Feature articles

14 June 2018

New Code of Best Practice: The Use of Air Guns in Pest Control

The new Code of Best Practice for The Use of Air Guns in Pest Control is now available to download.  

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.

This code aims to make operators within the pest industry aware of their responsibilities when using air guns.

New BPCA Code of Best Practice Air Guns Released

Compliance with BPCA Codes of Best Practice is mandatory for all BPCA members.

All BPCA servicing members that use air guns for the management of pest species should familiarise themselves with the document and communicate its contents with their team.

Read the code now

The code includes a safe and legal process for using an air rifle for the management of pests.

“This has been a difficult code to produce, requiring lots of input from many BPCA members and government departments. The legal basis for using an air gun varies in England and Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, so the code we’ve produced had to reflect that. Air guns are a valuable, humane tool in the hands of properly trained pest management professionals. By following this code, you’ll keep your practice safe, legal and professional.

Dee Ward-Thompson, BPCA Technical Manager

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

30 October 2025

Latest news

BPCA launch new careers hub, video and Open Doors Charter

Rosina Robson shares how the Association’s new pestcareers.org.uk hub, recruitment film, Open Doors Charter and social media campaign are helping to attract a more diverse, skilled and inspired workforce into pest management.

Read more

07 July 2025

Latest news

BPCA pledges support to Armed Forces Community with covenant commitment

BPCA has proudly signed the Armed Forces Covenant, strengthening its commitment to supporting current and former military personnel and their families.

Read more

06 June 2025

Latest news

Results are in: meet your new BPCA Board representatives 2025

Six new Member Directors have been chosen to help lead the Association and represent the interests of BPCA members at the highest level.

Read more
Latest View all news

06 February 2026

Latest news

VIDEO: Is upselling and offering additional services the key to growth for pest companies?

The panel explores how services like pest proofing, loft work, pest awareness training and root cause analysis can support business growth without distracting from core pest control work.

Read more

05 February 2026

Latest news

Newpharm brings revolutionary mosquito control to PestEx

Press release: With its advanced solutions Mosquitorex and the innovative Moskyp device, Newpharm sets a new benchmark in larval mosquito management.

Read more

05 February 2026

Latest news

Technicide brings the next generation of dusting technology to PestEx 2026

Press release: Technicide is excited to exhibit at PestEx 2026 and connect with pest management professionals across the UK.

Read more