Professional Pest Control Industry Introduces Best Management Practices for Bed Bugs

NPMA Staff

Last year saw an unprecedented spike in the resurgence of bed bugs, with one in five Americans reporting they have had an infestation or know someone who has encountered bed bugs at home or in a hotel, according to a survey by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). The dramatic increase in infestations and people requesting help for bed bug problems showed a need for standardized practices among pest professionals for treating infestations. The NPMA, utilizing the expertise of leading authorities, has created Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Bed Bugs.

Developed cohesively by industry professionals, regulators, academics and entomologists, these guidelines provide step-by-step practices for professionals, including standards for service agreements, guidelines for proper control techniques, and recommendations on post-treatment evaluation. Adherence to the BMPs will ensure consumers receive the best and most effective treatment for infestations. A slightly condensed version of the comprehensive BMPs, will help consumers understand the accepted best practices for detecting bed bugs, working with a professional and enacting appropriate follow up.

"Bed bugs are extremely difficult to control, let alone eradicate, which is why it's so important that we share these Best Management Practices," said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for NPMA. "These guidelines will provide professionals with the tools needed to most effectively service their customers and will offer consumers a much-needed resource in their education about proper management of bed bugs. Adherence to the BMPs will be an important step in enabling us to get an edge on this elusive pest."

The Best Management Practices for Bed Bugs include guidelines in areas such as:

• Disposal of personal items/furniture
• Bed Bug Detection
• Canine Detection
• Client Cooperation and Treatment Preparations
• Methods of Control
• Post-Treatment Evaluation
• Health and Safety of Customers

The BMPs for Bed Bugs can be found in English and Spanish and will be translated into additional languages in the near future.

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 7,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property.

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