PA2 Spraying: Boom Sprayer Pesticides Course
Description
The PA2 and PA3 Boom Spraying course covers the safe operation of mounted and trailed boom sprayers for anyone applying pesticides. Accredited by LANTRA and NPTC, the course combines a full day of training and practical and written assessment. The PA1 Theory module must be completed before attending this training.
Accreditation LANTRA & NPTC PA2
Price from £275 + VAT for 1 module, £525 + VAT for 2 modules
Number of particpants minimum 4
Course length one day + assessment
Location Training can be at your location, or our sites in Devon or Wales, or online
PA2 and PA3 Boom Sprayer Modules: Course Information
Hush Farms LANTRA and NPTC PA2 and PA3 boom sprayer modules cover everything you need to gain accreditation for applying pesticides with booms. PA2 is the certificate for vehicle mounted or trailed boom spraying. PA3 includes broadcast or variable geometry boom sprayers, including equipment without air assistance. If you work in orchards or specialist horticultural work then PA3 may be the module for you.
Who is this course for?
The PA2 and PA3 modules are for anyone requiring certification to spray in agricultural, horticultural, municipal, amenity or sports related pesticide application.
Objectives
PA2 Trailed and Mounted Boom Sprayers
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Identify and describe how vehicle-mounted and trailed boom spraying equipment works
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Prepare and set up vehicle-mounted or trailed boom spraying machines for use
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Identify and select appropriate nozzles for the application required
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Achieve the required spray quality for the target and conditions
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Carry out pre-start, pre-work and in-work safety and equipment checks
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Calibrate the boom sprayer accurately for the required output and volume rate
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Mix and fill the applicator accurately and safely
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Operate the boom sprayer safely and efficiently across a range of conditions
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Manage environmental hazards including spray drift, buffer zones and watercourse protection
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Decontaminate, clean and store equipment correctly after use
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Read and interpret product label information and apply it to sprayer setup decisions
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Maintain application equipment to a safe standard including filters, nozzles and boom components
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Understand legal requirements and safety regulations relevant to boom sprayer operation
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Record pesticide application information accurately
PA3 Broadcast or Variable Geometry Boom Sprayers
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Legislation relevant to broadcast and variable geometry sprayer operation
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Product label information: approved uses, hazards and environmental obligations
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Types of nozzles and atomisers specific to variable geometry and broadcast equipment
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Preparation of the applicator for work including pre-use checks
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Calibration of the applicator to ensure correct application rate
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Site work: safe operation in orchards, soft fruit and specialist horticultural environments
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Environmental risk assessment including drift management, buffer zones and air assistance settings
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Filling the applicator accurately and safely
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Cleaning, decontamination and storage of equipment
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Maintenance and winter storage procedures
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Pesticide application records
PA2 & 3 Course Assessment
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Identify applicator controls and components
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Demonstrate knowledge of liquid flow, action of applicator in filling, application and circulation modes
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Remove, clean and replace a filter
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Demonstrate knowledge of nozzles, preparation of prime mover and equipment
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Demonstrate knowledge of legal requirements and safety regulations
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Demonstrate knowledge of safe driving
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Check for mechanical defects, security of attachment of application mechanisms
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Demonstrate knowledge of lubrication of components
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Demonstrate working knowledge of the functions of the control panel (IF APPLICABLE)
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Demonstrate knowledge of action to be taken if system fails
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Read and interpret product label (as supplied or approved by the Assessor)
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Select spray volume/ spray quality
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Partly fill applicator
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Check boom suspension and break-back devices
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Select and calculate speed
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Calculate required output / volume rate
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Select appropriate nozzle/atomiser and pressure/disc speed
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Check applicator for leaks and spray patterns
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Check anti-drip system
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Demonstrate procedure for replacing blocked nozzles/restrictor
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Set operating pressure
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Check nozzle/atomiser outputs
Trainees will need
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A packed lunch for the workshop day
Prices Shown Include:
LANTRA registration and certification.
Please note: Trainees must be able to read and interpret product label information. They must also be physically fit and able to carry out the tasks required of the assessment schedule.
The Legal Bit
The law states that anyone who uses or applies pesticides in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, industry, or Amenity workplaces must possess a valid Pesticide Certificate in order to comply with regulations. This legislation isn't optional, and it applies to volunteers, employed and self-employed people alike.
There is no longer an exemption in UK law, commonly known as "grandfather rights”. The Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012 exemption ceased to exist from 27th November 2015. Everyone who now uses PPPs authorised for professional use must hold a Certificate of Competence.
Trainees must be over the age of 16 to attend pesticide courses.
About the Hush Farms PA2 Boom Sprayer Course
PA2 & PA3 boom sprayer training covers the skills and knowledge required to use a boom sprayer safely, and effectively wherever pesticide is being applied. Pesticides can have a significant impact on the environment and water courses when not distributed correctly and can be ineffective if the wrong nozzle choice or wind speed occurs.
Both modules identify how to prepare and maintain the spraying equipment, provides practical applications of the PA1 theory on storage and cleaning after spraying, plus covers nozzles, shapes and types of pesticide. The training also looks at the relationship between wind direction and drift, forward speed and whether the task is to spot spray or spray crops broadly.
Maintenance training provides the skills needed to change filters, locate blockages and clear anti drip systems. Plus inspection and all important, post spray clearance of the equipment.
Reviews from attendees
“Hush Farms and Penny are BRILLIANT, so helpful and accommodating. From the initial email to the training itself, they make the whole process so easy. Our staff consistently feedback that they feel the training is engaging and tailored to be relevant to their everyday roles. Would certainly recommend them.”
— Emily, The Donkey Sanctuary
If you would like to find out more details, or arrange course dates with us, please click the button below to fill out an enquiry form.
