Pests news from BPCA

25 March 2020

BPCA key worker lobbying on BBC radio

BPCA got a big mention on BBC Radio yesterday, when hosts spoke to a caller about pest management during the Covid-19 lockdown.

bbc radio pest management essential during covid

 The whole section is a phone-in segment and listeners are discussing whether pest control can continue to take place. 

This mention of BPCA lobbying the Government for official key worker status is great news for the industry, as it shows we're being heard.

The show went out to at least 45 local BBC Radio stations. 

You can listen to the segment (starts at 2:52:00) on BBC Radio 5 Live Show here: bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m000glx1

Transcript

Below is a brief transcript of some of the conversation which took place on the show.

"Are pest controllers key workers? Can you continue to access their services at this time?

"I don’t know, I know there are certain organisations, the British Pest Control Association are currently lobbying the Government.

"I mean literally, in the last few hours they've published a document to remonstrate the government on the lack of specificity on this matter but they believe, this is the British Pest Control Association, that they are classed, or should be classified as key workers, in that sense during the Covid-19 outbreak and you would imagine wouldn’t you?

"Particularly given the health and safety regimes there are. I mean, my kitchens never been so blooming clean at the moment, scrubbing it to within an inch of its life right now. It would be useful to receive some clarification on those matters, so Richard thank you for raising it.

"That is, I think, perhaps some crumb of comfort to you Cheryl as well, to know that the BPCA - The British Pest Control Association - are lobbying the Government right now to designate pest management as key work during the coronavirus outbreak so that will at least bring forth an answer in the days to come if you can live with the problem, just for a very short time, and stay in touch with those local Pest Control agencies to ensure that you have them on call if you need them."

To find out more about what we've been doing during the Covid-19 outbreak, visit the news section of our website. 

STAY IN THE LOOP

To keep up-to-date with all the latest news about pest management and Coronavirus, join our free Affiliate scheme.

Register

Source: Online

Highlights View all news

30 June 2026

Latest news

GET INVOLVED: Innovative block treatment - could you be part of the treatment phase?

Veritas Pest Consultancy are conducting a new and innovative project that is tackling a long-seated cockroach and bed bug infestation in a 22-story block of flats in Wolverhampton.

Read more

02 June 2026

Latest news

No Small Matter report: Professional pest management saves UK £1.9bn a year

An independent report commissioned by BPCA reveals the economic and social value of professional pest control in the UK.

Read more

24 February 2026

Latest news

SURVEY: Home Office plans to change firearms licensing – tell us how it might impact you

While no new consultation has yet been launched, proposals to align shotgun licensing more closely with rifle controls could have serious implications for pest professionals who rely on shotguns for legitimate, professional use.

Read more
Latest View all news

09 October 2026

Latest news

Early action on pests can help ease distress, says BPCA

Ahead of World Mental Health Day, BPCA are urging householders in location to take swift action and help avoid the mental health impacts of living with an infestation.

Read more

08 October 2026

Latest news

Check your CRRU-UK CPD before the year-end deadline

BPCA is reminding members to check their technicians’ CRRU-UK CPD records before 31 December 2026, so they have the points they need for 2027.

Read more

05 October 2026

Latest news

Maxforce Platin withdrawal dates announced

Envu has announced that Maxforce Platin will be withdrawn from the UK and Irish markets, with sales ending in March 2027 and a final use date of September 2027.

Read more