Press Room

Orkin and NSF International Launch myauditprep.com

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 14:20:43 -0400

New automated web tool counts down days to next audit,dispenses pest control and food safety tips, reminders, action lists

Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin has partnered with NSF International, an independent, third-party public health organization, to help food processing and warehouse facilities prepare their pest control programs for food safety audits via myauditprep.com.

“The idea for myauditprep.com was born when we asked several of our contacts in the food industry how they stayed on top of their audit preparation duties. Some of them were setting up calendar invites or relying on memory,” said Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., Orkin’s Director of Quality Systems, which provides quality assurance inspections to Orkin’s food processing customers. “Given the level of detail and the importance of pest control during a food safety audit, we wanted to give them a more efficient and reliable way to manage their pest management responsibilities.”

To use the new tool, food processing and warehouse personnel simply go to myauditprep.com and enter their next audit date. The web tool counts down the days until the user’s next audit and sends reminders and tips on important dates via email.

“Users can also have the recommendations emailed automatically to their team members so everyone is on the same schedule,” noted Jim Bail, NSF International’s Director of Technical Services. “The idea is to help food processors avoid surprises and establish an effective food quality and pesmanagement program.”

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries, including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, health care, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

About NSF International

NSF International is an independent, not-for-profit organization that certifies products and writes standards for food, water and consumer goods to minimize adverse health effects and protect the environment (www.nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting public health and safety worldwide, operating in more than 120 countries. NSF is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Food and Water Safety and Indoor Environment.

NSF’s Food Safety Services offers growers, processors, distributors, retailers and food-service operators a total food safety solution. Services include: food safety and quality auditing and certification through NSF Davis Fresh and NSF Cook & Thurber; Global Food Safety Initiative-benchmarked standards (SQF, BRC, Global Gap, FSSC, IFS, Dutch HACCP); NSF’s Restaurant and Supermarket Food Safety programs; MSC, ACC, HACCP validation and inspection through the NSF Surefish Seafood Safety program; organic certification provided by QAI (Quality Assurance International); bottled water/flavored beverage certification; and management systems registrations through NSF International Strategic Registrations, Ltd.

NSF International also provides high caliber Training and Educational materials in the areas of food safety and water quality. Courses are taught by highly-skilled trainers with a deep understanding in their respective industries. Impacting public health on a local level, trainings are offered in cities throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. For current course offerings and more information, visit the NSF Training and Education Web site.

A Wake-Up Call: Bed Bugs Migrate into the Workplace

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:25:25 -0400

Orkin’s Bed Bug Treatments in Commercial Properties on the Rise

Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin identified that bed bugs are making the move among commercial properties. New analysis of its commercial bed bug treatments over the past 10 years reveals that bed bugs, initially confined to the hospitality industry, have steadily increased their presence in multifamily and, more recently, commercial real estate properties.

With the hospitality and multifamily industries on the front lines of the bed bug resurgence, the potential for business travelers and apartment-dwelling employees to pick up bed bugs and bring them into the office has greatly increased. This exposure created a perfect storm for commercial real estate. Orkin conducted a survey with the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International in early 2010 and found that one in 10 respondents reported bed bug incidents in a commercial property.

“Ten percent may not sound significant at first,” noted Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin’s director of technical services. “But it is a concerning statistic when you consider that these properties don’t represent the typical bed bug habitat — a place where people sleep.”

Harrison spoke at the BOMA International annual conference in June to address the impending threat to commercial property managers and building owners, noting that Orkin’s bed bug treatments in commercial properties more than tripled from 2008 to 2009.

“At BOMA International, we felt it was important to be proactive in presenting this information to our members,” said BOMA Senior Vice President Patricia M. Areno, CAE. “Commercial real estate leaders have the opportunity to educate themselves and their tenants to prepare for a possible bed bug epidemic.”

Bed bugs are reddish-brown blood-feeders roughly the size and shape of apple seeds. The nocturnal pests surfaced from nearly a half-century of inactivity in the early part of this decade, predominantly in hotels. Increased international travel and a more targeted approach to pest control contributed to bed bugs reestablishing a presence in the U.S. Nationally, Orkin saw bed bug treatments double from 2008 to 2009, a trend it expects will continue this year. While New York City has been in the news recently for its efforts to curb bed bugs, the top five hot spots for bed bug activity, according to Orkin treatment data, are Cincinnati and Columbus, Ohio, followed by Chicago, Denver and Detroit.

Orkin’s treatments in commercial real estate are still limited when compared with the hospitality and multifamily industries. In Orkin’s Midwest Commercial Region, which services four of the company’s top five bed bug cities, office building treatments range from 10-15 per month. Harrison hopes that the educational measures Orkin has initiated will keep it that way, even as high-profile incidents like retail store infestations in the Northeast garner nationwide media exposure.

“Commercial real estate is facing what multifamily dwellings faced a few years ago,” said Harrison, who remembers the number of bed bug incidents in multifamily housing significantly increasing in 2008.

Unlike sparsely furnished hotel rooms, apartments and condos contain personal belongings and more furniture, providing ample shelter for bed bugs. Orkin experts also observe that apartment dwellers often recycle furniture from prior residents, which can perpetuate an existing infestation. By the close of the decade and for the first time since bed bugs resurfaced, Orkin treatments in multifamily properties exceeded those in hospitality, in some regions by three or four times the volume.

Harrison collaborated with the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI) earlier this year on a bed bug white paper and a series of webinars for property management professionals, and participated in the National Apartment Association’s annual conference.

“In addition to learning identification and remediation techniques, apartment management professionals were eager to discuss how to communicate with residents about bed bug prevention,” said Maureen Lambe, CAE, executive vice president of the NAA Education Institute. “Our members recognize that good communication and resident cooperation are critical to successful remediation.”

Bed Bug Resources for Multifamily and Commercial Properties:

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Hosts Conference for Middle Eastern Franchise Owners

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 10:08:29 -0400

Abdel Naser Rahhal Named International Franchisee of the Year

Orkin, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc., recently hosted a conference for its Middle Eastern franchise owners to provide sales and marketing updates as well as training and business development best practices. Franchise owners from the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Cyprus, Turkey and Saudi Arabia attended the meeting in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.

“I was very pleased to assemble this group to discuss common issues and ways Orkin can continue to grow its services in the region,” said Tom Luczynski, Orkin vice president of international development and franchising. “The meeting was a tremendous success and I look forward to the next meeting in early 2011.”

During the conference, Abdel Naser Rahhal, franchise owner of Orkin United Arab Emirates, was named the 2010 Orkin International Franchisee of the Year. His franchise, which employs 125 professionals, includes a call center, a technical laboratory and a training center where employees can continue their education on the latest pest management techniques.

The three-day international conference gave Orkin franchise owners the opportunity to present sales and service information from their individual franchises. Guest speakers included Bill Barrs, district manager from industrial chemical distributor Univar; Frank Meek, Orkin international technical and training director; and Kathleen Reynolds, Orkin senior marketing manager. Orkin has international franchises in 16 countries with more than 30 offices worldwide.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries, including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin at http://www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Acquires Local Pest Control Company

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 15:27:53 -0400

Pest Control Leader Expands Service Area in Southern Texas.

Orkin, the Atlanta-based pest control leader, recently expanded its employee base and service area with the acquisition of Redi-National Pest Eliminators near Tyler, Texas.

“We look forward to expanding Orkin’s customer base in Texas and gaining valuable local employees,” said Bob Hines, director of acquisitions for Orkin. “We welcome the opportunity to work with the Redi-National team to continue to provide local residents and businesses with quality pest control service.”

Bobbi and Lloyd Robertson founded Redi-National Pest Eliminators nearly 25 years ago. Following the acquisition, Bobbi Robertson will retire from the business and Lloyd Robertson will join Orkin’s Tyler branch as a service manager. Redi-National’s employees will join Orkin’s Tyler branch.

Orkin’s locations in Dallas also support the Tyler area.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries, including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin at http://www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Expands to Turkey

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 15:18:33 -0400

Pest Control Leader Increases European Presence.

Rollins, Inc., a nationwide consumer services company (NYSE: ROL), announced today that the company, through its wholly owned subsidiary Orkin, will begin providing pest control service in Turkey in the second half of 2010. Turkey marks the sixteenth international country Orkin services.

“Turkey encounters many of the same pests we encounter in the U.S., like cockroaches, ants, house flies and rodents,” said Tom Luczynski, Orkin vice president of international development and franchising. “We are excited to bring our pest control expertise and excellent customer service to Turkey.”

Orkin will offer primarily commercial pest control service, along with some additional residential services, throughout the country. Firat Imamzade, currently involved in the pest control and chemical distribution business, will own and operate the franchises.

“We are pleased to partner with Orkin to bring superior pest control to residences and businesses in Turkey,” said Imamzade.

Dr. Zeliha Imamzade, technical and training director for Orkin Turkey and wife of Firat Imamzade, has completed the initial franchise training in Atlanta, Orkin’s U.S. headquarters, at the company’s award-winning training center.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries, including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin at http://www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Shares Tips to Reduce Pests’ Summer Sting

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 10:32:32 -0400

For many families, summer means pool parties and backyard barbeques. But where there is fun for kids, there are safety concerns for parents — like how to prevent sunburn, poolside accidents or insect bites and stings. According to Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin, while most summer bugs like June beetles are just nuisances, summer bees, wasps and mosquitoes — and their stings or bites — can cause serious health issues.

In fact, while most insect bites and stings are not life threatening, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s website reports thousands of people are stung by insects each year and as many as 90–100 people in the U.S. die as a result of allergic reactions.

“Everyone can relate to the fear of bee stings or irritation of mosquito bites during summer months,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin technical director. “People with severe allergic reactions especially should try to avoid certain flying and stinging pests.”

Wasps, including hornets, yellow jackets and paper wasps, can sting multiple times and generally are more aggressive than bees, which can sting only once before dying. But stings from both bees and wasps can cause side effects ranging from nausea, fainting and — in extreme cases — death.

According to Children’s Hospital Boston, one of the largest U.S. pediatric medical centers, approximately two million people in the U.S. are allergic to bee stings, and three percent of children who are stung will experience systemic allergic reactions. To reduce bee or wasp stings, Orkin recommends regular yard monitoring for nests and professional wasp control, which experts should complete at dawn, dusk and/or night, when most insects are in the nest.

While the ever-dreaded summer mosquito doesn’t sting, its bite can spread West Nile virus and other viruses that cause encephalitis, or swelling of the brain. According to the CDC, more than 29,000 cases of West Nile virus have been reported in the U.S., including 1,160 deaths, since it was first identified here in 1999.

In addition to outdoor mosquito control, Orkin recommends the following pest control tips this summer:

Apply an EPA-approved insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing to deter mosquitoes.
Empty standing water from birdbaths or flowerpots to reduce mosquito habitats.
Thin vegetation around the home to help reduce locations that can hide mosquitoes, and bee and wasp nests.
Fit screens and tighten seals properly on doors and windows to prevent pest entry.
Cover food and drink containers to help limit food sources for bees and wasps.
Call a licensed pest control professional for nest treatment and removal, and mosquito and other summer pest control services.
People who experience severe allergic reactions to stings should consult a physician immediately when stung.

To view a video with summer safety pest tips, visit http://www.orkin.com/ask-the-orkin-man/summersafety.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries, including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin at http://www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Memorial Day Weekend Pest Report and Tips

Tue, 25 May 2010 16:12:56 -0400

Whether your Memorial Day weekend plans include a picnic in the park, a backyard barbeque, or lakeside leisure, pests are sure to attend. According to Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin, effective pest control starts with understanding pest behavior.

“Memorial Day unofficially kicks off the outdoor season and — in many areas like the Southeast — peak pest season,” says Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin technical director. “Understanding what attracts flies, ants and mosquitoes to popular outdoor events helps people prepare for and reduce pest activity.”

Ant habitats, or nests, are often in lawns or tree stumps. As the weather warms and their metabolisms increase, ants leave their nests and forage for food, making backyard barbeques easy targets. Some species, including little black ants, eat meat, honeydew, vegetables and oily foods — the perfect picnic spread. Once they locate food, ants release invisible scent trails with pheromones for nest mates to follow.

The common house fly — one of many pesky flies — can transmit bacteria every time it lands according to the FDA. These filthy pests are attracted to decaying organic matter and sugars.

To keep ants and flies at bay, Orkin suggests these helpful tips:

Tightly seal all food and drink containers
Clean up spills quickly
Mow yards and trim vegetation
Empty and wash garbage cans regularly
Hire a licensed pest control professional

Biting, disease-transmitting mosquitoes can also ruin outdoor fun. Learning mosquito facts can help you avoid bites. For example, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are most likely to bite between dusk and dawn. If you’re outdoors from sunset to sunrise this weekend, Orkin recommends wearing long sleeves and an EPA-registered insect repellent on exposed skin or clothing.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries, including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

The Buzz on Mosquito Season

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 10:49:16 -0400

A Wet Winter and Warming Temperatures Have Mosquitoes Landing Early

The 2009–2010 winter, which dropped record amounts of snow and rain on many parts of the country, is one of the wettest winters on record. Now, unseasonably warm April weather is breaking high temperature records with the mercury reaching into the eighties. With a wet winter melting into a warm spring, an intense mosquito season could be in the forecast.

Mosquitoes can become active in early spring, but high temperatures in June, July and August typically make summer the peak season for the pest. Summer-like temperatures earlier in the year could lead to an extended mosquito season. Orkin’s mosquito treatment service, which experiences high retention from existing customers, has already seen a 5 percent increase in sales from new customers this year.

“When considering the mosquito activity in a given area, we look at two main environmental factors: warmth and moisture,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin entomologist and technical director. “The winter snow and rain levels, coupled with a quick rise in spring temperature, have created optimal mosquito conditions,” added Harrison.

In addition to irritating bites, mosquitoes can spread the deadly West Nile virus and other types of viral encephalitis, among other diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), serious symptoms of West Nile virus can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, disorientation and paralysis. The 2009 incidences of West Nile virus dropped to 663 cases from 1,356 cases in 2008, likely due to widespread drought. Thirty cases were fatal, adding to the 1,130 West Nile deaths in the U.S. since the virus was first identified here in 1999.

According to the CDC’s Web site, the number of West Nile virus cases can fluctuate year to year, but mosquito activity is seen throughout the country. Orkin offers the following tips to homeowners to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of disease transmission:

When outdoors, spray an EPA-registered insect repellent on exposed skin or on clothing. For greater protection, wear long sleeves, long pants and socks. Prime biting hours for most mosquitoes [that spread West Nile virus] are between dusk and dawn.
Empty standing water from gutters, birdbaths or flower pots, and thin vegetation around the home.
Make sure screens on windows and doors fit tightly and have no holes, to prevent entry.
Call a pest control professional for information on mosquito control services.

Though the primary concern stateside is West Nile virus, mosquito-transmitted malaria is deadly in Africa. To address this issue, Orkin initiated the Fight the Bite campaign. For each mosquito service sold, Orkin donates funds for one long-lasting, insecticide-treated bed net to Nothing But Nets, a global, grassroots campaign of the United Nations Foundation. Now in the third year of the partnership, Orkin pledges to donate $225,000 to purchase and distribute nets and to educate African communities about their proper use. To kick off 2010, Martha Craft, vice president of public relations and communications for Rollins, Inc., Orkin’s parent company, and Julie Stone, Orkin new customer specialist, traveled to Africa to see firsthand how Orkin’s donated mosquito nets are being used. To learn more about Orkin’s Fight the Bite campaign and mosquito control service, visit nets.orkin.com.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries, including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

White Paper and Tip Sheet Provide Bed Bug Solutions

Thu, 13 May 2010 11:01:32 -0400

NAAEI and Orkin offer perspective and tips for property managers

Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin and the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI) have released a new white paper about the challenging issue of bed bugs in multifamily properties and a tip sheet property managers can use to educate residents.

“Our members continue to express concern about bed bugs and want to learn more about their role in bed bug prevention and how to handle infestations,” said NAAEI Executive Vice President Maureen Lambe. “Orkin answered the call by hosting educational webinars and developing this white paper with us to address some of the main questions from the pest management perspective.”

Orkin Entomologist and Technical Services Director Ron Harrison, Ph.D., and W. Michael Semko, Esq., in-house counsel for NAA and director of the NAA National Lease program, examine the challenges multifamily environments pose for bed bug detection, remediation and responsibility. The white paper also discusses the elements of a successful bed bug policy, treatment protocols to consider and advice for avoiding litigation.

Orkin and NAAEI’s “Don’t Let Them Bite Our Community” tip sheet includes a basic overview of bed bug characteristics so residents can accurately identify and quickly report sightings.

“While bed bug education for property managers is growing more and more important, resident communication is an absolute must,” said Dr. Harrison. “Since monitoring for bed bugs is a fundamental part of any preventive pest management program, your residents need to know what to look for and what to do in the event bed bugs are present.”

The white paper and resident tip sheet are both available for complimentary download on Orkin University Online on Orkincommercial.com.

About NAAEI

The National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI) is the education arm of the National Apartment Association. The mission of the NAAEI is to provide broad-based education, training and recruitment programs that attract, nurture and retain high-quality professionals and develop tomorrow’s apartment industry leaders. To learn more about NAAEI visit www.naahq.org/education.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL). To learn more about Orkin Commercial Services, visit www.orkincommercial.com

Experts Agree Spring Cleaning Can Help Control Pests

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 15:29:42 -0400

Orkin Shares Tips to Protect Homes From Spiders, Cockroaches and Carpenter Bees

The first day of spring has come and gone, but what about the dust and grime that built up over the winter? A thorough spring cleaning inside and outside homes is more than just a dirt- and clutter-buster. Orkin experts confirm it can help protect homes from common spring pests, including spiders, cockroaches and carpenter bees.

“After a stormy winter with consistently cool weather, warmth- and moisture-seeking pests will become more active and visible across the U.S. as temperatures rise,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin technical director. “As homeowners clean out closets and replace window screens, they should look for areas around their homes that can offer pests moisture, food and access.”

Both cockroaches and spiders can enter homes through small cracks and crevices and then hide in low traffic areas. Diligent cleaners may find spiders in dark, damp basements and crawl spaces, or drier, warmer areas near air vents and attics, depending on the species. While most spiders are not aggressive, they often are a warning sign that other pests they eat, including cockroaches, may be inside the home. Cockroaches typically are found near water and food sources in kitchen, laundry, bathroom and storage areas. Cockroaches are known to reproduce quickly — for each one you see, many more could be hiding behind the walls.

“When spring cleaning, if an item is worth saving, it also is worth protecting from humidity, dust and pests,” said Laura Ray, owner of Laura Ray Organizing and member of the National Association of Professional Organizers. “Simple changes like switching from cardboard to plastic storage containers and keeping items off the floor can help homeowners get organized and reduce pest activity.”

Outside of homes, Orkin experts suggest homeowners look for signs of wood damage as they clean out gutters and trim landscaping. Wood-destroying pests, including carpenter bees, can burrow into exposed, dry wood in homes, decks and fence posts. Homeowners may mistake carpenter bee damage for termite damage. Carpenter bee damage often appears as 1/2-inch holes in raw, painted or stained wood.

As homeowners tackle indoor and outdoor spring cleaning, Harrison recommends focusing on the following steps to help prevent pest activity:

Reduce moisture sources. Leaky faucets indoors and downspouts outdoors offer the water spiders, cockroaches and other pests need to survive.
Remove food temptations. Food debris left behind in grocery bags can provide a meal for pests. Carpenter bees, termites and wood-boring beetles are known to damage untreated wood around homes and yards.
Toss the clutter. Old keepsakes and unused equipment piled up in basements and garages can conceal pest entry points and offer shelter.

For a video with more cleaning tips to reduce spring pest activity, visit use http://www.orkin.com/ask-the-orkin-man/spring-cleaning.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Termite Activity in Southeast Marks Brink of Spring

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:17:33 -0400

Break in Cold Front Triggers Termite Swarms in Southeastern Cities, Including Atlanta and Orlando

Despite the wintry mix recently blanketing parts of the country, the Southeast is seeing the first signs of spring: slightly warmer weather and termite swarms. As temperature changes prompt most people to prepare for the balmy months ahead, pests also begin stirring. In fact, Orkin branches in Georgia and Florida reported subterranean termite swarms in late February, marking the onset of pre-spring pest activity in the South.

“Georgia and Florida experienced an unusually cold winter,” said Matt Peterson, Orkin southeast division technical services manager. “Recent snow and rain keep termites out of sight and mind for most homeowners, but we have already seen temperature spikes trigger termite swarms in cities throughout our region.”

It may be hard for people to believe termites can endure the cold, but Peterson says these 250-million-year-old insects know how to survive and are actually active year-round. “Rising temperatures turn the excess rain, snow and ice that have accumulated in the Southeast into perfect moisture conditions for subterranean termites — just in time for spring.”

Subterranean termites, which live underground in the soil, are the most widespread and destructive group of termites in the U.S., according to University of Georgia entomologist Dan Suiter, Ph. D. Because they thrive in humid climates with temperatures above 60 degrees, these termites are most common in the South and Southeast. Subterranean termites are typically most active in April, but homeowners can begin to see swarms as early as February.

Orkin’s Orlando branch manager, Todd Kemp, said, “If seeing is believing, homeowners can look for common warning signs — mud tubes, swarming termites and piles of discarded wings.” He explained that subterranean termites build mud tubes as protective bridges between their colonies and the wood they feed on. When temperatures spike, termites often swarm inside the home before quickly moving outdoors in search of food and water. Many shed their wings after taking flight, forming large piles in and around homes.

Kemp warned that homeowners should not dismiss these warning signs or assume the insects are flying ants, a common misperception based on appearance, given the destructive capabilities of termites. According to the National Pest Management Association, termites cause more than $5 billion in damage every year in the United States.

Peterson urged homeowners to remember that termite activity and damage can be subtle. Some signs — like termite damage in crawl spaces — are more difficult to see and can require a professional termite inspection. Also, swarms can occur in seasons other than spring. In fact, drywood termites, which do not need moisture from the soil to survive, typically peak in May and June. Peterson says drywood termites represent 80 percent of Orkin’s termite business in South Florida and can be seen as early as May.

For an interactive map of termite activity by region, visit www.termites101.org.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Avoid Sharing Your Spring Break with Bed Bugs

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:22:33 -0500

Cheaper Hotel Rates Likely to Spur Increased Spring Travel

Sunscreen? Check. Bathing suit? Check. Bed Bugs? Uh-oh.

Cheaper, economy-driven domestic hotel fares may lead spring breakers back to sunny destinations, but vacationers need to watch out for bed bugs. These nocturnal, blood-sucking critters tend to settle in places where humans sleep, particularly hotel rooms. In fact, Orkin has found bed bug infestations in all 48 U.S. states where it operates.

“Traveling is what bed bugs do best. They’re hitchhikers,” said Matt Peterson, Orkin southeast division technical services manager. “And they may try to take advantage of travelers as we take advantage of great hotel prices during spring break.”

Adult bed bugs resemble appleseeds in size and color, and feed on human blood. They can crawl into personal belongings such as luggage, clothing or other items, and then hitch a ride to other rooms or locations miles away. Increased travel can mean increased transport of bed bugs to and from places like hotels, resorts, cruise ships, dorms and homes.

According to Bing.com’s “Fareologists,” domestic hotel rates in popular spring break markets are down 15 percent in 2010 compared to 2009, meaning many students and families can afford to hit the road after deferring vacations last year.

“When traveling, the last souvenirs you want to bring home are bed bug bites or actual bed bugs themselves,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin technical director. “Getting rid of bed bugs at home — once you have them — can be very difficult without a professional.”

Unlike many pests, sanitation is not a factor when it comes to bed bugs. These bugs are just as likely to show up in a five-star resort as a roadside motel. Orkin pest specialists recommend travelers take these simple steps to avoid spreading bed bugs:

Inspect the mattress. Pull back the sheets and look for black, ink-like spots on the mattress seams or box spring, which may indicate bed bug activity. If you see such spots, alert hotel management immediately.
Examine the luggage rack. Bed bugs may hide in the rack’s cracks and crevices. If you do not find any signs of bed bugs, use the rack to hold your luggage. Never put luggage on the floor.
Perform a thorough inspection on your luggage. Before you check out, inspect your luggage and clothing for stowaway bed bugs. When you return home, store luggage in the garage and machine wash and dry your clothes immediately.

Currently, bed bugs are not known to transmit disease. However, red marks or swelling may develop around the bite area, depending on the sensitivity of the victim. Because bed bug infestations are often challenging to control, Orkin recommends travelers take precautions to avoid contacting and spreading these pests. For more information on bed bugs, including a video with inspection tips, visit http://blog.orkin.com.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

New Videos Offer Free Training on Bed Bug Prevention in Health Care

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:26:40 -0500

Atlanta-based pest-control company Orkin Commercial Services, has posted a series of free, online videos that help health care providers identify and prevent a bed bug infestation – an increasing problem in health care facilities. The videos are taken from Orkin’s presentation at the American Society for Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES) Annual Conference, “Pulling Back the Sheets on the Bed Bugs Controversy.”

In the videos, Orkin entomologist William Lawrence, Ph.D., B.C.E., explains the basics of bed bug behavior; options for monitoring, prevention and treatment in health care facilities; and how the health care industry can develop a plan to protect against bed bugs.

“Bed bugs have staged a real comeback over the past decade and health care professionals are eager to find comprehensive information on how to help prevent them,” said ASHES Executive Director Patti Costello. “We asked Orkin to share their insights at the ASHES conference so health care professionals could gain a better understanding of the practical issues and solutions surrounding these persistent pests.”

“Orkin works with thousands of health care and long-term care facilities, and from our experience, early detection is vital,” said Dr. Lawrence. “Bed bugs are extremely difficult to control once established in a facility, so continuous inspection and monitoring are fundamental parts of any program.”

Health care professionals can access the educational videos in the Health Care section of orkincommercial.com, under the Solutions tab. Following the AHE Annual Conference, Orkin also distributed a complimentary white paper with additional bed bug management recommendations, available for download at www.ahe.org and on www.HealthCarePestControl.com, an online resource center for health care pest management.

About ASHES

The Association for the Healthcare Environment is the premier professional association for environmental services, housekeeping, waste management and textile care professionals in the healthcare industry. AHE provides educational programs, opportunities to network with peers on a national level, recognition for personal and professional achievements, as well as affiliation and collaboration with the American Hospital Association on public policy and advocacy issues related to environmental services. See www.ahe.org for more information.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL). To learn more about Orkin Commercial Services, visit www.orkincommercial.com.

On Demand Audit Preparation

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:23:09 -0500

Orkin Commercial Services and NSF International Release Audit Training Video

Atlanta-based pest-control company Orkin Commercial Services has partnered with NSF International, a public health and safety organization, to develop a free online training video that offers tips and helps prepare food processors for the pest control portion of their third-party audits.

The video features an Orkin pest management expert with 15 years in the industry and a 35-year NSF International food safety veteran with more than 10 years of experience auditing food processing facilities. The video follows both experts as they walk through a working food processing facility and highlight common areas where food processors are likely to lose points on their third-party audits. The video, Two Experts, One Customer, is available on Orkincommercial.com under the Orkin University tab.

“This video provides a quick and easy review for food processors before their own third-party audit,” said Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., director of quality systems for Orkin. “Having both a pest management expert and an auditor highlight possible areas of deficiency provides insight into what goes through an auditor’s mind.”

A leading authority on food safety, NSF International has previously collaborated with Orkin on educational resources for food processors – bringing a valuable auditor’s perspective.

Orkin and NSF’s Pre-Audit Checklist provides a step-by-step checklist and pest control recommendations for food processing, manufacturing, and storage facilities preparing for third-party food safety audits.

The short 15-question Sanitation and Storage Quiz allows facilities to evaluate and improve their practices for sanitation and storage.

Both are available under the Orkin University tab on Orkincommercial.com and on the NSF Training and Education Web site.

