Central Pest Control made to measure insect fly screens, windows and fly screen doors.
Effective pest control is crucial for businesses, especially those in the food and hospitality industries. One of the most effective ways to prevent flies and other insects from entering premises is by installing fly screens. However, to ensure compliance with Environmental Health Officer (EHO) regulations, businesses must use approved fly screens that meet hygiene and safety standards.
In this blog, we will explore the importance of EHO-compliant fly screens, their benefits, and what businesses need to consider when installing them to maintain a pest-free and legally compliant environment.
Understanding EHO Regulations for Fly Screens
- Why Compliance Matters
The Environmental Health Officer (EHO) is responsible for ensuring that businesses comply with food hygiene and safety laws. The presence of flies in food preparation or storage areas poses a significant risk of contamination, leading to potential legal issues, fines, and reputational damage.
EHO regulations require businesses to implement effective pest control measures, including the use of properly fitted and maintained fly screens. Failure to comply can result in penalties, loss of operating licenses, and customer complaints.
- Key EHO Standards for Fly Screens
For fly screens to be compliant with EHO guidelines, they must meet specific criteria:
• Mesh Size & Material: The screen must have a fine mesh (typically 1.3mm or less) to prevent entry of small insects while allowing airflow.
• Durability: Fly screens should be made of robust, corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminium, stainless steel, or high-quality fibreglass.
• Secure Fitting: Screens must be tight-fitting and free from gaps to prevent insects from bypassing them.
• Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance: The screens should be removable for easy cleaning and must be regularly inspected for damage.
• Non-Toxic & Food-Safe: Screens used in food processing areas must be non-toxic and should not pose a contamination risk.
Benefits of EHO-Compliant Fly Screens
1. Enhanced Hygiene & Food Safety
Flies are known carriers of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. By preventing their entry, fly screens help businesses maintain higher hygiene standards, ensuring that food and beverages remain uncontaminated.
2. Legal Compliance & Avoiding Fines
Failure to comply with EHO regulations can result in fines, closure notices, and even legal action. Installing approved fly screens ensures compliance and protects your business from regulatory penalties.
3. Improved Customer Satisfaction
No customer wants to see flies hovering around food or dining areas. Proper fly screens help create a clean and professional environment, enhancing customer experience and boosting business reputation.
4. Eco-Friendly Pest Control Solution
Fly screens provide a chemical-free pest control solution, reducing the need for insecticides and contributing to a safer, more sustainable environment.
5. Cost-Effective & Long-Lasting
Once installed, high-quality fly screens require minimal maintenance and replacement, making them a cost-effective solution for long-term pest control.
Types of EHO-Compliant Fly Screens
1. Fixed Fly Screens
• Ideal for windows and ventilation openings.
• Permanent solution for high-risk areas such as kitchens and food storage rooms.
• Can be made of stainless steel or fibreglass mesh for durability.
2. Hinged & Magnetic Fly Screens
• Suitable for windows that need regular access.
• Can be easily removed for cleaning and maintenance.
• Magnetic options allow for quick installation and removal.
3. Sliding & Retractable Fly Screens
• Perfect for large openings and patio doors.
• Retractable screens can be rolled away when not in use.
• Ideal for restaurants, cafes, and commercial kitchens.
4. Door Fly Screens
• Heavy-duty mesh designed for high-traffic doorways.
• Can include self-closing mechanisms to ensure doors remain secure.
• Used in commercial kitchens, warehouses, and storage areas.
Choosing the Right Fly Screen for Your Business
When selecting a fly screen for your business, consider the following:
1. Business Type & Location
• Food establishments, hotels, and supermarkets require strict compliance.
• Businesses near water bodies or waste disposal areas may need higher-grade protection.
2. Screen Material & Quality
• Stainless steel or aluminium for durability.
• Fibreglass mesh for cost-effective yet strong protection.
• PVC-coated materials for extra resistance to moisture and wear.
3. Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
• Screens should be removable and washable.
• Consider screens with anti-microbial coatings for added hygiene.
4. Professional Installation vs. DIY
• Professionally installed screens ensure proper fit and compliance.
• DIY kits may be an option for small businesses, but they must still meet EHO standards.
Maintaining Fly Screens for EHO Compliance
Regular maintenance and inspection of fly screens are crucial to ensuring their effectiveness and compliance with EHO standards. Here’s how businesses can keep their fly screens in top condition:
1. Regular Cleaning
• Wash screens with warm soapy water every 2-4 weeks.
• Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the mesh or frame.
2. Inspect for Damage
• Check for holes, tears, or loose fittings regularly.
• Replace damaged screens immediately to maintain protection.
3. Seasonal Adjustments
• In winter, consider removing or retracting screens in areas with low pest activity.
• Inspect screens thoroughly before spring and summer, when fly activity increases.
4. Compliance Audits
• Keep records of maintenance and inspections.
• Ensure EHO guidelines are met before inspections take place.
Fly screens are an essential component of pest control for businesses, particularly those in the food and hospitality industries. Ensuring that your fly screens comply with EHO regulations not only helps in preventing contamination but also ensures that your business remains legally compliant, cost-efficient, and customer-friendly.
By choosing high-quality, EHO-compliant fly screens and maintaining them properly, businesses can avoid fines, safeguard their reputation, and create a healthier environment for employees and customers.
Central Pest Control is here to help. With our expertise and commitment to a quality service, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
