What is the appropriate response to a rodent sighting in a food establishment?

The appropriate response to a rodent sighting in a food establishment is to report it to management immediately. This action is essential because management is typically responsible for maintaining food safety standards and ensuring a safe environment for both employees and customers. Rodents can pose serious health risks, including the transmission of diseases, contamination of food, and damage to the establishment's reputation.

By informing management, they can take the necessary steps to address the situation properly. This may include calling pest control professionals, conducting a thorough inspection of the facility, and implementing preventive measures to avoid future infestations. Reporting such incidents ensures that the situation is handled with the seriousness it deserves and that appropriate actions are taken to protect public health.

Other options, like trying to catch the rodent yourself or setting a trap immediately, can be ineffective or dangerous. Ignoring the sighting, regardless of the size of the rodent, dismisses the potential health risks involved. Thus, timely reporting is key to maintaining safety and compliance in food establishments.