“The new video provides essential training information for any company preparing for a food safety audit,” said Jim Bail, director food safety and quality, NSF International. “By providing the basics in food safety, companies can help make sure that they have the proper quality control procedures in place and are ready for the rigorous inspection.”

Additional training videos available on Orkin University Online include:

The ABCs of Pest Habitat Modification, in which Orkin Technical Director Ron Harrison, Ph.D., shows how food processors can make their facility less "pest-friendly" long before any chemical treatments are applied.

In 5 Steps to a Better Audit, Dr. Siddiqi shares tips to help food processors improve their next food-safety audit score.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL). To learn more about Orkin Commercial Services, visit www.orkincommercial.com.

About NSF International

NSF International, an independent, not-for-profit organization, certifies products and writes standards for food, water and consumer goods (www.nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting public health and safety worldwide. NSF is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Food and Water Safety and Indoor Environment. Additional services include safety audits for the food and water industries, management systems registrations delivered through NSF International Strategic Registrations, Ltd., and organic certification provided by QAI (Quality Assurance International).

NSF International also provides high caliber training and educational materials in the areas of food safety and water quality. Courses are taught by skilled trainers with a deep understanding in their respective industries who make classes more meaningful through their own “hands on” experience. Impacting public health on a local level, trainings are offered in cities throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. For current course offerings and more information, visit the NSF Training and Education Web site.

Orkin Wins Food Processing Readers Choice Award

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:17:28 -0500

Atlanta-based pest-control company Orkin Commercial Services received the Readers’ Choice Award for pest management from Food Processing magazine, a leading trade publication within the food and beverage industry.

Atlanta-based pest-control company Orkin Commercial Services received the Readers’ Choice Award for pest management from Food Processing magazine, a leading trade publication within the food and beverage industry.

The Food Processing Readers’ Choice Awards recognize the top suppliers of more than 50 product categories in the food processing industry, based on responses to an online survey of the publication’s readers.

The winners are featured in Food Processing’s March 2010 issue and on the magazine’s Web site, www.foodprocessing.com.

“At Orkin we strive not only to be the nation’s best pest control company, but the nation’s best service company, delivering both quality and value to our customers,” said Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., director of quality systems for Orkin. “It is great to know we are accomplishing that. By investing in our employees we continue to see outstanding results for our customers.”

Orkin holds the highest standards for customer service with their Gold Medal Protection clients averaging better than 95% on the pest management portions of their third-party audits (based on surveys of Orkin’s Gold Medal Protection customers). These standards meet and often exceed the requirements of every major independent auditor.

Orkin’s success serving the food processing industry stems from an extensive internal training program that has received its own accolades. Every year since 2003, Orkin has been the only pest control company named to Training magazine’s Top 125 list of organizations that excel at human capital development.

Orkin is committed to training its employees well beyond the classroom. In addition to formal accredited class work at Purdue University, treatment techniques conforming to AIB International standards, and industry specific protocols, Orkin also offers the “Orkin TV” Satellite Training Network for the most up-to-date pest management training for all its employees.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL). To learn more about Orkin Commercial Services, visit www.orkincommercial.com.

Orkin Still Hiring Despite High Unemployment

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 09:08:21 -0500

Pest Control Leader Recognized for Training and Mentoring Programs

Despite the record-high unemployment rate, Orkin, a respected pest control leader for more than a century, has announced more than 100 job openings throughout the U.S. Orkin has continued to grow its business and is hiring new employees to keep up with the demand for quality pest control services. In addition to adding more jobs, Orkin is committed to giving employees the skills and knowledge they need to provide unequalled customer service, maintain the company’s competitive advantage and achieve their career goals through award-winning training programs.

As a result of its commitment to provide the best pest control training in the industry, Training magazine has recognized Orkin as a Top 125 training company. Training also has recognized Orkin with an Outstanding Training Initiative award for its Women’s Resource Group’s (WRG) Diamond Partnership Mentoring Program. Recognizing the lack of women in the pest management industry, the WRG was formed to recruit more women into Orkin and foster the professional growth of the company’s existing female leaders. The WRG implemented the mentor program, which matches experienced female managers with newer hires, to develop and promote more women into management roles.

To view job opportunities with Orkin, visit Orkin on Monster.com or on CareerBuilder.com.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Technician Named Residential Technician of the Year

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:25:19 -0500

PCT Magazine Honors Greenville Resident for Exemplary Service and Knowledge

Randy Miller was named Residential Technician of the Year by Pest Control Technology (PCT) magazine in the publication’s January edition. Miller, an Orkin pest control technician and Greenville resident, will be recognized at a special awards ceremony at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., during the National Pest Management Association’s Legislative Day on March 2.

Now in its 13th year, the PCT Technician of the Year Award recognizes the qualities that define an exemplary pest control professional. A panel of four industry professionals reviewed each candidate’s credentials and selected three winners, including Miller, from three categories: Residential, Commercial and Termite. Technicians were nominated for their excellent customer service, pest control knowledge and contributions to their company.

“We are proud that Randy is receiving this award from PCT for his extensive pest control knowledge and interpersonal skills,” said John Wilson, president of Orkin USA. “Randy is a true example of Orkin’s dedication to industry-leading pest control service.”

Miller joined the pest control industry after 23 years in the Navy where he served as a Preventive Medicine Technician (PMT). As a PMT, Miller became a certified pesticide applicator and treated for mosquitoes and ticks in combat or disaster areas. He retired from the Navy in 1999 and became a mosquito service technician for the state of Maryland. The following year, Miller joined Orkin as a termite inspector in Waldorf, Md. His ability to build value into every service, vast knowledge of pest control and the contributions he’s made to the company have been the keys to his success. Today, he lives with his wife, Diane, in Greenville, S.C.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Establishes First Franchise in Ireland

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:28:31 -0500

Pest Control Leader Expands European Presence

Rollins, Inc., a nationwide consumer services company (NYSE: ROL), announced today that the Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Orkin, has established a new international franchise in Ireland. This franchise is Orkin’s first in Ireland and the company’s 15th international franchise worldwide.

“Because of Ireland’s temperate climate and large amount of rainfall, the country has pest issues that include rodents and a number of insects,” said Tom Luczynski, Orkin vice president of international development and franchising. “We are pleased to establish a presence in Ireland and provide the country with quality pest control services to help with these pest issues.”

The franchise will offer primarily commercial pest control service, along with some additional residential services, to Ireland. Donal Butterly, a prominent Dublin businessman, is the franchise owner. Orkin Ireland will begin operations in Dublin in March.

Butterly will travel to Atlanta, Orkin’s U.S. headquarters, for initial training at the Company’s award-winning training center this month before returning to Dublin to complete his training.

“We are pleased to open an Orkin franchise in Ireland,” said Butterly. “Irish businesses and residents will benefit from the superior pest control services Orkin provides to its customers.”

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Named to Training Magazine’s Top 125 for Eighth Straight Year

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:26:12 -0500

Training magazine recognized Atlanta-based Orkin as a Top 125 company at its annual awards banquet on Feb. 1. Orkin, a pest control leader for more than a century, ranked No. 59 in 2010, up from No. 83 in 2009. This is the eighth consecutive year the pest control company received a Top 125 ranking. Training selects this prestigious list of companies based on programs tied to business objectives, best training practices and outstanding training initiatives, among other criteria.

Training also recognized Orkin with an Outstanding Training Initiative award for its Women’s Resource Group’s (WRG) Diamond Partnership Mentoring Program. Recognizing the lack of women in the pest management industry, Rollins, Inc., Orkin’s parent company, formed the WRG initiative to help recruit more women into Rollins’ family of pest control companies, and foster the professional growth of female leaders already employed. The WRG implemented the mentor program, which matches experienced female managers with new hires, to develop and promote more women into management roles.

“The women involved in this program said they felt more confident and more knowledgeable about the industry as a result of their training and mentor relationships,” said Chandra Stephens, Rollins’ director of learning solutions and leader of the WRG pilot mentoring program. “This pilot clearly enhances the professional growth of our female field leaders in all the Rollins companies, and we plan to continue the program.”

To ensure that every initiative supports the professional development of the company’s employees, Rollins recently established a corporate learning steering committee. This team ensures each aspect of training aligns with and supports Rollins’ overall strategic business goals.

“The training program we have in place today is the result of years of examining and refining our efforts and selecting the best methods to train our employees,” said David Lamb, Rollins’ vice president of learning and media services. “We’ve blended our best practices into a comprehensive program that sets us apart from our competitors and directly supports our goal of being the best service company in the world.”

The foundation of Orkin’s blended training approach is Orkin TV, a satellite television network launched in 2006. Orkin’s expert technical instructors lead live, interactive trainings on new techniques and important public health information. Participants use a viewer response device to respond to surveys and quiz questions, and instructors can provide feedback on their performance.

The live satellite broadcasts are combined with on-the-job training and self-directed training. Employees can track their self-directed training in Orkin’s learning management system as they view videos on demand, complete interactive videos on demand and participate in other Web-based training. Certified Field Trainers, Orkin pest control technicians schooled in coaching and training techniques, assist employees in applying what they have learned in the satellite classes and self-directed study.

In addition, Orkin University, a multi-million dollar training facility, is the pest control industry’s premier hands-on training center. This Atlanta facility includes a restaurant, commercial kitchen, hospital room, hotel room, supermarket, warehouse space and a full-sized, fully functional house for applied learning of pest and termite control methods. Cut-away walls and examples of common building practices provide commercial and residential trainees with first-hand knowledge of what to expect when servicing customers across the country.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Establishes First Franchise in Jamaica

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 09:10:24 -0500

Pest Control Leader Expands Caribbean Presence

Rollins, Inc., a nationwide consumer services company (NYSE: ROL), announced today that the Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Orkin, has established a new international franchise in Jamaica. This franchise is Orkin’s first in Jamaica and the company’s 14th international franchise worldwide.

“Tropical climates and the related pest pressures create an increased need for quality pest control services,” said Tom Luczynski, Orkin vice president of international development and franchising. “We are pleased to increase our growing international presence and meet the pest control needs of customers in Jamaica.”

The franchise will offer both residential and commercial pest control and termite services to the entire island of Jamaica. Kenneth Benjamin, a prominent Jamaican businessman, is the franchise owner through his company, Guardsman Services Limited.

Franchise employees will travel to Atlanta, Orkin’s U.S. headquarters, for initial training at the Company’s award-winning training center before returning to Jamaica to complete their training.

“We are excited to partner with Orkin and become the first Orkin franchise in Jamaica,” said Benjamin. “The entire island will benefit from the Company’s high-quality pest control services.”

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Rollins, Inc. Announces Executive Promotions

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 09:09:02 -0500

Rollins, Inc., a nationwide consumer services company (NYSE: ROL), announced today the promotion of Gene Iarocci to vice president of Corporate Administration. Additionally, the Company announced the promotion of Freeman Elliott to vice president of Orkin’s Atlantic Division and the addition of Greg Clendenin as president of Orkin’s Southeast Division. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins.

“Our employees have made Rollins the leader in the pest control industry,” said Gary W. Rollins, president and CEO of Rollins. “The leadership of these three individuals will allow us to continue to execute our business plans, expand our company and provide our customers with extraordinary pest control service.”

Iarocci has more than 20 years experience in multi-unit management with a number of service and manufacturing industries, including Union Carbide Corporation where he worked for 24 years. He has been with Orkin for seven years, serving most recently as president of Orkin’s Atlantic Division before his promotion to vice president of Rollins’ Corporate Administration.

Elliott began his Orkin career as a lawn care technician in 1991, following graduation from the University of Georgia. He quickly moved through the Company, working as service manager, branch manager, national service manager and most recently, assistant to the president of Orkin’s Atlantic Division. In his new role, Elliott will oversee approximately 70 locations in Orkin’s Atlantic Division.

Clendenin joins Orkin with 30 years of pest control industry experience. Most recently, he was president and CEO for Middleton Lawn and Pest Control and before that, COO of Sears Authorized Termite & Pest Control. Clendenin is a highly respected industry leader and will oversee 63 locations in Orkin’s Southeast Division.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/ facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Establishes New Branch in Loudon County

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:27:07 -0500

Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin has opened a new branch in Ashburn, Va. This branch will serve primarily Loudon County, Va., including the cities of Sterling, Purcellville, Middleburg and Leesburg. The service area will also include the surrounding cities of Reston, Herndon and Chantilly.

“Prior to the new branch opening, the area north of Route 66 up to the Potomac River and west of the Fairfax County Parkway was serviced by three different branches in Manassas, Vienna and Annandale,” said Ryan Rutherford, branch manager. “The new Ashburn branch will allow us to efficiently meet the needs of the area’s existing and potential customers by opening a branch closer to them.”

The branch will employ 17 people including Rutherford, who will oversee the daily operations of the new operation. Terrence Starcher, of Reston, Va., and James Murphy, of South Riding, Va., will be service managers for the new branch.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and the Mediterranean. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin Establishes First Branch in Puerto Rico

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 09:39:54 -0500

Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin today announced the opening of a new branch in San Juan, Puerto Rico. With more than 400 locations throughout North and Central America, this branch marks the first Orkin location in Puerto Rico.

Orkin established a branch in Puerto Rico after identifying it as an area with a growing demand for quality pest control service. The Company presently services a number of its national account customers located on the island using subcontracted pest control companies. With the Puerto Rico branch, Orkin will be able to deliver those services directly and take advantage of the growth potential that exists in the commercial and residential markets.

“Orkin is committed to establishing long-term relationships with its customers and co-workers. By creating a presence in Puerto Rico, we’ll increase our reach and better meet the needs of existing and potential customers,” said John Wilson, President of Orkin USA. “We look forward to strengthening the relationships we currently have there and establishing new ones with businesses and homeowners on the island.”

Branch Manager Antonio Fajardo-Fernandez will oversee the company’s Puerto Rico operation. Fajardo-Fernandez brings five years of industry experience and a wealth of knowledge about the region to Orkin.

“We are excited to have Tony on our team,” said Jose Rodriquez, Orkin’s region manager who oversees the territory that now includes Puerto Rico. “He has extensive experience in managing start-up and growth operations in our industry and others in the Caribbean region.”

About Orkin

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, LLC is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our website at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin, Inc. Establishes First Franchise in Lebanon

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:54:21 -0500

Pest Control Leader Expands International Presence

Orkin, Inc., the Atlanta-based pest control leader, has established a new international franchise in Lebanon. This franchise is Orkin’s sixth in the Middle East and the company’s 13th international franchise worldwide.

“Our expansion in the Middle East represents the growing brand recognition that Orkin continues to develop in the region,” said Tom Luczynski, Orkin vice president of international development and franchising. “We are pleased to meet the growing demand for quality pest control services worldwide.”

The franchise will focus primarily on commercial pest control, but also will offer residential and termite services. Franchise Owner Samer El Khoury recently traveled to Orkin’s headquarters and award-winning training center in Atlanta to complete the initial franchise training program. El Khoury and the other franchise co-owners and staff will participate in additional training in Lebanon.

“We are excited to partner with Orkin to provide our customers in Lebanon with the high-quality pest control services they need and deserve,” said El Khoury.

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our website at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin, Inc. Promotes Wilson to President of Orkin USA

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:51:21 -0500

Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin, Inc. recently promoted John Wilson to president of Orkin USA, a newly established position. Wilson will oversee Orkin’s five division presidents and the vice president of sales operations.

Wilson joined Orkin in 1996 and has held various positions of increasing responsibility, serving as a technician, sales inspector, branch manager, region manager, vice president and division president. His most senior positions have included Southeast Division president, Atlantic Division vice president and Central Commercial region manager.

“John is a quality leader with a wealth of business knowledge and more than 12 years of experience at Orkin,” said Glen Rollins, Orkin president, CEO and COO. “In serving at several levels of the company, John has learned our business intimately and we look forward to his continued contributions in the years ahead.”

Prior to joining Orkin, Wilson held various management positions with Morrison Restaurants, Inc., most recently serving as director of new restaurant development for the Southeast. A graduate of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tenn., Wilson also completed the Executive Masters in Business Administration Program at the University of Virginia.

About Orkin, Inc.

The Votes Are In, Spiders Win

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 07:14:30 -0400

Spiders Voted Scariest Pest in Orkin’s First-Ever “Scariest Pest Halloween Poll”

Results from Orkin’s first-ever “Scariest Pest Halloween Poll” reveal spiders, one of Halloween’s quintessential icons, are the scariest pests of 2009. According to Orkin experts, the pests people consider (and voted) the scariest are not necessarily the most dangerous.

From October 1 – 23, the Atlanta-based pest control leader invited people to vote online at Halloween.Orkin.com for one of six spine-chilling pests. Following are the scariest pest rankings and percentages from the online poll:

Spooky spiders (30 percent)
Hair-raising rodents (27 percent)
Creepy cockroaches (23 percent)
Terrifying ticks (10 percent)
Freaky flying/stinging insects (6 percent)
Menacing mosquitoes (4 percent)

Similar to plastic spider rings and cotton web decorations that run rampant this holiday season, most of the 3,500 spider species found in the United States — even if they bite — cause little harm to humans. However, the following few spider species rank among the most dangerous pests in North America because of their potentially harmful and even deadly bites:

According to Ron Harrison, Ph.D., technical director for Orkin, Inc., the few dangerous spider species like the black widow and brown recluse are so well known that people overlook the great benefit spiders provide. “Their food sources — moths, flies, cockroaches, bees and other bugs — are the same insects that pester us. Because of that, their presence in or around our homes is a good indicator that we have a larger pest issue that needs attention.”

Harrison does not ignore the fact that most people consider spiders scary, or that they should protect themselves against spider bites. He offers these tips to make homes less attractive to spiders:

Target their food source. Contact a licensed pest management professional to first control the insects that are attracting spiders to your home.
Sweep, dust, clean and remove clutter to make areas uncomfortable for spiders, which often like to hide.
Seal off potential entries like cracks and crevices, spaces under doors, holes in screens, etc.

Harrison also warns that homeowners should understand the risks posed by rodents, cockroaches, mosquitoes, ticks and flying/stinging insects. Although not voted the scariest, these pests are some of the world’s most dangerous because of the diseases they can carry and health threats they pose.

Following are Harrison’s rankings for the most dangerous pests:

Blood-Suckers: Mosquitoes top Harrison’s list as they pose a significant danger to public health throughout the world — transmitting West Nile virus, malaria and yellow fever. Harrison warns that ticks — associated with Colorado Tick Fever, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme disease — are actually the number one transmitter of disease in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 28,000 confirmed cases of Lyme disease were reported in the U.S. in 2008.
Creepy Crawlers (including poll-topping spiders): In addition to eliciting a scream, rodents can transmit numerous diseases — including Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and LCMV — through their urine, feces and bites. Cockroaches can cause more than the chills, transferring pathogens from the decaying matter they live and breed in to food and food-preparation areas. With their cast skins producing allergens, cockroaches have been proven to cause allergic reactions and even asthma.
Stingers: Some species of flying and stinging insects are known to protect their nests aggressively and inflict painful stings on intruders. Stings from yellow jackets, hornets and wasps can cause swelling, become infected easily and also aggravate skin conditions and allergies.

According to Orkin, Halloween’s cold weather often sparks an increase in activity from the creepy crawlers, but whatever the season, people should protect themselves and their homes from these scary and potentially dangerous pests. For more facts about frightful pests, visit orkin.com.

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

United States' Best Receive 2009 Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:07:24 -0400

Winners Take Integrated Pest Management Top Honors

Four American companies were named 2009 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award winners by Orkin, Inc., The IPM Institute of North America, and NSF Cook & Thurber for their outstanding commitment to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) partnerships.

IPM, an environmentally friendly pest management approach, emphasizes multiple methods of non-chemical pest control and prevention. These four winners in the food processing industry utilize Orkin’s Gold Medal Protection, a comprehensive IPM service offering that focuses on vigilant sanitation, prompt adherence to structural pest management recommendations, diligent record-keeping and staff participation in IPM training sessions.

“An effective IPM program centers on a strong partnership between a facility and its pest management provider,” said Orkin Director of Quality Systems Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “This year’s winners exemplify what it takes to achieve IPM success. We commend them for going the extra mile to realize their pest management goals.

The 2009 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award winners selected from an elite group of 40 nominees throughout the United States include:

Farbest Brands (Plain City, OH) – Custom manufacturer of liquid and dry products and distributor of specialty food ingredients and a 2007 Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards winner.
PETCO Distribution Center #198 (Joliet, IL) – One of three main distribution centers for the leading specialty retailer of premium pet food and supplies.
Saddle Creek Corporation – Del Monte Foods (Fort Worth, TX) – Warehousing and distribution facility for Del Monte Foods products.
Tyson Foods – Monroe Facility (Monroe, NC) – Poultry processing facility for the world’s largest processor of chicken, beef and pork.

Now in its sixth year, the Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards began as an effort by Orkin and The IPM Institute of North America to encourage the use of IPM and other environmentally friendly pest management practices.

“Our 2009 Award winners are the cream of the crop,” said Dr. Thomas Green, president of The IPM Institute of North America. “We’re thrilled to recognize these top facilities for their excellence in the preventive maintenance and sanitation practices that define a true IPM program.”

As a co-presenter, NSF Cook & Thurber brings to the program its food safety auditing expertise.

“IPM programs are absolutely critical to food safety and quality assurance,” said Jim Bail, director of technical services, NSF International. “With pest control being a significant portion of food processors’ third-party audits, facilities must take active measures to ensure their pest management programs are top notch. This year’s Award winners set a great example for other facilities as they prepare for their next audits.”

About the Awards Jury

Jim Bail, Director of Technical Services, NSF International
Austin Frishman, Ph.D., B.C.E., Founder and President of AMF Pest Management Services, Inc.
Dawn H. Gouge, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Associate Specialist - Community IPM, University of Arizona
Thomas A. Green, Ph.D., President, The IPM Institute of North America, Inc.
Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Director of Technical Services, Orkin, Inc.
Frank Meek, B.C.E., Technical Director, Orkin, Inc.
Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., B.C.E., Director of Quality Systems, Orkin, Inc.

About Orkin

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America and the Middle East. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin Commercial Services by visiting www.orkincommercial.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

About The IPM Institute of North America

The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. is an independent non-profit organization formed in 1998 to foster recognition and rewards in the marketplace for goods and service providers who practice IPM. The Institute’s mission is to accelerate adoption of IPM in agriculture and communities through consumer education and development of IPM standards for self-evaluation and IPM certification. The Institute is funded by grants from government, private foundations and industry, memberships and fees for services and programs. Learn more at www.ipminstitute.org.

About NSF Cook & Thurber

NSF Cook & Thurber is a division of NSF International, an independent, not-for-profit organization, that helps protect you by certifying products and writing standards for food, water and consumer goods (www.nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting public health and safety worldwide. NSF is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Food and Water Safety and Indoor Environment. Additional services include safety audits for the food and water industries, management systems registrations delivered through NSF International Strategic Registrations, Ltd., organic certification provided by Quality Assurance International and education through the NSF Center for Public Health Education.

Orkin Receives 2009 WebAward from Web Marketing Association

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:24:30 -0400

Orkin.com Named “Best Diversified Business Website”

The Web Marketing Association recently recognized www.orkin.com, the consumer Web site for Atlanta-based pest control provider Orkin, Inc., as the winner of its 2009 WebAward for “Best Diversified Business Website.” The annual award competition honors the best Web sites from companies in 96 industries around the world.

An independent panel of expert judges selects WebAward winners based on the following criteria: design, ease of use, copywriting, interactivity, use of technology, innovation and content. This year was the 13th year for the annual competition.

“This WebAward is a testament to the hard work of our team and partner agency, THINK Interactive, Inc., in creating and maintaining an engaging, informative site on pest and termite control,” said Rob Crigler, assistant vice president of digital strategy and acquisition for Orkin. “Orkin.com allows visitors to engage with our brand, learn about pests and understand how they can partner with Orkin to keep pests in their place.”

The 2009 WebAward is Orkin’s first award in recognition of its online marketing. Since www.orkin.com first launched as an online brochure in 1997, the site has evolved to include a learning center with pest identification and treatment facts, service schedule request options, regional pest information and access to Orkin’s popular television commercials.

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

About THINK Interactive, Inc.

THINK Interactive, Inc. is an Atlanta-based interactive marketing agency specializing in the development of smart ideas. These ideas and the initiatives they fuel successfully engage key audiences with client brands in ways that help strengthen business. Since 1995, THINK has helped a diverse mix of Fortune 1000 clients integrate the Web, mobile and new media into their marketing programs. For more information on THINK, please visit the company’s Web site at www.thinkinc.com.

Orkin and NSF International Prep Foodservice Operators for Health Inspections

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 14:22:02 -0400

ATLANTA, September 30, 2008 – Orkin Commercial Services has partnered with NSF International to provide free educational resources to the foodservice industry. Each online tool equips business owners and operators in the fight against pests, while preparing them for health inspections.

A leading independent provider of food safety services, NSF International collaborated with Orkin on two Orkin University tools for foodservice providers – bringing a valuable third party perspective. The educational tools can be downloaded at www.orkincommercial.com under the “About Orkin” menu.

“Orkin’s partnership with NSF International allows us to bring the most up-to-date food safety educational and training materials to foodservice operators,” said Zia Siddiqi, PhD, director of quality systems for Orkin, Inc. “We want to prepare these businesses for the crucial pest control portion of health inspections.”

Orkin University tools certified by NSF help foodservice operators maintain best practices for sanitation, and prepare for health inspections:

- Before Your Next Health Inspection is available in English and Spanish and provides restaurant managers and employees with a task list to help them prepare for health inspections, or simply train employees in best food-safety practices.

- Sanitation and Storage Quiz is a tool to see how facilities rank in best practices for sanitation and storage. It’s a short 15-question quiz that can help managers improve sanitation measures.

NSF International is an independent organization that certifies products and writes standards for food, water and consumer goods. Both Orkin and NSF International share a common goal of protecting food safety. In addition to the NSF reviewed materials, Orkin University also provides a series of training videos on the “ABCs of Pest Habitat Modification.” For the past six years, Orkin has been named one of Training magazine’s Top 125 firms that excel in human capital development.

About NSF International
NSF International is an independent, not-for-profit organization, that helps protect you by certifying products and writing standards for food, water and consumer goods (www.nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting public health and safety worldwide. NSF is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Food and Water Safety and Indoor Environment. Additional services include safety audits for the food and water industries, management systems registrations delivered through NSF International Strategic Registrations, Ltd., and organic certification provided by Quality Assurance International.

NSF International also provides high caliber training and educational materials in the areas of food safety and water quality through its Center for Public Health Education (CPHE). CPHE courses are taught by skilled trainers with a deep understanding in their respective industries who make classes more meaningful through their own “hands on” experience. Impacting public health on a local level, CPHE offers training in cities throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. For current course offerings and more information, visit the CPHE website.

Orkin and NSF International Prep Food Processors for Audits

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 14:26:03 -0400

Orkin Commercial Services has partnered with NSF International to provide free educational resources to the food processing industry. Each online tool equips business owners and operators in the fight against pests, while preparing them for audits.

A leading independent provider of food safety services, NSF International collaborated with Orkin on two Orkin University tools for food processors – bringing a valuable auditor’s perspective. The educational tools can be downloaded at www.orkincommercial.com under the “About Orkin” menu.

“Orkin’s partnership with NSF International allows us to bring the most up-to-date food safety educational and training materials to food processors,” said Zia Siddiqi, PhD, director of quality systems for Orkin, Inc. “We want to prepare these businesses for the crucial pest control portion of audits.”

Orkin University tools certified by NSF help facilities maintain best practices for sanitation and prepare for audits:

- Pre-Audit Checklist provides a step-by-step checklist and pest control recommendations for food processing, manufacturing, and storage facilities preparing for third-party food safety audits.

- Sanitation and Storage Quiz is a tool to see how facilities rank in best practices for sanitation and storage. It’s a short 15-question quiz that can help managers improve sanitation measures.

NSF International is an independent organization that certifies products and writes standards for food, water and consumer goods. In addition to partnering on training materials, Orkin and NSF Cook & Thurber – a division of NSF International – co-sponsor the Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards to honor food processors and packaging facilities that excel at Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Environmentally friendly IPM programs manage pests effectively, protect food safety and support better audit performance.

