Laws on pest control products set to change
If used incorrectly, aluminium phosphide can be hazardous to the health and safety of users and the general public, as well as non-target animals.
Farmers and gamekeepers who wish to use aluminium phosphides to control rabbits, rats and moles in their burrows will soon require an approved certificate of training.
New legislation coming into force on November 26, 2015, will make it a legal requirement for those using products such as Talunex and Phostoxin to be certified under the Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012.
In order to purchase and use these products, a City and Guilds Level 2 award will be required. Many distributors already ask to see evidence of training in the safe use of aluminium phosphides to control vertebrate pests.
If used incorrectly, aluminium phosphide can be hazardous to the health and safety of users and the general public, as well as non-target animals. The training aims to ensure users are adequately trained in the safe use of products.
Training can be organised through distributors or the Register of Accredited Metallic Phosphide Standards in the UK (Ramps UK), which is overseeing the training.
Ramps UK is urging people to plan ahead to ensure they obtain the qualification in time, as it is anticipated that demand will exceed supply as the deadline for training approaches.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
