Update Yor Fly Program with ILTs

Insect light traps (ILTs) have gained wide acceptance for the control of flying insects indoors in food processing plants, food service establishments, hospitals, health care facilities, pharmaceutical plants, hotels and other related facilities.

ILTs are commonly used because food hygiene regulations require that food is wholesome and safe and has not been contaminated by insect pests. Businesses are required to demonstrate “due diligence” by showing that they have taken every precaution against contamination from flying insect pests.

Since there are so many different species of flying insects and their behavior is subject to so many different influences, flying insect control is not simple. Just hanging up a few professional fly traps at random will not automatically solve a pest problem. The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach emphasizes exclusion and sanitation first. However, if a few flying insects sneak into a facility, then ILTs are very important.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. ILTs that use ultraviolet light as an attractant are considered the most useful at attracting flying insects They should be located in places that draw flies away from sensitive areas, not toward them. Do not place ILTs where they can possibly attract outside insects into a facility.

PERFORM ROUTING MAINTENANCE. ILTs require routine maintenance for optimum performance. ILTs should be inspected and cleaned weekly in peak fly season and at least monthly during the rest of the year. An important part of maintenance is to check the unit’s performance. Reminder: ILTs must be plugged in and working to perform.

REGULARLY REPLACE ILT TUBES. ILTs tubes (bulbs) should be replaced at least once a year for the best performance. Generally, phosphorus degradation in the tube reduces UV light emissions at approximately 4 to 5 percent each month. Therefore, it is best to replace tubes before spring or warm weather (fly season) to be assured of peak performance. For most of North America, it’s time to replace tubes now, if they haven’t been replaced already this year.

KEYS TO IPM FLY PROGRAM SUCCESS. The success of a fly IPM program depends on pest exclusion, careful sanitation, thorough inspections, good communication, appropriate pest management tools, and a strong partnership between the client and Copesan. Properly used ILTs are very effective Contact Copesan or your local Copesan Service Center if you have questions about ILTs or go to www.copesan.com for more information on updating your fly program.

The author is corporate quality assurance manager for Western Exterminator Co., Anaheim, Calif.

This article was excerpted from materials developed by Copesan. Copesan’s Internet training program, Copesan University, is now available to the entire pest management industry. Click on the Copesan University logo at www.pctonline.com for available courses.