Public Housing Environmental & Conservation Clearinghouse

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Common pests can cause serious health problems. Pests such as bed bugs, cockroaches and rodents as well as the chemicals used to control them can affect allergies and asthma along with more serious health risks.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of current practices, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques are necessary to reduce the number of pests that threaten human health and property.

IPM is safer because often non-chemical methods are utilized as a first line of defense. If chemicals must be used, the least hazardous products and methods are implemented.

Utilize the following three IPM simple steps to eliminate pests safely.

1. Identify your pests and where they are coming from. Each pest has different habits so it is important to establish what and where they are.
2. All pests look for food, water and shelter. If you identify what they are after, you can eliminate that source. This step is the most important in IPM and prevention.
3. Use traps and baits first. If chemicals are required, attempt to make use of less toxic materials. Be sure to read all labels for directions on how to use and warnings before use of any chemical products. These labels have valuable information and will help you to succeed with IPM and prevention. Important: Many states have regulations controlling purchase and application of pesticides.