A consultation is open concerning the future of pest management qualifications.
Business owners, sole traders and technicians of every level are encouraged to participate in the consultation process.
BPCA said that through its Professional Standards Committee, it has been working collaboratively with the sector on the development of a new qualification framework.
Karen Dawes, BPCA’s training and development manager, said: “This new qualification framework will help professionalise the sector and remove misperceptions over levels of qualification.”
The framework covers five qualification skill levels, from basic awareness to field biologist. Specialist working groups will be formed to develop each level of qualifications.
It is expected that the framework will be completed by 2030.
Upgrading core pest management qualifications first
BPCA is beginning to develop a new Level 3 qualification, which will become the core qualification for pest technicians in the future.
Those currently holding the BPCA/RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management (or equivalent) qualification can carry over the Vertebrate and Invertebrate modules from their existing award.
Therefore, most technicians will only have to complete a Competency Unit to achieve their Level 3 qualification.
Those new to the sector would need to take all three modules.
BPCA chief executive Ian Andrew said: “Our professionalism mainly depends on the skills and knowledge required to ensure pest technicians can work safely and effectively.
“By accepting that most technicians are already working to this standard and investing in their continued development, we can all help end the misconception that anyone can do pest control.”
Ms Dawes said that the sector suffers from a confusing and, sometimes, conflicting array of qualifications and accreditations, the two Level 2 Award qualifications being a prime example.
“When fully in place, this new qualification framework will provide a well-defined and coherent approach to competency levels in pest management,” she added.
BPCA is now gathering feedback from the sector through an open consultation. Business owners, sole traders and technicians are all welcome to contribute. You may choose to complete this survey anonymously.
Your feedback will help BPCA deliver the right core qualifications to the pest management sector, improving the industry’s professionalism.
To take part in the survey, click HERE.
BPCA is also running a series of consultation events to learn more about the qualification plans have your say.