Local Authority Pest Control Services In London During Covid-19 Pandemic

In London, most local authorities provide pest control services to their residents. However, the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020-21 triggered national ‘lock-downs’, requiring organisations to change their working practices. Pest control managers in selected boroughs were interviewed to assess the impact that the pandemic had had on their pest control services. Prior to the pandemic, none of the pest control sections interviewed had contingency plans that were relevant to the onset of a pandemic. The provision of pest control in the UK during lockdown was greatly facilitated by the government’s decision that pest control was an essential service, and so could continue to operate. Working practices and risk assessments therefore had to be developed by each pest control section and local authority, usually with limited external consultation. Pest control staff were involved in the development of risk assessments that allowed safe working in customers’ premises. Video-conferencing software was widely adopted for staff meetings, although some staff initially found the technology challenging. All boroughs reported a substantial decrease in demand for pest control services during lockdown, although demand gradually returned to normal levels after lockdown was eased. The initial telephone or website contact with customers was extended to include screening questions. After treatment there was greater reliance on customers to report any pest issues, instead of a series of follow-up visits. Many customers were concerned about pest control officers entering their homes, so accepted the need for temporary changes in the way that pest control was provided. Pest control managers indicated that even after the pandemic subsides, there would be greater initial assessment of customers before site visits, greater reliance on technology to allow staff to work remotely, and a consequent increased trust of staff that were not in the office every day.