Who is allowed to conduct pest control operations, with an exception for approved bait stations?

• A. Unlicensed individuals
• B. Maintenance staff
• C. Certified pest control professionals
• D. Janitorial staff

Answer: (C)

Pest control work, especially when pesticides are involved, must be done by someone with proper training and certification because these chemicals pose health and safety risks in food service environments. A certified pest control professional has the knowledge to select the right product, apply it correctly, follow label directions, protect food-contact surfaces, and manage storage, disposal, and potential exposure risks. They also understand how to implement IPM practices to prevent re-infestation while minimizing impact on staff and customers and staying within local and federal regulations.

There is a limited exception for devices like approved bait stations that are designed to be installed by non-certified staff under manufacturer instructions. These situations involve minimal direct handling of pesticides and are used as part of a broader pest management plan, but the actual pest-control operations that involve applying chemical treatments are still restricted to certified professionals.

So the best answer is that certified pest control professionals conduct pest control operations, with the noted exception for approved bait stations handled under proper guidelines.