Bed bugs are the pest-world’s globetrotters. They can attach to a person or their belongings and travel as far and wide as their host. And they make their way through public transit systems without even paying fare! Government health officials across North America and the world are on notice: Paul Wenning, with the Franklin County Public Health in Ohio agrees, “Bedbugs are a common enough phenomenon in Columbus that you can pick them up at the bus… Anyone can get bedbugs.” And, according to a National Pest Management Association  (NPMA) “Bugs Without Borders” survey, 21% of pest management professionals, have treated public modes of transportation for bed bugs.

Bed bugs feed on human blood. They are highly resilient, being easily transported in suitcases and backpacks, and can take permanent residence in mattresses, box springs, folded sheets, walls, baseboards and so on. So that morning commuter’s bag could be home to these pesky travelers.

How is a transit system to combat such a problem? By implementing a comprehensive pest management policy, including regular high temperature vapor steam cleaning of public transport vehicles carpets and seats, bed bugs can be avoided.  But, if some of the system’s patrons have left these tiny beasts behind, treatment will be necessary.

Steam treatment is a recommended method for the elimination of bed bugs. In fact, even the City of Toronto, Public Health Department agrees, “steam kills all stages of bed bugs”. Successful treatment depends on an Integrated Pest Management approach to bed bug control. This involves, steaming and vacuuming, plus sealing areas and gaps where bed bugs can hide (like luggage storage areas). In order to be effective in killing bed bugs, it is essential that the steam machine produces a dry ‘vapor’ steam at a minimum temperature of 120°F or 36°C.

Transit patrons expect safety: not just from the threat of violence and protection of property, but also respect and thought of their health. Using high quality vapor steam cleaning equipment for regular maintenance and pest elimination will give commuters and staff alike peace-of-mind where pest prevention is concerned.

April is National Pest Month – Read More