VITAL services in Pembrokeshire could be at risk of fortnight-long shutdowns in the event of a rodent infestation, if the Senedd introduces a total ban on glue boards across Wales.
National trade body, British Pest Control Association (BPCA), is calling for an exemption to be included in the legislation which would allow professional pest controllers to use glue boards under licence.
If glue boards are banned completely, the alternative control methods are snap traps or rodenticides – both of which can take around two weeks to work.
Ian Andrew, Chief Executive at BPCA, said: “When used by pest management professionals, glue boards are the fastest and most efficient way to tackle an established mouse infestation.
“Without an alternative to glue boards, it’s possible we’ll see school lunchrooms closed and hospital wards shut while waiting for a single mouse to be caught.
“It also poses a risk for families who can’t leave their home while a traditional treatment takes place.
“Rats and mice both carry diseases on their feet and fur – and two weeks living in an infested home can be both risky and distressing.”
BPCA supports the ban of retail sales and amateur-use of glue boards proposed in the Agriculture (Wales) Bill, but is calling on Members of the Senedd to bring in a licensing scheme that would allow pest professionals to continue using them.
Mr Andrew added: “A typical consumer should never be able to purchase glue boards. They do not have the training to deploy glue boards safely without accidentally capturing non-target animals.
“But a total ban on glue boards would remove a tool that helps protect some of the most vulnerable people and high-risk environments.
“No other tools work quicker than rodent glue boards. We have no viable alternatives to glue boards when speed is crucial. Without access to glue boards, people may become seriously ill and potentially die.”
Members of BPCA work to the Association’s Code of Conduct are trained and qualified technicians who carry the correct insurances and are assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636.