BUGS! How to Minimize Their Impact

Portable restrooms attract bugs for all sorts of reasons. Pests love that the enclosed area doesn’t have air movement and is full of things we can’t see, but they can feast on. Plus, there are plenty of ways for insects to enter the units.

These factors mean portable toilets are ripe for infestation by every critter. This year’s cicada invasion should make it even more interesting for PROs. Use these tips to manage bugs and reduce their impact.

Tips for Preventing Insect Infestations

Pest season is underway across the United States and many parts of the world. In some areas, bugs are a year-round problem. They feed on the tiny organisms invisible to human eyes. Some thrive in moist areas, whereas others worsen in dry seasons.

Take these steps to reduce pests inside and around your units:

• Place screens over vent pipes and hold them in place with zip ties or wires
• Install solar-powered vent fans to increase air movement inside your restrooms
• Add more water to your tanks to prevent mounding and reduce surface space
• After cleaning the unit, mist the walls with a spray bottle filled with bleach
• See if your cleaning and fragrance supplier offers a citronella scent
• Close the toilet lid after servicing and ask the client to do the same

Service Technicians’ Role in Bug Management

Your service technician is your go-to person for pest prevention and management. But they need your guidance (and occasional reminders) to remain vigilant. Consider updating driver checklists and reviewing pest control recommendations.

Most experts suggest placing portable toilets backward on trailers and cleaning the insects off within the first two hours of completing transport. Technicians should check that the vent pipe screen is secure and instruct the client to shut the toilet lid after use.

Train your crew to look for initial signs of infestation. They should know when to add a bucket of water or spray bleach in areas where bugs could feast, lay eggs, or otherwise propagate.

Remember to encourage your team to report suspicious activity. We’re not just talking about the local kids with spray paint. If you have a long-term rental and your technician sees signs of infestation, they must let you know.

Managing Cicada Season

In some parts of the world, cicadas come every year, and in others, there are specific seasons when mass amounts pile up against every surface imaginable. Without guidance, your clients and guests may shovel these critters into your portable restroom tanks or call for extra services due to their mishandling of cicada cleanup.

We recommend giving clients a handy infographic or attaching it to the unit. Consider adding a line to invoices or contracts for the season. It should inform customers how to dispose of cicadas and suggest tools to keep near the unit (broom, dust pan, and spare trash can). Remind them not to put cicadas into the toilet and keep the lid closed when not in use.

Pest Management and Portable Restrooms

Insects are a situation where it’s vital to get ahead of it before they get one up on you. Once they decide your portable toilet or holding tank is an excellent breeding ground, it can feel like a losing battle. So, train your service technicians to follow their checklist and stay attentive.

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