Signs of a Cockroach Infestation that Food Workers Might Notice

Cockroaches are a real problem in restaurants but there are many bugs that look like cockroaches. These pests risk poisoning the food and scaring customers away. Once they’ve invaded a restaurant, they’re terribly difficult to get rid of, and within no time at all, a small cockroach problem becomes a big one if there is no intervention.

The most common species of cockroach in North America is the German cockroach. This species prefers kitchens and bathrooms for their warmth, humidity, and access to food. These cockroaches measure between 12 and 16mm in length and have shiny brown bodies with two horizontal black stripes on their backs. While cockroaches look a little bit like beetles, their appearance is unmistakable. Cockroaches are terrifying to most people and they stick out like sore thumbs. If one cockroach is spotted, there are likely many more hiding nearby because these creatures like to live in groups.  It’s very important that food workers and all staff members of a restaurant recognize the signs of a cockroach infestation to avoid this problem. If you suspect a cockroach infestation in your restaurant, give Cockroach Control Toronto a call. 

As cockroaches like to hide in kitchens, they can be found in cabinets, cupboards, drawers, and appliances. Food workers may also find cockroaches in cardboard boxes or within the storeroom where there is a lot of clutter. A cockroach infestation could come to a food worker’s attention by receiving customer complaints. In addition to the cockroaches themselves, food workers might notice an oily, pungent smell in the restaurant. Other signs include the spotting of feces, smear marks, eggs, or skins. Cockroach feces are little black specks that are usually clustered together in a way that resembles ground black pepper. These can be found anywhere cockroaches go. Smear marks are tracks of dirt and feces that the roaches drag along with them when they are wet. Eggs are brown, and rectangular in shape, measuring between 5 and 13mm in length. As cockroaches molt several times over the course of their lifetime, shed skins may also be found anywhere in their hiding spots. 

Food workers should be encouraged to speak up if they see any signs of a cockroach infestation. Cockroaches are carriers of parasites and diseases that put customers and staff at risk of serious health issues. If a health inspector finds an infestation, the restaurant may have to shut down entirely, putting the food workers and other staff members out of work. A temporary closure is also terrible for business as the public may find out and not want to come back. Educating food workers on the signs of an infestation means earlier detection and easier cockroach treatment.  

Hiring a pest removal service for ongoing maintenance is the best thing you can do to keep them under control. At The Exterminators Inc., we offer regular inspection and treatment services to keep the cockroaches at bay. Our team is experienced in cockroach removal and has the best tools in the business to safely and effectively get rid of the bugs for good. Call pest control company in Toronto today.