Alert Issued for Office Workers Due to Bed Bug Infestation at Government Building
Spread of Infestation
An alert has been raised for office workers following a bed bug infestation at a prominent government building, situated in Canary Wharf, London. Initially reported on one floor, the presence of bed bugs has now been confirmed to have spread throughout various parts of the building, including the 10th floor utilized by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Precautionary Measures
Employees at the affected government agency have been strongly advised to refrain from entering the premises for a minimum of two weeks. The Government Property Agency (GPA) has devised a plan to address the infestation, acknowledging that the process may extend over several weeks. While bed bugs are not considered dangerous, they pose a challenge to eliminate once established.
Control Measures
Workers have been instructed to launder their office attire at a high temperature of 60 degrees to prevent any potential spread of bed bugs. Concerningly, bed bugs are commonly found in the seams of soft furnishings within the office environment, prompting thorough inspections and treatment protocols.
Impact on Operations
Stringent checks are currently underway at alternate MHRA offices in South Mimms, Hertfordshire, with staff directed to avoid commuting between the two sites. The presence of bed bugs not only disrupts daily operations but also raises concerns regarding potential widespread infestations across the UK, following recent incidents in Paris affecting various public establishments.
Response and Mitigation
Efforts to eradicate the infestation have been intensified, with additional treatment sessions being conducted outside regular office hours to minimize workplace disruptions. Bed bug detection dogs, trained to detect pheromones emitted by these pests, are being utilized to pinpoint infested areas, mirroring procedures used for detecting drugs and explosives.
Union Response
Prospect, a prominent union representing civil servants, has initiated discussions with the Government concerning the infestation. Garry Graham, Deputy General Secretary, emphasized the significance of addressing the issue promptly, highlighting the substantial inconvenience and irritation caused by bed bug infestations. The union aims to ensure that necessary measures are taken to eradicate the problem effectively and prevent future occurrences.
Official Statement
In response to the situation, a spokesperson from the Cabinet Office confirmed the successful treatment of the initial infestation on the fourth floor. However, traces of bed bugs have been detected in other areas of the building, necessitating comprehensive treatment across all floors. To mitigate disruptions, treatment procedures are being carried out during non-working hours, including weekends.
FAQs
What precautions are workers advised to take?
Employees are strongly advised to wash their clothes at 60 degrees to prevent the spread of bed bugs.
How are bed bug detection dogs trained?
Bed bug detection dogs undergo training to detect the pheromones emitted by bed bugs, akin to the training of sniffer dogs for detecting drugs and explosives.
Why is the infestation concerning for public transportation in London?
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has expressed concerns about the potential spread of bed bugs on the capital’s public transport network, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
How has the union responded to the outbreak?
Prospect, a union representing civil servants, has engaged in discussions with the Government to address the bed bug infestation, stressing the importance of prompt action to eradicate the issue.
What steps are being taken by authorities to address the infestation?
Authorities are conducting rigorous treatment procedures throughout the building, including outside office hours, to effectively eliminate the bed bug infestation.
