Rodenticide use outdoors revised in new guidance

The Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) has released its latest Code of Best Practice (CoBP), reflecting forthcoming legal requirements on professional rodenticide use. 

Key revisions account for the withdrawal of the “open area” pattern of use for second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs). From 1 January 2025 it will be illegal to use SGARs in outdoor locations unless they’re connected to a building. 

The updated CoBP delivers greater clarity on rodenticide use terminology, as well as updated references to bait availability. If residues carry on going up the food chain into the wildlife, the Government may regulate to the effect that SGARs can no longer be used for infestation management, other than inside closed buildings. 

Glynn Evans, the gamekeeping sector representative with CRRU, said: “Gamekeepers are really skilled at a number of methods of pest management, and the hierarchy risk controls for rodents means you wouldn’t reach for rodenticides as the first option. In certain circumstances, however, rodenticides are essential, and as a sector we need them. Therefore, as a community, we must continue to embrace stewardship, training and the CoBP.”