The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is urging the UK Government to recognise pest management professionals as key workers in any future fuel prioritisation measures.
The call follows rising global uncertainty around fuel supply, with recent disruption in the Middle East prompting increased prices and renewed discussion around contingency planning in the UK.
BPCA has written to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade and the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, setting out the case for including pest professionals within the National Emergency Plan for Fuel.
While the Government has stated there are no current plans to introduce fuel rationing, existing contingency frameworks would prioritise sectors deemed essential to protecting life and maintaining critical services.
BPCA argues that pest management underpins many of those same sectors, including healthcare, food production, housing and national infrastructure.
Rosina Robson, BPCA chief executive, said: “Healthcare, food production, education, housing and national infrastructure all rely on effective pest control to remain safe, compliant and operational. Without access to fuel, pest professionals cannot travel to sites, which creates an immediate risk of service disruption.”
BPCA highlighted that pest management is rarely explicitly referenced in emergency planning, despite its role in maintaining hygiene standards, preventing contamination and supporting safe environments.
In healthcare settings, pest control is an important part of infection prevention measures. Within the food supply chain, it supports compliance and helps avoid contamination and stock loss. Public buildings, transport hubs and utilities infrastructure also rely on routine pest management to remain operational.
BPCA is calling for pest professionals to be formally recognised within any fuel prioritisation framework, including access to fuel for those delivering essential services and clear guidance to support consistent implementation.
The association is also encouraging pest management businesses to prepare for potential disruption by reviewing operations and prioritising high-risk work.
Niall Gallagher, BPCA technical manager, said: “Route planning and client communication will be critical if fuel access becomes constrained. Businesses should be clear on which work is essential, prioritise high-risk sites and keep customers informed about any changes to service.
“A structured, risk-based approach will help ensure that the most important work continues while minimising disruption.”
BPCA said it will continue to engage with government to ensure the role of pest management is recognised within emergency planning.
