How much is barcoded is dependent on the site requirements. PestFriend will handle schemes where just proof of entry / exit is required right through to comprehensive monitoring of every pest control device.
The actual labels designed for the system fit within traditional Pest Control devices in the location normally used for a date checked label. Using barcodes removes the need to record the inspection on the station itself as the "checked" data is recorded on a report showing all units checked.
Actual barcode checking is achieved via a small battery powered hand held unit (see photograph). When all the codes have been scanned, the unit is reconnected to the Mobile PC which recharges the batteries and downloads the codes read.
Whilst the recommended barcode reader is small, it is very easy to use with the ability to read codes from a distance and at varying angles. This means that the Technician will find it easier to record an inspection of a unit in a restricted space than using conventional date record labels in the unit. The unit includes a "delete" feature for the occasion when a code is scanned in error.
All barcodes read by the system are date and time stamped which means time on site can be established. Barcodes can be introduced via the Office machine and printed on labels which fit inside pest control units or can be located at key points on site (a label for entry to an area can be conveniently placed inside a door jamb making it nearly invisible to the average site visitor). Including barcodes in key areas of a site provides proof that an area has been inspected whilst barcodes within devices prove that they have been opened.
The report shows the codes in the order read. Headings are shown for key units plus a summary of what has been found for the unit. The time for start and end of a visit gives a clear indication of progress through the site. Creating the Barcode Report will update a checkbox on the main Site Report as a cross reference.
On the example report note how progress round the site has been recorded with entry and exit records. For the Insect Detector a series of results have been added from the list of standard codes by first scanning the code for the pest then the code for the count value. For high value counts, the system will add successive values together to give a total.
To highlight missing Pest Control units, barcodes labels can be fixed to walls or other secure points. The labels will reflect the missing units identity giving proof that the location has been checked. Alternatively locations can be identified on a site plan and missing units recorded using the Technicians book of standard barcodes.
Barcodes are unique to a Pest Control company as the only reference to what the code represents is in a lookup table held on your Office and Mobile machines.
Labels can contain information about the unit or location they are to be attached to; this is for the Technicians benefit when placing the label. Thus the illustrated label includes reference to the Pest Control Company, Site and the unit to which it is attached.
The inclusion of a time stamp for each code read gives a positive record of the time spent on site and the inspection of each device. It can be used with the customer in highlighting repeat difficulties of reaching or finding pest control devices.
Benefits
▸ Prove each Pest Control station has been checked.
▸ Record entry / exit to sites or areas.
▸ Eliminate hand written notes.
▸ Create a professional looking printed reports.
▸ Far faster than handwritten manual reports.
▸ Reports conform to a company standard for every technician.
▸ Create a permanent history record of the visit.
▸ Pest Control history enables trends and problems to be identified.
