Why Train With D J Gemmill

At D J Gemmill we pride ourselves on the professionalism of our training delivery. Our NPTC and Lantra Awards certificated courses are run by highly experienced instructors and assessors. We’re always on hand to discuss your needs and we’re happy to help you choose the right course for you. We’ve been operating a successful training service throughout Essex for over 15 years.

Our Pesticide Application Courses

We are able to provide a range of pesticide application courses and assessments. Choose the application method you require below, or get in contact with us to get more information.

• PA1 Safe Handling  of Pesticides (C&G NPTC) 021649

• PA2 Pesticide Application using Mounted or Trailed Boom Sprayers (C&G NPTC) 021650

• PA4 Pelleted or Granular Pesticide Application (C&G NPTC) 021652

• PA6 Pesticide Application using Handheld Equipment (C&G NPTC) 021654

• Pesticide Application PA1/PA6A refresher

How To Get Certified As A Pesticide Applicator

Before using pesticides you will need to undertake basic training and this usually starts with obtaining the Principles of Safe Handling and Application of Pesticides (PA1) qualification. You will need to have the PA1 qualification before you can continue.

From there you need to consider how you will be applying pesticides. If you are going to be using hand held sprayers then you are required to undertake the Level 2 Award in Safe Application of Pesticides Using Pedestrian Hand Help Equipment (PA6). You can also look into whether you will need PA2 to safely apply pesticide as this covers application through vehicle mounted or trailed boom sprayers. PA4s and PA4g is for those who apply granular pesticides or slug pellets.

Pesticide Training And The Law

In 2012 regulations came into effect in the UK that removed the exemption in UK law known as “grandfather rights”. This exemption allowed anyone born before 31 December 1964 to use plant protection products (PPPs) on their employer’s land without holding a certificate of competence. However, they should still be retained and competent to carry out the job.

Since 26 November 2015 everyone who uses PPPs for professional use must have a certification. It is now also illegal for anyone to purchase PPPs with the intended professional use unless the operator has the required certificates.

Who Needs A Pesticide Application Certificate?

By law everyone who uses pesticides professionally must have undertaken the required training and completed the qualification. This ensures they have the competence to safely carry out the job they are doing. This law applies to operators, technicians (including contractors), managers, employers, self-employed and instructors.

Can I Use Pesticides Without A Certificate Of Competence?

If you do not have a certificate of competence yet, but you are required to use pesticides, you will need to be supervised by a person with the requisite certificates.

Your supervisor should be able to see and hear you at all times, during pesticide preparation, filling equipment and ensuring the correct dosage, pesticide application and cleaning of the equipment.

Where Can I Get A Certificate Of Competence?

If you intend to use agricultural pesticides in England and Wales you will need to undergo training for an NPTC certificate. You will have to arrange the training you need and then pass the required assessments. Many agricultural colleges, independent training providers and trade associations offer NPTC certificates of competence.

D J Gemmill is an approved partner with NPTC and has been training people in the safe use of pesticides for over 15 years across Essex.

From This Class