Pests can be effectively controlled through careful attention to which of the following?

The correct answer emphasizes that sanitation plays a critical role in pest control. Maintaining a clean environment helps eliminate food sources, water access, and nesting areas for pests, which are essential elements for their survival. Regular cleaning, proper waste disposal, and ensuring that food is stored correctly can significantly reduce the likelihood of pest infestations in food handling areas.

While methods like distraction techniques may be utilized in some contexts, they are not a primary or reliable method for controlling pests in a food safety environment. Relying solely on commercial pesticides is also insufficient, as it does not address the root causes of pest problems, such as cleanliness and food accessibility. Employee training programs are beneficial for educating staff about pest awareness and sanitation practices, but they are effective only if the actual sanitation measures are enforced and maintained. Hence, without a foundation of proper sanitation, other approaches to pest control may not be as effective.