Free ServSafe Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Questions and Answers 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the first of the three basic rules of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program?
- Work with a Pest Control Operator (PCO).
- Deny pests access to the operation. (Correct answer)
- Deny pests food and shelter.
- Regularly apply pesticides around the building.
Correct answer: Deny pests access to the operation.
An IPM program is built on three basic rules: 1) Deny pests access to the operation, 2) Deny pests food, water, and shelter, and 3) Work with a licensed Pest Control Operator (PCO). Denying access is the crucial first line of defense against pests entering the establishment.
Question 2: Which is a common sign of a cockroach infestation?
- Gnaw marks on wood and pipes.
- Nests made of scraps of paper and cloth.
- A strong, oily odor. (Correct answer)
- Tracks or smudge marks along walls.
Correct answer: A strong, oily odor.
Cockroaches produce a strong, oily, or musty odor. Other signs include droppings that look like grains of black pepper and capsule-shaped egg cases that are brown, dark red, or black.
Question 3: Who is legally allowed to apply pesticides in a food service operation?
- The general manager
- Any kitchen staff member
- The person in charge of cleaning
- A licensed Pest Control Operator (PCO) (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A licensed Pest Control Operator (PCO)
Due to the risks involved, pesticides should only be applied by a certified and licensed Pest Control Operator (PCO). They are trained to use them safely and effectively in a foodservice environment, minimizing risks to food, staff, and customers.
Question 4: How should pesticides be stored on the premises?
- In a locked cabinet away from food and prep areas. (Correct answer)
- On the top shelf in the dry storage room.
- Under the three-compartment sink.
- In the manager's office for easy access.
Correct answer: In a locked cabinet away from food and prep areas.
Pesticides are hazardous materials and must be stored in a secure location away from any food, utensils, or food preparation areas. They should be kept in their original containers to ensure they are properly labeled and to prevent accidental misuse.
Question 5: An air curtain is designed to help with pest control by:
- Improving the kitchen's ventilation system.
- Creating a barrier against flying insects. (Correct answer)
- Cooling the food preparation area.
- Trapping airborne grease particles.
Correct answer: Creating a barrier against flying insects.
Air curtains, installed above doorways, blow a steady stream of air downward. This creates an air shield that helps prevent flying insects, like flies, from entering the building when the door is open.
Question 6: To prevent pests from entering through gaps around pipes, you should fill the openings with:
- Paper towels.
- Duct tape.
- Steel wool. (Correct answer)
- Spray foam insulation.
Correct answer: Steel wool.
Pests can squeeze through very small openings. Fill holes and gaps around pipes with durable materials like concrete or steel wool, as pests cannot easily gnaw through them. Other materials like cloth or paper are ineffective.
Free ServSafe Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Questions and Answers 1
What is the first of the three basic rules of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program?