As hospitality professionals, we must be vigilant about hygiene in food prep areas. The Department of Health takes a very dim view of any business which allows their kitchens to become infested with vermin, and proprietors are frequently fined or prosecuted. So how do we ensure that this doesn't become a problem in our kitchens? Read on for the lowdown on pest control...

The main pests that tend to invade kitchens are:

• Rats and mice

• Cockroaches

• Flies

• Dogs, cats and birds

Let's look at some ways to combat each of these types of vermin.

Rats and mice are always searching for food, so you should never leave food scraps lying around. Make sure that, at the end of every day, all food items have been put away properly, and that the premises are thoroughly cleaned.

Rats and mice will find a way in through any hole or crack they can find - in the floor, in the walls, around skirting boards, through drainpipes or ventilators. Block up any holes you find or cover them with wire mesh to keep these pests out. Even very small holes can allow mice to enter.

Rats also really like rubbish bins, so make sure that the lids are kept on bins and that they are emptied and cleaned regularly.

If these measures don't keep cockroaches away, it's best to get in touch with a reputable pest control operator.

Cockroaches like to live in cracks in walls and floors, and behind pipes and machinery. They also like warm places, such as the brickwork behind stoves. Block up any holes that you can find and use an insect powder, spray, or cockroach baits to deter them. If using a spray or powder then make sure it is only used during quiet times, and that all surfaces, equipment and utensils are thoroughly cleaned afterwards.

Adequate fly screens around the premises will help to keep flies out. However, no matter what you do, flies will find a way in!

Flies are really good at transferring germs and bacteria from one place to another. So, the best thing you can to do to prevent flies spreading germs in your kitchen is to make sure food is covered properly.

If a fly enters the premises, try to kill it as quickly as you can. You can use a knock-down spray, but only if all the food is covered completely.

Outdoor sprays can also be used to deter flies. They can be sprayed on doors, walls and bins - wherever flies might congregate or enter the premises. These sprays need to be reapplied every two weeks.

Household pets aren't welcome in or around the kitchen, and neither are strays or birds. They bring other pests and heaps of germs with them, so they mustn't be allowed onto the premises at all. Keep doors closed and lids on bins so that these animals aren't attracted to the smells of food, and food scraps from your kitchen.