Sector

02 January 2018

BPCA Release New Code of Best Practice on Snap Back Traps

The new Code of Best Practice for The Use of Break Back Traps/Snap Traps has been released by BPCA.

The use of Snap back traps COBP

BPCA Codes of Best Practice (COBP) are written rules which explain how people working in the pest management industry should behave in a particular situation.

The new Code includes recommendations on how these traps should or should not be used in various settings and situations.

It also expressly forbids the use of open snap back traps outside due to the risk to non-target animals.

BPCA Technical Manager, Dee Ward-Thompson commented on the Code saying:

“BPCA members are always looking at ways that we can drive up standards and improve professionalism in the pest control industry.

“The Servicing Committee thought it was of real importance for all of our members to have a Code of Best practice on the use of snap/break back traps."

She continued:

“These tools that are being used more often now in the effort to reduce the level of chemicals being used and to safeguard the environment.

“We are proud of our codes of best practice which ensure all of our members are operating to the same high standards.”

The new Code of Practice takes effect immediately, meaning that BPCA Servicing member companies need to abide by the Code as part of their membership criteria.

BPCA Servicing Committee Chair, Howard Taffs, said:

“Even something that appears simple can be a problem in the wrong hands; so I am very pleased that we have agreed a Code of Practice that will protect pets, wildlife and people by the safe and professional use of these devices.”

The Code of Best Practice is freely available to everyone through the BPCA website, meaning it’s available in full to non-members and the general public.

If you know of an issue or situation that you feel needs a Code or guidance document producing, please contact us, and the Servicing Committee will then discuss it.

View the Code of Best Practice now

Suggest a Code of Best Practice

Source: Online

Highlights View all news

25 November 2025

Latest news

BPCA responds to Scottish Parliament’s Good Food Nation proposals

BPCA has been working to ensure professional pest management stays firmly on the radar of MSPs, following a call for views from the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee. 

Read more

01 September 2025

Latest news

Policy Watch: New rules on wages, contracts and vehicles explained

Rosina Robson, Chief Executive of the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), outlines key policy changes on the horizon that could affect pest management companies and technicians.

Read more

27 August 2025

Latest news

BPCA challenges failings in glue trap legislation 

BPCA has stepped up its campaign to fix the Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022 after new undercover footage showed retailers still selling and advising on the illegal use of glue traps. 

Read more
Latest View all news

04 December 2025

Latest news

The Manchester Cleaning Show returns for 2026

Pest controllers are invited to the Manchester Cleaning Show, the UK’s second-largest cleaning and hygiene trade event in February 2026.

Read more

04 December 2025

Latest news

BCC urges sector organisations to act to help stamp out modern slavery

The British Cleaning Council (BCC) has urged its member associations and organisations across the cleaning, hygiene and FM sector to take action on modern slavery. 

Read more

27 November 2025

Latest news

BPCA briefing on the Autumn Budget 2025 and what it means for pest management

The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has this week delivered her Autumn Budget Statement to Parliament (26 November 2025).

Read more