Back in May, we warned that all Fumigators would have to update their qualifications to the new RSPH qualification - before the end of 2016. We can now confirm the deadline for the qualification top up has been extended into 2018!
Back in November 2015, new legislation (Plant Protection Directive) came into play meaning that anyone carrying out invertebrate pest fumigations needed to update their qualification to theRSPH Level 3 Award/Certificate in the Safe Use of Fumigants Unit 1. The Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD) has now confirmed we can continue to offer the BPCA 2 day refresher course throughout 2017, giving fumigators with the previous BPCA Fumigation Diploma and Module Certificates a chance to save themselves time and money, without having to restart the full RSPH qualification from scratch.
The first dates confirmed for 2017 are:
Grant Stark, part of the Pesticides Policy Team at the Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD), confirmed we can continue to offer the programme to the fumigation community until mid-2018 - by which time we hope all fumigators who need the refresher course will have taken and passed it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I qualify for the refresher course?
If you already hold the BPCA Fumigation Diploma and at least one of the BPCA Fumigation Module certificates, then it's easy to get qualified to this new standard.
How do I update my qualification?
You can simply take the mandatory unit 1 RSPH qualification, as part of the BCPA 2 day refresher course (day one training, day two exam).
Alternatively, if you have all the required knowledge to take the exam, you can simply sit the written exam at one of our test centres or online.
What if I don't have any BPCA Fumigation Modules?
If you've got your BPCA Fumigation Diploma, but don't have one of the BPCA Fumigation Module certificates, then we have a 4-day course for the full RSPH qualification. At the end of the course, you'll sit the mandatory unit 1 and then you will need to take the relevant optional units separately.
- 9 - 12 May 2017 (venue TBC)
What if I'm new to fumigation and want to get qualified?
If you're a pest controller who wants to get qualified to fumigate invertebrate pests, then we suggest you get in touch with our training team here at the BPCA. We can offer career and training advice to help develop your practice safely, as well as get all the relevant certification you need to work within the latest legislations.
Any questions, that aren't covered here? Contact training@bpca.org.uk for more information or clarification regarding Fumigation qualifications.
Source: BPCA.org.uk