About Our Pesticides Courses – Overview
There are several common categories in pesticide training and at Hush Farms we cover them all, with both LANTRA and NPTC accredited courses – with online pesticides training, and in-person courses at sites in Devon, Dorset, Somerset and Wales.
Once you have your PA1: Theory certificate, you can then take any other module, making sure that you're legal and safe when using chemicals.
The various PA pesticide course options can get a bit complicated, so we've made it easier for you to see what's needed (but if you have any other questions, do give us a call):
The Foundation Theory Module, assessing knowledge of basic legislation for pesticides. PA1 must be passed by anyone wishing to take any other PA units.
This is needed by anyone wanting to operate mounted or trailed boom sprayers. A separate ‘weed wiper’ qualification is also available – please ask for details.
[add 'who needs this' for this course too, to make it super clear]
This is for Broadcast or Variable Geometry Boom Sprayers (mounted or trailed), with or without air assistance; typically for orchards.
This is needed by anyone wishing to apply slug pellets.
This is needed by anyone wishing to apply pesticides using a hand-held lance or knapsack type applicator. The lance may be vehicle-mounted e.g. on a tractor or ATV.
Hush Farms also offers training in:
We do our best to be flexible around your needs, so you’re welcome to come and enjoy the pesticide training at one of our sites in East Devon or Wales, or we’ll come to a venue near you. What's more, the prices offered include training and assessment, so coming to us in Devon or Wales for pesticide training is an affordable and practical option.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: for those presently spraying, visit our FAQs section to learn about the latest DEFRA Register, who needs to do it and how to sign up.
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.
Trainess must be over the age of 16 to attend pesticides courses.