Is Your Pest Control Program Really Aligned with GMP Standards?

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) require manufacturers to maintain a clean, hygienic, and pest-free environment.

But here’s the truth:
Having a pest control service isn’t enough — your program must be GMP-compliant.

So how do you know if your pest control program truly meets GMP standards?

Let’s break it down with a practical checklist.

✅ Key Elements of a GMP-Compliant Pest Control Program

1. Documented Pest Control Plan

• 🗂️ Must be written, reviewed, and approved

• 🛠️ Should define the scope (area, frequency, pest types)

• 📌 Includes clear responsibilities for internal and external teams

2. Licensed Pest Control Contractor

• ✔️ Contractor must be licensed and trained

• 🧾 Provide service reports after each visit

• 📅 Proof of scheduled visits (monthly/bi-weekly)

3. Pest Identification & Monitoring

• 📍 Use monitoring devices (glue traps, UV traps, rodent boxes)

• 🧪 Traps should be:

  • Numbered

  • Mapped

  • Inspected regularly

• 📋 Monitoring records must be up-to-date and verifiable

4. Trend Analysis of Pest Activity

• 📊 Identify recurring issues and hot zones

• 🧭 Analyze pest sightings or trap counts over time

• 🔁 Update control strategies based on data

5. Non-Chemical Preventive Measures

• 🚪 Seal entry points: doors, windows, vents

• 🧼 Maintain sanitation to reduce pest attractants

• 💡 Use lighting that does not attract flying insects

6. Chemical Use & Safety

• 🚫 Only approved pesticides are used — never near food contact surfaces

• 🧯 MSDS/SDS must be available for all chemicals

• 🧪 Application logs must include:

  • Date

  • Area

  • Dosage

  • Method

  • Technician’s name

7. Corrective Actions & Root Cause Analysis

• 🐜 Found a cockroach? You need:

  • Immediate action

  • Root cause investigation

  • Follow-up report and verification

8. Staff Training

• 👨‍🏫 Train employees to:

  • Report pest sightings

  • Understand their role in pest prevention

• 📚 Include pest awareness in GMP onboarding

 

❌ Common Non-Conformities During GMP Audits

• No pest control map or updated trap log

• Unsealed wall holes or drains

• Expired service contracts

• Missing MSDS/SDS sheets

• Traps placed on floors (instead of off-ground as required)

 

🔍 GMP Requirements That Cover Pest Control

• Premises & Equipment

  • Pest control is part of GMP building maintenance

• Sanitation & Hygiene

  • Pests are vectors for contamination

• Documentation & Records

  • All pest control activities must be traceable

 

📌 Quick Self-Check: Is Your Pest Program GMP-Ready?

Fill it in. If you ticked any ❌ — it’s time to tighten your system.

🏁 Final Thoughts

A truly GMP-compliant pest control program is proactive, documented, and constantly verified.

Even a single pest sighting can lead to:

• Product recalls

• Failed GMP audits

• Damage to brand trust

Don’t wait until it’s too late.

👉 Need help reviewing or improving your pest control program to meet GMP or ISO standards?
CAYS Scientific can assist with practical assessments and audit-ready documentation.

Let’s make sure your pest control doesn’t become a compliance risk.