The City of Toronto runs a website called “DineSafe,” which is available on the city’s website. The program offers anyone a chance to search for local restaurants and see their status, whether they have passed, conditionally passed, or been shut down for their health code compliance (or lack thereof).
DineSafe is an important tool for people who want to know if the restaurants they visit are in compliance. It’s also a potential death knell for any restauranteur who doesn’t take health code violations, and pest control in Toronto in particular, seriously.
What Happens when Pests are Discovered in a Restaurant
Similar programs exist throughout Ontario and can be the difference between a restaurant that survives or closes. In Hamilton a few years ago, a restaurant on the city’s popular Locke St. was shut down for pest issues, which was reported by the local paper. The restaurant itself attempted to say that the report was lying in a response on social media. Immediately underneath, someone posted a screen grab of the city’s DineSafe equivalent. The restaurant briefly reopened after bringing itself up to code, but ultimately shut down amongst the scandal.
This story, which has happened to Toronto restaurants as well, is a testament to the importance of pest control in Toronto, particularly for restaurants and other businesses in the hospitality industry. It’s no secret that the industry has faced significant hardship since early 2020, from shutdowns to staff shortages. Now, the ability to be successful has narrowed even further. Besides innovating new ways to meet your customers, you need to ensure they feel safe and comfortable engaging with your restaurant. And that means proper pest control.
Proactive & Reactive Pest Control for Restaurants
Broadly speaking, pest control for restaurants can be divided into two categories: proactive and reactive. Proactive pest control includes setting up traps beforehand, scheduling regular pest inspections with a professional, and implementing cleaning and maintenance policies that reduce the chances of pests coming into your establishment.
Reactive pest control is likely what you think about when it comes to pest control: removal and extermination of pests. This is to address problems that already exist, and it must be performed by experts to ensure the job is done properly and within local regulations.
GO! Pest Control approaches pest control for commercial sites with an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) service that is both proactive and reactive. We work with our clients to create a plan that reduces the chances of pests getting in, that regularly surveys the area for potential pest issues, and that also removes any that might get through. It’s the best way to manage pest control in Toronto, and one that gets results.
Where to Go for Pest Control in Toronto
If you own a restaurant in Toronto, then you need to take a proactive approach to pest control. Too often, restaurants think regular cleaning will be enough to stop pests from entering. This, however, can often not be enough. You will need a relationship with experts in pest control in Toronto. You need the help of GO! Pest Control. Our team of pest experts works directly with you to set up regular inspections and pest control strategies to ensure you don’t have unwanted guests in your kitchen.