Exposures to pests such as mice, flies, rats and cockroaches pose a potential health risk as they are known to carry disease, contaminate food supplies and trigger or worsen asthma symptoms in some individuals. In some cases, pests can also cause structural damage. It is important that child care centres implement and follow a pest management system; focusing on pest prevention and recognition that pests may only survive and thrive if access to food, water and shelter is available. Pest management can be performed by a licensed pest company or by the centre. 

Ultimately, it is best to prevent pests from entering the centre by: 

• Look for areas inside and outside that would provide shelter to pests around the centre. 
• Pest-proof the building by addressing structural issues, repairing and replacing screens and sealing holes, cracks or other openings. 
• Any windows that can be opened should have a screen and exterior doors should be tight-fitting.
• Keep the centre clean and tidy. This includes storage areas and under appliances. 
• In addition to removing areas where pests can shelter, consider where food sources could be attracting pests. Ensure food debris inside and outside is cleaned, any food or food-sensory items should be kept in plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. 
• Garbage inside and outside the centre can attract pests, ensure garbage inside is changed regularly and garbage outside is in containers that prevent access by pests. 
• Remove any standing water. 

Centres are required to monitor for pests regularly, at least once a month complete an inspection of the facility and document that the inspection was completed and if anything was found, SMDHU provides a pest monitoring log template for centres to use. If pests or activity of pests (ie: feces) is found at any time, document these findings and what actions were taken to address these findings. It is advisable to contact a licenses pest control company if rodent feces/rodents are found in the centre to assist with the removal.  Also, when there are pests found that the centre is unable to manage alone. Any type of chemical used for the pests is to be applied when children are not present and if baits/traps are used they are to be placed where they are inaccessible to the children. All interactions with a pest company should be documented. Keep all records on-site for at least one year. 

When a public health inspector conducts an inspection in a child care centre, they will assess for any evidence of pests or pest infestation. Operators must ensure that all pest reports are made available to the public health inspector upon request.