Therefore, all pest control programs have a special responsibility to fully consider the impact of these chemicals and to prioritize the use of least toxic alternatives. It is a process for minimizing pesticide use and risk while maximizing the control of pests that affect public health, impede operations, or damage property. It is a preventive maintenance process that seeks to identify and eliminate potential pest access, shelter, and nourishment. It also continually monitors for pests themselves, so that small infestations don't become large ones. Least-Toxic Methods .
Pesticides are essential to control pests in many situations .
However, IPM aims to minimize both pesticide use and risk through alternate control techniques and by favoring compounds, formulations, and application methods that present the lowest potential hazard to humans and the environment. Systems Approach . IPM is not just a pest control contract . This contract must be effectively coordinated with all other relevant programs that operate in and around a building. Plans and procedures involving design and construction, repairs and alterations, cleaning, waste management, food service, and many other activities, should incorporate a pest control perspective whenever possible.