Ecolab, Educational Institute Launch Online Toolkit to Help Address Bed Bug Problem

Ecolab Inc. and the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) today announced the launch of www.bedbugtoolkit.com, a free online resource to help hotel owners and operators stop bed bugs before they spread. The toolkit features downloadable information and materials on how to train staff to detect bed bugs early, as well as actions to take when they suspect a guest room is infested. The toolkit debuted at the International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show in New York City.

"In the last decade, bed bugs have rebounded because of increased international travel, pesticide resistance and a lack of awareness but hoteliers can rest assured they are treatable, especially if caught early, says Dr. John Barcay, urban entomologist and senior scientist with Ecolab Pest Elimination. Hotel operators and their housekeeping staff are on the front lines in the fight against bed bugs so its important they can identify the signs of bed bugs and practice regular inspections as a part of daily room cleaning.

Ecolab and AHLEIs digital toolkit can be found at www.bedbugtoolkit.com. It includes a fact sheet about how bed bugs spread, their life-cycle and where they like to hide; a poster on bed bug detection; an instructional video showing where to inspect for bed bugs and what signs to look for; and a convenient pocket card for housekeeping staff with directions on how to inspect a room and what to do if bed bugs are found.

We are pleased to join Ecolab in providing this toolkit as a resource to help hotel operators and their employees stop bed bugs before they spread, says president and COO Robert L. Steele, III of the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute. By supporting training on proactive bed bug inspection, we can help ensure that hotels are equipped to provide an optimal experience for their guests.