Live Roaches Present in Facility — NYC Health Violation 04M
Live roaches observed in a food service facility represent a critical violation under NYC DOHMH code 04M and an immediate public health concern. Cockroaches are known disease vectors carrying bacteria, parasites, and human pathogens including Salmonella and E. coli, and can contaminate food and food-contact surfaces as they travel from sewers and garbage areas. The presence of even a single live roach typically indicates a larger infestation and poses serious risks of foodborne illness, as well as respiratory and allergic reactions among staff and diners.
What is Violation 04M?
Live cockroaches observed in food or non-food areas of establishment.
Immediate elimination required: Professional extermination ASAP, Find and eliminate water sources (roaches need water daily), Seal all cracks/crevices, Deep clean with degreaser, Remove cardboard/clutter, Apply gel baits in non-food areas, Follow-up treatment in 2 weeks.
CDC Risk Factor: Contaminated Equipment/Environmental
Which Boroughs See Violation 04M Most?
Restaurants Cited for Violation 04M (6,025 total)
Related Pest Control Violations
Violation 04M: Frequently Asked Questions
- What is violation 04M in NYC restaurants?
- Live cockroaches observed in food or non-food areas of establishment.
- How serious is violation 04M?
- Critical violation. DISEASE VECTORS: Roaches carry 33 types of bacteria, 6 parasitic worms, 7 human pathogens. Travel from sewers/garbage to food surfaces. Spread Salmonella, E. coli, Staphylococcus. Trigger severe asthma and allergies. One roach = likely infestation of hundreds.
- How many NYC restaurants have been cited for violation 04M?
- 6,025 NYC restaurant inspections have included violation 04M, representing 5.45% of all inspections with violations.
- Which borough has the most violation 04M citations?
- Manhattan has the highest number of violation 04M citations among NYC boroughs.
- What must a restaurant do to fix violation 04M?
- Immediate elimination required: Professional extermination ASAP, Find and eliminate water sources (roaches need water daily), Seal all cracks/crevices, Deep clean with degreaser, Remove cardboard/clutter, Apply gel baits in non-food areas, Follow-up treatment in 2 weeks.
- Is violation 04M a critical violation?
- Yes, violation 04M is a critical violation. Critical violations pose the most serious risk to public health and must be corrected immediately.