Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Flashcards
6 cards from real SERVSAFE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) flashcards as text
What is the first of the three basic rules of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program?
Answer: Deny pests access to the operation.
An IPM program is built on three basic rules: 1) Deny pests access to the operation, 2) Deny pests food, water, and shelter, and 3) Work with a licensed Pest Control Operator (PCO). Denying access is the crucial first line of defense against pests entering the establishment.
Which is a common sign of a cockroach infestation?
Answer: A strong, oily odor.
Cockroaches produce a strong, oily, or musty odor. Other signs include droppings that look like grains of black pepper and capsule-shaped egg cases that are brown, dark red, or black.
Who is legally allowed to apply pesticides in a food service operation?
Answer: A licensed Pest Control Operator (PCO)
Due to the risks involved, pesticides should only be applied by a certified and licensed Pest Control Operator (PCO). They are trained to use them safely and effectively in a foodservice environment, minimizing risks to food, staff, and customers.
How should pesticides be stored on the premises?
Answer: In a locked cabinet away from food and prep areas.
Pesticides are hazardous materials and must be stored in a secure location away from any food, utensils, or food preparation areas. They should be kept in their original containers to ensure they are properly labeled and to prevent accidental misuse.
An air curtain is designed to help with pest control by:
Answer: Creating a barrier against flying insects.
Air curtains, installed above doorways, blow a steady stream of air downward. This creates an air shield that helps prevent flying insects, like flies, from entering the building when the door is open.
To prevent pests from entering through gaps around pipes, you should fill the openings with:
Answer: Steel wool.
Pests can squeeze through very small openings. Fill holes and gaps around pipes with durable materials like concrete or steel wool, as pests cannot easily gnaw through them. Other materials like cloth or paper are ineffective.