Orkin University also provides training videos on “5 Steps to a Better Audit” and “ABCs of Pest Habitat Modification.” For the past six years, Orkin has been named one of Training magazine’s Top 125 firms that excel in human capital development.

About NSF International
NSF International is an independent, not-for-profit organization, that helps protect you by certifying products and writing standards for food, water and consumer goods (www.nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting public health and safety worldwide. NSF is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Food and Water Safety and Indoor Environment. Additional services include safety audits for the food and water industries, management systems registrations delivered through NSF International Strategic Registrations, Ltd., and organic certification provided by Quality Assurance International.

NSF International also provides high caliber training and educational materials in the areas of food safety and water quality through its Center for Public Health Education (CPHE). CPHE courses are taught by skilled trainers with a deep understanding in their respective industries who make classes more meaningful through their own “hands on” experience. Impacting public health on a local level, CPHE offers training in cities throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. For current course offerings and more information, visit the CPHE website.

As Fall Weather Rolls In, Keep Out Rodents

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 10:27:04 -0400

As you adjust the thermostat for cooler fall temperatures, remember that unwanted pests like rats and mice will be looking for a warm place to nest. Pest proofing your home now can help prevent these rodents from settling in for the winter.

Just like you use a coat to stay warm, rodents use specific techniques to help maintain their body temperature in cooler weather — such as seeking shelter inside your home. Fall evenings as mild as those in the mid-50s can send rodents indoors to search for warmth.

Looking for places to nest, rodents may seek out ways to get inside your home. Rats can squeeze through quarter-sized holes and mice can enter dime-sized holes. Since rodents can enlarge any size hole by gnawing, seal all gaps as wide as a pencil with weather-resistant caulking or sealant.

Rodents also can carry and spread a variety of diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, rodents can spread viruses or bacteria through their urine or droppings that can cause diseases such as hantavirus, which causes flu-like symptoms, and LCMV, which causes inflammation of the brain. The fleas and mites rodents carry also can transmit harmful diseases.

“Unfortunately, most homeowners take a reactive approach to pest control and do not think about pest prevention,” says Orkin, Inc. Technical Director Ron Harrison, Ph.D. “We recommend proactively preventing rodent infestations by reducing entry points before the cooler temperatures arrive.”

To help stop rodents from entering and nesting in your home this winter, Harrison recommends taking the following preventive steps this fall:

Install weatherstripping at the bottom and sides of exterior doors.
Seal all cracks and crevices to keep out rodents — and insects.
Store firewood on a raised platform away from the house.
Pick up and store pet food overnight.
Take out garbage and vacuum frequently.
Regularly inspect the exterior and interior of homes for droppings, nests and burrows.

Prevention is key when it comes to rodent control. Once mice and rats are inside your home, they can be difficult to locate and remove. If you suspect rodent activity, partner with a licensed pest control professional to help inspect your home and develop a treatment plan.

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin, Inc. Names Kelley-Tunis Division Technical Manager

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:01:32 -0500

Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin, Inc. recently added Kim Kelley-Tunis as its Atlantic division technical services manager.

Kelley-Tunis will be based in Raleigh, N.C., and work directly with Orkin’s Atlantic division branches to provide professional technical expertise and training on customer service and pest treatment approaches. In addition to assisting branches with specific pest issues, Kelley-Tunis also will oversee technical training and development initiatives.

“Kim has both technical expertise and enthusiasm for customer service — both key characteristics we look for in every Orkin employee,” said Gene Iarocci, Orkin Atlantic division president. “Her academic research background and nearly 15 years of experience in the pest management industry will help her provide valuable insight to our branches in the Atlantic division.”

After graduating from Purdue University with a degree in wildlife science, Kelley-Tunis researched the biology, behavior and control of multiple pests at Purdue’s Center for Urban and Industrial Pest Management. Prior to joining Orkin, she served as the director of education and training at McCloud Services, where she was responsible for continuing education programs, new employee orientation and client-based educational programs.

A recognized industry expert who was named one of Pest Control Technology’s “40 under 40” in 2004, Kelley-Tunis is a sought-after speaker at pest control industry seminars and conferences. She has written articles for several trade magazines and journals.

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Rollins, Inc. Names Crump Vice President of Program Management

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:57:18 -0500

Craft Promoted to Vice President of Public Relations and Corporate Communications

Atlanta-based Rollins, Inc., a national consumer and commercial services company, recently added Lee W. Crump to its executive team as the vice president of program management. Crump will manage the resources, budget, processes and reporting for all Rollins brand projects. Rollins also promoted Martha Craft to vice president of public relations and corporate communications, where she will be responsible for the strategic direction of internal and external communications for each of Rollins’ pest control

subsidiaries, including Orkin, Inc.

Crump brings more than 30 years of experience to Rollins, including nine years as a vice president at pest control company Terminix. Crump is a certified project management professional (PMP) and holds the PMP credential from the Project Management Institute.

“Lee’s depth of business knowledge and experience will provide valuable support for Rollins’ continued growth worldwide,” said Glen Rollins, Rollins executive vice president. “We look forward to his contributions to the Rollins project management office.”

Craft joined Orkin, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, in 1999, and has since received numerous national and regional awards for her work on the company’s communications programs. Craft has established and expanded corporate partnerships and programs between Orkin and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Safety Foundation, National Science Teachers Association and United Nations Foundation, among others.

“In her nearly ten years with us, Martha has helped educate Americans around the country about pests and the Orkin brand,” said Rollins. “I am confident she will serve as a strong leader for all of Rollins’ brands moving forward.”

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our Web site at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

Orkin, Inc. Announces Executive Promotions

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 10:30:15 -0400

Company’s Operations Executives Elevated to Division Presidents

Orkin, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc., announced today the promotion of five operations executives to Division Presidents. These include Gene A. Iarocci, President of Orkin’s Atlantic Division; Gary L. Rowell, President of Orkin’s Pacific Division; G. Harry Sargent, President of Orkin’s South Central Division; Robert T. Stevens, President of Orkin’s Midwest Division; and John Wilson, President of Orkin’s Southeast Division. Also promoted was D. Thomas Walters to President of Western Pest Services. Western is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins.

These new Division Presidents join Gary Muldoon, President of Orkin Canada, and Bob Wanzer, President of HomeTeam Pest Defense (also a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins), in top leadership roles.

Also announced today, Glen W. Rollins, Orkin President and COO, was promoted to Executive Vice President of Rollins, Inc. and CEO of Orkin, Inc.

“This is an exciting time for Rollins as we continue to expand our vision for the company and execute our business plan. Our company is very fortunate to have leaders of this quality and ability to fulfill these important roles,” said Gary W. Rollins, President and CEO of Rollins, Inc., parent company of Orkin. “Each of these executives is deserving of these promotions, having successfully served the company for many years.”

About Orkin, Inc.

Diners Blogging about Bugs

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:50:05 -0400

Orkin Study of Online Reviews Reveals "Zero Tolerance" for Pests

Dishing on the latest dining out experience only takes a matter of seconds now as restaurant patrons blog, text and tweet to update the world about their latest meal. A study released today by Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Inc. shows that diners are blogging about pests in restaurants and they have “zero tolerance” for any uninvited guests at their table.

Orkin partnered with international hospitality and linguistic experts John Crotts, Ph.D., and Peyton Mason, Ph.D., to determine the frequency of pest mentions on travel and restaurant review blogs, and the resulting impact of these encounters on guests’ loyalty.

Of those restaurant patrons encountering pests, 87 percent would not dine at the establishment again, nor recommend the restaurant to others. This was 62 percent greater than if no pest was mentioned in the review.

“When a pest is present, the potential for a positive recommendation is severely diminished,” said John Crotts, Ph.D., primary investigator for the study and professor of hospitality and tourism management at the College of Charleston. “We found when a pest was encountered, the willingness of a restaurant patron to dine again and recommend to others diminished by more than 50 percent, regardless of the quality of food, service and surroundings.”

Using the Google blog index, 3,200,497 blog postings about U.S. hotels and restaurants were reviewed for mentions of pest encounters in 2008. Then, Crotts randomly selected and analyzed 500 blog narratives using language analysis – allowing the researchers to evaluate the impact of pest encounters on guests’ loyalty to those hotels, motels and restaurants.

“Whether five star or fast food, no restaurant is immune to pests – or negative blog reviews mentioning pests,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., director of technical services for Orkin, Inc. “It only takes one pest to earn your establishment a negative review – meaning a proactive pest management program is a must for any establishment serious about protecting their reputation.”

The study found that pest encounters lead to blog narratives that focus on the pest rather than other aspects of the restaurant such as price and service. Words such as “awful,” “dirty” and “disgusted” often appeared alongside pest mentions. In comparison, guests who did not encounter a pest at the same restaurant were more likely to mention the meal and specific foods, as well as significantly more likely to use words such as “great,” “terrific,” and “good.”

“Disgust is not too strong a word to characterize consumer reactions to a pest in a restaurant,” said Crotts. “The best way to describe guest reaction to pests is zero-tolerance.”

Visit FiveStarList.com to read the full research report and download helpful resources created in partnership with NSF International, an independent organization that certifies products and writes standards for food, water and consumer goods.

Before Your Next Health Inspection provides restaurant managers and employees with a task list to help them prepare for health inspections, or simply train employees in best food-safety practices. This resource is available in English and Spanish.

Sanitation and Storage Quiz is a tool to determine how facilities rank in best practices for sanitation and storage. This short, 15-question quiz can help managers improve sanitation measures.

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc . is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our website at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL). To learn more about Orkin Commercial Services, visit www.orkincommercial.com.

About the Researchers

John Crotts, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the College of Charleston. His research encompasses the areas of economic psychology, tourism marketing and sales strategy, and management of cooperative alliances. In 2004 and 2007, Crotts was ranked in the top 20 list of scholars worldwide for his published research productivity by the Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Education and Journal of Tourism Management respectively. He serves on numerous editorial boards for hospitality and tourism research journals.

Peyton Mason, Ph.D., is the founder of Linguistic Insights, Inc. His quantitative approach to the analysis of consumers’ language comes from more than 20 years of market and new product research experience. He previously managed new product development and consumer research for Bank of America, Lipton (Unilever), Anheuser-Busch and Kellogg’s.

Hotel Guests Blogging about Bugs

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:43:00 -0400

Orkin Study of Online Reviews Reveals “Zero Tolerance” for Pests

Summer is in full swing as travelers book their tickets, pack their bags – and now – blog, text and tweet to update the world about their vacations. A study released today by Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Inc. shows that hotel guests are blogging about pests in hotels, and they have “zero tolerance” for things that go bump – or bite – in the night.

“Studies of other types of hotel service failures do not compare to the reaction guests have to pests. In virtually all of the blog narratives we reviewed, attempts of hotel management to remedy the situation had no effect on recovering guest loyalty,” said John Crotts, Ph.D., primary investigator for the study and professor of hospitality and tourism management at the College of Charleston. “Unlike a rude employee, a meal served cold, or a broken air conditioner, observing a pest was deemed a failure management could not overcome.”

Out of 2.89 million hotel blog posts reviewed, more than 1 in 100 mentioned a pest in the narrative:

61.5 percent of the pest mentions cited occurred at unrated, and one to two diamond/star properties.
27.3 percent of the pest mentions cited occurred at three diamond/star properties.
11.1 percent of the pest mentions cited occurred at four to five diamond/star properties.

“Whether five star or no star, no hotel or resort is immune to pests – or negative blog reviews mentioning pests,” said Crotts. “Hotel managers should know that it only takes one pest to cloud a guest’s perception of a hotel property – a single cockroach, bed bug, rodent and spider garnered negative attention, and in all but one review, sampled guests reported zero tolerance for pests.”

The study found that pest encounters lead to blog narratives that focus on the pest rather than other aspects of the hotel such as price and service. Words such as “awful,” “dirty” and “disgusted” often appeared alongside pest mentions. In comparison, guests who did not encounter a pest at the same hotel were more likely to have a positive impression of the property and their room, and to write other amenities.

“The strong measurable effect of any pest – regardless of hotel type – is significant,” said Crotts. “The presence of a pest in a single room casts a shadow over an entire property and implies to the countless consumers who look to travel blogs for recommendations that the entire facility is unclean or unhealthy.”

According to Crotts, it is difficult to recover from a pest sighting. Even when management apologizes or provides some type of compensation for the incident, customers are reluctant to return. For all pests except flies at the pool, 100 percent of bloggers would not stay again at the property, or recommend the hotel to others.

“Hoteliers should see these results as an opportunity to update their pest management programs,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., director of technical services for Orkin, Inc. “Implementing proactive processes, such as training staff to identify signs of pests, can have a big impact on catching pest problems early on – before guests do.”

Visit FiveStarList.com to read the full research report and download helpful resources like 8 Places to Check Out Before Pests Check In, a free educational checklist designed to help hotel staff identify and prevent pests in key problem areas.

About Orkin, Inc.

About the Researchers

Orkin Warns of Four Pests to Avoid This Fourth of July

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:42:44 -0400

As Americans celebrate Independence Day outdoors, pest control giant Orkin, Inc., warns about the four common pests that are most likely to crash the holiday festivities: mosquitoes, ticks, fire ants and wasps. [Professional, non-commercial b-roll and still photos of these pests are available, preview b-roll at http://tinyurl.com/orkinjulypests.]

“Pests usually are attracted to food, water and optimal temperatures, so they love July Fourth as much as anyone,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin entomologist and technical director. “By understanding what attracts these pests, people can take simple steps to protect themselves.”

Mosquitoes, which transmit malaria, encephalitis and other deadly diseases, are among the most dangerous pests in the world. Although malaria has been eliminated from the U.S., mosquitoes still spread West Nile virus (WNV) and other harmful viruses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mosquitoes that spread WNV are most likely to bite between dusk and dawn.

Ticks, most active from May through September, can transmit Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Orkin: fight the bite of mosquitoes and protect family members and pets against tick bites:

Apply an EPA-approved insect repellant on exposed skin or clothing.
Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and socks outdoors, especially when near standing water, shrubbery or tall grass.
Remove standing water from gutters, flower pots and elsewhere; mosquitoes can breed in only a thimble-full of water.
Always check family members and pets promptly after being outdoors.

Fire ants are very protective of their colonies. When threatened, they repeatedly sting, causing blisters or pustules. Wasps, including yellow jackets and hornets, can sting, causing headaches, fever, vomiting and other symptoms.

These insects can even be deadly to people allergic to their venom. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, stinging insects send more than 500,000 people to hospital emergency rooms and cause at least 40 deaths annually in the United States.

To prevent injury from stinging insects:

Seal food tightly in containers.
Cover soda cans or drink from clear cups. Yellow jackets love sugar and may enter cans unseen.
Empty and wash garbage cans regularly.
Mow yards to make ant mounds visible and avoidable.

About Orkin, Inc.

Backyard Staycations: The Perfect Swarm

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:47:45 -0400

Economic Conditions and Weather Mix to Create Perfect Environment for Mosquitoes

As Americans plan summertime activities, many are choosing to stay home and enjoy backyard vacations due to job uncertainty and rising gas prices. While outdoors, there is a good chance they will see a foreclosed home nearby. And, if they are grilling out for the first time this year, they will probably find water pooled at the bottom of the grill from a wetter than normal spring in many areas.

“Current economic and weather conditions have created the perfect storm for what could be a very troubling mosquito season,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin entomologist and technical director. “Through May, our mosquito treatments are up more than 20 percent over the first five months of last year,” added Harrison.

More than a nuisance, mosquitoes can spread West Nile virus and other types of viral encephalitis, among other diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), serious symptoms of West Nile can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, disorientation and paralysis. Of the 1,356 cases of West Nile in 2008, 44 were fatal, and there have been a total of 1,130 West Nile deaths in the U.S. since the virus was first identified here in 1999.

“The intensity of virus transmission varies from year to year and geographic area, but even during mild seasons, West Nile virus can cause severe illness and death,” said Dr. Emily Zielinski-Gutierrez, behavioral scientist for the CDC’s National Center for Zoonotic, Vector-Borne and Enteric Diseases. “However, steps can be taken to minimize the risk of West Nile virus infection.”

Orkin offers the following tips to homeowners to prevent mosquito bites:

When outdoors, spray an EPA-registered insect repellant on exposed skin or on clothing. For greater protection, wear long sleeves, long pants and socks. Prime biting hours for most mosquitoes [that spread West Nile virus] are between dusk and dawn.
Empty standing water from gutters, birdbaths or flower pots, and thin vegetation around the home.
Make sure screens on windows and doors fit tightly and have no holes, to prevent entry.
Call a pest control professional for information on mosquito control services.

Mosquitoes are not only a problem in the U.S.; they are deadly in Africa. For every mosquito service purchased in 2009, Orkin, through its Fight the Bite campaign, will donate funds for one long-lasting, insecticide-treated mosquito bed net to Nothing But Nets, a global, grassroots campaign of the United Nations Foundation. Orkin pledged at least $150,000 this year to purchase and distribute nets and to educate African communities about their proper use. By signing up for Orkin’s mosquito service, you will help send a net to save a life in Africa. For more information, visit Orkin: Fight the Bite.

About Orkin, Inc.

Ants and Cockroaches Crawl to the Top of the “Most Active Household Pests” List

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:48:45 -0400

Even as bed bug activity increases across the nation, ants and cockroaches still top the “most active household pests” list during warmer months.

“Many homeowners consider ants and cockroaches nuisance pests, but they also can cause health issues or damage buildings,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., technical director for Orkin, Inc. “Because associated risks vary by species, correct identification is crucial to protecting loved ones and homes against pests.”

Approximately 50 ant species infest U.S. homes, and some can contaminate food, sting or cause structural damage. Pharaoh ants can transmit disease organisms anywhere food is prepared. Red imported fire ants repeatedly sting anything they perceive to be threatening, causing blistering, painful pustules and even death. Carpenter ants excavate wood for their nests within the walls of decks or homes, causing severe damage and leaving trails of sawdust.

German, American and Oriental cockroaches, all active during warmer months, can spread disease-causing germs, contaminate food and cause allergies — even asthma.

To prevent infestations, Harrison recommends homeowners:

Clean up spilled food and drinks quickly
Seal any entry points around windows and doorways.
Remove clutter, such as boxes and newspapers.

For more information on ants or cockroaches, visit www.orkin.com/learningcenter.

Caption
Certain species of ants, best identified by a professional, can pose serious threats to your health and home.

Prevent Pests from Spoiling Your Outdoor Fun

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:44:54 -0400

Warm weather means Americans should take precautions to protect against ticks and mosquitoes.

Ticks, most active from May through September, can cause discomfort and transmit Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Mosquitoes can leave behind itchy welts and transmit serious viruses, including West Nile. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 28,000 cases of West Nile virus were reported in the U.S. since 1999.

“Warmer weather brings ticks and mosquitoes, so homeowners should partner with pest professionals to reduce health risks and conditions that allow pests to thrive,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., technical director for Orkin, Inc.

Orkin offers a unique mosquito control program that helps protect homeowners’ yards and raises money to help protect African families from malaria through its Fight the Bite campaign. In 2009, Orkin and its sister pest control companies will donate at least $150,000 for 15,000 insecticide-treated mosquito bed nets to the U.N. Foundations’ Nothing But Nets campaign. To get involved, visit Orkin: Fight the Bite.

For more information on mosquitoes, ticks and other pests, visit www.orkin.com/learningcenter.

Caption
A few simple actions can help protect you from warm weather pests, including mosquitoes and ticks.

Property Managers Still Focused on Pest Management Despite Economic Downturn

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:16:17 -0400

A survey released today by Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Inc. and Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International reveals that the property management industry isn’t letting the slow economy affect their pest management efforts.

A combined 90 percent of surveyed BOMA members – property managers, directors of operations and other representatives of the commercial real estate industry – have not scaled down their pest management programs as a result of the strained economic climate.
Nearly 70 percent of respondents said pest control is still “very important” to their overall building management program.

“Pests don’t consider the state of the economy when they’re looking for food, water and shelter in commercial facilities. It’s good to know that the property management industry isn’t letting a tough market and reduced budgets stand in the way of strong pest management programs,” said Orkin Director of Technical Services Dr. Ron Harrison. “Now more than ever, businesses can’t afford to be associated with pests and the unwanted attention they can bring.”

Property managers (and their tenants) want office building pest management programs to be green, too.

68 percent of respondents said that having an environmentally conscious program is “extremely important.”
• A majority of respondents (59 percent) said having a green pest management program was “extremely important” to their tenants, too.

The survey also revealed that property managers are involving their tenants in their pest management efforts, but acknowledged that they’ve got some work to do in the area of tenant education.

Nearly half (48 percent) of respondents rated “tenant satisfaction” as their top priority when it comes to pest control.
Slightly more than half (52 percent) are taking steps to educate their tenants on their properties’ pest management programs and the steps they can take to support them.
70 percent of respondents rated their tenants current knowledge of pest management and support of their program as only fair.

“If your tenants don’t know about your pest management program or why you’re doing it, they can’t possibly help,” said Dr. Harrison. “It’s the responsibility of building management to educate tenants so they’ll be on board with supporting the program.”

Property Managers can access free tenant-education resources on the Property Management section of the Industry Solutions tab of the Orkin website.

About BOMA International
Founded in 1907, the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International is an international federation of more than 100 local associations and affiliated organizations. The 18,000-plus members of BOMA International own or manage more than 9 billion square feet of commercial properties in North America and abroad. BOMA’s mission is to enhance the human, intellectual and physical assets of the commercial real estate industry through advocacy, education, research, standards and information. On the Web at www.boma.org.

CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include the Company’s expectations regarding property managers’ pest management efforts and the demand for environmentally conscious pest control programs. The actual results of the Company could differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements because of various risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, economic and competitive conditions which may adversely affect our Company’s business, and changes in various government laws and regulations, including environmental regulations. All of the foregoing risks and uncertainties are beyond the ability of the Company to control, and in many cases the Company cannot predict the risks and uncertainties that could cause its actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. A more detailed discussion of potential risks facing the Company can be found in the Report on Form 10-K filed by Rollins, Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the year ended December 31, 2008.

Orkin Acquires Four Pest Control Companies Across the U.S.

Thu, 07 May 2009 10:06:25 -0400

Pest Control Leader Expands Presence in Michigan, Hawaii and Arizona

Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin, Inc. recently expanded its employee base and service areas with the acquisitions of four pest control companies this spring — Invaders Pest Control, Inc. in Lincoln Park, Mich., Horizon Pest Management in Kea’au, Hawaii, No Bugz of Arizona, Inc. in Buckhead, Ariz., and Accurate Pest Control in Pontiac, Mich.

“Each of these companies offers valuable employees and increased opportunities for Orkin to provide excellent customer service in local communities,” said Bob Hines, director of acquisitions for Orkin.

Invaders Pest Control, a 28-year-old company with a loyal customer base, will merge with Orkin’s existing commercial branch in Detroit. Curtis Shepherd, founder and owner of Invaders Pest Control, will join Orkin to assist with the transition and customer service.

Orkin doubled its customer base on the Big Island of Hawaii with the acquisition of Horizon Pest Management, a 13-year-old company founded by David Jones and his wife, Jenipher, in Kea’au, which is near Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. Orkin employees will relocate to Horizon’s office space for the newly merged location.

Orkin’s acquisitions of No Bugz of Arizona, located just west of Phoenix in Buckhead, and Accurate Pest Control in Pontiac will expand existing service areas. Former Accurate Pest Control owner William Klingler will join Orkin.

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin Helps Homeowners Get the "411" on Pests

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:42:02 -0400

New Interactive Resource Helps Educate Consumers on Household Pests

Ever wondered what the crazy bug is that makes surprise appearances in your bathtub or kitchen sink? Now you can identify troublesome pests and summon the help of a licensed professional from your mobile phone, all with the touch of a button. Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin, Inc. has launched Orkin Pest 411™ to provide consumers with a user-friendly, interactive, mobile website to easily identify pests found in and around their homes.

“Orkin Pest 411 allows homeowners to identify pest activity early and to work with us to control a potential infestation before it gets out of hand,” said Rob Crigler, assistant vice president of digital strategy and acquisition for Orkin.

According to Crigler, Orkin Pest 411 empowers homeowners to identify pests, learn about pest behavior, understand the threats pests can pose to home and health, and contact an Orkin pest specialist to discuss treatment options. Specifically, the site enables users to:

Browse Orkin’s up-to-date pest library for images and educational information on 28 common household pests, including termites, insects, and rodents
View critical pest-related health information about specific pests
Share pest-related information with others through social networks, including Del.icio.us, Digg, Stumbleupon and Facebook
Request a consultation from an Orkin pest specialist

“This resource provides convenience and immediate information, but it also helps homeowners protect their health and property when they understand why it’s so important to keep pests in their place — out of our homes and businesses,” said Glen Rollins, president and chief operating officer of Orkin, Inc.

Orkin Pest 411 offers critical information on health risks posed by common household pests such as cockroaches, which can carry allergens that may cause allergic reactions and even asthma. It also identifies warning signs for structural pests like termites, which can cause serious damage to homes.

Orkin Pest 411 is available on the Web at http://411.orkin.com/. The free application can be accessed directly on any iPhone, iPod Touch, or Android-based device such as the T-Mobile G1 by entering http://411.orkin.com/ in the mobile browser.

Orkin partnered with Atlanta-based interactive marketing agency THINK Interactive, Inc. to develop Orkin Pest 411. THINK is also partnering with Orkin on its 2009 banner campaign and overall enhancements to Orkin’s site — www.orkin.com.

About Orkin, Inc.

About THINK Interactive, Inc.

Despite Tough Times, Americans Insist on Pest-Free Homes

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:40:11 -0400

87 Percent of Adults Polled About Pests and the Economy Agree “There Is Still No Room for Bugs in My Home"

While many Americans have slashed home maintenance budgets in this economy, a recent independent survey by Atlanta-based pest control leader Orkin, Inc. reports nearly nine in ten adults (87 percent) still refuse to tolerate pests in their homes. More than half of respondents (57 percent) also agreed that, unlike services like house cleaning, pest control is not a do-it-yourself project. Pest tolerance and treatment approaches varied by type of pest and respondents’ geographic region.

“Our homes are likely our biggest investments, which is why it is important to protect them from pests,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin, Inc. technical director. “A professional trained in pest identification and control can help reduce pests and the risks they pose to our homes and health.”

Survey respondents named severity of the pest problem and health concerns as the two most important reasons for calling an expert to control pests. According to Harrison, these responses are likely due to increased awareness around pests like bed bugs, which can be difficult for consumers to control on their own, and cockroaches, which can cause asthma. Half of adults surveyed ranked “severity of the issue or problem” as the number one reason to call an expert, while 26 percent ranked “concern for [their] family’s health” as their top priority.

Harrison says health risks and home damage caused by cockroaches and termites, respectively, also may explain consumers’ priorities for calling a professional. Survey respondents reported they are more likely to call an expert for termite control (87 percent) than any other pest. More than half would call a professional to control cockroaches (58 percent) and rodents (56 percent) — both known to carry and transmit germs that can cause disease — and bed bugs (56 percent). Only 27 percent and 24 percent of Americans would call an expert for ants and spiders, respectively.

Adults in the South were more apt to hire an expert for pest control (51 percent) than adults in the Northeast (43 percent), West (43 percent) and Midwest (41 percent), particularly when rodents, ants or spiders were involved. While Midwesterners were more tolerant of most pests than respondents from other regions, they were the most likely to call in outside help with cockroaches (67 percent).

The Orkin survey was conducted by Global Strategy Group from March 9 – 12, 2009. The interviews were conducted among 1,253 adults (aged 18 and over) living in private households across the continental U.S. The margin of error was plus or minus three percentage points.

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin, Inc. Acquires Two East Coast Pest Control Companies

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 14:39:25 -0400

Pest Control Leader Adds New Locations in New York and Virginia

Orkin, Inc., the Atlanta-based pest control leader, added valuable employees and customers with the acquisitions of Precision Pest Control, Inc. in Syracuse, N.Y., and Bob’s Termite and Pest Services in Woodbridge, Va., just before the end of 2008.

