Texas Food Managers Certification Practice Exam

An integrated pest management system (IPM) balances which two aspects?

1. Prevention and Control

2. Control and Inspection

3. Sanitation and Inspection

4. Elimination and Sanitation

The correct answer is: Prevention and Control

An integrated pest management system (IPM) is designed to effectively manage pest populations in a way that minimizes risks to human health, beneficial organisms, and the environment. The balance between prevention and control is fundamental to IPM. Prevention involves implementing proactive measures to stop pests from invading an area in the first place. This can include practices such as sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and managing the environment in ways that are not conducive to pest proliferation. Control, on the other hand, refers to the actions taken to reduce existing pest populations and includes techniques such as mechanical traps, biological controls, or chemical treatments when necessary. By balancing these two aspects, IPM promotes long-term solutions that are sustainable and less harmful, as opposed to relying solely on chemical interventions, which can lead to pest resistance and environmental damage. This holistic approach ensures that food safety and public health are maintained while managing pests effectively.