May 30, 2018, 09:00 AM by Clark Pest Control Commercial Services

Technology adaption is not restricted to those who dwell in the idea incubators of Silicon Valley tech behemoths. It is starting to take place on the exposed structural beams or in dark corners of a food distribution facility storage room, and those triggering the technology are – believe it or not – rodents.

Remote monitoring system technology is now making its way into rodent management systems in commercial facilities – primarily those involved with food processing, distribution and storage.

The monitoring systems come in a variety of designs and include various operating features. Some send alerts when a rat or mouse is caught in a snap trap. Some rely on the snap trap simply being triggered, the bait being disturbed or having a rodent physically touching it. Still others use an infrared beam of light to detect a triggered snap trap or movement in a multi-catch device.

The technology continues to emerge and much is yet to be discovered about its full impact but the goal is clear-cut: Gather valuable data on rodent activity and share that with clients through emails, texts, push notifications, etc. to design more proactive and effective rodent management programs.

Is remote monitoring the proverbial “silver bullet” of rodent management and just what the doctor ordered?

Leading rodent management expert Dr. Bobby Corrigan says remote monitoring can improve the overall effectiveness of a facility’s rodent management program but it must be joined by sanitation, exclusion and proper placement to yield maximum results.

“Remote monitoring technology is much like a canary in a coal mine,” says Corrigan. “It can send a warning signal that corrective action needs to be taken.”

Is remote monitoring right for every commercial facility? No. Remote monitoring, like all pest management programs, must match a facility’s specific needs.

Clark Pest Control will consult with clients to determine if remote monitoring technology is appropriate for their facility based on a variety of factors including rodent pressure levels, structural design and historical trend data.

Corrigan says correct placement of the monitoring devices within a facility is a critical part of the process.

“The old formulas for placing bait stations every so many feet apart won’t work with remote monitoring,” says Corrigan. “They must be placed where they will generate maximum impact.”

As remote monitoring technology continues to evolve, you can count on the commercial pest management experts at Clark Pest Control to remain at the forefront and continuously look at ways to deploy it effectively for our clients’ benefit.

If you have questions about remote monitoring technology, please contact your Clark Pest Control representative if you have questions.

If you are looking for a pest management partner that understands your business and can help your company create a culture of food safety as well as deliver exceptional results and outstanding client care, contact Clark Pest Control.