Further changes to rodenticide use legislation will mean that farmers and growers will need an up-to-date certification to purchase and use any professional rodenticides from 1 January 2026.
Ross Goodman, technical director at Lodi UK, said the legislation had been introduced by the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU UK) to encourage more accountable rodent control within the industry.
From 2026, anyone purchasing or using professional use rodenticides must provide proof of certification at the point of sale. This can be either:
- Certification from a CRRU UK-approved training course completed within the past five years, or
- Certification from a CRRU UK-approved training course completed five or more years ago (at the time of purchase), along with proof of current membership in a CRRU UK-approved CPD scheme.
“Responsible and sustainable baiting is really important to ensure the longevity of these products on-farm,” said Goodman.
For those who don’t currently hold certification, Lodi UK is facilitating CRRU-approved training (RSPH Level 2 Award in the Safe Use of Rodenticides). This certification will be valid for five years and will allow farmers and growers to continue buying and using professional baits on-farm.
“The training has been designed with the agricultural industry in mind which is why there are two options to choose from – in-person and online,” he said.
Goodman says the in-person training is ideal for those who prefer hands-on, face-to-face learning and will be hosted at various venues across the UK while the Lantra E-learning Level 2 Award in rodent management course allows those with less flexibility to complete the training at their convenience.
“Both options require a day’s training and a proctored exam, after which participants will be certified to purchase and use professional use rodenticides,” he said.