Pest Control Technician how-to

How to Inspect a Restaurant for Cockroaches

A thorough inspection finds where pests live, not just where they’re seen.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

A thorough inspection finds where pests live, not just where they’re seen. In short: talk; inspect; use, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Talk with staff about sightings and times.

  2. Inspect warm, moist areas: behind equipment, under sinks and in drains.

  3. Use a flashlight to look for live insects, droppings and egg cases.

  4. Place monitoring traps to confirm activity.

  5. Note sanitation and structural issues.

  6. Apply targeted baits and treatments and report recommendations.

Safety reminders for pest control technicians

  • Wear label-required PPE and wash after applications
  • Store and transport pesticides securely
  • Watch for hazards in crawl spaces and attics
  • Keep products away from children, pets and food

IPM · Label · Restricted use pesticide · Bait station · Exclusion · Harborage: see the full pest control technician glossary.

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