you'd like to find out more about our DPM system and how digital pest management can drive the change for you please contact our DPM Commercial Manager UK & Ireland Gary Nicholas (gary.nicholas@envu.com).