How does the sanitary-epidemiological service treat an apartment for bedbugs? - briefly
The sanitary‑epidemiological authority inspects the premises, confirms infestation, and then applies a licensed insecticide or heat‑based eradication method under controlled conditions. After treatment, inspectors verify the absence of bedbugs and issue a clearance certificate.
How does the sanitary-epidemiological service treat an apartment for bedbugs? - in detail
The sanitary‑epidemiological authority initiates a bed‑bug eradication operation after receiving a formal complaint or observing signs during routine surveillance. The process consists of several clearly defined stages.
First, inspectors conduct a thorough visual examination of the premises. They use magnifying devices and portable traps to locate active infestations, record the extent of the problem, and identify hiding places such as mattress seams, box‑spring frames, cracks in walls, and upholstered furniture. Findings are entered into a standardized report, which forms the legal basis for subsequent actions.
Second, occupants are instructed to prepare the environment. Required measures typically include:
- Removing all bedding, curtains, and washable textiles and placing them in sealed plastic bags.
- Vacuuming carpets, floor joints, and upholstered surfaces, then disposing of the vacuum bag in a sealed container.
- Disassembling furniture that can be taken apart, sealing components in impermeable bags.
- Decluttering rooms to expose potential harborage sites.
Failure to comply may result in a postponement of treatment and a written notice specifying the missed actions.
Third, the service applies approved eradication techniques. The choice of method depends on infestation severity, building construction, and safety considerations:
- Heat treatment – raising room temperature to 50–60 °C for a minimum of four hours, monitored with calibrated thermometers to ensure lethal exposure for all life stages.
- Chemical application – spraying registered insecticides (pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, or desiccant dusts) according to label directions, focusing on seams, cracks, and baseboards while observing occupational safety protocols.
- Steam disinfection – directing saturated steam (≥100 °C) into crevices and upholstery where heat penetration is limited.
- Encasement – fitting mattress and box‑spring covers rated to block insects, securing them with zippered closures.
All treatments are documented with photographs, temperature logs, and pesticide usage records. Inspectors wear protective equipment and maintain ventilation standards to protect residents.
Fourth, a post‑treatment inspection occurs 7–14 days after the initial intervention. Inspectors verify the absence of live insects, eggs, or exuviae. If residual activity is detected, a repeat treatment is scheduled, and the case is escalated to a supervisory officer.
Finally, the authority issues a certification of pest‑free status, which the landlord or property manager must retain for a prescribed period (usually six months). The certification may be required for tenancy agreements, insurance claims, or health‑code compliance. Persistent non‑compliance can trigger administrative penalties, including fines or mandatory relocation of occupants.
The entire procedure follows national sanitary‑epidemiological regulations, ensuring that eradication is effective, legally documented, and safe for inhabitants.