“We welcome the opportunity to expand our customer service areas in these growing markets,” said Bob Hines, director of acquisitions for Orkin. “We look forward to increasing our local presence in Syracuse and Woodbridge with the help of each location’s tenured employees.”

The acquisition of Precision Pest Control, formerly owned by Jeff and Amy Tomion, will help grow Orkin’s Syracuse and Buffalo, N.Y., locations. Precision received nearly 50 percent of its revenue from commercial pest control, a vital component of Orkin’s pest control business. The company’s tenured employees will join the Orkin team in providing local customers with quality service.

Bob Connor founded Bob’s Termite and Pest Services more than 20 years ago. Orkin has named Kevin Connor, Bob’s son and the most recent owner of the company, as the new Orkin location’s manager. Bob’s commitment to customer service and training align well with Orkin’s similar values. The acquisition is considered a wise strategic move for both companies, as Orkin gains an expanded customer base and excellent employees, while Bob’s benefits from Orkin’s well-regarded training and sales programs.

About Orkin, Inc.

Don’t Try to Save by Skimping on Pest Control

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:59:33 -0400

As Americans look for ways to reduce costs in the recession, more homeowners are scrutinizing household maintenance expenses to cut out the luxuries. While some home maintenance is a matter of do-it-yourself determination, other upkeep requires the training and skills of a professional. Structure-damaging pests, such as termites, carpenter bees and carpenter ants, can cause serious damage to homes. In fact, termite damage costs American homeowners more than $5 billion each year — an expense that can be reduced or prevented through regular inspections from a trained expert.

“Every successful pest control program begins with a partnership between the homeowners and the professionals,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., technical director for Orkin, Inc. “Routine inspections and effective treatment, especially for destructive pests like termites, require a trusted professional who has been trained in pest identification, behavior and control methods.”

According to www.termites101.org, two main species of termites threaten U.S. homes — subterranean termites that build colonies in the soil, and drywood termites that live in the framing, furniture and hardwood flooring of homes. Many homeowners believe that termites are active only in the warmer months, but actually termites can live in and around your home year-round. Some signs of activity, like swarms, are easy to detect, while other signs — like termite damage in crawl spaces — require an expert inspection.

Often mistaken for termites, carpenter ants are another wood-destroying insect commonly found in homes and are most visible during the warmer months. Like termites, they tunnel inside wood, and can thrive and cause damage in your home without visible signs of activity. Carpenter bees, on the other hand, burrow into wood, leaving perfectly round holes that are often visible from the outside. Both carpenter ants and carpenter bees are frequently found in porch pillars, roofs, windowsills, telephone poles and dead trees.

Harrison says homeowners should call a professional at the first sign of activity:

Large piles of dirt or sawdust underneath windowsills.
Swarms of winged insects in and around the home.
Wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
Mud tubes on exterior walls or the home’s foundation.

It is important to contact a trusted pest management professional if you suspect termites, carpenter ants or carpenter bees have taken up residence in your home. For more information on pest behavior and treatment, visit www.orkin.com/learningcenter.

Caption
A trained pest management professional can help protect your home from damage caused by wood-destroying pests, such as termites.

Did You Know?
Termite damage costs American homeowners more than $5 billion each year — an expense that can be reduced or prevented through regular inspections from a trained expert. Skimping on pest control can end up costing you money. For more information, visit www.termites101.org.

Current Pest Activity Marks Brink of Spring

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:52:19 -0400

Orkin Branches Report on Active Pests and Predict Increases Due to Mild Winter

Spring pest season is here, and with it may come increased pest activity due to the mild winter, according to experts from Orkin, Inc., the Atlanta-based pest control leader. Several Orkin branches throughout the country report that as winter rodent activity tapers off, they currently see — or predict — an early emergence of spring pests like ants and termites.

“Warmer temperatures, plus moisture from rain and melting snow, provide ideal conditions for pests,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., technical director for Orkin, Inc. “In some regions where the winter temperatures did not drop low enough to hamper pest survival and reproduction, homeowners may see more spring pests than usual this year.”

Even Orkin branches in cooler regions like Chicago expect a spring uptick in pest activity, as this year’s snow cover actually shielded underground pests from chilly above-ground temperatures. With more pests surviving the winter, homeowners should expect increased activity throughout the spring and into mid-summer when the heat reaches its peak. Rodent activity, on the other hand, may seem to decline as the weather warms and pests move from their winter hideaways inside homes and businesses to the warmer outdoors.

While the winter has impacted regions across the U.S. differently, Orkin branches throughout the country indicate that rodents, ants and termites are currently the most consistently active pests.

According to one New York City area Orkin branch, winter rodent activity will soon taper off from 20 calls to 5 – 10 calls per month with the arrival of spring. The branch anticipates 200 – 300 termite calls and 30 cockroach calls each month when the weather warms. Overall, the branch expects a 20 percent increase in calls this spring over last spring.
In the Southeast, ants and termites are already active, with one of Orkin’s Atlanta branches reporting an estimated 32 Argentine ant calls per month. The branch anticipates the same or higher level of spring pest activity this year due to warm weather conditions. Orkin’s West Palm Beach, Fla., branch currently receives around 30 termite calls per month — a 10 percent increase over past years.
While winter rodent activity is beginning to slow in the Midwest, ant activity is on the rise. Orkin’s Skokie, Ill., branch, located outside Chicago, averages more than 600 ant calls per month in the spring. The branch expects 30 percent more calls this spring than last spring since more pests survived the winter.
Orkin’s South Houston branch, one of three local Orkin branches, continues to experience winter rodent activity — fielding 60 calls per month. By the end of April, the branch anticipates per month averages of 30 – 35 calls for crazy ants and 30 – 40 calls for fleas. Crazy ant activity may double from last year, as the pest reproduces quickly and has continued to spread across the region.
In the Northwest and southern California, rodents are a year-round issue, while ant activity dramatically increases in the spring. Beginning in March, Orkin’s Seattle branch averages 100 – 150 ant calls per month. Local experts anticipate more ants this spring due to the milder winter. By the end of March, Orkin’s Glendale, Calif., branch in suburban Los Angeles will average 300 ant calls per month, which is typical for the spring.

Local Orkin branch managers emphasize that pest activity is weather-dependent and may change based on sudden temperature swings in early spring. While the specific pests and levels of activity vary by region, rodents, ants and other pests are on the move with the change in season.

About Orkin, Inc.

CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include the Company’s expectations regarding spring call levels for pest activities. The actual results of the Company could differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements because of various risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, general economic conditions which may adversely affect our services and weather conditions that may affect our operations. All of the foregoing risks and uncertainties are beyond the ability of the Company to control, and in many cases the Company cannot predict the risks and uncertainties that could cause its actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. A more detailed discussion of potential risks facing the Company can be found in the Report on Form 10-K filed by Rollins, Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the year ended December 31, 2008.

From Basement to Rafters: Cleaning is First Step to Minimizing Hidden Home Threats

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:38:34 -0500

As homeowners step into the swing of spring, many will prepare their houses for warmer weather by eliminating dust and grime. In addition to clearing out the dirt, a seasonal spruce-up puts homeowners on the fast track to reducing hidden home threats. Simple steps like vacuuming regularly can help remove cockroach allergens that can cause asthma.

Through its partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHH) and the National Safety Foundation (NSF), pest control leader Orkin, Inc. has created a campaign to help educate individuals on how to protect themselves from threats in and around the home. The campaign combines the public health and safety expertise of its partners into a comprehensive resource of simple safety tips homeowners can use to help protect their families from domestic pest-, safety- and environment-related threats.

“We are proud to partner with several of the country’s premier health and safety organizations to provide prevention and safety tips for battling common threats in and around the home,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., director of training for Orkin, Inc. “Through this educational campaign, we can help families protect themselves against environmental hazards, including pests and the diseases they can carry, by identifying common hot spots and simple prevention steps.”

The experts at Orkin, the CDC, NCHH and NSF recommend homeowners adapt a checklist to reduce the risk of the following hidden home threats:

Cockroaches can trigger asthma attacks, contaminate food and make you sick.
Lead is a dangerous metal that can be found in peeling paint, soil and dust around your home — especially homes built before 1978.
Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless, colorless, radioactive gas found at high levels in one out of every 15 homes.
Foodborne illnesses can be transmitted through the improper storage, handling or cooking of food.
Mold grows on moist surfaces and can cause allergic reactions including watery eyes, runny nose and trouble breathing.
Rodents can squeeze through holes the size of quarters or dimes. Rodents (and the fleas they carry) can transmit harmful diseases.

To access a one-page guide with tips on how to reduce the risk of these and other home threats, visit Orkin’s Learning Center at www.orkin.com/learningcenter.

Caption
Orkin’s Hidden Home Threats campaign offers simple tips homeowners can use to help protect loved ones from domestic health hazards. For more information on how to reduce the risk of hidden home threats, visit www.orkin.com/learningcenter or call (800) 800-ORKIN.

Did You Know?
Spring cleaning helps put homeowners on the fast track to reducing hidden home pest-, safety- and environment-related risks. Following a simple safety checklist can help protect your family and pets. For more information on how to reduce the risk of hidden home threats, visit www.orkin.com/learningcenter or call (800) 800-ORKIN.

Fight the Bite of the Hated Mosquito

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:36:42 -0500

Reclaim Your Yard and Save Lives in Africa

Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 27,000 cases of mosquito-borne West Nile virus have been reported in the U.S. since 1999. CDC also reports that malaria — another mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite — is preventable but kills more than one million people each year, 90 percent of whom are children in Africa.

Video: The War Against Mosquitoes

Pest control leader Orkin, Inc. is prepared to Fight the Bite to save lives in Africa and help American homeowners reclaim their yards by waging war on mosquitoes and the deadly diseases they can carry. In 2008, Orkin and its sister pest control companies will donate at least $100,000 for 10,000 long-lasting, insecticide-treated bed nets to Nothing But Nets, a campaign of the U.N. Foundation dedicated to malaria prevention in Africa. Studies show that communitywide use of these nets can reduce malaria transmission as much as 90 percent in areas with the greatest mosquito populations.

“At Orkin, we’re committed to helping protect public health, which is why we have targeted programs to fight and reduce pest populations like mosquitoes,” said Orkin President and COO Glen Rollins. “We are excited to partner with Nothing But Nets on such a worthwhile campaign to save lives in Africa.”

Orkin will donate a mosquito net through Nothing But Nets for every mosquito service sold this season (April 1 – Aug. 31). One hundred percent of the proceeds from each $10 donation is used to purchase and distribute the net and educate African communities about its proper use. Orkin also encourages employees and customers to donate nets directly at Orkin: Fight the Bite.

Although malaria has been eliminated from the U.S., mosquitoes in our own backyards can spread West Nile and other viruses that can cause encephalitis. To help reduce mosquito populations around your home, Orkin and CDC experts offer these tips:

Mosquitoes can breed in only a thimble-full of water. Remove water from gutters, flower pots and other containers.
Point downspouts away from home.
When outdoors, wear repellant containing DEET, picaridn or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label instructions.
Contact a pest control professional to assess your yard’s potential breeding spots and provide responsible control techniques.

Learn more about Orkin’s mosquito service and how you can help Orkin Fight the Bite at nets.orkin.com. For more information about malaria and Nothing But Nets, visit NothingButNets.net.

Caption
Mosquitoes are disease-carrying pests that can transmit malaria and West Nile virus. Help Orkin Fight the Bite of mosquitoes.

Did You Know?
Pest control leader Orkin, Inc. is prepared to Fight the Bite to save lives in Africa and help American homeowners reclaim their yards. To learn more, visit nets.orkin.com.

Teaser
Reclaim your yard from mosquitos and save lives in Africa. Fight The Bite Of The Hated Mosquito

Flying & Stinging Insect Mat Release

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:34:52 -0500

Did you know that some species of wasps invade honeybees’ nests to steal honey? Or that a bee colony may have 40,000 – 60,000 bees present at a time in the late spring to summer? Or that because their stingers don’t have barbs, a yellow jacket can sting repeatedly?

Insects such as bees and wasps serve a unique and purposeful role in the environment. Bees pollinate flowers and provide us with honey, and wasps like hornets eat other bugs that might be considered pests. However, if you have ever suffered a painful sting from one of these insects, you know the danger they pose.

“Bees and wasps are among the insects people will encounter during the warmer months. People assume that these pests are just irritating and do not realize they can pose serious health risks,” says Frank Meek, board certified entomologist and technical director for Orkin, Inc.

In fact, at least 40 deaths occur annually in the United States from reactions to insect stings. Furthermore, anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction) occurs in 0.5 to 5 percent of the U.S. population as a result of insect stings, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.

It is important to note that wasps are at their highest numbers during this time of year, and pests build colonies and nests where they have access to constant food sources. Wasps such as yellow jackets gravitate toward treats like cookies and soda, which provide sugar and protein sources.

As you prepare for outdoor activities in the warmer temperatures, don’t forget these simple tips to make homes and yards less attractive to flying and stinging insects:

Keep food in tightly sealed containers;
Cover soda cans. Yellow jackets often enter cans unseen;
Empty and wash garbage cans regularly;
Fit screens and tighten seals properly on doors and windows;
Frequently monitor for nests; and
Call a licensed pest control professional immediately for treatment and removal.

People who experience severe reactions to insect stings, such as difficulty breathing, infection at the site of the sting, or aggravated skin disorders, should consult a physician.

For more information, or to receive a free home inspection, call 1-800-800-ORKIN or visit www.Orkin.com

Caption
Flying and stinging insects can cause painful stings. As you prepare for outdoor activity during the warmer months, be sure to monitor for nests frequently.

Termites 101 — Learn The Basics To Protect Your Investment

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:32:33 -0500

Posing a risk greater than fire, flood and wind, termites are considered to be a top threat to wood-based structures. Learning the basics about these troublesome pests is the best way to protect one of the most valuable investments of your life — your home.

The visual appearance of termites may not be as dramatic as the flames of a fire, but their slow, methodical destruction of your house can be equally daunting and extremely costly. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), termites cost Americans more than $5 billion in damage annually.

These silent invaders can infest your home for years, secretly hiding and thriving in your basement or attic, without any immediate signs of damage. Understanding basic termite behavior is the first step in preventing these pests from entering your home. Termites:

Live inside wood or underneath the ground.
Can slip through a crack in a house’s foundation as thin as an average business card (1/32").
Eat wood from the inside out, keeping the outside of a wood surface completely intact.
Are social insects that live in colonies of up to several thousand.

Different termite species thrive in different regions, but all termites require four things to survive — food, moisture, shelter and optimal temperature. Whether your home is brick, stucco or wood, it offers the perfect combination for termites. Help protect your investment by watching for signs of an infestation:

Wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
Pencil-sized mud tubes on exterior walls.
Distorted, cracked or bubbling areas of paint on wood surfaces.

Groups of winged insects or discarded wings of “swarmers” — reproductive termites that take flight during the spring in search of a new colony. While effective pest control requires continued monitoring by a trained professional, there are some practical steps you can take to help prevent termite damage, including:

Sealing gaps and cracks in places like attic vents, window joints and eaves.
Preventing ground contact with foam insulation or wood, as it can act as a highway for termites.
Checking decks and wooden fences for damage.
Eliminating moisture and removing wood sources including mulches that are close to the home.
Keeping gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris.

For more information, visit www.termites101.org.

Caption
Termites, which live in colonies of up to several thousand, have proven to be one of homeowners’ greatest threats, invading homes of every type year after year. Scheduling regular inspections of your home by a termite specialist will help detect and control termite infestation. For more information, visit www.termites101.org.

Bed Bugs — The Unwelcome Travel Companion

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:17:36 -0500

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, many Americans take to the skies or hit the road for vacation during the summer months. In addition to packing luggage and double-checking itineraries, travelers should learn how to prevent unwelcome surprises, like bed bugs, from spoiling their trip or return home.

Pest control leader Orkin, Inc. has seen a rise in the number of bed bugs cases over the past several years, treating infestations in 48 states to date, versus only 43 states in 2004 and 35 states in 2003. Experts believe bed bugs’ return and prevalence in the U.S. are due to an increase in international travel and the change to more targeted pest control applications. These factors, combined with increased media coverage on bed bugs, have also heightened awareness of these blood-sucking pests among the general public.

Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs are not a sanitation issue; they don’t discriminate and can be found in any hotel — luxury to inexpensive — and any home — big, small, clean or dirty as well as dormitories and cruise ships.

“Once a bed bug finds its way indoors, it can move from room to room by traveling on clothing and luggage or through pipes and vacuum cleaners,” said Frank Meek, board-certified entomologist and technical director for Orkin, Inc. “This tendency to hitch-hike — as well as a bed bug’s ability to survive more than a year without a blood meal — make proper prevention and control steps even more important.”

While bed bugs are not known to carry disease, these apple-seed-sized pests can leave behind itchy, bloody welts.

Meek recommends travelers use the acronym, S.L.E.E.P., to remember the common signs of a bed bugs infestation and to help prevent these pests from becoming an unwelcome travel companion or souvenir:

Survey surfaces for signs of an infestation, such as dark brown or red spots on sheets.
Lift and look for all bed bug hiding spots, including the mattress, headboard and furniture. Bed bugs are nocturnal and tend to sleep in close proximity to their food source — you!
Elevate your luggage on a luggage rack away from the bed and wall, where bed bugs often hide behind head boards, picture frames and electrical outlet panels.
Examine your luggage while repacking and when you return home. Remember, bed bugs are only 3/16 of an inch and can easily fit in cracks and crevices.
Professionals can treat these resilient pests, which are extremely difficult to kill and can survive temperatures of up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

For more information regarding bed bug prevention and control, visit www.orkin.com/learningcenter.

Caption
Don’t let bed bugs spoil your travel. A few identification and prevention tips can help you sleep tight, including surveying sheets and mattresses for signs of an infestation like dark brown or red spots.

Did You Know?
Bed bugs are not a sanitation issue, which means they can be found in any hotel or home. A quick inspection for common signs of an infestation can mean the difference between a relaxing vacation from start to finish and a spoiled return home due to unwanted pests. To learn more bed bug prevention tips, visit www.orkin.com/learningcenter.

Orkin, Inc. Named To Training Magazine’s Top 125 For Seventh Straight Year

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:00:45 -0500

Training magazine recognized Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. as a Top 125 company at its annual awards banquet on Feb. 9. Orkin, a pest control leader for more than a century, ranked No. 83 in 2009, up from No. 92 in 2008. This is the seventh consecutive year the pest control company received a Top 125 ranking. Training selects this prestigious list of companies based on programs tied to business objectives, best training practices and outstanding training initiatives, among other criteria.

Training also recognized Orkin with an Outstanding Training Initiative award for the company’s PowerTrack training program. PowerTrack is a unique, handheld computer technology developed by Orkin, which enables Orkin’s commercial technicians to track pest activity and potential pest problems at the time of service.

A key factor in Orkin’s continued training success is the company’s use of advanced technology and systems to communicate internally, including leveraging podcast technology. Podcasts are a cost-effective, yet engaging, tool for the company to provide ongoing learning directly to more than 350 commercial sales professionals throughout the United States. Podcast episodes are formatted similar to talk radio programs and provide critical information about Orkin and the pest management industry, plus tips for honing sales skills. New episodes are posted monthly, each featuring a sales professional as a guest call-in expert.

“In the past, it has been a challenge to provide effective training to Orkin’s commercial sales professionals, who are dispersed all over the country,” said David Lamb, Orkin’s vice president of learning and media services. “With the help of podcast technology, we are now able to equip our sales force with the information and tools they need to excel, and the response to the program has been very positive.”

Orkin also trains its employees through Orkin TV, a satellite television network launched in 2006. The communications network creates a live “virtual classroom” for employees to interact with expert instructors on new techniques and important public health information. The network includes interactive video-on-demand (IVOD), an integrated satellite receiver and site controller, and direct-to-monitor broadcasting. To date, Orkin TV reaches more than 400 field locations, offering access to employees in every region the company serves.

For on-site learning, Orkin’s training department, called Orkin University, boasts the pest control industry’s premier hands-on training center. The multi-million dollar Atlanta facility includes a restaurant, commercial kitchen, hospital room, hotel room, supermarket, warehouse space and a full-sized, fully functional house for applied learning of pest and termite control techniques. Cut-away walls and examples of common building techniques provide commercial and residential technician trainees with first-hand knowledge of what to expect when servicing customers across the country.

“At Orkin, customer service is at the heart of everything we do,” said Lamb. “We are committed to implementing innovative training programs and solutions to effectively engage, equip and advance our employees so that they can, in turn, provide the best possible service.”

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America and the Middle East. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our website at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

CDC Experts Train Orkin Specialists on Pest-Related Health Risks

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:46:17 -0500

Orkin and CDC Expand Invaluable Educational Initiative

ATLANTA, November 4, 2008 – Specialists from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) educated hundreds of Orkin residential and commercial pest control technicians across the country on pests and related diseases during a live broadcast today. Dr. Benjamin Park of the CDC’s Mycotic Diseases Branch and Jesse Blanton, MPH epidemiologist of the CDC’s Rabies Program led an in-depth seminar on wildlife and related diseases using Orkin’s interactive satellite television communications network.

This year’s expanded program offered two live broadcasts and Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for participating technicians. More than 275 of the company’s 400 field locations participated in the live broadcast. A video-on-demand feature will carry the broadcast for one year, allowing those that could not participate in the live session to view the program.

The broadcast provided valuable insight on wildlife pests, including opossums, raccoons, squirrels and bats, and the diseases these animals can carry. Park and Blanton also addressed current public health issues, including rabies and histoplasmosis, and how to reduce the risk of exposure to these diseases. Through Orkin’s first-of-its-kind live broadcast technology, introduced in January 2006, participants were able to communicate with the instructors in real-time using TV monitors and interactive keypads in each field location.

“Through our unique partnership with the CDC, we have strengthened our training program even further by equipping our specialists with the knowledge to educate and partner with customers to reduce pest-related health threats around their homes and workplaces,” said Glen Rollins, president and chief operating officer of Orkin, Inc.

About Orkin, Inc.

Pest Management Still "Bugging" Healthcare Providers

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 14:19:23 -0400

Survey shows industry moving in right direction, but still too reliant on reactive approaches

The results of a self-assessment survey at HealthcarePestControl.com show the healthcare industry is making strides in pest management but still has room for improvement when it comes to keeping pests outside while reducing pesticide use.

Earlier this year, Orkin Commercial Services and the American Society of Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES) launched HealthcarePestControl.com, an interactive online handbook that provides free training resources on smarter pest control practices and offers an interactive self-assessment that visitors can use to “score” their pest control programs against best practices recommended by ASHES, Orkin and other experts.

“The responses to the self-assessment so far show an industry heading in the right direction, but we’re still seeing too much focus on treating the symptoms of pest problems rather than the root causes,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin’s Director of Technical Services.

Dr. Harrison spoke at the ASHES Annual Conference in September to advocate a more preventive – and less pesticide-intensive – Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach in hospitals and other facilities.

Of the more than 100 healthcare professionals who have taken the online self-assessment so far:

• More than a third (34.3 percent) focus on controlling pest problems as they happen. By contrast, IPM proponents recommend the focus be on preventing the reasons why pests might be attracted to facilities in the first place.

• More than a third (37 percent) still let their pest management professionals handle all aspects of pest management. A better option, says Dr. Harrison, would be to meet with the pest management provider regularly and “be an active partner in the pest management effort.”

• Fewer than 1 in 4 respondents say their staff has participated in IPM training. “It’s critical that employees be engaged if you really want to follow an IPM strategy and reduce the need for pesticides,” warns Dr. Harrison. Visitors to HealthcarePestControl.com can download a free “IPM 101 Staff Training Checklist” or request a complimentary IPM staff-training session from a trained Orkin professional.

• More than half (56.5 percent) say their facilities use pesticides “regularly” (25.9 percent) or “occasionally” (30.6 percent). “While targeted, least-toxic pesticide applications can be a valid part of an integrated program, they should only be a response to an active pest infestation,” explained Dr. Harrison. “Regular pesticide use can be an indication that a facility can be doing more to prevent pests in the first place.”

• Half of respondents (50 percent) say their pest management programs are never reviewed by a third party. Orkin recommends at least one third-party audit per year, said Dr. Harrison. “Facilities should ask their pest management providers to offer third-party audits as part of the service package, preferably unannounced. Such audits typically end up revealing ways you can improve your IPM plan.” For facilities with an in-house pest management program, Harrison recommends working with facility management, another in-house department or even asking a pest management professional to conduct a complimentary review of the pest management program.

Healthcare professionals looking to bring their facilities’ pest management programs in line with industry best practices can visit HealthcarePestControl.com to “score” their pest control programs and get a customized set of recommendations they can implement immediately.

After completing the self-assessment, users will be eligible to receive a free copy of ASHES’ Recommended Practice: Integrated Pest Management, a best-practices guide to healthcare pest control co-authored by Orkin and ASHES experts (a $45 value).

Survey Methodology
Results of the survey are based on 109 complete responses to an online self-assessment survey hosted at HealthcarePestControl.com between April 29 and September 17, 2008. To review the self-assessment survey, visit www.HealthcarePestControl.com.

Environmentally Friendly Pest Control an Option for Property Managers

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:04:27 -0400

Orkin and BOMA International Publish Free Green Pest Control Checklist Online

ATLANTA, September 29, 2008 – Orkin Commercial Services and Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International have published a free online five-step checklist designed to help property managers implement environmentally friendly pest control practices in their buildings and work toward green building certification.

“Traditionally, pest control has not been thought of as a green practice,” said Orkin Director of Training Ron Harrison, PhD. “We’re trying to help people realize that there’s a more environmentally sound way to prevent and treat pest problems and that pest control can support their broader green building initiatives if it’s done right.”

The green pest management checklist guides property managers through the process of implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – an environmentally conscious approach that combines a number of prevention and control methods, with chemical treatments typically a last resort – into their existing facility maintenance plans. Doing so can help commercial properties earn credits toward green building certifications, such as the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Certification.

Many green building certifications require buildings to meet specific benchmarks and credits within several categories. Pest control typically falls under the Indoor Environmental Quality – Green Cleaning category.

“Going green with pest control can make buildings cleaner and healthier places for people to live, work and play,” said BOMA International Chairman and Chief Elected Officer Brenna S. Walraven. “We’re excited to partner with Orkin to deliver this simple, straightforward checklist to make ‘going green’ with pest control easier for property managers to implement.”

Property managers can download the green pest management checklist at BOMA.org or at Orkin University Online (visit orkincommercial.com and click on “About Orkin”).

About BOMA International
The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International is an international federation of more than 90 local associations and affiliated organizations. BOMA’s 16,500-plus members own or manage more than 9 billion square feet of commercial properties in North America and throughout the world. The mission of BOMA International is to enhance the human, intellectual and physical assets of the commercial real estate industry through advocacy, education, research, standards and information. Founded in 1907, BOMA International celebrates 100 years of commercial real estate in 2007.

North America’s Best Receive 2008 Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 16:24:12 -0400

U.S. and Canadian Winners Honored for Integrated Pest Management Excellence

Seven North American companies were named 2008 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award winners by Orkin, Inc., The IPM Institute of North America, and NSF Cook & Thurber for their outstanding commitment to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) partnerships.

IPM, an environmentally friendly pest management approach, emphasizes multiple methods of non-chemical pest control and prevention. These seven winners employ Orkin’s Gold Medal Protection, a comprehensive IPM service that focuses on vigilant sanitation, prompt adherence to structural pest management recommendations, diligent record-keeping and staff participation in IPM training sessions.

“Implementing an IPM program requires unwavering dedication from all parties involved,” said Orkin Director of Quality Systems Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “This year’s award winners exemplify what it takes to achieve IPM success, which leads to even greater achievements – better audit scores.”

