WSQ Pest Management 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What diseases can rats transmit to humans through food contamination in Singapore?
- No diseases
- Leptospirosis, Salmonellosis, Hantavirus, and other diseases through their urine, droppings, and hair contaminating food and surfaces (Correct answer)
- Only the common cold
- Rats do not contaminate food
Correct answer: Leptospirosis, Salmonellosis, Hantavirus, and other diseases through their urine, droppings, and hair contaminating food and surfaces
Rats carry dangerous pathogens. Leptospirosis (from urine) can be fatal. Salmonella and other bacteria spread through droppings. Rat hair and parasites further contaminate food and surfaces.
Question 2: What is the correct use of pesticides in a Singapore food establishment?
- Apply liberally throughout the kitchen
- Only use SFA/NEA-approved pesticides, follow label instructions, never spray near food or food surfaces, and ideally use a licensed pest control operator (Correct answer)
- Any household insecticide is acceptable
- Spray directly on food surfaces for maximum effect
Correct answer: Only use SFA/NEA-approved pesticides, follow label instructions, never spray near food or food surfaces, and ideally use a licensed pest control operator
Chemical pest control must use approved products only, following strict protocols: never near food or food contact surfaces, follow manufacturer instructions, and preferably by a licensed pest control operator.
Question 3: How often should a food establishment in Singapore be inspected for pests?
- Only when pests are seen
- Regular scheduled inspections (at least monthly) by the establishment and periodic professional pest control visits, with more frequent checks in high-risk areas (Correct answer)
- Once a year by SFA
- Never — pest control is only reactive
Correct answer: Regular scheduled inspections (at least monthly) by the establishment and periodic professional pest control visits, with more frequent checks in high-risk areas
Regular inspections are essential: daily visual checks by staff, at least monthly systematic inspections, and scheduled professional pest control visits (typically monthly). High-risk areas need more frequent attention.
Question 4: What is a 'pest sighting log' and why should food establishments maintain one?
- A log of pet animals
- A record of all pest sightings including date, time, location, type of pest, and action taken — helping identify patterns and problem areas (Correct answer)
- An optional nice-to-have document
- A government form submitted annually
Correct answer: A record of all pest sightings including date, time, location, type of pest, and action taken — helping identify patterns and problem areas
A pest sighting log tracks: what was seen, where, when, by whom, and what action was taken. Over time, patterns emerge showing problem areas, helping target prevention and treatment efforts.
Question 5: What role do drains play in pest management at Singapore food establishments?
- Drains have nothing to do with pest management
- Drains provide entry points and breeding sites for pests; they must be kept clean, covered with mesh screens, and regularly flushed to prevent pest harbourage (Correct answer)
- Only outdoor drains matter
- Drains only affect cockroaches
Correct answer: Drains provide entry points and breeding sites for pests; they must be kept clean, covered with mesh screens, and regularly flushed to prevent pest harbourage
Drains are major pest entry and breeding points. Cockroaches, drain flies, and rats use drains for access. Keep drains clean, covered with fine mesh, regularly flushed, and free of food debris.
Question 6: What are the SFA penalties for food establishments with serious pest infestations in Singapore?
- Only a warning letter
- Fines, suspension or revocation of the food shop licence, closure orders until the infestation is resolved, and potential prosecution (Correct answer)
- A small administrative fee
- No penalties exist for pest issues
Correct answer: Fines, suspension or revocation of the food shop licence, closure orders until the infestation is resolved, and potential prosecution
SFA takes pest infestations seriously. Penalties include fines (up to SGD 10,000), demerit points, licence suspension or revocation, closure orders, and prosecution for repeated offenders.
WSQ Pest Management 2
What diseases can rats transmit to humans through food contamination in Singapore?