British Pest Control Association (BPCA)

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is a not for profit organisation which raises the standards and represents the interests and professionalism of its members, and acts for the pest management industry within the UK.
The BPCA provides extensive training for its members and ensures that its registered companies comply with the principles of pest management.

Principles of Pest Management

Wherever people live there are creatures which can be identified as pests - some because they threaten health, food quality structures and wealth, others because they are a nuisance. The animals that cause most conflict are certain species of insect, mite, mammal and bird.

Pest management covers the wide variety of activities undertaken to reduce or eliminate the problems caused by these animals. Before attempting to control pests, it is important to understand the biology, behaviour and ecology of the species. The cost relative to the potential benefit must be assessed when deciding whether management action should be taken. Any action must be based on sound principles, which are effective, safe, legal and humane.

Levels of Expertise

The level of expertise of pest control technicians has changed over the years, and whilst the basic skills, such as the recognition of animal signs and the correct setting of traps, still need to be learnt and developed in the field, there is also a requirement to be technically competent in legislation, pesticide use, resistance to pesticides and health and safety issues.  The responsibility that goes with the use of pesticides is considerable.

Legislation

Legislation covers almost all aspects of pest management and can apply to anyone, whether a member of the public, farmer, gamekeeper or professional pest control technician. Legislation governs the way in which a pest controller undertakes his/her work, whether it be wildlife protection, pesticide use, environmental health or health and safety and a sound understanding of current legislation is essential for anyone who is involved with pest control.

Safety Pest technicians must understand the importance of safety as it relates to all pest control operations. By following safe practice the pest control technician demonstrates concern for customers, the public at large, colleagues, pets and other non-target species, and for the environment.

Information on the British Pest Control Association can be found at http://www.bpca.org.uk/home.html