The 2008 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award winners selected from an elite group of 77 nominees throughout the United States and Canada include:

UNITED STATES:

Ample Industries, Inc. (Franklin, Ohio) – Manufacturer of nested paperboard cartons for the foodservice industry.
Maines Paper & Food Service, Inc. (Conklin, N.Y.) – The nation’s second largest independent systems foodservice distributor.
Patterson Companies, Inc. (Blythewood, S.C.) – Full-service, regional facility distributing dental and veterinary products within the Patterson Logistics Services distribution network.

CANADA:

Ball Corporation (Richmond, British Columbia) – Leading supplier of rigid metal packaging products and services, primarily to the food industry.
Danone, Inc. (Boucherville, Quebec) – Global leader in cultured dairy products, including yogurt, fresh cheese and drinkable yogurt.
H. J. Heinz Company (Leamington, Ontario) – A leading processor of high-quality ketchup and condiments, infant foods, pasta sauces, canned beans and pasta, specialty sauces, and salad dressings through all retail and foodservice channels.
Red Zoo Marketing (Ruthven, Ontario) – Grower / distributor of premium quality greenhouse-grown vegetables across North America.

Now in its fifth year in the United States and fourth year in Canada, the Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards began as an effort by Orkin and The IPM Institute of North America to encourage the use of IPM and other environmentally friendly pest management practices.

“We’re excited to see so many facilities using IPM as part of their sustainability initiatives,” said Dr. Thomas Green, President of The IPM Institute of North America. “By using non-chemical methods of prevention first, this year’s winners are creating the cleanest, healthiest environments at their facilities.”

Last year, NSF Cook & Thurber joined the awards as a co-presenter, bringing to the program its food safety auditing expertise.

"The 2008 winners understand the importance of protecting public health,” said Jim Bail, Director of Technical Services, NSF International. “They are proof that successfully implementing an IPM program not only achieves their pest management goals, but also helps protect the welfare of their employees, the environment and consumers.”

About the Awards Jury

Jim Bail, Director of Technical Services, NSF International
Austin Frishman, Ph.D., B.C.E., Founder and President of AMF Pest Management Services, Inc.
Thomas A. Green, Ph.D., President of The IPM Institute of North America, Inc.
Frank Meek, B.C.E., Technical Director, Orkin, Inc.
Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., B.C.E., Director of Quality Systems, Orkin, Inc.

About The IPM Institute of North America

About NSF Cook & Thurber

Hotels Taking Online Guest Reviews Seriously

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 15:25:17 -0400

Hoteliers take note – and action – in response to guests’ concerns

ATLANTA, September 29, 2008 – As travelers pack in those last minute summer trips, a poll released today by Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Inc. reveals that the hospitality industry is taking guest-authored online hotel reviews seriously.

A combined 77 percent of surveyed hotel owners, operators, and sales and marketing staff believe travelers take guest-authored reviews on travel-related Web sites very seriously or seriously – 33 percent and 44 percent, respectively. In turn, more than half of survey respondents say they take online guest-authored reviews of their own hotels very seriously.

“With people traveling less and less because of rising fuel prices, hotels are in competition for guests more than ever,” says Orkin Technical Director Frank Meek, B.C.E. “A bad online review can mean the difference between a guest booking with you or a competitor.”

Hotels are taking action and checking online reviews on a regular basis – 36 percent of respondents check online guest reviews weekly and 28 percent check daily. Of the 145 respondents, 68 percent say their establishment received a negative guest-authored online review in the past six months. In addition, 65 percent say they have a policy in place regarding responses to negative online reviews posted by guests.

“Everything from bad service to a pest sighting can be reported online,” says Meek. “Hotels have responded by monitoring online reviews regularly and responding to issues quickly.”

The Competitive Edge
A little more than half of those surveyed said they monitor online reviews about their competitors. More than three-quarters of respondents thought “planted” positive and negative online reviews – those written by hospitality employees posing as “guests” in their own hotels or those of competitors – were a serious industry problem.

To help hoteliers respond to – and avoid – reviews about pest-related issues, Orkin has launched FiveStarList.com. The site houses resources such as “8 Places to Check Out Before Pests Check In” – a free educational checklist designed to help hotel staff identify and prevent pests in key problem areas. Available in English, Spanish and Russian, the checklist offers tips to discourage insects and rodents from becoming uninvited guests.

Orkin, Inc. Termite Specialists Named to Industry All-Star Team

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Three Orkin Technicians Honored by BASF for Expertise, Service and Leadership

ATLANTA, Sept. 10, 2008 – For the second year in a row, BASF Professional Pest Control named three Orkin, Inc. termite technicians to its 16-member 2008 Termidor® termiticide-insecticide All-Star Technician team. BASF will recognize Orkin’s John Dennis of Easley, S.C., Willie Lawson of Blackstone, Va., and James Young of Maryville, Tenn., during a ceremony at the 2008 Dickies 500 stock car race at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, on Nov. 2.

BASF launched the Termidor All-Star Technician program in 2006 to highlight the contributions of termite technicians to the pest management industry. Senior BASF marketing, sales and technical personnel reviewed more than 100 entries from managers across the country to select the program’s 16 winners. Technicians were nominated for exceptional customer service, professionalism, leadership within the company, and knowledge of products and industry trends.

“Orkin is thrilled to have three of our termite specialists receive this industry honor,” said Glen Rollins, Orkin, Inc. president and COO. “John, Willie and James exemplify Orkin’s commitment to hard work, outstanding customer service and industry-leading training on pest management techniques.”

Dennis, a pest and termite specialist at Orkin’s Greenville, S.C., branch, is a 20-year Orkin veteran and two-time President’s Club (Orkin’s top recognition program) winner who regularly receives compliments from customers for his superior service and expertise. According to Greenville branch manager Scott Moody, Dennis provides 100 percent effort, day in and day out. “He is the perfect model for leading by example,” Moody said.

Orkin’s Midlothian, Va., branch manager Jim Lincoln characterizes technician Lawson as an all-star at the branch and in the community. Since joining Orkin in 2002, Lawson has become a leader on the branch’s service team and been recognized as a President’s Club winner. He also volunteers in the community by providing free termite treatment to Habitat for Humanity homes. “Willie demonstrates concern, understanding and a vast knowledge of termite control and treatment when dealing with customers,” Lincoln said.

Young is a nearly seven-year Orkin employee who has been named a top performer in Orkin’s Tennessee region multiple times. Maryville branch manager Gary Hubbard describes Young as an “A player” who uses his expertise to determine the most effective treatment approach for each customer. Hubbard also praises Young for his work ethic, as he helps train new technicians on termite treatment and “makes sure the customer’s property looks as good, if not better, than it did when he arrived.”

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin, Inc. Names McFarland as VP of Marketing, Janusz as Director of E-Commerce

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0400

ATLANTA, August 14, 2008 – Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. recently added Robert McFarland to its executive team as the vice president of marketing. Allen Janusz also joined the company as the director of e-commerce.

“To further enhance Orkin’s dynamic team of hard-working individuals, we recently created two new positions that will strengthen and add new dimension to our company,” said Glen Rollins, president of Orkin, Inc. “We are pleased to welcome Robert and Allen to the Orkin family and are very fortunate to continually attract such high quality talent.”

As vice president of marketing, McFarland will oversee service line marketing and development as well as marketing communications. He has more than 15 years of marketing experience in a variety of areas including marketing strategy, product development, product management, product marketing, advertising, direct marketing and online marketing.

McFarland formerly led Microsoft’s customer relationship marketing for Windows Mobile and also held a variety of advertising and product marketing roles at BellSouth. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and earned his master’s in business administration from Georgia State University.

“Robert’s wealth of marketing experience will make him an integral part of our executive team,” said Kevin Smith, Orkin’s chief marketing officer.

Joining Orkin as the director of e-commerce, Janusz is the newest member to the Information Technology Center Application Development department. In this role, he will spearhead departmental efforts to transform the customer experience through online channels. Janusz will oversee Orkin’s intranet as well as manage Orkin’s e-Commerce portfolio, which includes website-based sales applications.

Prior to joining Orkin, Janusz managed the Web and Integration Services department at Unisource Worldwide, Inc. During his eight years with Unisource, he oversaw the development and growth of the e-Commerce platform among other e-Business initiatives. Janusz also worked for consulting organizations PricewaterhouseCoopers and Hewitt Associates where he focused on analyzing and implementing technology to enable effective business processes and transactions.

A graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a degree in accounting and management information systems, Janusz is also a certified public accountant.

About Orkin, Inc.

Glen Rollins Named to “Top 25 Atlantans to Watch”

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0400

ATLANTA, August 14, 2008 – Atlanta Business magazine recently named Glen Rollins, president of Orkin, Inc. and vice president of parent company Rollins, Inc., as one of its “Top 25 Atlantans to Watch.” Rollins and executives from other Atlanta companies, including Home Depot and Coca Cola Enterprises, will be recognized at an Aug. 14 ceremony.

Atlanta Business vendors and advertisers nominated honorees of the second annual list. The magazine’s editorial staff then selected winners based on the following criteria: business growth, established businesses that are reinventing themselves, businesses making a difference in Atlanta and unsung business heroes. Rollins received several nominations to the list.

“I am honored to be recognized alongside such well-respected leaders in the Atlanta community and excited about our company’s continued tradition of success,” said Rollins. “This award is a tribute to the hard work, dedication and support of thousands of co-workers at Rollins and our subsidiaries who strive for excellence each day. I am very grateful for each employee’s commitment to building our company’s exceptional reputation. This award would not be possible without them.”

The complete list of 2008 award winners who will be recognized at the ceremony includes: Louise Allen, Ivan Allen; Frank Blake, Home Depot; John Brock, Coca Cola Enterprises; Nicole Buie, Cox Media; Pete Correll, Atlanta Equity; Ann Cramer, IBM; Rilla Delorier, SunTrust; John Dewberry, Dewberry Capital; Mark Dodson, Private Capital Group; Richard Hayes, Alston & Bird; Brett Hunsaker, Grubb & Ellis; Ted Jenkin, Ameriprise; Chris Klaus, Kaneva; Brian Leary, AIG/Atlantic Station; Sam Massell, Buckhead Coalition; David Ratcliffe, Southern Company; Jonathan Reckford, Habitat for Humanity; Glen Rollins, Rollins Inc.; Jim Schaper, Infor; Steak Shapiro, 790 The Zone; Derek Smith, Choice Point; Rick Smith, Equifax; Paula Swearingen, Goodwill Industries of North GA; John Williams, Corporate Holdings and Williams Realty Advisors; and Ellen Adair Wyche, The Wyche Group.

About Rollins, Inc.

Rollins, Inc. is a premier North American consumer and commercial services company. Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Orkin, Inc., PCO Services, HomeTeam Pest Defense, Western Pest Services, and The Industrial Fumigant Company, the Company provides essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects to over 2.1 million customers in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, the Middle East and Asia from over 500 locations. You can learn more about our subsidiaries by visiting our Web sites at www.orkin.com, www.pestdefense.com, www.westernpest.com, www.indfumco.com and www.rollins.com. You can also find this and other news releases at www.rollins.com by accessing the news releases button.

Nine Companies Recognized for Outstanding IPM Partnerships

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 14:26:47 -0400

2008 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award Finalists Announced

ATLANTA, June 25, 2008 – Nine companies demonstrating exceptional commitment to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) partnerships were recognized today as finalists of the 2008 Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards by Orkin Commercial Services, The IPM Institute of North America and NSF Cook & Thurber.

The fifth annual awards program honors facilities for their dedication to IPM, an environmentally conscious approach that relies on non-chemical treatment methods to minimize pesticide use. The awards jury chose the finalists from an elite group of 45 nominees that employ Orkin’s most rigorous IPM service offering, Gold Medal Protection, which emphasizes quality assurance and pest control documentation for audit success. This year’s finalists demonstrate their commitment to IPM and to their partnership with Orkin through:
• vigilant sanitation,
• regular and accurate documentation,
• prompt adherence to structural recommendations, and
• staff participation in IPM training sessions.

“IPM isn’t a one-time event,” said Orkin Director of Quality Systems Zia Siddiqi. “It’s a 24-7 effort to prevent and manage pests proactively. These finalists all go above and beyond in their efforts to maintain their IPM programs, even when their pest management professional isn’t on site.”

The 2008 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award finalists are:
• Maines Paper & Food Service, Inc. (Conklin, N.Y.) – The nation’s second largest independent systems foodservice distributor.
• PGI Nonwoven (Mooresville, N.C.) – Manufacturer of nonwoven fabrics.
• HQC Incorporated (Oswego, Ill.) – Manufacturer of custom injection molded closures, fitments and containers for food, beverage, dairy, pharmaceutical and medical markets.
• Ample Industries, Inc. (Franklin, Ohio) – Manufacturer of nested paperboard cartons for the foodservice industry.
• Burrows Paper Corporation (Franklin, Ohio) – Fully integrated paper company offering a wide variety of superior lightweight specialty paper products for the foodservice industry.
• Endangered Species Chocolate (Indianapolis, Ind.) – Creates all-natural and organic chocolate bars donating a portion of profits to help support species, habitat and humanity.
• Farbest Brands (Plain City, Ohio) – Custom manufacturer of liquid and dry products and distributor of specialty food ingredients.
• Rexam Closures and Containers (Evansville, Ind.) – Manufacturer of plastic closures and packaging components for the personal care, food and beverage, health, and home markets.
• Patterson Dental Supply Inc. (Blythewood, S.C.) – Distributor of consumable dental products and clinical and laboratory equipment.

“Ongoing IPM is a must-have to uphold food safety and quality in sensitive food processing environments,” explained Thomas Green, Ph.D., President of The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. “These finalists are truly committed to their IPM partnerships and see great outcomes as a result.”

In addition to managing pests effectively and protecting food safety, IPM programs can contribute to positive audit performances also.

“True IPM partnerships focus on sanitation, facility maintenance and detailed documentation, all of which help improve food safety efforts,” said Jim Bail, Assistant Director, Food Processor Programs at NSF Cook & Thurber. “The Award finalists take these tasks very seriously, which auditors will notice.”

Judges for the 2008 Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards include:
• Jim Bail, Assistant Director Food Processor Programs, NSF Cook & Thurber
• Austin Frishman, Ph.D., B.C.E., Founder and President of AMF Pest Management Services, Inc.
• Thomas A. Green, Ph.D., President of The IPM Institute of North America, Inc.
• Frank Meek, B.C.E., Technical Director, Orkin, Inc.
• Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., B.C.E., Director of Quality Systems, Orkin, Inc.

Award winners will be announced in the fall, and award presentations will be conducted on-site at the winning facilities. A case study of each winner will be posted at www.orkincommercial.com.

About The IPM Institute of North America
The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. is an independent non-profit organization formed in 1998 to foster recognition and rewards in the marketplace for goods and service providers who practice IPM. The Institute’s mission is to accelerate adoption of IPM in agriculture and communities through consumer education and development of IPM standards for self-evaluation and IPM certification. The Institute is funded by grants from government, private foundations and industry, memberships and fees for services and programs. Learn more at www.ipminstitute.org.

About NSF Cook & Thurber
NSF Cook & Thurber is a division of NSF International, an independent, not-for-profit organization, that helps protect you by certifying products and writing standards for food, water and consumer goods (www.nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting public health and safety worldwide. NSF is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Food and Water Safety and Indoor Environment. Additional services include safety audits for the food and water industries, management systems registrations delivered through NSF International Strategic Registrations, Ltd., organic certification provided by Quality Assurance International and education through the NSF Center for Public Health Education.

Junior Pest Investigators™ Takes the “Eek” Out of Teaching Bug Basics

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Free Lessons Help Schools Meet Learning Objectives and Reduce Pesticide Use

ATLANTA, June 17, 2008 – Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Inc. and several national advocates for environmentally responsible pest control in schools are introducing Junior Pest Investigators, a free series of lesson plans and other teaching aids to help K-6 teachers meet their teaching goals and reduce pesticide use in their schools at the same time.

To celebrate the launch, Orkin invites teachers across the U.S. to visit JuniorPI.com, download and teach the free lesson plans and activities, then submit class projects for a chance to win educational prizes including:

Grand Prize: $2,500 science-education grant and a Junior Pest Investigators Learning Library
Second Place: $1,000 science-education grant and a Junior Pest Investigators Learning Library
Third Place: Junior Pest Investigators Learning Library

The Learning Library includes signage, insect — and science — education books/materials, kid-friendly furnishings and other educational items to help promote learning.

“Schools and parents are becoming more concerned with allergens from pests, pesticide use and smart pest management practices,” said Orkin Technical Services manager Patrick Copps. “We’re excited to educate the public about green methods of pest control and hope to continue to keep schools healthy by doing so.”

Written by teachers and approved by national school pest management experts, each Junior Pest Investigators lesson meets several National Science Standards, so teachers can meet their classroom learning objectives while engaging students.

The unit begins by teaching students that insects and rodents have important roles in their own natural environments and become pests only when they invade our living and learning spaces. Subsequent lessons offer tips for keeping insects and rodents outside where they belong — thereby reducing the need for chemical treatments.

“Junior Pest Investigators focuses on Integrated Pest Management, or IPM, an approach that emphasizes non-chemical prevention, with chemical treatments as a last resort,” said Tom Green, Ph.D., president of the IPM Institute of North America and member of the Junior Pest Investigators advisory council. “The Environmental Protection Agency recommends IPM, and many school districts already require its use.”

Green, Copps and other school pest management experts serving on the Junior Pest Investigators’ advisory council are also leaders or participants in regional and national EPA-funded workgroups, which are developing a national strategic plan for implementing IPM in every American school by 2015.

“We hope that educational programs like Junior Pest Investigators will help families understand the importance of reducing pest problems in our schools by implementing environmentally friendly control methods such as IPM,” said Green. “There are simple changes schools can make to keep our schools green and healthy for students.”

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin Launches New Service for Foodservice Industry

Sat, 17 May 2008 14:27:48 -0400

"SafeShield" Combines Comprehensive Pest Management and Food-Safety Training

ATLANTA, May 17, 2008 – Orkin Commercial Services, the largest provider of commercial pest management services in North America, launched a new service at the National Restaurant Show in Chicago today. Designed expressly for foodservice operators, the new SafeShield service combines Orkin’s comprehensive pest management with food-safety training for customers’ employees, providing foodservice operators with two essential services in one package.

”Local health departments increasingly require foodservice establishments to have employees certified in food safety,” said Orkin Training Director Ron Harrison, Ph.D. “Orkin has long been recognized as a leader in employee training, so it’s a natural progression to help restaurateurs train their employees as part of our service.”

Orkin’s new SafeShield service comes with two complimentary registrations for an online food-safety training course and a variety of written training materials – in English and Spanish – to help educate restaurant employees about food safety and preventing common pests.

”Just as pests can pose a risk to food safety, so can untrained employees,” said Harrison. ”Now foodservice operators can address two of the main threats to the safety of their products and the reputation of their brands.”

SafeShield’s online training course covers:
• Basic Food Safety
• Personal Hygiene
• Cross-contamination and Allergens
• Time and Temperature
• Cleaning and Sanitation

In addition to food safety training, SafeShield includes a bi-annual CleanSlate service – an extensive inspection and pest management protocol designed to fully prepare an establishment for health inspections. This proactive service helps ensure proper elimination of potential pest harborage areas through comprehensive inspections and Ultra Low Volume crack-and-crevice and spot treatments.

”Orkin services tens of thousands of restaurants across North America, so our ability to manage pests effectively in these environments is tried and true,” said Harrison. ”By choosing SafeShield, a foodservice operator further underscores their commitment to food safety through improved pest management, food handling, sanitation and hygiene practices.”

Orkin Acquires Five Pest Control Companies Across the U.S.

Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Orkin, Inc. Expands in Florida, Mississippi, Ohio, New Hampshire and Texas

ATLANTA, May 12, 2008 – Pest control leader Orkin, Inc. has increased its customer base and market share with the acquisition of five pest control companies: PESCO Pest and Termite Control Inc. in Brandon, Fla.; Pest Control Specialists Inc. in Bay St. Louis, Miss.; All Ohio Fertilizer and Pest Control in Hudson, Ohio; Perminate Pest Control in East Hampstead, N.H.; and Bugs R Us Pest Control in Abilene, Texas. These acquisitions are in addition to the HomeTeam acquisition Rollins announced on April 3 and were finalized on Jan. 4, Jan. 11, March 7, March 19 and March 21, respectively.

“With these five acquisitions, Orkin not only increases its customer service areas but also adds valuable tenured employees,” said Bob Hines, director of acquisitions for Orkin.

Founded in 1990 by Cecil Martin, PESCO Pest and Termite Control Inc. specializes in general pest and termite control. Through the acquisition, Orkin will combine the PESCO business with its North and South Tampa, Fla., accounts to open Orkin’s first branch in Brandon, Fla. The new branch will increase Orkin’s customer base in a key Florida region, creating a more convenient location for Orkin employees. PESCO will also add experienced employees to the Orkin team.

Pest Control Specialists Inc., founded in 1996 by David and Susanne Mayley will merge into Orkin’s Gulfport, Miss., branch and add several tenured technicians to the Orkin team.

Orkin strengthened its customer base with the pest control accounts of All Ohio Fertilizer and Pest Control which will be added to Orkin’s Akron, Ohio, branch. Owner John Gilmor will retain the company’s lawn care business.

Perminate Pest Control merged its accounts into Orkin’s Boston Commercial branch. Perminate co-owners Ed Crowley and Jeff Richard have more than 30 years of combined industry experience and will also join Orkin’s team. Crowley will work in commercial sales while Richard will join Orkin’s New England Region as a service manager.

The acquisition of Bugs R Us Pest Control will bring five experienced technicians and four new pest control routes into Orkin’s Abilene, Texas, location, continuing Orkin’s growth in the West Texas area.

“Each of these companies will be a great asset to Orkin and make a great fit for our growing markets,” said Hines.

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin and ASHES Promote Healthier Pest Management Practices at HealthcarePestControl.com

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:28:49 -0400

ATLANTA, April 15, 2008 – Healthcare professionals looking to bring their facilities’ pest management programs in line with industry best practices have a new resource at their fingertips. Orkin Commercial Services and the American Society of Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES) announced today the launch of HealthcarePestControl.com, an interactive online handbook that provides free training tools on smarter pest control practices and even offers an interactive self-assessment that visitors can use to “score” their pest control programs against best practices recommended by ASHES, Orkin and other experts.

“ASHES members and others in the healthcare industry have told us that they need more training and educational materials for themselves and for their employees, and this site delivers both,” said Orkin Training Director Ron Harrison, Ph.D. “By allowing healthcare professionals to tell us about their pest control programs through the online self-assessment, we can give them customized and relevant tips they can implement immediately.”

After completing the self-assessment, users will be eligible to receive a free copy of ASHES’ Recommended Practice: Integrated Pest Management, a best-practices guide to healthcare pest control co-authored by Orkin and ASHES experts (a $45 value).

“Quality, safety and environmental sustainability are areas we always encourage our members to keep at the forefront of their operations,” said ASHES Executive Director Patti Costello. “By implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM), managers have an opportunity to work on all three areas at the same time. We are pleased to be working with Orkin on this important project.”

Orkin has collaborated with ASHES since 2005 to help educate healthcare providers about Integrated Pest Management (IPM), starting with the development of the ASHES Recommended Practice on the subject. Using the information on healthcare pest control practices gathered at HealthcarePestControl.com, Orkin will present additional recommendations later this year, culminating in educational sessions at the ASHES Annual Conference in September, led by Orkin Training Director Dr. Ron Harrison.

About ASHES
The American Society for Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES) is the premier professional association for environmental services, housekeeping, waste management and textile care professionals in the healthcare industry. ASHES provides educational programs, opportunities to network with peers on a national level, recognition for personal and professional achievements, as well as affiliation and collaboration with the American Hospital Association on public policy and advocacy issues related to environmental services.

Orkin Commercial Services Offers Free Newsletter Content

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:29:39 -0400

Articles Help Property Managers Share Pest Management Tips With Residents and Tenants

ATLANTA, April 15, 2008 – Orkin Commercial Services today announced that property managers can download free newsletter content for their resident or tenant newsletters at its Web site. From pests and weather trends to kitchen sanitation, the articles provide valuable information applicable to both home and work environments. Commercial and residential property managers can download the articles by visiting www.orkincommercial.com and selecting “Property Management” from the drop-down menu under “Industry Solutions.”

The articles cover topics such as:
• Information about pests of concern during each season
• Easy-to-implement tips for managing pests
• Sanitation pointers that help control pests in the office and the home
• Steps for identifying and handling an infestation

Created with the input of Orkin’s board-certified entomologists and quality assurance team, the newsletter content offers property managers an efficient way to educate their residents or tenants on pest management and equip them with practical information to help stop infestations before they start.

“Many people don’t realize that the dirty dishes they leave out on the counter or the opened candy bars in desk drawers can actually be feeding pests,” said Orkin Director of Quality Systems Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “Property managers will find that their pest control programs will be even more successful with the help of their tenants.”

Orkin offers text-only versions of the articles and high-resolution images available for download on the site, and property managers also can view a suggested layout for the articles. For more free educational materials, property managers can visit Orkin University Online, a set of free learning aides at www.orkincommercial.com under the “About Orkin” drop-down menu.

Experts Warn Termites Still Thrive In Dry Weather

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Decrease in Termite Swarms Has Homeowners Mistakenly Dropping Their Guard

ATLANTA, April 11, 2008 – The arrival of warmer spring weather typically announces the return of swarming termites in and around homes in the United States. However, according to termite experts from pest control leader Orkin, Inc. and the Consumer Education Council on Termites, recent dry weather patterns have led to a decline in the number of termite swarms. Unfortunately for homeowners, a decrease in swarms does not imply that termites are less active - it simply means their infestations are less visible.

“Over the past few years, researchers have discovered a correlation between termite activity in the upper layers of soil and rainfall,” said Brian T. Forschler, Ph.D., University of Georgia, and member of the Consumer Education Council on Termites, a group comprised of several of the top termite experts in the U.S. “Particularly after a drought, such as the one we experienced last year in the Southeast, termites begin to search deeper in the water table for moisture, which means they might not be seen as frequently aboveground.”

The movement of termite colonies further underground could create problems for unsuspecting homeowners, who may not be able to detect an infestation without seeing a swarm.

“Swarms have typically been one of the most visible signs of termite activity in and around the home,” said Ron Harrison, Ph.D., director of training and Orkin’s Training Center in Atlanta. “With drier conditions, this warning sign has become less common, making the precautions homeowners take to prevent and control termites even more important.”

Harrison recommends homeowners partner with their termite specialist to complete regular, thorough inspections of the home to determine if termites are active, monitor for warning signs of an infestation and identify conditions conducive to termite activity. Well-trained termite specialists can detect hidden colonies and less visible warning signs, including termite mud tubes and termite-damaged wood, as well as determine a termite colony’s approximate size and location.

Homeowners can also visit www.Termites101.org for more information on how to partner with their termite specialist to identify, treat, control and prevent termites. This educational, interactive Web site — created through a partnership between Orkin and the Consumer Education Council on Termites — offers images, videos and unique expert articles designed to explain termite warning signs, hot spots, prevention and treatment. Homeowners with questions can email an expert or submit comments to the site’s TermiteTalk(tm) blog.

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin’s Fight the Bite Campaign Wages War on Mosquitoes

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400

To save lives in Africa and help American homeowners reclaim their yards, Orkin, Inc. has launched a new campaign to Fight the Bite of the mosquito and wage war on this disease-carrying pest. As part of Orkin’s Fight the Bite, parent company Rollins, Inc. and its affiliates pledge to donate a minimum of $100,000 to the United Nations Foundation’s Nothing But Nets campaign, a global, grassroots effort dedicated to saving lives by preventing malaria in Africa. Nothing But Nets will use these funds to purchase and distribute at least 10,000 long-lasting, insecticide-treated mosquito bed nets to the areas of greatest need in Africa.

