CH166-Pest Control Policy
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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Pest Control Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides and maintains a clean, safe, and hygienic environment free from pests and vermin in all premises where care and support are provided. The presence of pests such as rodents, insects, and birds can pose a serious risk to health, hygiene, and the safety of people we support, staff, and visitors. This policy sets out how we prevent, monitor, and respond to pest-related issues in accordance with CQC Regulation 15 (Premises and Equipment), Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment), and relevant environmental health legislation. It supports our duty to deliver safe and high-quality care in settings free from avoidable risk.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all premises owned, managed, or operated by {{org_field_name}} including supported accommodation and communal areas. It also applies to all staff, maintenance personnel, contractors, volunteers, and anyone delivering care within people’s homes. Although we may not be responsible for pest control in privately owned residences, our staff still have a duty to report concerns and support individuals in managing pest-related risks that may affect their health, wellbeing, or care delivery.
3. Related Policies
- CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
- CH15 – Premises and Equipment Policy
- CH16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
- CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
- CH18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
- CH19 – Emergency and Business Continuity Plan
4. Definition of Pests
Pests are organisms that are considered harmful or a nuisance in care settings. Common pests include rats, mice, cockroaches, ants, flies, fleas, bedbugs, and pigeons. Pests may carry diseases, contaminate food or water sources, damage property, or cause distress to people. In home care, pests may enter a property through food deliveries, structural gaps, waste storage areas, or unsealed external doors and windows. Early identification and control are key to preventing infestations and maintaining a safe environment.
5. Roles and Responsibilities
The Registered Manager {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}} holds overall responsibility for pest control arrangements and ensuring that policies and procedures are followed. A designated staff member or facilities contractor may act as the nominated Pest Control Coordinator and liaise with professional pest control companies when necessary. All staff have a duty to remain vigilant, report signs of pest activity immediately, and support individuals who may be affected by infestations in their own homes. Cleaners and domestic staff must follow agreed hygiene and waste disposal procedures to minimise risk.
6. Preventative Measures
To minimise the risk of pests, {{org_field_name}} implements the following preventive controls:
- Regular inspections of buildings for signs of pests and structural vulnerabilities
- Sealing of gaps, cracks, and entry points in doors, walls, and windows
- Proper storage of food and cleaning products in sealed containers
- Safe and hygienic waste management procedures including daily removal of food waste
- Regular cleaning of communal kitchens, dining areas, and bathrooms
- Keeping external areas free from standing water, litter, or overgrown vegetation
- Ensuring bins are covered, emptied regularly, and stored away from entry points
We promote good housekeeping and hygiene among staff and the people we support to further reduce risk.
7. Monitoring and Inspection
Regular premises inspections are carried out by the designated team or contractor to monitor for signs of pest activity. Inspections include checking for droppings, chewed materials, nests, insect casings, strong odours, or unusual staff or resident reports. Any signs of pests are recorded and escalated immediately to the Registered Manager. In settings where there is a history of pest issues, more frequent inspections may be required. Pest control contractors may also conduct routine checks under service agreements.
8. Pest Reporting and Escalation
If pest activity is observed or suspected, staff must:
- Immediately report the concern to their line manager or the Pest Control Coordinator
- Record the date, time, type of pest, and exact location using the incident log
- Isolate any contaminated areas or materials where safe and practical
- Avoid using affected food or utensils until the area is cleared
- Notify the pest control contractor if external intervention is required
All pest incidents are logged and investigated, and actions taken are recorded in the site’s health and safety file.
9. Professional Pest Control Services
{{org_field_name}} works with qualified and accredited pest control providers for prevention, treatment, and emergency response. All contractors must comply with health and safety legislation, COSHH regulations, and relevant environmental protection guidance. Treatments are only carried out with the least disruptive and safest methods, avoiding toxic substances unless necessary. Service reports, inspection outcomes, and recommendations are retained and reviewed during audits. Repeat infestations are investigated, and structural or behavioural issues contributing to the recurrence are addressed.
10. Supporting People We Support in Their Own Homes
Where care is delivered in an individual’s private home, staff must remain alert to signs of pest activity and take proportionate action by:
- Encouraging individuals to maintain clean food storage and waste disposal
- Advising on good housekeeping and removing clutter that harbours pests
- Reporting serious concerns to the line manager and documenting them in the care plan
- Liaising with family members, housing providers, or local authorities if assistance is needed
Staff must never apply pest control chemicals or interventions without authorisation or training. Instead, professional support must be sought where needed, and individuals supported in a respectful and non-judgemental manner.
11. Infection Control and Remedial Action
In the event of an infestation, affected areas must be cleaned and disinfected following CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy. Contaminated food or soft furnishings may need to be discarded safely. Laundry exposed to pests must be washed at the appropriate temperature or treated professionally. Where a health risk is identified, temporary suspension of service delivery may be considered until the area is safe. Follow-up inspections are conducted to confirm the effectiveness of treatment and prevent recurrence.
12. Staff Training and Awareness
All staff receive induction training that includes environmental health, cleanliness, and pest reporting procedures. Refresher training is provided annually and includes:
- Types and signs of common pests
- Good housekeeping practices
- Reporting protocols and escalation pathways
- Understanding the link between pests, infection, and care quality
Managers receive additional training in incident response, liaising with contractors, and fulfilling regulatory requirements. Training records are maintained and monitored during supervision.
13. Efficient Pest Management at {{org_field_name}}
{{org_field_name}} ensures efficient pest control through:
- Scheduled contractor inspections and maintenance visits
- Digital record-keeping of pest activity and treatment outcomes
- Prompt escalation of all concerns
- Strong relationships with local authorities and environmental health officers
- Integration of pest control procedures into our quality assurance and CQC audit systems
This ensures a hygienic and safe environment that meets legal, regulatory, and ethical standards of care.
14. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier in response to regulatory changes, pest-related incidents, or contractor feedback.
Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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