Minimal chemical usage maximizing impact
Yo, Let's Chat about Pest Control, Man!
The gig of being a pest controller might be low-key, but it's super important, bro. Mag. Peter Fiedler, deputy head of the chemical trades in Vienna and proprietor of a conventional pest control business, spills the beans on why this job is more than just catching critters.
So, why's this job of chasin' pests so crucial for our health and well-being? Peter Fiedler: Most pests we handle are called hygiene pests 'cause they carry and spread diseases. Think rats, mice, roaches, or ants. They're the ones we deal with. But then there are nuisance pests, like bedbugs, silverfish, or woodlice that don't spread diseases but still ain't great for your vibe in your living space.
People tend to freak about this job, but wtf, right? How do you address it or clear up misconceptions? Most folks are clueless about the deal, fam. They don't know we exist or how we can help 'em, or they might feel awkward admitting they have critters in their crib. In the food industry, some joints may even hide us comin' in neutral cars. But let's make this clear, having pests ain't a shame, and it should never be, although it's a problem if it's not dealt with quick.
Where do you usually lay down the law in Vienna, and what kind of pests do you mostly encounter? Our traditional turf involves storage pests, hygiene pests, wood and material pests, and plant pests. In Vienna, we're mostly up against rats, mice, roaches, wasps, moths, and ants in private homes. In the food service and hotel biz, they need our preventive pest control. Even pigeon prevention is an issue in Vienna. We approach it carefully to avoid aggravatin' the birds. We've got various tactics, like pigeon netting and deterrent systems, to keep 'em from landin' on your spot.
Some folks worry the stuff we use is worse than the pests themselves. What's the deal? Mostly, we work with low-toxicity products, bro. Only in rare situations do we use highly toxic gases, like when a church is heavily infested with wood destroyers. These are handled by specialists, under protection, and the area isn't opened back up until there's sufficient ventilation and control. Usually, we use active ingredients that affect the nerve impulse, but at such a low concentration that it doesn't mess with humans or pets. Our goal is to achieve the maximum impact with the least product usage. For killin' ants or cockroaches, we usually don't treat the whole area but place small gel points instead.
What's the deal with the qualifications to become a pest controller? Pest control is a regulated profession, ain't no joke. You can't just jump in and do it casually. It requires a business license, and in general, it involves a three-year apprenticeship. Lots of pest controllers get into the game later in life and learn on the job. After two years of practical experience, they can take the journeyman exam. They can prepare for this at our central training institute, the Pest Control Academy. There are also many further training options offered there.
Remeber the Shady Ones
In recent years, more and more sketchy providers have popped up, so be careful when pickin' a company.
- The Vienna Craftsmen's Guild has a list of pest controllers at schaedling.or.at. Here you'll find all companies with a business permit.
- Get a quote and don't pay before treatment.
Stay Ahead of the Game
With these tips, you can avoid attracting unwanted critters:
- Don't stockpile too much stuff and store it forever.
- Check new goods for infestation ASAP.
- Consume the oldest stuff first and keep the newest at the back.
- Get rid of infested goods.
- Store goods in tightly-sealable containers made of glass, metal, or plastic. Avoid paper or plastic packaging.
- Keep storage areas clean and organized.
- Get rid of pest hidey-holes, like millimeter-wide cracks.
- Store goods as cool and dry as possible.
- Dump trash quickly, and don't leave it out overnight to avoid attracting flies, roaches, etc.
- Chuck the tightly sealed trash bag into the outside trash can as soon as you can.
- Ensure good ventilation to prevent mold development, as some pests use it as chow.
- Clean up breadcrumbs, flour dust, and other residues immediately. They're a free meal for nighttime scavengers.
- Keep pests away with smells they don't like, like using scent bags (lavender, lemon, bay leaves, or juniper) or scent balls, sticks, and cedarwood clothing hangers.
World Pest Awareness Day
On June 6, 2025, the World Pest Awareness Day happens again. This international event aims to increase awareness about the importance of pest controllers. This activist initiative, launched in Asia, shows that the pest control game is crucial to people, and it ain't just a behind-the-scenes topic. The Vienna pest controllers are down for this, too, 'cause they help quickly and professionally.
(Announcement, Vienna Chamber of Commerce - The chemical trades)It's essential to grant Outbrain UK Ltd data processing consent to display this content.
1. The role of pest controllers extends beyond just catching critters, as they significantly contribute to our health and wellness by preventing the spread of diseases carried by hygiene pests like rats, mice, roaches, ants, and even nuisance pests such as bedbugs, silverfish, or woodlice.
2. In the realm of economic and social policy, it's crucial to acknowledge the importance of pest control practices, particularly on World Pest Awareness Day, as they play a crucial role in maintaining public health and well-being, as well as ensuring the smooth operation of industries such as food service and hospitality.