The Fight the Bite campaign, running April 1 – Aug. 31, 2008, will raise donations through a company employee net drive, customer net drive and consumer contributions made through nets.orkin.com. Every net helps prevent malaria by creating a protective barrier against mosquitoes at night (when the vast majority of transmissions occur). With a $10 online donation, anyone can purchase a net and save a life. One hundred percent of each contribution goes directly toward purchasing and distributing a net and teaching the recipient to use it properly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Orkin’s public health collaborator since 2004, malaria kills more than one million people worldwide each year, 90 percent of whom are children in Africa. These children have little or no protection from the mosquitoes that carry this deadly, but preventable, disease. Although malaria has been eliminated from the U.S., mosquitoes in our own back yards can carry West Nile and other viruses that cause encephalitis. Since 1999, about 27,000 cases of mosquito-borne West Nile virus have been reported in the U.S.

“At Orkin, we’re in the business of protecting people and property from potentially harmful pests, like mosquitoes,” said Orkin President and COO Glen Rollins. “Expanding our public health partnerships to include Nothing But Nets broadens Orkin’s impact by helping save children in Africa from a preventable yet deadly disease.”

In addition to individual contributions, Orkin will donate one mosquito net to Nothing But Nets for every mosquito service purchased this season. Orkin’s unique mosquito service includes a detailed inspection of potential breeding sites and treatment of standing water, as well as shrubbery and other areas where mosquitoes tend to land and rest. To learn more about preventing mosquito populations, visit nets.orkin.com.

Orkin’s Fight the Bite campaign kickoff on April 1 coincides with efforts from the UN Foundation.

“Throughout the month of April, the UN Foundation’s Nothing But Nets campaign is teaming up with millions of Americans to help cover the continent of Africa with life-saving nets,” said Elizabeth McKee Gore, executive director of Nothing But Nets. “With our shared commitment of keeping people safe from disease-carrying mosquitoes, Orkin is a natural partner for the Nothing But Nets campaign.”

Nothing But Nets will recognize Orkin’s commitment to fighting malaria in New York during World Malaria Day events (April 23–25).

“We say internally that Orkin employees are a family, and they indeed come together like none I have ever seen to support others in need. I am extremely proud of how these caring and generous souls have embraced the Fight the Bite initiative,” said Rollins.

About Orkin, Inc.

About Nothing But Nets

Nothing But Nets is a global, grassroots campaign to save lives by preventing malaria, a leading killer of children in Africa. Inspired by sports columnist Rick Reilly, tens of thousands of people have joined the Campaign that was created by the United Nations Foundation in 2006. Founding campaign partners include the National Basketball Association’s NBA Cares, The People of the United Methodist Church, and Sports Illustrated. It only costs $10 to provide a long-lasting insecticide-treated bed net that can prevent this deadly disease. Visit www.NothingButNets.net to send a net and save a life.

About the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is an organization that protects people’s health and safety by preventing and controlling diseases and injuries; enhances health decisions by providing creditable information on critical health issues; and promotes healthy living through strong partnerships with local, national, and international organizations. As a federal agency, CDC does not promote or endorse specific products or entities. For more information please visit www.cdc.gov.

Orkin’s New Ad Campaign Keeps Pests “In Their Place”

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0400

ATLANTA, March 25, 2008 – Pest control leader Orkin, Inc. will debut a new consumer advertising campaign March 24 to highlight the century-old company’s role as a home protection expert. Designed by The Richards Group, Orkin’s advertising agency of record since September 2007, the quirky television ads feature giant insects that try to trick their way into unsuspecting consumers’ homes — before they are thwarted by The Orkin Man. The ads end with the tagline, “keeping pests in their place ™,” to punctuate Orkin’s expertise in keeping pest out.

“These ads depict in a lighthearted way how The Orkin Man foils sneak attacks from larger-than-life pests,” said Kevin Smith, chief marketing officer for Orkin, Inc. “Through a partnership with our customers, we can create perimeters of protection around the home to help keep pests outside where they belong.”

The campaign’s two television ads — one featuring a cockroach and one featuring a termite — position The Orkin Man as a hero, protecting homes from seven-foot talking bugs. Both ads illustrate how pests look for all possible entry points into the home and it is The Orkin Man’s job, as the expert, to help homeowners prevent pest entry into the home and reduce pest activity around the home.

The television ads will run March 24 – Aug. 22 on cable television channels, including TNT, TBS, HGTV and USA, as well as during replays of CBS syndication programs.

About Orkin, Inc.

About The Richards Group

The Richards Group, located in Dallas, is the largest independent branding agency in the nation. Agency clients include the standard-setting brands of Advance Auto Parts, Amstel Light, Bridgestone Firestone, Chick-fil-A, Fruit of the Loom, The Home Depot, Motel 6, Patrón, Red Lobster, Skybus, and Zales. Total billings for the agency were $1.25 billion in 2007. The Richards Group can be found at www.richards.com.

New Educational Web Site Helps Homeowners Protect Their Homes From Termites

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Termites101.org Explains Termite Identification, Prevention, Treatment and Control

ATLANTA, Feb. 27, 2008 – United States homeowners now have a new tool to help them learn how to protect their homes from termites — Termites101.org. The interactive Web site was created through a partnership between Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. and the members of the Consumer Education Council on Termites (CECT), a group comprised of several of the top termite experts in the U.S — including university experts from Purdue University, Texas A&M University, University of Georgia and Virginia Tech.

Termites101.org was designed to help homeowners understand how to better partner with a termite provider to identify, prevent, treat and control termite activity. The site includes interactive pages, videos, photos and expert articles that explain termite activity, warning signs and treatments. Interactive pages on Termites101.org include a home that highlights termite hot spots and a U.S. map that shows termite activity in specific regions. Visitors can also access easy-to-understand tips on how to deter termites and a downloadable consumer brochure with key information from the site. Homeowners with questions can e-mail a termite expert and submit comments to the site’s TermiteTalk(tm) blog.

“At Orkin, we are committed to educating the public about pests that may affect our families and homes,” said Glen Rollins, president and COO for Orkin, Inc. “We are proud to partner with the Consumer Education Council on Termites to provide this valuable, in-depth resource for homeowners seeking practical information on how to protect their homes from termite activity.”

The site’s helpful articles and blog posts on termite identification, prevention and treatment were written by numerous well-respected U.S. pest control industry and termite education experts. CECT members who contributed to the site include Gary W. Bennett, Ph.D., Purdue University; Brian T. Forschler, Ph.D., University of Georgia; Roger Gold, Ph.D., Texas A&M University; Ron Harrison, Ph.D., B.C.E., Orkin, Inc.; Dini M. Miller, Ph.D., Virginia Tech; William H. Robinson, Ph.D., with Urban Pest Control Research Center; and Dan Suiter, Ph.D., University of Georgia.

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin, Inc. Named to Training Magazine's Top 125 for Sixth Straight Year

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 14:30:45 -0500

Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. was recognized by Training magazine as part of its prestigious Top 125 list, which was announced at Training’s annual awards banquet Monday evening, Feb. 4. Orkin ranked No. 92. This is the sixth consecutive year the company has been included on the list.

Training magazine, the training industry’s premiere publication, annually selects 125 organizations that excel at human capital development. These companies are chosen based on criteria such as best training practices, evaluation methods and outstanding training initiatives.

One milestone of Orkin’s training success over the past year was the launch of the New Customer Specialists (NCSs) Fast Track Training program. The NCS program ensures new employees are prepared to serve customers as efficiently as possible while concurrently reducing their time in training. The program provides trainees with critical information about Orkin’s pest control business while helping them hone sales skills in an inbound call center environment.

NCSs are evaluated on a number of areas that Orkin targets as key to sales performance. Furthermore, trainees receive feedback in real time which allows them to begin making necessary behavioral changes to improve their sales performance instantly.

“Since the program’s inception, we’ve seen tremendous improvement in the performance of our incoming sales force,” said David Lamb, Orkin’s vice president of Learning and Media Services. “The program allows our sales force to enhance the skills needed to improve their overall performance and helps increase quality assurance across our business.”

Orkin TV, a satellite television network launched in 2006, also plays a vital role in preparing Orkin employees. The interactive distributed learning network creates a live “virtual classroom” for the company’s 8,000 employees across the country. The network includes interactive video-on-demand (IVOD), an integrated satellite receiver and site controller, and direct-to-monitor broadcasting. These features allow branches to communicate with instructors in real time and respond to survey questions using an on-site controller pad. It also provides the ability to play back past programming.

To date, Orkin TV reaches more than 360 of its more than 400 field locations. Through this innovative technology, managers can provide integrated hands-on training to employees in every region the company serves, reaching even those in the most remote sectors that might lack computer or online access. Orkin utilizes a blended learning strategy that provides solutions that enhance performance while engaging the learner.

“At Orkin, we constantly re-evaluate our learning solutions,” said Lamb. “We understand that the continuous improvement of our training programs is vital to developing the best trained workforce that is also customer-oriented and highly reliable. We are honored that Training magazine has recognized Orkin’s model of investing in our employees for the sixth year in a row.”

Orkin Bids Farewell to Ned, The Orkin Man

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Best Wishes Wayne Thomas Yorke

ATLANTA, October 17, 2007 – Orkin, Inc., the 106-year-old pest control company, bids a bittersweet goodbye to its Orkin Man character Ned, performed by Wayne Thomas Yorke. After the successful four-year partnership with Yorke, Orkin looks forward to expanding the portrayal of The Orkin Man, one of America’s most iconic brands, with new advertising agency The Richards Group. The company selected The Richards Group as its advertising agency of record this summer after a careful, four-month selection process.

As The Orkin Man, Yorke served as Orkin’s official spokesperson for television, radio and print advertising. He also volunteered in elementary schools and children’s hospitals during his free time to share with children his passion for insects and Orkin.

“While we will miss working with Wayne Yorke, our partnership with The Richards Group presents exciting new opportunities for Orkin,” said Kevin Smith, chief marketing officer for Orkin, Inc. “The value the agency will bring to our marketing communications efforts in 2008 and beyond will help us further strengthen our well-known brand.”

The Richards Group’s responsibilities for Orkin will include brand and strategic planning and creative development. The agency’s first assignment is to apply its proprietary Spherical® branding discipline to Orkin.

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America and the Middle East. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees serve approximately 1.7 million customers. The company serves homeowners and numerous industries including food and beverage processing, foodservice, hospitality, healthcare, retail, warehousing, property/facilities management, schools and institutions. Learn more about Orkin on our website at www.orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL).

About The Richards Group

The Richards Group, located in Dallas, is the largest independent branding agency in the nation. Agency clients include the standard-setting brands of Advance Auto Parts, Amstel Light, Bridgestone Firestone, Chick-fil-A, Fruit of the Loom, The Home Depot, Motel 6, Skybus, Red Lobster and Zales. Total billings for the agency were $1.2 billion in 2006. The Richards Group can be found at www.richards.com.

North America’s Finest Receive 2007 Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 14:31:31 -0400

U.S. and Canadian Winners Obtain Recognition for Integrated Pest Management Excellence

ATLANTA, September 28, 2007 – Eight companies showing extraordinary commitment to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) partnerships were named 2007 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award winners by Orkin, Inc., The IPM Institute of North America and NSF Cook & Thurber.

A pest management approach that stresses multiple methods of control, IPM emphasizes minimizing pesticide use. The Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards specifically honor companies that have shown the greatest dedication to making IPM work at their sites through vigilant sanitation, prompt adherence to structural pest management recommendations, diligent record-keeping and staff participation in IPM training sessions.

An awards jury of IPM experts selected the winning facilities from an elite group of 64 nominees throughout the United States and Canada. All of the nominees employ Orkin’s Gold Medal Protection, a comprehensive IPM service that emphasizes quality assurance and documentation.

“Forming a partnership is the first step to implementing an IPM program,” said Orkin Director of Quality Systems Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “This year’s award winners are proof that the results of partnership – more effective IPM programs and better audit scores – are well worth it.”

The 2007 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award winners are:

UNITED STATES:
•Barry Callebaut (Saint Albans, Vt.) – The world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality cocoa, chocolate and confectionery products.
•Case Farms, Inc. (Winesburg, Ohio) – A leading poultry processing plant.
•Farbest Brands (Plain City, Ohio) – Custom manufacturer of liquid and dry products and distributor of specialty food ingredients.
•Morton Salt Company (South Hutchinson, Kan.) – America’s leading producer of salt for grocery, water softening, ice control, agricultural and industrial uses.

CANADA:
•Jones Packaging Inc. (London, Ontario) – A world-class provider of premier packaging solutions and innovations for more than 115 years.
•Maidstone Bakeries (Brantford, Ontario) – A world-class, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for bakery goods.
•Neilson Dairy (Ottawa, Ontario) – A world-class manufacturer of fresh milk and aseptic beverages.
•Parmalat Dairy & Bakery Inc. (Laverlochere, Quebec) – A producer of butter and milk powders.

Now in its fourth year in the United States and third year in Canada, the Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards began as an effort by Orkin and The IPM Institute of North America to encourage the use of IPM and other environmentally friendly practices.

“By considering non-chemical methods of control first, IPM helps promote healthy environments,” said Dr. Thomas Green, President of The IPM Institute of North America. “We’re excited to see so many facilities using IPM to such great success.”

This year, NSF Cook & Thurber joined the awards as a co-presenter, bringing to the program its food-safety auditing expertise.

“Protection of the food supply is critical,” said Jim Bail, Assistant Director Food Processor Programs, NSF Cook & Thurber. “These facilities have gone a step above to create IPM partnerships that help ensure their products are produced in a safe, quality manner.”

About the Awards Jury
•Jim Bail, Assistant Director Food Processor Programs, NSF Cook & Thurber
•Austin Frishman, Ph.D., B.C.E., Founder and President of AMF Pest Management Services, Inc.
•Thomas A. Green, Ph.D., President of The IPM Institute of North America, Inc.
•Frank Meek, B.C.E., Technical Director, Orkin, Inc.
•Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., B.C.E., Director of Quality Systems, Orkin, Inc.

(Learn more about the awards jury members here)

About The IPM Institute of North America
The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. is an independent non-profit organization formed in 1998 to foster recognition and rewards in the marketplace for goods and service providers who practice IPM. The Institute’s mission is to accelerate adoption of IPM in agriculture and communities through consumer education and development of IPM standards for self-evaluation and IPM certification. The Institute is funded by grants from government, private foundations and industry, memberships and fees for services and programs. Learn more at www.ipminstitute.org.

About NSF Cook & Thurber
NSF Cook & Thurber is a division of NSF International, an independent, not-for-profit organization, that helps protect you by certifying products and writing standards for food, water and consumer goods (www.nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting public health and safety worldwide. NSF is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Food and Water Safety and Indoor Environment. Additional services include safety audits for the food and water industries, management systems registrations delivered through NSF International Strategic Registrations, Ltd., organic certification provided by Quality Assurance International and education through the NSF Center for Public Health Education.

Bed Bug Worries Making Americans More Selective About Hotels

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 18:32:39 -0400

Hotels Playing Good Defense with Bed Bug Action Plans

Two independent polls of hotel consumers and hotel managers released today by pest control company Orkin, Inc. show that the bed bug resurgence is making a majority of Americans more selective when choosing hotels.

More than half (59 percent) of poll respondents said they are more selective when choosing a hotel as a result of the bed bug resurgence.

The poll also showed that bed bug problems in one hotel can affect the entire chain. If there is a bed bug problem in one hotel, 38 percent of travelers surveyed would be less likely to stay in another hotel in the same chain. Seventeen percent would consider forgoing a hotel completely. The problem is even more acute among higher income groups, who tend to be the most frequent travelers. These travelers are significantly less likely than others to choose a hotel if they have heard about a bed bug infestation anywhere in the same hotel chain.

According to Orkin Technical Director Frank Meek, B.C.E., bed bugs do not cause any direct health threats, but their bites can result in itchy, bloody welts. “There has been a rise in international travel in recent years, which has helped contribute to the increase in bed bugs being seen,” Meek said. “Bed bugs are great hitchhiking pests and can travel in luggage and other personal belongings.”

The poll confirmed what most hoteliers fear – that many victims of bed bug bites will react swiftly and negatively and spread the word, too. If bitten by a bed bug while staying at a hotel:

Nearly nine in 10 respondents – 88 percent – would complain to the manager,
58 percent would never go back to that hotel,
51 percent would notify the health department,
50 percent would leave the hotel, and
50 percent would tell five or more people about their experience.

Hotels Preparing Well for Bed Bug Issues

Seventy-four percent of hotels surveyed have an action policy in place to respond to a guest who claims to have been bitten by a bed bug. For those with a bed bug action policy, 64 percent say they would immediately move the guest to another room in the hotel and then call in a professional to inspect the room. Sixty-one percent would quarantine the room and surrounding rooms. Meek said quarantining surrounding rooms is an important step to keep bed bugs from spreading throughout the hotel.

Nearly 70 percent of hotel managers are confident that their housekeeping staffs could accurately identify the signs of a bed bug infestation during their regular room cleanings. Meek suggested that hotel managers work with a reputable pest management company to train their staff to recognize the signs of bed bugs. He also recommended that travelers come prepared to inspect the room themselves.

"Bed bugs can multiply quickly, and hotels must be vigilant in their monitoring efforts to ensure their pest management program is working,” Meek added. “These results show that bed bugs can have a negative impact on hotels, especially hotel chains, and shouldn’t be ignored.

Poll Methodology Hotel consumer data is from a survey conducted by Acromatics using FGI Research service from March 30-April 4, 2007. The online survey polled 1,052 adults (aged 18 and over) in the contiguous United States. The margin of error for the total sample is +/- 3 percentage points. Hotelier data is based on the responses of 289 hospitality insiders to an online poll.

Poll Reveals Consumers’ Greatest Concerns When Dining Out

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:33:34 -0400

Food Safety Issues Top List of Worries; Diners Expect High Health Inspection Scores

ATLANTA, September 6, 2007 – An independent poll released today by pest control company Orkin, Inc. found that food preparation and employee hygiene cause diners the greatest unease in restaurants.

When asked to rank a list of health issues associated with restaurants, 33 percent ranked properly cooked food first, with employee hygiene coming in a close second at 30 percent.

Why are diners so concerned about food preparation at restaurants? Often because they’ve become ill after dining out. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 76 million cases of foodborne disease occur each year in the United States, causing 325,000 hospitalizations and 5,000 deaths related to foodborne diseases annually. The Orkin poll showed that 42 percent of adults have become ill after eating in a restaurant.

“Food safety is an important concern for diners, and rightly so,” said Orkin Director of Quality Systems, Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “Often, the problem starts with sanitation issues. An unclean food prep environment can expose food to microorganisms directly or indirectly by encouraging pests that carry germs.”

For restaurateurs, foodborne illness can create a ripple effect of lost business:
• 67 percent of guests who reported falling ill after dining out never returned to the establishment in question;
• 59 percent told five or more friends about the incident; and
• 39 percent even encouraged others not to eat at the offending restaurant.

Unfortunately, restaurant management may not realize a problem exists – 70 percent of surveyed customers who became ill never reported it to the restaurant. This behavior varies based on gender: poll responses showed women are one-and-a-half times more likely than men to inform the restaurant that they became ill.

Diners Expect Very Good Health Inspection Scores When determining whether or not a restaurant practices proper food safety, restaurant-goers are interested in more than passing health inspection scores. Four in 10 diners said they would not eat in a restaurant with a health inspection score of less than 90 percent.

If the health inspection score drops lower, diners have stronger reactions:
• 72 percent of diners would avoid a restaurant with a score of less than 80 percent, and
• 89 percent of diners would avoid a restaurant with a score of less than 70 percent.

Although a low health inspection score will discourage diners from eating in a restaurant, many are willing to try again. Four in 10 diners would walk out of a restaurant if they deemed the health inspection score too low, but 37 percent of those diners would return in a month to see if the score had improved.

“To get ready for their next health inspection, restaurateurs should visit Orkin’s Web site for a bi-lingual checklist on how to prepare,” Siddiqi said. “There are many simple cleaning steps that are often overlooked, but easy to implement.”

According to Siddiqi, maintaining a spotless restaurant is no easy task. During peak dining times it is especially difficult to stay on top of sanitation needs, but the key is to put a sanitation schedule into place, and to educate all employees of the steps they need to take to keep the restaurant clean.

“Crumbs on the floor, grease build-up in the kitchen and food caught in a floor or sink drain will attract pests,” Siddiqi said. “Pests can spread bacteria on food that will threaten restaurant-goers’ health and could harm a restaurant’s reputation. Restaurant owners and managers should work with their pest management professional to create a program that will keep their food fresh and their restaurant clean and full of customers.”

Poll Methodology The Orkin survey was conducted by Acromatics using FGI Research service from March 30-April 4, 2007. The online survey polled 1,052 adults (aged 18 and over) in the contiguous United States. The margin of error for the total sample is +/- 3 percentage points.

Orkin Acquires Local Pest Control Company

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control Offers New Orkin Services

Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control, a San Luis Obispo, Calif., pest control company with more than 30 years experience in the community, was acquired by Orkin, Inc. on Nov. 7. Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control will maintain its excellent customer service and be enhanced by the added resources of Orkin’s termite and pest control expertise.

“Orkin looks forward to serving the local residents and businesses of San Luis Obispo County with our award-winning customer service and training,” said Bob Hines, director of acquisitions for Orkin. “We look forward to welcoming and working with Jim Batchelor employees in our efforts to manage pest activity in the community.”

Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control’s services will be showcased for the first time since the acquisition at a booth at the Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles, Calif., July 25 – August 5, according to branch manager Don Dougherty.

“Orkin has enabled Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control to purchase new, state-of-the-art equipment and additional treatment materials to better manage pests,” said Dougherty. “Our branch now offers Orkin’s continuous termite protection plans, preventative termite service and money-back guarantees for our San Luis Obispo customers.”

Since Jim Batchelor founded the company in 1974, it has steadily grown into a full-service pest control company with 10 full-time employees. Several employees have long-term experience in the industry.

Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control services include residential and commercial pest control, termite control and repair, and pigeon control. In providing these services, the company offers the expertise of the national Orkin brand to San Luis Obispo residents currently experiencing summer pests, including drywood termites, subterranean termites, earwigs, spiders, insects, rodents and birds. Throughout the California coastal region, the company has been recognized for its unique, toxin-free pigeon trapping and feeding system that has been known to catch 65 pigeons at once.

For more information about Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control Inc., please call 805-541-3445.

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees in the United States and Canada serve approximately 1.7 million customers. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins Inc., which is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (ROL). Learn more about Orkin by visiting www.orkin.com and www.rollins.com.

New Survey Finds Homeowners Do Little to Protect Themselves Against Common Environmental Health Hazards

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

ATLANTA, June 21, 2007 – A new national survey reveals that homeowners and renters are aware of common environmental threats such as lead, mold, radon, and pest-related diseases, but do not take simple actions to protect themselves and their families.

Orkin, Inc., one of the nation’s largest pest control companies, designed the survey with the assistance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the nation’s premier public health agency, and the National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHH), a national scientific organization focused on protecting children from environmental hazards in their homes while preserving affordable housing. The survey polled respondents on health issues in and around the home and whether or not individuals were routinely taking steps to protect themselves.

According to the survey, the majority of homeowners and renters (61 percent) are aware and concerned that pests like ticks, mosquitoes, roaches and rodents may negatively affect their health and nearly all (95 percent) were aware that pests can spread diseases. However, an overwhelming majority (60-70 percent) do not consult a professional to control pests inside their homes.

Similarly, a total of 68 percent of respondents are concerned that other environmental home hazards will negatively affect their health, yet most (70 percent) have never tested or inspected their homes for lead, radon, carbon monoxide or mold.

According to Dr. Emily Zielinski-Gutierrez, behavioral scientist for the CDC’s National Center for Zoonotic, Vector-Borne and Enteric Diseases, “People are aware that pests can spread germs that cause disease, but in the rush of everyday life we can still forget to take actions to protect ourselves, like wearing repellent while working and playing in our own backyard. There is a gap between awareness and action, and we want to narrow that gap by sharing simple steps for prevention in and around the home.”

The CDC, NCHH and Orkin have launched a public awareness campaign to educate individuals on how to protect themselves against hidden home threats. More than half of survey respondents (57 percent) do not seek information about how to mitigate home health risks, yet there are countless ways individuals can reduce common threats.

“Reducing and preventing pest activity are two of the first steps to take toward creating a healthy home,” states Ron Harrison, Ph.D. and director of training for Orkin, Inc. According to Harrison, pests likely to pose health threats in and around the home include:

Rodents, which can contaminate food and transmit diseases;
Cockroaches, which spread germs and trigger asthma attacks;
Mosquitoes, which need only a thimble-full of standing water to breed and can transmit West Nile virus and other diseases; and
Ticks, which transmit Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Pest prevention is crucial to making a home safe. Harrison shares that integrated pest management, which includes sealing cracks and crevices and keeping food in tightly sealed containers, can make a big impact. The majority of survey respondents (65 percent) allow dirty dishes to sit out for more than two hours, a habit that Harrison says is sure to attract potentially disease-carrying pests like cockroaches.

Additionally, trimming plants and bushes away from the house and removing standing water in the yard can help control mosquitoes and ticks. The CDC recommends wearing repellant with DEET when outdoors and carefully inspecting people and pets for ticks once inside.

“Some of the deadliest hazards in the home environment cannot be seen or smelled,” said Rebecca Morley, executive director of NCHH. “Everyone needs to be aware of these hidden home threats and take steps to reduce risks”.

For example, radon — a naturally occurring gas in all parts of the country, and the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers — can be detected through a $10 test kit available at most hardware stores. If radon is detected, a professional can be hired to mitigate gas exposure to residents in the house.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that sends up to 40,000 people to the emergency room and kills 500 in the U.S. each year. Yet, according to the survey, 50 percent of homeowners and renters did not have a carbon monoxide alarm in their homes. In addition to installing alarms near sleeping areas, ensuring appliances are correctly installed and properly functioning, as well as inspecting and cleaning heating systems and chimneys, can lessen the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Most survey respondents (82 percent) were aware that exposure to lead-based paint can cause developmental delays in children, but the majority had not tested homes for the presence of lead dust. To lessen risk, individuals should wash children’s hands and toys frequently and hire a professional to inspect homes built before 1978, the year lead-based paint was banned in the United States. Homeowners and renters should also be aware that painting or renovating an older home can place them at higher risk for exposure.

Mold can cause allergic reactions such as watery eyes and trouble breathing, as well as trigger asthma attacks. While 50 percent of respondents claimed to have allergies, many may not know prevention tips like using water alarms; using dehumidifiers to reduce dampness in homes; removing and repairing water-damaged materials such as carpets, wallboard, and ceilings; and installing exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.

To access a one-page guide on hidden home threats and simple steps to reduce these risks, visit:

Orkin’s Learning Center: www.orkin.com/learningcenter/, or
The National Center for Healthy Housing: http://www.nchh.org/resources.aspx.

Or, for additional information on hidden home threats, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov.

The Orkin survey was conducted by Persuadable Research between April 25 and 30, 2007. The email interviews were conducted among 1,166 adults (aged 18 and over) nationwide. Of the respondents, 64 percent own their homes while 34 percent rent. At the 95 percent confidence level, the margin of error for the total sample is plus or minus 2.4 percentage points.

About Orkin, Inc.

About the National Center for Healthy Housing

National Center for Healthy Housing is the only national non-profit organization dedicated to developing and promoting practical measures to protect children from residential environmental hazards while preserving affordable housing. NCHH seeks scientifically valid and practical strategies to make homes safe from hazards, to alert low- income families about housing-related health risks, and to help them protect their children. NCHH also works with governmental and non-governmental organizations to develop standards and programs and guide their implementation through insurers, lenders, federal and state laws and regulations, community organizations, and the courts. For more information, visit http://www.centerforhealthyhousing.org.

