Since large and small flies are an indicator of a sanitation or structural problem within your facility, removal of the breeding source is the only permanent means of avoiding an infestation. An outside-in approach is a proven strategy for commercial fly control, and there are also steps you can take to avoid an infestation.  

Restaurant Checklist for Fly Control

• Inspect incoming fruits and vegetables for signs of rot and small flies and cover them upon receipt.
• Store produce under refrigeration when possible or in sealable plastic tubs.
• Rinse out empty bottles and cans, and clean garbage containers daily. Use plastic liners.
• Eliminate spillage of garbage and keep garbage areas clean and away from the building, when possible, close receptacles with tight-fitting covers.
• Keep the exterior dumpster pad free of spillage and debris.
• Repair areas damaged by water.
• Eliminate standing water, weeds, tall grass, and other excessive vegetation near the facility.
• Clear clutter and items stored on the ground.
• Inspect and seal doors and keep them in good condition. Keep doors closed or use double-door vestibules, air doors, or plastic strip doors where needed.
• Install 20-mesh screens on open windows where possible.
• Eliminate interior standing water and accumulated condensation and use fans in areas conducive to standing water.
• Replace cracked floor tiles and missing grout, and repair plumbing and drain problems.
• Regularly inspect for and repair cracks in flooring to prevent seepage below.

You're not on site 24/7, so be sure that the people who are in the facility know how to help prevent flies. Train your staff to:

• Clean and sanitize floors and around drains, disposals, and sinks daily:
  - Inspect and sweep thoroughly under appliances, counters and cook lines.
  - Scrub floors using a stiff brush with an industrial floor cleaner. Squeegee all debris and dispose of in the trash; do not dispose of organic debris in drains.
  - Mop the floor using an AMM Biocide registered sanitizer approved for food and non-food surface application.
• Maintain drains:
  - Clean drains and traps weekly using an industrial drain cleaner and a stiff long-handled brush.
  - Use a “snake” device in clogged drains to clean out all gelatinous material.
• Dispose of rotting organic matter.
• Perform periodic deep cleaning beneath plumbing lines and equipment.
• Clean rags and mop heads daily and before storing.

Depending on the types of flies that are present, different actions may be required to solve the situation/problem. Learn more about common types of small flies, facts about large flies, and the food-safety risks of large flies. If flies persist after a thorough cleaning, Ecolab is ready to help with treatment and ongoing protection.