Farming Monthly National July 2018 | Page 20

| Pests BPCA puts farmers in control of training needs The British Pest Control Association has two distinct options available to the farming community to ensure it can effectively purchase professional use rodenticides and overcome pest management issues. ption one is to take advantage of BPCA’s professional network of technicians, with the insight and expertise to deliver the right solutions for agricultural environments. Employing a BPCA member company through the Association’s referral service, means farmers have peace of mind in the fact they are using a qualified technician who is able to purchase and apply relevant products that can tackle such issues of resistance. The other option provided by BPCA is specific, professional training. The training route BPCA offers approved rodenticide training, starting with the popular ‘Using Rodenticides Safely Programme.’ Taking part in this programme (passing the exam), enables farmers and growers to continue purchasing professional use rodenticides. BPCA training has been devised to offer a comprehensive approach, which brings value to the farming community through the inclusion of features such as surveys and risk hierarchies, health and safety, legislation and record keeping. Upon completion, farmers and growers are well placed to improve the quality of their pest management processes, and overcome rodent challenges. O 20 | Farming Monthly | July 2018 Flexibility assured BPCA’s