About the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

NSF Cook & Thurber Joins Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards

Wed, 20 Jun 2007 14:50:50 -0400

Fourth Annual Awards Honor U.S. Finalists

ATLANTA, June 20, 2007 – Orkin Commercial Services today announced that NSF Cook & Thurber has joined the Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards as a co-presenter. Sponsored by Orkin, The IPM Institute of North America and NSF Cook & Thurber, the annual awards honor facilities that excel at Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

As a leading provider of food safety services to the food, beverage, animal feed and packaging industries, NSF Cook & Thurber brings a valuable auditor’s perspective to the program. Headquartered in Ann Arbor, Mich., NSF Cook & Thurber provides its services to more than 5,000 clients.

“Comprehensive pest management is an integral part of a sound food safety program,” said Jim Bail, NSF Cook & Thurber Assistant Director Food Processor Programs, who joins the Awards Jury for the first year. “NSF Cook & Thurber is proud to partner with Orkin and The IPM Institute of North America to recognize those facilities that take their food safety and pest management efforts so seriously.”

12 U.S. Facilities Selected as Awards Finalists
This year, Orkin, The IPM Institute of North America and NSF Cook & Thurber selected 12 U.S. finalists from an elite group of nominees that employ Orkin’s most rigorous IPM service offering, Gold Medal Protection, which emphasizes quality assurance and pest control documentation.

All nominees show an outstanding dedication to IPM, an approach to pest management that stresses all available methods of control to help minimize pesticide use. This year’s finalists demonstrate their commitment to IPM and to their partnership with Orkin through:
• vigilant sanitation,
• regular and accurate documentation,
• prompt adherence to structural recommendations, and
• staff participation in IPM training sessions.

“The Gold Medal Awards are all about partnership,” said Orkin Director of Quality Systems Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “These finalists consistently go above and beyond to keep up their end of their IPM programs.”

The 2007 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award finalists are:
• Alcan Packaging (Milwaukee, Wis.) – A world leader in specialty packaging serving the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, medical, beauty, and tobacco markets.
• Andes Candies (Delavan, Wis.) – Manufacturers of a variety of boxed and bagged candy products.
• Avgol Nonwoven Inc. (Mocksville, N.C.) – A subsidiary of Avgol Industries, Avgol Nonwoven Inc. is a leading producer of lightweight, non-woven materials for use in hygiene items such as disposable baby and adult diapers and a variety of feminine hygiene products.
• Barry Callebaut (Saint Albans, Vt.) – The world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality cocoa, chocolate and confectionery products.
• Case Farms, Inc. (Winesburg, Ohio) – A poultry plant.
• The Cheesecake Factory Bakery Incorporated (Calabasas Hills, Calif.) – The leading manufacturer of fine-baked desserts. Provides more than 50 varieties of its signature cheesecakes and other baked desserts to The Cheesecake Factory restaurants, as well as a variety of products to the wholesale club segment, retail markets and foodservice distributors.
• Cloverland Farms Dairy (Baltimore, Md.) – Producers of dairy and juice products.
• Corn Products (Bedford Park, Ill.) – The world's largest manufacturer of dextrose and a leading supplier of starches, sweeteners and other ingredients.
• Farbest Brands (Plain City, Ohio) – Custom manufacturer of liquid and dry products and distributor of specialty food ingredients.
• Momence Packing (Momence, Ill.) – Meat packing and processing plant.
• Morton Salt Company (South Hutchinson, Kan.) – America's leading producer of salt for grocery, water softening, ice control, agricultural and industrial uses.
• Sara Lee Foodservice (Harahan, La.) – A leading supplier of coffee and tea products to a broad base of foodservice operators throughout North America.

“IPM is the key to pest management success in sensitive food processing environments,” explained Thomas Green, Ph.D., President of The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. “These finalists take their commitment to IPM and food safety very seriously, and it shows.”

Judges for the 2007 Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards include:
• Jim Bail, Assistant Director Food Processor Programs, NSF Cook & Thurber
• Austin Frishman, Ph.D., B.C.E., Founder and President of AMF Pest Management Services, Inc.
• Thomas A. Green, Ph.D., President of The IPM Institute of North America, Inc.
• Frank Meek, B.C.E., Technical Director, Orkin, Inc.
• Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., B.C.E., Director of Quality Systems, Orkin, Inc.

Award winners will be announced in September, and award presentations will be conducted on-site at the winning facilities. Case studies on each of the winners will be posted at www.orkincommercial.com.

About The IPM Institute of North America
The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. is an independent non-profit organization formed in 1998 to foster recognition and rewards in the marketplace for goods and service providers who practice IPM. The Institute’s mission is to accelerate adoption of IPM in agriculture and communities through consumer education and development of IPM standards for self-evaluation and IPM certification. The Institute is funded by grants from government, private foundations and industry, memberships and fees for services and programs. Learn more at www.ipminstitute.org.

About NSF Cook & Thurber
NSF Cook & Thurber is a division of NSF International, an independent, not-for-profit organization, that helps protect you by certifying products and writing standards for food, water and consumer goods (www.nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting public health and safety worldwide. NSF is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Food and Water Safety and Indoor Environment. Additional services include safety audits for the food and water industries, management systems registrations delivered through NSF International Strategic Registrations, Ltd., organic certification provided by Quality Assurance International and education through the NSF Center for Public Health Education.

Orkin Inc. Acquires Four Pest Control Companies In Texas And New York

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Companies Will Expand Customer Service Areas and Add Tenured Employees

ATLANTA, June 6, 2007 – Orkin Inc., the 106-year-old pest control company, has increased its customer base and market share with the acquisition of four pest control companies: Arrow Exterminating Company in Oneonta, New York; Innovative Pest Control in Houston; Future Pest Control in Longview, Texas; and Livengood Pest Control Company in Austin, Texas. The acquisitions were finalized April 27, May 1, May 3 and May 15, respectively.

Arrow Exterminating Company provides pest control service in the central New York state counties of Chenango, Ostego, Delaware, Schoharie, Madison, Broome and Herkimer, and the acquisition will increase Orkin’s customer base in a key New York region. Former owner Steve Stegman spent most of his life working in the pest control industry, beginning with his father’s business on Long Island.

“We look forward to having this business, with its excellent reputation, assist us in continuing to grow in the New York area,” said Bob Hines, director of acquisitions for Orkin.

Orkin strengthened its presence on the west side of Houston with Innovative Pest Control, founded in 1993 by John Weigel. The pest control company specializes in commercial pest control and mosquito control and in 2006 produced revenues in excess of $1 million. Orkin will retain all Innovative Pest Control employees and Weigel will remain with Orkin as branch manager.

Future Pest Control will also add experienced employees to the Orkin team. The company was started in 1993 by former owners Jack and Christie Carter. Jack Carter was a former Orkin sales inspector and sales manager. The company will merge with the Tyler, Texas, branch but will continue to operate out of Longview.

Livengood Pest Control, formerly owned by Mike Livengood, will be merged with the North Austin branch.

“With these acquisitions in Texas and New York, Orkin increases its customer service areas and adds valuable tenured employees,” said Hines. “We are confident that these four companies are a great fit for our growing markets.”

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in North America. With more than 400 locations, Orkin’s almost 8,000 employees in the United States and Canada serve approximately 1.7 million customers. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc., which is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (ROL). Learn more about Orkin by visiting www.orkin.com and www.rollins.com.

More Hospitals Using Integrated Pest Management to Reduce Pesticides

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:51:40 -0400

Poll reveals less than half follow specific protocols for chemical use

Pest control company Orkin, Inc. and Hospitals for a Healthy Environment (H2E) today announced that an increasing number of hospitals implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs in their facilities, according to the results of a poll of health care professionals.

As an environmentally friendly approach to pest management that helps reduce the reliance on pesticides, IPM programs are used in some form in nearly nine out of 10 hospitals (88 percent). Sixty percent of respondents noted that their facilities use IPM throughout the entire hospital.

The results indicate that IPM use has risen during the past six years. A 2001 study* by Health Care Without Harm noted that only 73 percent of hospitals surveyed implemented IPM programs.

“More and more hospitals are recognizing the importance of an IPM approach to manage pests and keep patients and staff safe at the same time,” said Laura Brannen, H2E Executive Director. “It’s very encouraging to see these numbers continue to rise.”

Despite the trend towards “greening” in hospitals, less than half (42 percent) follow specific, written protocols for when and where chemical pest control products should be used. An even smaller margin, 38 percent, responded that their facilities do not have a facility-approved list of pesticides that they adhere to when chemical treatments are required.

“Since hospitals are such sensitive environments, chemical applications must be taken very seriously,” said Orkin Technical Services Director Frank Meek. “A written protocol that includes a formal notification process for pesticide applications and an approved list of products are a must.”

Health care pest management programs respond to a variety of pest problems according to poll respondents. Ants, rodents and flies are the three main pests of concern in hospital environments, with 46 percent of respondents selecting ants as their facilities’ biggest challenge. Rodents and flies were reported as the principal threats by 34 and 26 percent of respondents, respectively. Cockroaches, birds, wasps and occasional invaders, such as beetles, also made the list.

The poll also revealed that nearly all hospitals (94 percent) employ the services of an outsourced pest management professional in some fashion. Seventy-two percent of facilities outsource their pest management efforts entirely.

To help hospitals execute IPM programs, Orkin and H2E published the “H2E 10-Step Guide to Implementing an Integrated Pest Management Program” in the fall of 2006. Co-authored by board-certified Orkin entomologists and H2E experts, the guide gives hospital staff a foundation in the basic concepts of IPM. The guide is available for free download at www.h2e-online.org under “A wealth of knowledge” and “Key Resources” on the website’s home page.

Poll Methodology
Perception data is based on the responses of 101 health care professionals to an online poll promoted via email to members of Hospitals for a Healthy Environment (H2E). For complete poll results, visit the IPM Poll Results Report.

*About Health Care Without Harm Study
In 2001, Health Care Without Harm fielded a survey to the 171 top U.S. hospital facilities designated by that year’s U.S. News and World Report. Data was collected from 22 responding hospitals. For complete survey findings, visit www.noharm.org/us and select “Pesticides” from the “Pesticides and Fragrances” menu to download the “Healthy Hospitals Report.”

About H2E
H2E (Hospitals for a Healthy Environment) is creating a national movement for environmental sustainability in health care. Jointly founded by the American Hospital Association, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Health Care Without Harm and the American Nurses Association, H2E is based on the vision of a healthy health care system that embraces safer building products, clean air, energy and water efficiency, safe working practices and a commitment to public health demonstrated through waste volume and toxicity reduction. To achieve this goal, H2E provides its more than 6000 health care facility Partners with education, tools and information about best environmental practices, to help improve operational efficiency, increase compliance and improve the health of their communities.

Orkin, Inc. Termite Technicians Named to Industry All-Star Team

Tue, 15 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Three Technicians Honored for Exemplary Service, Knowledge and Teamwork

ATLANTA, May 15, 2007 – BASF Professional Pest Control named three Orkin Inc. termite technicians to its 16-member 2007 Termidor® termiticide-insecticide All-Star Technician team. BASF will honor Orkin’s Charles Gragg of Springfield, Mo., Michael Howell of Pikeville, Ky., and Rodney L. Williams of Doraville, Ga., at a special awards ceremony at the Major League Baseball All-Star Game in San Francisco on July 10.

Launched in 2006, the Termidor All-Star Technician program recognizes the significant contributions technicians make to the pest management industry. A panel of judges composed of senior BASF personnel selected the 16 winners, including Orkin’s three technicians, from a field of 100 entrants. Technicians were nominated for their exemplary customer service, knowledge of termite biology and treatment, and contributions to their pest management company.

“Orkin is proud to have three of our technicians recognized for their contributions to the national pest management industry,” said Glen Rollins, Orkin Inc. president and COO. “Charles, Michael and Rodney are true examples of Orkin’s dedication to industry-leading innovation and training, and excellent customer service.”

Gragg, a 16-year Orkin veteran and two-time President’s Club (Orkin’s top recognition program) winner, is honored to receive the Termidor All-Star award. Gragg attributes his success to the support, encouragement and training he has received at his Orkin branch. According to Springfield, Mo., branch manager Rusty Cooper, Gragg is a well-regarded problem-solver and team player with excellent customer service skills. “Charles is the best termite technician I have seen in 22 years,” Cooper said.

Technician Howell has served in both technician (termite and pest control) and sales roles during his nine years with Orkin. Pikeville, Ky., branch manager Roxie Bowling values Howell’s strong work ethic in striving to effectively treat termites at the first application. Howell’s customers also appreciate his attention to detail, as seen by the long-term relationships Howell has maintained with customers from his former pest control route.

In his six years at Orkin, Williams has developed strong customer relationships and has been recognized as a 2006 President’s Club winner. Mike Gonzalez, service manager for the Chamblee, Ga., Orkin branch, says customers specifically request Williams as their technician because he treats their property as if it is his own. Williams thrives on the challenge of finding ways to make his customers feel secure in how their termite treatment is handled. He carefully explains how he treats and then provides his personal phone number for customer questions.

Orkin’s Atlanta-based Training Center is a vital resource for informing technicians about termite treatment and preparing them to excel in customer service. Orkin leaders have invested approximately $10 million in the company’s Training Center and training capabilities, adding a 13,000-square-foot expansion in 2005, which includes a restaurant kitchen, hospital room, hotel room, supermarket layout and warehouse space for commercial pest control technicians. The Atlanta-based facility also includes a full-sized, functional house for applied learning of pest and termite control techniques. Cutaway walls and examples of all common building techniques provide trainees with first-hand examples of what they can expect to find in homes across the country. In recognition for this unique training environment, Orkin was named as part of Training magazine’s prestigious Top 125 list for 2007. This is the fifth straight year the company has been included on this list.

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin Commercial Services Helps Hotels Spot Pests

Thu, 03 May 2007 14:52:35 -0400

Educational Tool Identifies “8 Places to Check Out Before Pests Check In”

ATLANTA, May 3, 2007 – Today Orkin Commercial Services published “8 Places to Check Out Before Pests Check In,” a free educational checklist designed to help hotel staff identify and prevent pests in key problem areas. Hoteliers can download the user-friendly piece at Orkin University Online, a set of free learning aides at www.orkincommercial.com under the “About Orkin” menu.

The checklist targets eight pest hot spots: lobbies and entrances, guest rooms, foodservice kitchens, and vending, pool, laundry, loading dock and waste disposal areas. In each hot spot, the checklist identifies the common pests and elements that attract them to that area, and offers tips to discourage insects and rodents from taking up residence. Available in both English, Spanish and Russian and with illustrations that pinpoint each tip, both managers and staff can easily use the tool.

“A hotel’s staff is on the front line of the battle against pests every day,” said Orkin Technical Services Director Frank Meek. “From servicing guest rooms to vacuuming the halls to cleaning the restaurant, employees can help spot pest infestations before they get out of hand.”

Cockroaches, bed bugs, ants and flies are just a few of the pests that can infest the eight hot spots. Meek further explained that pests frequent hotels for many of the same reasons that guests do – often good food and a warm bed. Even organic debris in kitchen drains and moisture under a leaking vending machine can provide some pests with enough sustenance for long-term survival.

“Regular monitoring of pest hot spots and good sanitation and housekeeping can go a long way to helping prevent pest infestations,” Meek added.

Orkin’s “8 Places to Check Out Before Pests Check In” adds to a number of other learning aides available on Orkin University Online. Hoteliers also can benefit from the “Before Your Next Inspection” checklist and the “ABCs of Pest Habitat Modification” training video. The site can be accessed by visiting www.orkincommercial.com and selecting “Orkin University Online” from the drop-down menu under “About Orkin.”

Orkin also offers complimentary bed bug training presentations to provide housekeeping staff with the knowledge they need to inspect for bed bugs during regular room cleanings. Through Orkin’s training offerings, hoteliers benefit from Orkin’s renowned pest management and training expertise. In 2007, and for the fifth consecutive year, Orkin received recognition from Training magazine as one of the publication’s “Top 125” organizations that excel in human capital development.

“March”ing Ants Usher Fans To The Final Four

Fri, 23 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Atlanta-based company colonizes in MARTA station

ATLANTA – March 23, 2007 – Thousands of basketball fans aren’t the only ones colonizing at the Georgia Dome next weekend. Atlanta-based Orkin, Inc., the 106-year-old pest control company, is staking its claim in the unofficial marketing blitz surrounding the 2007 men’s college basketball national championship.

The company installed nearly 2,500 oversized ants throughout the Georgia Dome MARTA station to march thousands of basketball fans to this year’s championship games, which are taking place March 31 and April 2. In fact, according to the Atlanta Sports Council, the 2007 Final Four is expected to draw 75,000 out-of-town fans and generate an economic impact of $53 million in Metro Atlanta alone. And Orkin is antsy to generate local buzz.

“Throngs and throngs of people will experience the Orkin ants marching in the Georgia Dome MARTA station over the next week and during the upcoming basketball games,” said Kevin Smith, vice president of marketing for Orkin, Inc. “Elimination, protection, defender – it’s a perfect parallel from the basketball rounds to Orkin's protective services.”

As part of Orkin’s MARTA station takeover, company banners and posters feature timely slogans like, “Spider Sidelined with Eight Shoulder Injuries” and, “Keep the Termites off the Board.” Additionally, a team of three to six Orkin employees will share bug trivia and hand out coupons during the semi-finals and finals.

According to officials at MARTA, the Georgia Dome MARTA station could easily average 30,000 to 40,000 passengers per day during a special event weekend like the Final Four.

The teams coming to Atlanta will be announced after the Sweet Sixteen – being played this weekend across the country.

About Orkin, Inc.

Despite Varying Temperatures, First Day Of Spring Signals Increased Pest Activity In Many Regions Of The Country

Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Tips from Orkin Help Homeowners Guard against Springtime Pests

ATLANTA – March 20, 2007 – Despite the February chill still gripping many parts of the country, March 21st marks the official first day of spring – the season when pests typically spring into action. According to experts at Orkin, Inc., the 106-year-old pest control company, Americans can act now to guard against infestations in the warmer months ahead.

“Temperature and moisture extremes – like recent snows in the Northeast and high temperatures in the Southwest – significantly impact pest activity,” said entomologist Ron Harrison, Ph. D., Director of Training and Orkin's Training Center. “And pests that have been dormant during colder months become more active with increased temperatures.”

Spiders, bees, wasps, termites, ants, ladybugs, blow flies, gnats, aphids, pantry pests such as Indian meal moths and others will soon appear, as they thrive in climates with sustained temperatures of 60 degrees.

Orkin’s pest specialists across the country expect both increasing temperatures and pest activity in the coming weeks, proving that the first day of spring marks the beginning of a warmer season – pest season. As temperatures rise, Americans can expect to see increased activity from certain pests in different regions of the country:

Northeast: carpenter ants
Southeast: cockroaches, spiders, bees and wasps, fire ants, carpenter ants and ladybug beetles
Central/Midwest: cockroaches, spiders, box elder bugs and ants – especially carpenter ants
Northwest: bees and ants – especially carpenter ants
Rocky Mountain area: ants
Arizona/New Mexico area: bees, spiders and ants

“Warm-weather pests are more than just a nuisance,” said Harrison. “Many pests present potential health risks for you and your family.”

Bees and wasps pose a risk for humans through toxic reactions to their venom and through allergic reactions. Black widow and brown recluse spiders possess poisonous glands that can cause skin irritation, nerve damage and infection. Pantry pests carry harmful bacteria that can contaminate food and products on your shelves.

According to Harrison, homeowners should act now to reduce pest activity in and around homes:

Seal interior and exterior cracks.
Fit screens and tighten seals on doors and windows.
Keep ventilation systems clear and running.
Vacuum regularly.
Keep all food containers and non-perishables tightly sealed.
Pick up pet food at night, and don’t feed pets outdoors.
Wipe counters, wash dirty dishes and remove trash daily.
Keep plants and mulch two to three feet from homes because they attract many insects.
Eliminate sources of standing water.

About Orkin, Inc.

Termites: The Silent Destroyer

Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Termites will feast on anything made of cellulose, including plants and cotton, and swarm around sources of water and wood. Eliminating brush and standing water around your home will help reduce your risk of infestation.

While you’re relaxing in your backyard or at the park enjoying the onset of warm spring weather, be aware that intruders could be quietly invading your home. These trespassers can sneak past any locked doors or watchdogs, and are almost too small to spot – they are termites.

Termites, which can live in colonies of up to several thousand, have proven to be one of homeowners’ greatest adversaries, threatening the very roof over your heads. Battling termites can be a pain for you, your family and your wallet. These formidable pests have been around for more than 250 million years and can be divided into two groups: those that live entirely in wood (drywood) and those that tunnel underground (subterranean), making proper identification and treatment essential.

“A termite queen can lay several hundred eggs a day,” notes Paul Hardy, senior technical director for Orkin, Inc. “Termites’ abilities to reproduce so quickly and enter houses undetected make them a formidable pest for homeowners.”

Termites never sleep and are stealthy, silent invaders. Any house or building, regardless of construction type, can be vulnerable to termite attacks. Whether your home is stucco, brick or wood, once termites enter, they work night and day and eat anything made of cellulose, including plants, cotton and wood. Watch out for these signs of an infestation:

Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
Pencil-sized mud tubes on exterior walls
Distorted, cracked or bubbling areas of paint on wood surfaces
Swarms of winged insects
Discarded wings of “swarmers”

With the ability to adapt easily to changing environments, termites are a problem nationwide - no one is safe from a termite invasion without proper prevention measures. Use the following information and prevention tips to protect your home against these relentless soldiers:

Seal any places termites might enter, including small cracks and crevices. Termites can enter buildings through cracks as small as 1/32 of an inch.
Termites love to swarm around sources of food, water and moisture, including tree stumps and roots, mulch, firewood and leaves. Remove the accumulation of water and wood sources around the exterior of your home.
Keep gutters and downspouts clear, and trim siding or stucco at least two inches above soil level.
Contact a pest professional at the first sign of an infestation.

For more on termite prevention, visit www.orkin.com. Free inspections are also available by calling (800) 800-ORKIN.

Did You Know?

Termites, which can live in colonies of up to several thousand, have proven to be one of homeowners’ greatest adversaries, threatening the very roof over their heads. No one is safe from a termite invasion without proper prevention measures. For more information about protecting your home against termites, visit www.orkin.com or call (800) 800-ORKIN.

Avoid Pests When You Get the Spring Cleaning Bug

Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Pests such as bees and wasps will spring into action in the warm spring months. You can prevent them from buzzing into your home while spring cleaning.

As you thaw out from winter and nature springs back to life with warm sunlight and blossoming flowers, you’ll likely pack away your scarves and heavy coats for the year. Changes in temperature prompt many to begin cleaning and preparing themselves for the warmer months ahead.

It’s important to remember that pests will be readying themselves for the warm weather, too. You can expect to see an increase in spiders, ants, centipedes, pantry pests such as Indian meal moths, and stinging pests such as bees and wasps as the temperature increases. These pests usually thrive in temperatures above 60 degrees.

“When cleaning, you have a great opportunity to prevent pest problems before they occur,” says Orkin, Inc. entomologist Ron Harrison, Ph.D. “Pests that have been dormant during the cold months can become more active with increased temperatures, and homeowners can take many steps while cleaning to guard against infestations.”

Warm-weather pests are more than just a nuisance, as they present potential health risks for you and your family. Stinging insects such as bees and wasps pose a risk for humans through toxic reactions to their venom and through allergic reactions. Spiders, such as the black widow and brown recluse, possess poisonous glands that can cause skin irritation, nerve damage and infection. Pantry pests carry harmful bacteria that can contaminate food and products on your shelves.

Welcoming in the sunshine doesn’t have to mean welcoming in spring pests, too. Take the following steps while cleaning to help prevent problems in and around your home:

Seal interior and exterior cracks in and around your home.
Keep ventilation systems clear and running.
Vacuum regularly. You can use a vacuum to remove spiders and their webs as well as other pests and debris.
Clean pantries and closets thoroughly, picking up excess food and removing any products that have been sitting on shelves for several months. Keep all food containers and non-perishables tightly sealed.
Pick up pet food at night. Don’t feed pets outdoors.
Wipe down all counters, wash dirty dishes and remove trash daily to avoid accumulation of any remnants of food that may lure pests. Your crumbs can be a feast to hungry pests.

For more information, please visit www.orkin.com or call (800) 800-ORKIN.

Did You Know?

Spring cleaning provides a great opportunity to prevent against infestations from pests such as spiders, ants, centipedes, pantry pests such as Indian meal moths, and stinging pests such as bees and wasps. The most effective way to prevent pest infestation is to start preparing now. Visit www.orkin.com or call (800) 800-ORKIN for prevention and treatment tips.

Orkin Wins Food Processing Readers’ Choice Award 2007

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:54:28 -0500

Orkin, Inc. received a 2007 Readers’ Choice Award from Food Processing magazine, the leading trade publication for food and beverage processors. Orkin was named the “Silver Supplier” in the pest management category in a survey sent to the publication’s more than 25,000 readers.

The fifth annual Food Processing Readers’ Choice Awards recognize the top vendors in the food processing industry. Readers vote on 40 product categories through an unaided recall survey, meaning readers are given the categories and asked to supply names without being aided by a multiple choice list of providers. Voters represent all food and beverage categories, all size companies and titles; there are no suppliers or vendors on the list. Food Processing will feature the winners in its February 2007 issue and on its Web site, www.foodprocessing.com, throughout the year.

“We take great pride in offering respected and effective pest management services to the food and beverage industry,” said Cam Glover, commercial marketing manager for Orkin. “At Orkin, we make a commitment to provide the highest quality service to our customers, and this award shows that we’re continually offering pest management programs that exceed our customers’ expectations.”

Orkin’s extensive internal training program and its team of top quality assurance professionals help the company achieve its success in the highly regulated food and beverage industries. In 2006 Training magazine, the training industry’s premiere publication, recognized Orkin among its annual “Top 100” for the fourth consecutive year. Also in 2006, Pest Control Technology magazine and Syngenta Professional Products honored Orkin with their Best-In-Class Customer Service Award.

Committed to keeping abreast of the latest issues affecting the industry, Orkin is a member of several leading food processing industry associations including The American Association of Meat Processors, The American Meat Institute, the Food Products Association, the International Association for Food Protection and the International Dairy Foods Association.

Orkin Acquires General Pest Control Company In Colorado.

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Southwest U.S. Expansion a Priority for Orkin

ATLANTA, Feb. 1, 2007 – Orkin Inc., the 106-year-old pest control company, has acquired the assets of General Pest Control Company, Inc., headquartered in Durango, Colo. The purchase was finalized on Jan. 3.

General Pest Control Company, Inc. is a 25-year-old, family-run business consisting of five well-established pest control routes in the southwest corner of Colorado (including Durango, Cortez and Pagosa Springs) and the northwest corner of New Mexico (into Farmington). Orkin will reassign five additional routes from its own Grand Junction and Albuquerque branches to the Durango branch, creating a 10-route branch.

“The leadership of General Pest Control placed great emphasis on training and experience over the years – two qualities Orkin values most. The company will be a great asset to Orkin, and we look forward to continued rapid growth into the Southwest market with this acquisition and merger,” said Bob Hines, director of acquisitions for Orkin.

All of General Pest Control, Inc.’s employees, many of whom have considerable tenure, will continue with Orkin. Former General Pest owner, Dwayne Howell, will remain as Durango branch manager and report to Ben Bradham, assistant manager for the Colorado region. Bradham will continue to report to Southwest region manager Steve Breitweiser.

About Orkin, Inc.

Poll Reveals Consumers’ Perceptions of Pests in Grocery Stores

Wed, 31 Jan 2007 14:56:14 -0500

Shoppers Most Likely to Complain to Manager if Spotting a Pest; Sighting May Impact Feelings about the Rest of the Chain

ATLANTA, Jan. 31, 2007 – It creeps; it crawls…unless it’s a lobster, not in my grocery store! According to a recent independent consumer poll from Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Inc., grocery store shoppers will not tolerate a store that is home to crawling pests.

The poll found that shoppers are more likely to react to rodents in a grocery store than cockroaches, stored-product pests (meal moths, beetles, etc.) or flies. According to Orkin’s Director of Quality Assurance Zia Siddiqi, rodents are known carriers of a host of diseases including salmonella, plague and Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Of those shoppers spotting a rodent, 70 percent would complain to a manager, while half would leave the store without their groceries. Forty-five percent wouldn’t shop in that store again.

