The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has publicised a guideline under the Public Health Protection Act, which discloses the policies and standards on controlling pests. Its objective is to safeguard public health by preventing diseases transmitted by pests. It specifies the policies and measures required to manage pests in public areas, workplaces, and residential and non-residential environments.
The guideline has listed the locations which are prone to pest breeding, both in public spaces and residential areas. It stipulates that if such conditions are found at a construction site, the constructors are responsible for eliminating these breeding environments. Meanwhile, if these conditions are present in public areas, the responsibility lies with the respective city or island council to address the issue. Additionally, service-providing entities must undertake pest control in their facilities. The guideline also urges ensuring proper maintenance of government buildings, industrial areas, hotels, guest houses and storages. It indicates individuals to ensure that transport vehicles, vessels or aircraft are free of pest-breeding environments.
Furthermore, the guideline states that chemicals and pesticides permitted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare can be utilised for pest controlling and eliminating them. Permission must be sought from the ministry, prior to using the chemicals as well. The guideline outlines the procedures and the situations in which specific chemicals can be used.
The guideline specifies that if a designated location fails to eliminate pest-breeding environments within the specified deadlines, the responsible party will be subject to a fine not exceeding USD 64.90. Additionally, any individual who obstructs an inspection by a relevant agency or its designated representative will incur a fine up to USD 324. Councils that do not adhere to the guidelines will also face a fine of up to USD 324.