Alternatives to Methyl Bromide; Integrated Pest Management in Danish Flour Mills

4. Implementation of IPM in a flour processing plant

The project group has visited a number of mills that are members of FDHM and has forwarded questionnaires regarding conditions in the individual mills.

The questionnaires were completed and returned to the project group. Based on these, and together with the project groups own experience with mills, we will try to show how and where to implement an IPM-system.

Quality responsible person

Firstly is important to appoint someone on site to be responsible for quality. This person will be responsible for implementing and maintaining the IPM- system. It is vital that senior management gives the system a high priority in order for it to function effectively.

Practical preparations

A thorough inspection must first be undertaken for pests and general hygiene levels. All cracks, crevices etc. where pests can hide must be removed or sealed.

All windows and doors must be proofed either with insect netting or sluices to prevent pests entering the building.

The factory is divided into zones, with areas of responsibility for personnel under the supervision of the quality controller.

A comprehensive hygiene plan is drawn up for each zone, with details and responsibilities for cleaning and inspection routines and their frequency.

Survey sketches

A sketch of the area showing where insect traps/monitors are to be placed. When placing the traps they must be numbered and dated.

An inspection check list of the area is made. It must be kept up to date by the person responsible and assessed by the quality controller.

Procedure for treatment

If any evidence of pests is observed, action should be taken immediately.

Raw materials

There should be an inspection routine for all incoming raw materials. If pests or evidence of pests are found, then the raw materials must be isolated from other materials,to prevent pests from spreading. It must be decided immediately whether the raw materials should be discarded, returned or treated.
All incoming raw materials and goods must be checked. Packaging etc. must be inspected for pests or evidence of pests, before it enters the factory.

"First in - first out"

The principle of "first in- first out" should be followed. Materials should be stored about 0,5 metre away from the walls and should be raised off the floor to allow inspection for pests and to remove spillage from damaged packaging.

If the goods are to be stored for longer periods, inspections should be carried out frequently.

If the goods are stored for more than 3 months they should be thoroughly inspected before leaving the store.

Once a week, a visual inspection of the packaging, bags, sacks etc. should take place.

We recommend that cleaning schedules be drawn up for each zone.
Guidelines are shown in app 6.