Cockroach German (Blattella germanica)

Also known as the steamfly, this is the smaller of the two main species at 10 - 15mm long, buff in colour with dark bands down its body. It prefers warm steamy environments and can fly when alarmed. The same humid conditions also suit a more recent import, the large 38mm long American cockroach (periplaneta americana).

Cockroaches can enter your business in many different ways - from the outside through cracks and crevices, vents, sewer and drain pipes, even in deliveries.

Your business is an ideal breading ground. With plenty of water, food, warmth and nesting sites, they can remain active all year round.

Cockroaches reproduce quickly. For every one you see there can be 200 more hiding and multiplying behind your walls.

Because cockroaches are nocturnal, if you've seen one, you haven't seen them all. The few cockroaches you see by day were likely forced out by overcrowding, a possible sign of severe infestation.

The dust created by cast-off cockroach skins, dead bodies and droppings can aggravate allergies, especially in sensitive individuals.

Cockroaches are better at hiding than you are at finding them, and their eggs are naturally protected from insecticides. Without special equipment, materials and know-how, its a losing battle.

• Eliminate sources of food for cockroaches
• Help prevent entry of cockroaches by checking shipments and freight carefully
• Remove items which tend to harbor cockroaches, such as piles of newspapers, cardboard boxes and shipping materials.
• Correct moisture problems such as leaking roofs and blocked gutters.
• Store garbage containers in dry places, empty and clean often.
• Inspect possible entry points - such as windows, door frames, and pipes for small openings. Screen areas to seal entry.
• Encourage employees to refrain from storing food in offices and keep common eating areas clean.
• If food is kept in common eating areas it should be in sealed containers.

Successful Control of flying and crawling insects requires regular service by a professional pest control company. Eradication requires a close understanding of the pest species, its biology, lifestyle and habits.