Preventing Mice in the Workplace

As a business owner or office manager, maintaining a clean and productive workspace is essential—but mice can quickly disrupt even the most organized environments. These small but destructive pests can damage equipment, compromise health standards, and create unsanitary conditions.

To help you protect your office from unwanted intruders, we’ve designed a free, printable infographic filled with practical tips for both employees and employers.

Why Mouse Prevention is Important

Mice may pose serious health and safety risks in the workplace. They diseases diseases like salmonella, hantavirus, and leptospirosis through their droppings, urine, and saliva. Their constant gnawing on wires and insulation can cause fires, equipment damage, and costly downtime.

Beyond physical risks, mice create an unsanitary environment that distracts employees and lowers morale. Rodent infestations can also lead to health violations, fines, reputational damage, and even business closures.

For Employees

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1. Keep It Clean

Mice are attracted to cluttered and dirty spaces that provide nesting and feeding opportunities.

• Remove food crumbs, spills, and wrappers from desks, drawers, and common areas immediately.
• Do not leave dirty dishes in shared kitchen spaces overnight.
• Keep workspaces and shared areas like storage closets organized and free of excessive items that could serve as nesting materials.

2. Store Food Properly 

Mice have a strong sense of smell, and improperly stored food is a major attractant for mice.

• Use airtight, mouse-proof containers for all snacks, meals, and even pet food, if applicable. These containers should be made from durable materials mice can’t chew through, such as metal, glass, or sturdy plastic.
• Keep food in designated eating areas—avoid storing food inside desks!

3. Monitor Personal Belongings 

Personal items can become hiding spots for mice.

• Avoid leaving bags or boxes on the floor where mice can hide or nest.
• Store personal items like shoes or coats in closed cabinets or lockers.

4. Report Early Signs 

When signs of mice are discovered, prompt reporting helps prevent minor issues from turning into infestations.

• Inform management about droppings, gnaw marks, or other indicators of mice. 
• Alert maintenance teams about structural issues like cracks or holes in walls and flooring.

For Management

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1. Conduct Regular Inspections 

Routine inspections help identify vulnerabilities. Mice can squeeze through small gaps as small as a dime!

• Check for holes, cracks, and gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines.
• Pay special attention to areas near food storage, garbage, and utility rooms, as these locations typically contain food and nesting materials that attract mice.

2. Seal Entry Points (Exclusion) 

Blocking access and entry points is critical for mouse prevention.

• Use steel wool, caulk, or metal sheeting to block small openings.
• Install door sweeps on exterior doors to close gaps. 
• Install rodent-proof grates or screens on vents and drains. 

3. Maintain Building Perimeters 

Mice often find entry through poorly maintained outdoor areas.

• Trim vegetation near the office building, as overgrown plants provide shelter for mice. 
• Keep dumpsters and outdoor trash areas clean and far from entrances. 

4. Update Sanitation Protocols 

Consistent cleaning practices reduce attractants.

• Schedule regular cleaning for common areas, focusing on kitchens, pantries, and trash collection points. 
• Hire professional cleaners to deep-clean storage rooms, basements, and less frequented areas. 

5. Pest Control Services 

Pest control professionals offer expertise, tools, and techniques that can enhance in-house efforts.

• Work with a pest control company to implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies tailored to your space. 
• Schedule routine inspections and install glue boards in high-risk areas to detect and mitigate risks early. 

Wrapping Up

A mouse-free workplace requires vigilance and collaboration. By adopting these preventive measures, employees and management can significantly reduce the risk of infestations and create a safer, healthier environment.

For expert assistance, contact MMPC today. Our pest control professionals provide customized strategies to keep your workplace rodent-free and compliant with health and safety regulations.