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Pest Control in Structures

Insects, rodents and birds find shelter and food in farm structures. The safest control starts with keeping them out and removing what attracts them, with chemicals as a careful last step.

Why does pest control belong in a safety plan?

Pests spoil feed, contaminate stored products, chew wiring and insulation, spread disease and weaken wood. Many of these problems become safety problems, such as a fire from gnawed wires or a fall through a rotted floor.

The tools used to control pests can also hurt people, animals and the environment when they are chosen or handled badly. A good plan treats prevention as the main tool and reserves chemicals for when they are truly needed. Birds, wasps and stinging insects can also nest in structures, and cleaning out their nests brings its own risks, including allergic reactions. Ask a professional about large nests, and do not work from a ladder near stinging insects.

What does prevention look like?

Pests need food, water and shelter. Take away any of the three and their numbers fall. Walk your buildings looking for the easy ways in and the easy meals.

• Seal gaps around doors, vents, pipes and foundations
• Store feed and grain in tight containers
• Clean up spills quickly
• Remove clutter, junk piles and tall weeds next to buildings
• Fix leaks and standing water
• Dispose of dead animals and waste promptly

What is integrated pest management?

Integrated pest management is a common approach that combines inspection, prevention, monitoring and the least risky control that works. It starts by identifying the pest, because the wrong treatment wastes money and can cause harm.

Your Extension office can help identify pests and explain the options for your region. Ask what methods are available that are physical or mechanical before reaching for a chemical, and how to know whether the problem is getting better. Keep records of what you tried and what happened. If a method does not work after a fair trial, go back to identification rather than simply applying more product.

How do I use pesticides safely?

Treat the product label as the authority. The label is a legal document that states where, how and by whom a product may be used, along with protective equipment and storage directions. Do not use any product in a way the label does not allow.

Warning: never transfer products to unmarked containers, mix products unless the label allows it or apply them near feed, water or animals unless the label says that is acceptable. Some products require a certified applicator, and rules vary by state. Contact your state agriculture department and the EPA for information on licensing and labels.

What if someone is exposed?

Pesticide poisoning can happen through skin, breathing or swallowing. If someone shows symptoms or has swallowed a product, call 911 or Poison Control right away and have the product label ready. Do not induce vomiting or try home remedies unless a medical professional directs you.

Learn where your nearest poison information resources are before you need them, and post the numbers where workers can see them. Use official sources such as the CDC and EPA for details rather than relying on advice passed around informally.

How do I protect children, pets and animals?

Store all pest control products locked and out of reach, in their original containers. Keep children and animals out of treated areas for as long as the label directs, and place bait products where only the target pest can reach them.

Remember that rodent baits and traps can harm cats, dogs, wildlife and farm animals that eat poisoned pests. Ask a pest professional or Extension agent about placements that reduce those risks. Bring up any allergies in your household before treating areas where stinging insects are active, and keep an emergency plan for anyone who has had a severe reaction.

When should I hire a professional?

A licensed pest control operator can inspect, identify and use methods that suit your buildings. Ask for credentials and check them with your state agency. Choose based on training and approach, and ask what steps they take to protect people and animals.

Keep written records of what was applied, where and when. They help you assess whether the plan works and can answer questions from inspectors, buyers or doctors later. Hired help should be told about hazards in treated areas and about any waiting period before re-entry, which comes from the product label. Ask your Extension office whether they offer classes on safe pesticide use or integrated pest management, which many do for farm families.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.