In recognition of Termite Awareness Week, March 2-8, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is urging commercial property owners and facility managers to remain vigilant against termite infestations. Termites cause an estimated US$6.8 billion in property damage annually in the U.S., with commercial structures being particularly vulnerable to costly repairs and business disruptions.

Termites are silent destroyers. Often their damage goes unnoticed until significant damage occurs. Commercial buildings can experience severe damage from termites, even when wood is not a primary structural component. Termites can cause damage to drywall, furniture, and other cellulose-containing materials like paper files.

Swarming termites can cause disruptions to business operations when thousands of flying insects emerge at once inside buildings in search of mates. Subterranean termites, the most destructive species, are particularly skilled at infiltrating structures from below ground through utility conduits and hidden cracks in slabs and foundation walls.

“Proactive prevention and regular inspections from a licensed pest control company are critical for protecting commercial properties,” said Jim Fredericks NPMA , senior vice president of public affairs. “Termites can compromise the structural integrity of buildings, resulting in costly repairs and even business closures. Partnering with a pest management professional ensures vulnerabilities are caught early—before they turn into major problems.”

To stay ahead of potential termite infestations, NPMA recommends the following prevention tips:

• Schedule routine professional inspections: Conduct regular property inspections with a qualified pest control professional and immediately address any signs of termite activity.
• Eliminate moisture sources: Fix leaks promptly and ensure proper drainage around the building’s foundation.
• Reduce wood-to-soil contact: Maintain a gap between wood components and the ground. Don’t let mulch pile up against foundation walls.
• Store wood and paper products properly: Keep these materials off the ground and away from the building.

NPMA recommends working with a qualified pest control provider to develop an integrated pest management (IPM) plan, which includes regular inspections, preventive measures, and treatments tailored to the property’s specific needs.

Coming in March, National Ladder Safety Month spotlights best practices to prevent ladder accidents through safety planning, training, and continuous innovation in product design.

The goals of National Ladder Safety Month are to raise awareness of ladder safety, decrease injuries and fatalities caused by ladder misuse, and increase the number of people certified in Ladder Safety Training.

This year’s theme is Every Step Matters, with weekly focuses on:

• Week 1: Training and Awareness
• Week 2: Inspection and Maintenance
• Week 3: Stabilization, Setup, and Accessories
• Week 4: Safe Climbing and Positioning

Additionally National Ladder Safety Month will include a webinar series beginning March 10. Registration for each event can be found here. Topics include:

• Common Ladder Accidents and How to Avoid Them—March 10.
• Ladder Safety: Set Up & Pro Tips—March 17.
• DIY/Homeowner Ladder Safety—March 24.

According to the American Ladder Institute’s 2024 Ladder Safety Training and Citations Survey from 2020 to 2024, ladder-related accidents that resulted in serious injury or loss of life decreased 21%. In turn, the survey found that nearly all organizations (98%) use a form of ladder safety training.

The year-over-year comparison shows an increase in the number of organizations paying for safety training—35% up from 28% in 2020. Like 2016, 2018, and 2020, in 2024 more than 75% of the organizations mandate training and have done so for many years.