Cockroaches are not far behind rodents in their ability to turn off shoppers. The majority (60 percent) would complain to the manager, and 41 percent would tell friends and family about the roach. Shoppers spying a stored-product pest such as a moth or beetle are most likely to speak to the manager (52 percent) or tell the cashier what they found (35 percent).

The poll found that flies cause the least reaction from shoppers – 37 percent reported they would “do nothing” if they saw a fly while shopping. But, added Siddiqi, they should.

“Flies are one of the filthiest pests around, carrying up to a half billion bacteria on the outside of their bodies, including common sources of food-borne illness,” said Siddiqi. “People don’t react as strongly to flies since they are accustomed to seeing them near food. In general, pests are a turnoff for shoppers, but what people may not realize is that pests can carry and spread bacteria that can threaten customers’ and employees’ health. The health issue is what can jeopardize a grocery store’s inventory and, in some cases, its ability to do business.”

Of even more concern to national retailers, a pest sighting at one location can affect consumers’ perceptions of the entire chain – for 43 percent, finding a pest in a grocery store “would have a negative effect.”

Younger shoppers seem to be more sensitive to pest issues in grocery stores. The survey found that compared to people 35 and over, younger adults age 18 to 34 are more likely to:

Tell friends and relatives about a pest
Leave the store without checking out
Never go back to the store, and/or
Draw other shoppers’ attention to the pest.

In addition, women react more strongly to seeing pests than men. Typically the predominant shoppers in the family, women are critical to the food retail industry*. For instance, after spotting a rodent,

73 percent of women (versus 66 percent of men) would complain to the manager
55 percent of women (versus 46 percent of men) would leave the store without checking out, and
53 percent of women (versus 47 percent of men) would tell five or more friends or relatives about the occurrence.

According to Siddiqi, the food retail industry is challenging for pest control providers, with several store environments packed into one – from delicatessens to meat and flower shops. Storage areas, if not maintained properly, can also be breeding grounds for pests.

“Grocery stores must be vigilant about pest control and make sure their programs are effective,” noted Siddiqi. “And, if a store is part of a chain, consistency is key. These results show that pests can have a negative impact on grocery stores – one too important to ignore.”

Poll Methodology
The Orkin survey was conducted by Acromatics using Synovate’s eNation service from Nov. 30 – Dec. 4, 2006. The online survey polled 1,000 adults (aged 18 and over) in the contiguous United States. The margin of error for the total sample is +/- 3 percentage points.

*85 percent of women surveyed by Vertis Inc. in 2004 reported doing at least 60 percent of the grocery shopping.

Orkin Acquires Three New Pest Control Companies Across U.S.

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Orkin, Inc. Expands in California, New Jersey and Louisiana

ATLANTA, Jan. 10, 2007 – Orkin Inc., the 106-year-old pest control company, has acquired the assets of three companies: Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control Inc. in San Luis Obispo, Calif.; JRG Exterminators Inc. in Millstone Township, N.J.; and Jeepers Creepers Pest Control in Morgan City, La. The purchases were finalized on Nov. 7, Dec. 1 and Dec. 1, respectively.

Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control, founded in 1974 by Jim Batchelor in San Luis Obispo, Ca., will give Orkin a presence between Los Angeles and San Francisco. JRG Exterminators, formerly owned by Mark and Harlene Goldberg, will continue to operate as JRG, using the same trucks, signage and logos from central to southern New Jersey, and as far north as Newark. Jeepers Creepers Pest Control, founded in 1981 by Gerald and Patricia Hotard, will become part of Orkin's Houma, La., branch.

"Each of these companies will be a great asset to Orkin. We look forward to growing into these major markets and welcoming our new employees,” said Bob Hines, director of acquisitions for Orkin.

Jim Batchelor Termite and Pest Control has grown steadily since inception in the 1970s to 10 fulltime employees, and its services include residential and commercial pest control, termite control and pigeon control. The company utilizes a unique toxin-free pigeon trapping and feeding system that has proven to be very successful in the California coastal area.

JRG Exterminators, Inc., has grown to a company of 30 employees since its founding in 1990 and has the unique distinction of retaining every employee that has ever worked for the company. General Manager Hank Thoms and Sales Vice President Glen Zuhl will remain as part of the management team. Although the company performs residential, commercial, termite and wildlife control, they have established a loyal niche market in New Jersey retirement community homeowner associations.

Jeepers Creepers Pest Control has four and half pest control routes, and the company's four technicians will join Orkin's Houma branch.

"These are companies where both employees and customers have had long tenures, which is a major consideration for our acquisition decisions," said Hines. "All three of these organizations have been able to create and maintain the loyalty that we value in both our employees and customers."

About Orkin, Inc.

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin Inc. is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama. With more than 400 locations, Orkin's almost 8,000 employees in the United States and Canada serve approximately 1.7 million customers. Orkin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins Inc., which is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (ROL). Learn more about Orkin by visiting www.orkin.com and www.rollins.com.

Restaurants’ Best Customers Don’t Take Pest Problems Lightly

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 14:35:35 -0400

Frequent diners will spread the word about restaurant pest problems and might never return

ATLANTA, October 30, 2006 – Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Inc. today announced the results of an independent poll of foodservice consumers about their perceptions of pest control issues in restaurants.

For frequent restaurant diners (i.e., respondents who eat out three or more times a week), seeing a pest calls for discretion – at least as long as they’re still in the restaurant. When asked how they would react to a cockroach – alive or dead – in the dining area of a restaurant, 70 percent of respondents said they would alert the server and 47 percent said they would tell the manager. Only 9 percent of respondents said they would draw other patrons’ attention to the pest.

After leaving the restaurant, however, diners who have seen a pest are less discreet – more than 60 percent said they would tell five or more acquaintances about the incident. Almost 8 percent said they would go so far as to call the health department.

In addition to generating negative word-of-mouth, pest sightings can significantly impact repeat business. Nearly three out of every 10 respondents (28.5 percent) said a cockroach sighting would make them leave an establishment and never go back.

“The threat pests can pose to a restaurant’s bottom line are very real,” said Orkin Director of Quality Assurance Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “Restaurants should work with their pest management professionals to implement programs that focus on non-chemical techniques, like sanitation, to help make their restaurant less attractive to pests and more enjoyable for customers.”

Poll Methodology
Perception data is based on the responses of 267 “frequent diners” (those who indicated they dine out three or more times per week, out of 410 total respondents) to an online poll promoted via email campaign to a wide demographic target. For complete poll results, visit: www.orkincommercial.com/apps/pressmanager/ARFiles/RestaurantPollResultsOnline.pdf.

Orkin and H2E Collaborate to Publish Guide to More Environmentally Friendly Pest Management

Thu, 02 Nov 2006 14:34:48 -0400

ATLANTA, October 30, 2006 – Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Inc. has collaborated with Hospitals for a Healthy Environment (H2E) to publish the “H2E 10-Step Guide to Implementing an Integrated Pest Management Program.”

Co-authored by certified Orkin entomologists and H2E experts and designed to give hospital staff a grounding in the basic concepts of Integrated Pest Management (IPM)*, the guide is available for free download at www.h2e-online.org under “Key Resources.”

“This 10-Step Guide will help facility staff understand and communicate the reasons to switch to the IPM approach, develop protocols for their own programs and assess IPM service programs in an informed way,” said Laura Brannen, H2E Executive Director. “We hope it will be the first step to safer, less chemical-intensive pest control for health care facilities looking to reduce their environmental impact.”

The guide offers health care facility managers a step-by-step process to: - understand and communicate the value of IPM internally, - make the operational shift toward IPM and away from more traditional pest control practices, and - measure and reward performance.

“IPM is a more holistic approach to pest control,” said Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., Orkin’s director of quality assurance and a contributing author. “By understanding why the pests are there, you can remove the elements that attract them. In turn, you reduce the need to use chemical treatments and minimize recurring problems.”

This is not the first time H2E and Orkin have worked together. Orkin consulted H2E and its sister organization Health Care Without Harm in early 2005 to aid in the development of a “greener” pest control program called Gold Medal Protection for Health Care. The collaborative effort resulted in an IPM program emphasizing non-chemical controls and boasting a comprehensive documentation system that prepares hospitals for reviews by facility administration, public health inspectors, medical personnel and health care accreditation boards.

As the premier environmental assistance program for the health care sector, H2E has established a wide variety of programs that help facilities go beyond standard environmental compliance to embrace sustainable operations that protect worker, patient, community and environmental health. The H2E Partner program and H2E’s annual awards recognize health care sector organizations that improve their own environmental performance and raise awareness of environmental issues to others in the industry.

For more information on Gold Medal Protection for Health Care, visit www.orkincommercial.com. For more information about H2E programs and resources, visit www.h2e-online.org.

*About Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
IPM is an environmentally responsible approach to pest management that combines multiple pest management options – from sanitation and structural countermeasures to trapping and habitat modification – versus relying on pesticides alone. It is the method recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), The American Society for Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES), Hospitals for a Healthy Environment (H2E) and many others.

About H2E
H2E (Hospitals for a Healthy Environment) is creating a national movement for environmental sustainability in health care. Jointly founded by the American Hospital Association, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Health Care Without Harm and the American Nurses Association, H2E is based on the vision of a healthy health care system that embraces safer building products, clean air, energy and water efficiency, safe working practices and a commitment to public health demonstrated through waste volume and toxicity reduction. To achieve this goal, H2E provides its more than 6000 health care facility Partners with education, tools and information about best environmental practices, to help improve operational efficiency, increase compliance and improve the health of their communities.

In Houses Haunted By Rodents, How Spooked Are Homeowners?

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0400

Orkin Survey Reveals Americans’ Reactions to Rodents and Insects In The Home

ATLANTA – Oct. 30, 2006 – Black cats and full moons are not the only things to beware of this fall. A recent survey by Orkin, Inc., reveals that the majority of Americans (61%) has had or knows someone who has had the eerie experience of finding rodents in the home. One in three adults in the U.S. has seen or heard a rodent in their own home.

Of that one-third, nearly half (48%) said their first reaction was to set traps, and men are almost twice as likely as women to turn to traps. Women instead have a tendency to call a friend or family member to help with the problem (25%).

When asked which creepy crawlers sent shivers up their spines, Americans were more frightened of cockroaches (35%) and rodents (34%) than of spiders (26%). Only one percent of men who spotted the rodents admit to being spooked enough to scream. A small percentage of people (2%) used their own bewitching spells on rodents and chased them with brooms.

Americans share a trait that may illicit more screams than rodents in the home: more than one-fourth of adults (27%) describe themselves as pack rats and have hoarding tendencies. This trend increases with age and proves that there may be more than one rat species creeping around the closets and corners of your home.

As temperatures drop during fall months and rodents attempt to haunt your home and drive you batty, knowing how to prevent infestations is important. “Fear may be the main reason that Americans don’t want rodents in their home, but what they may not realize is that rodents can carry diseases and pose health threats.” says Ron Harrison, Orkin entomologist and director of training and the Orkin Training Center.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, rodent species can spread viruses or bacteria through their urine or droppings that cause diseases such as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome or leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that causes fever and can lead to kidney failure or other serious illness. A bite or scratch from a rodent can cause rat-bite fever, a bacterial disease that can result in severe illness if untreated. Avoid contact with rodents and take precautions when cleaning rodent-infested areas to prevent these diseases.

“Tightly sealing doors and windows can prevent rodents from entering your home. If they do manage to creep into your house, turning to an experienced pest control specialist is the safest route to treat the problem,” states Harrison.

Other key findings of the study include:

Residents of the Northeast are most likely to have experienced a rodent in the home (42% in the Northeast, compared with just 27% in the West)
Fear of spider infestations declines significantly with age (43% of 18-24 year olds are afraid of spider infestations versus only 21% of those 45 and older)
Fear of rodents in the home increases with age (less than one quarter of young adults fear finding a rodent at home, versus 38% of those 45 and older)

The Orkin survey was conducted by Opinion Research Corporation between September 14-17, 2006. The telephone interviews were conducted among 1,006 adults (aged 18 and over) living in private households across the continental U.S. At the 95% confidence level, the margin of error for the total sample is plus or minus three percentage points.

About Orkin, Inc.

Orkin and IPM Institute Announce Gold Medal IPM Partners Hall of Fame

Wed, 18 Oct 2006 14:37:24 -0400

Organic Distributor Tree of Life Named First Hall of Fame Member

ATLANTA, October 18, 2006 – Orkin, Inc. and The IPM Institute of North America have inducted organic distributor Tree of Life as the first member of the Gold Medal IPM Partners Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes Tree of Life’s ongoing commitment to Integrated Pest Management (IPM), exemplified by three consecutive Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards since 2004.

“Tree of Life’s partnership with Orkin exemplifies the level of commitment that is essential for an effective IPM program. Their dedication to the program, year after year, ensures their success,” said Orkin Quality Assurance Director Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “As the first Hall of Fame inductee, Tree of Life’s efforts as an IPM partner will serve as a guide for future award nominees.”

Since 2003, Tree of Life – a distributor of natural, organic, ethnic and gourmet food products – and Orkin have partnered to implement an IPM program at Tree of Life’s Bloomington, Ind., warehouse that focuses on sanitation, structural maintenance and diligent record-keeping. The result has been effective pest management, with minimal use of pesticides.

“Since partnering with Orkin Commercial Services, Tree of Life Midwest has received perfect scores in the pest management categories of many external and internal audits of the facility,” said Dave Boyer, Tree of Life’s Director of Operations. “Our successful IPM partnership and a dedication by all the warehouse employees have allowed us to achieve excellence in all aspects of pest control.”

Tree of Life won its first Gold Medal IPM Partner Award in 2004, the first year of the Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards, and was presented with its third consecutive award in October. In subsequent years, Tree of Life will have the opportunity to recertify its Hall of Fame status through a nomination submitted to the Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards jury.

“It is a privilege to honor Tree of Life as the first Gold Medal IPM Partners Hall of Fame member. They have an outstanding IPM program in place and should be very proud,” added Thomas Green, Ph.D., President of The IPM Institute of North America, Inc., and member of the Awards jury.

About the Awards Jury
• Austin Frishman, Ph.D., B.C.E., Founder and President of AMF Pest Management Services, Inc.
• Thomas A. Green, Ph.D., President of the IPM Institute of North America, Inc.;
• Frank Meek, B.C.E., Technical Director, Orkin, Inc.
• Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., B.C.E., Director of Quality Assurance, Orkin, Inc.

About The IPM Institute of North America
The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. is an independent non-profit organization formed in 1998 to foster recognition and rewards in the marketplace for goods and service providers who practice IPM. The Institute’s mission is to accelerate adoption of IPM in agriculture and communities through consumer education and development of IPM standards for self-evaluation and IPM certification. The Institute is funded by grants from government, private foundations and industry, memberships and fees for services and programs. Learn more at www.ipminstitute.org.

North America’s Best Named 2006 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award Winners

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 14:38:24 -0400

U.S. and Canadian Winners Take Integrated Pest Management Top Honors

ATLANTA, October 17, 2006 – Orkin, Inc. and The IPM Institute of North America today announced the eight winners of the 2006 Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards, which honor commercial facilities that have shown extraordinary commitment to Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

IPM is an approach to pest management that stresses multiple methods of control, with an emphasis on minimizing pesticide use. The Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards specifically honor companies that have shown the greatest dedication to making IPM work at their sites through vigilant sanitation, prompt adherence to structural pest management recommendations, diligent record-keeping and staff participation in IPM training sessions.

An awards jury of IPM experts selected the winning facilities from an elite group of 62 nominees throughout the United States and Canada. The 2006 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award winners are:

UNITED STATES:
• Ample Industries (Franklin, Ohio) – The leading supplier of nested paperboard cartons to the restaurant and foodservice industries. www.ampleindustries.com
• Endangered Species Chocolate (Indianapolis, Ind.) – The best-selling brand of natural chocolate in the natural foods category. Ten percent of net profits are donated to organizations involved in the conservation of species, habitat and humanity. www.chocolatebar.com
• The Cheesecake Factory Bakery Incorporated (Calabasas Hills, Calif.) – The leading manufacturer of fine baked desserts. Provides more than 50 varieties of its signature cheesecakes and other baked desserts to The Cheesecake Factory restaurants, as well as a variety of products to the wholesale club segment, retail markets and foodservice distributors.
• Tree of Life (Bloomington, Ind.) –The nation’s leading distributor of natural, organic, specialty, ethnic and gourmet food products. www.treeoflife.com

CANADA:
• Cavendish Farms (New Annan, Prince Edward Island) – A production facility for frozen potato products. www.cavendishfarms.com
• Ganong Bros. Ltd. (St. Stephen, New Brunswick) – Founded in 1873, Ganong is Canada’s oldest chocolate confectioner. www.ganong.com
• High Liner Foods Inc. (Lunenburg, Nova Scotia) – A processor and marketer of superior seafood and frozen pasta products in North America. www.highlinerfoods.com
• Maidstone Bakeries (Brantford, Ontario) – A world-class, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for bakery goods.

All of the nominees employ Orkin’s Gold Medal Protection, a comprehensive IPM service that emphasizes quality assurance and documentation.

“By focusing on facilities that rely on IPM from a business standpoint, we get outstanding nominees who are truly dedicated to smarter pest control,” said Orkin Quality Assurance Director Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “These awards recognize the absolute best at IPM from across North America.”

Orkin and The IPM Institute came together in 2004 to introduce the Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards because they share a common interest in encouraging environmentally friendly practices.

“IPM promotes healthier environments by reducing conditions that can lead to pest problems and encourage pesticide use,” said Dr. Thomas Green, President of The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. “We’re very pleased to be recognizing these top performers for their excellent preventive maintenance and sanitation practices.”

About The IPM Institute of North America
The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. is an independent non-profit organization formed in 1998 to foster recognition and rewards in the marketplace for goods and service providers who practice IPM. The Institute’s mission is to accelerate adoption of IPM in agriculture and communities through consumer education and development of IPM standards for self-evaluation and IPM certification. The Institute is funded by grants from government, private foundations and industry, memberships and fees for services and programs. Learn more at www.ipminstitute.org.
About the Awards Jury
• Austin Frishman, Ph.D., B.C.E., Founder and President of AMF Pest Management Services, Inc.
• Thomas A. Green, Ph.D., President of the IPM Institute of North America, Inc.
• Frank Meek, B.C.E., Technical Director, Orkin, Inc.
• Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., B.C.E., Director of Quality Assurance, Orkin, Inc.

Orkin Executive Wins Learning Award At Chief Learning Officer Symposium

Mon, 09 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0400

David Lamb Recognized for Leading Learning Innovation

ATLANTA – Oct. 6, 2006 – David Lamb, Vice President of Learning and Media Services for Orkin, Inc., won a prestigious industry leadership award Thursday at the annual Learning In Practice Awards competition sponsored by Chief Learning Officer magazine. Lamb received a Silver Award in the Learning Innovation category for organizations with fewer than 10,000 employees.

The Learning In Practice Awards, which were announced during Chief Learning Officer’s Fall 2006 CLO Symposium in Austin, Texas, attracted more than 400 top corporate learning executives from around the world to discuss strategies in enterprise education and leadership development.

“This is quite an honor,” said David Lamb. “Our training program is fundamental to Orkin’s success, and I am thrilled that the industry has recognized our efforts.”

Lamb has been instrumental to the development and success of Orkin TV, an interactive satellite television communications network that links the company’s 8,000 employees through first-of-its-kind live broadcast technology.

“David is an exemplary leader and trainer,” said Orkin president and COO Glen Rollins. “We are proud of this recognition and David’s commitment to excellence on behalf of Orkin.”

“Our goal in conferring these awards is to recognize learning leaders who are advancing the industry and clearly demonstrating the link between learning and business performance,” said Norm Kamikow, president and editor in chief of MediaTec Publishing Inc., which publishes Chief Learning Officer magazine. “By building a strong learning culture, David Lamb has enabled Orkin to harness the skills, knowledge, competencies and leadership capabilities of its workforce and gain competitive advantage in the marketplace. We commend him for going the extra distance and for inspiring other learning professionals to champion enterprise education and development.”

A panel of industry leaders evaluated more than 200 nominations for the prestigious awards before selecting the 2006 Learning In Practice Award winners. Each award recipient was presented with an etched crystal sculpture created by artist Susan Jacobs Lockhart as part of a limited series titled “In the Spirit of Frank Lloyd Wright.” The Learning In Practice Award honorees also will be featured in a Special Report supplement to the December issue of Chief Learning Officer magazine.

About Orkin, Inc.

About MediaTec Publishing Inc.

We produce award-winning media, events and resources for a growing audience of business leaders striving to develop, manage and measure high-performing global workforces. Our flagship magazine, Chief Learning Officer, was named “Best New Magazine” by the American Society of Business Publication Editors in its launch year, and it has been nominated for several Neal Awards. In addition to B-to-B magazines, our portfolio includes industry intelligence reports and reference materials, e-Seminars, international symposia, regional roundtables, educational colloquia and a wide variety of robust electronic media. MediaTec Publishing is widely regarded as the leading source of information and insight for workforce development and talent management decision-makers who need to be strategic, effective and successful in new and changing markets.

Orkin Commercial Services Expands Partnership with Corn Products International Inc.

Fri, 22 Sep 2006 14:39:15 -0400

Orkin to service all facilities across the United States and Canada

ATLANTA, September 22, 2006 – Orkin Commercial Services announced today that it has expanded its pest management service to Corn Products International Inc. to include three additional plants. With the addition of the three facilities, Orkin services all Corn Products’ facilities in the United States and Canada.

“By standardizing our pest management services, each of our plants in the U.S. and Canada receive the benefits of Orkin’s superior Integrated Pest Management system, which ultimately leads to consistent protection of our products,” said Lee Coleman, Quality Systems Manager at Corn Products International.

Orkin will service the three additional facilities with its Gold Medal Protection for Food Processing program. The service includes all the standard features of Orkin’s traditional scope of service, strengthened by a heavy emphasis on quality assurance and a comprehensive reporting system that meets or exceeds the needs of external auditing agencies. Orkin also will use electronic handheld systems for data collection throughout these three facilities.

“Our goal is to provide Corn Products with the best service to fulfill the needs of their auditors and customers,” said Orkin’s Quality Assurance Director Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “They have been a great partner in pest management, and we look forward to continuing our relationship.”

The plants in Winston-Salem, N.C., Stockton, Calif., and Port Colborne, Ontario, join four Corn Products facilities already serviced by Orkin: two plants in Cardinal and London, Ontario; a facility in Bedford Park, Ill.; and Corn Products International’s headquarters in Westchester, Ill. In total, Orkin services more than 13 million square feet of Corn Products’ facilities.

The relationship between the two companies began in 1991.

About Corn Products International Inc.
Marking its 100th anniversary in 2006, Corn Products International is one of the world's largest corn refiners and a major supplier of high-quality food ingredients and industrial products derived from the wet milling and processing of corn and other starch-based materials. The company, headquartered in Westchester, Ill., is the number-one worldwide producer of dextrose and a leading regional producer of starch, high fructose corn syrup and glucose. In 2005, Corn Products International recorded net sales of $2.4 billion with operations in 15 countries at 33 plants, including wholly owned businesses, affiliates and alliances. For more information, visit www.cornproducts.com.

Orkin Commercial Services Offers Pre-Audit Pest Control Checklist

Mon, 28 Aug 2006 15:11:56 -0400

New Tool Helps Food Manufacturers Prepare for Audit Success

ATLANTA, August 28, 2006 – Orkin Commercial Services announced today the publication of a pest control “Pre-Audit Checklist” for food manufacturers available for download at no charge from Orkin University Online, a set of learning tools on the Web at www.orkincommercial.com.

Developed by the same Orkin quality assurance experts who helped design the company’s Gold Medal Protection program for the food industry, the checklist provides step-by-step pest control recommendations for food processing, manufacturing and storage facilities preparing for third-party food safety audits. Respondents to a July 2006 survey of Orkin’s Gold Medal Protection customers averaged better than 95 percent on the pest control portions of their most recent third-party audits (read more on this survey below).

“Orkin’s Pre-Audit Checklist can help food manufacturing facilities through a thorough preparation process for their third-party audits,” said Orkin Director of Quality Assurance Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. “This checklist should complement a facility’s ongoing Integrated Pest Management program.”

Orkin’s experts compiled the checklist based on the pest control requirements set forth by five major third-party auditing companies serving the food industry: American Institute of Baking (AIB), American Sanitation Institute (ASI), Cook & Thurber (NSF), Silliker Laboratories and YUM Brands. Each of these auditors reviews pest management as a separate section during an inspection.

The checklist provides instructions for detailed audit preparation, offering steps to be completed one week prior and 24 hours prior to the inspection. Preparation tips include reviews of on-site pest control documentation and examinations of pest control device placements.

“Since the pest control portion of an audit can account for as much as 20 percent of a facility’s total score, a facility’s success in this area can have a big impact,” said Siddiqi. “There is no day more important to a food manufacturer’s business and reputation than the day of an audit.”

The checklist supplements a library of useful tools on Orkin University Online, including a “5 Steps to a Better Audit” training video and a “Sanitation and Storage Quiz” for foodservice operators. The site can be accessed by visiting www.orkincommercial.com and selecting “Orkin University Online” from the drop-down menu under “About Orkin.”

Visitors to Orkin University Online benefit from Orkin’s experience and training expertise through free educational materials that draw on the knowledge of Orkin’s national subject-matter experts. Orkin’s internal training program, Orkin University, sets the standard for training in the pest control industry and continues to receive third-party accolades. In 2006, Training magazine honored Orkin for the fourth consecutive year as one of its prestigious Top 100 organizations that excel in human capital development.

Audit Performance Survey Methodology
The Orkin Quality Assurance Team conducted an audit performance survey of Gold Medal Protection customers in June and July 2006 as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to maintain the highest performance standards. Orkin fielded the eight-question online survey via email and telephone to nearly 350 of its Gold Medal Protection customers in the United States and Canada. A third-party firm followed up with non-respondents at least twice during different times of the day to acquire additional data. Seventy-seven customers responded to the survey either by completing the online questionnaire or confirming their answers via phone.

Orkin and ASHES Partner to Promote Healthier Pest Control

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:08:50 -0500

Orkin and ASHES Partner to Promote Healthier Pest Control

In response to a growing movement in health care toward hazardous-chemical reduction, Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Inc. and the American Society for Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES) of the American Hospital Association are launching a partnership that will promote more effective and environmentally friendly pest control practices in health care settings.

“Minimizing pesticide use through Integrated Pest Management [IPM] is part of our educational focus this year,” said ASHES Executive Director Patti Costello. “We are pleased to be working with an industry leader like Orkin to guide health care providers toward improved pest control practices.”

The partnership kicks off with the release of Integrated Pest Management, the first in a series of ASHES Recommended Practice Documents. Co-authored by certified entomologists from Orkin and Western Pest Services, which was acquired by Orkin in 2004, the new recommended practice is a complete “how to” guide to implementing and maintaining an effective IPM program in a health care facility. It is available for pre-market order at www.ashes.org.

“Pest control programs too often rely on chemicals, and ignore the reasons why the pests are there,” said Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D., Orkin’s Director of Quality Assurance and co-author of the practice document. “IPM programs address the root causes of pest problems as well as the symptoms, so health care facilities can reduce their pesticide use and have fewer pest issues at the same time.”

ASHES and Orkin are also working together to publish educational articles about the new practice for its members and others. The educational effort will culminate with two educational breakout sessions at the ASHES Annual Conference and Technical Exhibition in September, featuring panelists from Orkin, Western Pest Services and The IPM Institute of North America.

Orkin’s commitment to IPM is evidenced by its latest service offering, Gold Medal Protection for Health Care, a comprehensive program consistent with the ASHES IPM recommendation and the recommendations of Hospitals for a Healthy Environment (H2E).

More information on Gold Medal Protection for Health Care can be found on the Web at www.orkin.com/commercial.