An independent government review has recommended that the UK’s rodenticide stewardship regime should continue, recognising the progress made in improving professional standards, training and responsible use, while calling for further action to reduce environmental risks.
The findings, published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on 3 November 2026, follow a review undertaken by the UK Rodenticide Stewardship Government Oversight Group (GOG).
The review examined the effectiveness of the stewardship regime introduced in 2016 through the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU UK).
Positive Progress for the Industry
The review acknowledges that stewardship has delivered important improvements in how professional rodenticides are supplied and used across the UK.
In particular, it recognises:
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Improved control of the supply chain, ensuring professional rodenticides are supplied through approved outlets to trained and competent users.
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Higher levels of professional competence and a better understanding of responsible rodent control.
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Greater emphasis on integrated pest management (IPM), with rodenticides used as part of a wider control strategy.
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Established environmental monitoring to assess the impact of rodenticide use on wildlife.
These findings recognise the progress made by the pest management industry in raising standards and promoting responsible practices.
Environmental Challenges Remain
Despite these improvements, the review identified an important area where further progress is required.
Monitoring has not yet demonstrated a measurable reduction in second-generation anticoagulant rodenticide (SGAR) residues in barn owls compared with levels recorded before stewardship was introduced.
Barn owls are used as an indicator species to help assess wider environmental exposure to rodenticides.
However, the Government Oversight Group emphasised that this does not represent an overall failure of stewardship.
The review concluded that without the improvements already made in training, competence and restricted access to professional products, the risks to human health, animal health and the environment would likely be greater.
What Happens Next?
Rather than recommending an end to stewardship, the review calls for the existing CRRU UK regime to be strengthened.
Recommendations include:
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Expanding environmental monitoring.
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Supporting further research and analysis of rodenticide residues.
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Developing a better understanding of different rodenticide user groups.
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Improving the information and guidance available to professional users.
The HSE will consider these recommendations alongside other evidence as part of its ongoing assessments of anticoagulant rodenticide product authorisations.
What Does This Mean for Pest Controllers?
For professional pest controllers, the findings reinforce the importance of demonstrating competence, maintaining professional development and following responsible rodenticide practices.
Rodenticides remain essential tools in protecting public health, food safety and property from the risks associated with rodent infestations.
However, their continued availability depends on demonstrating that they can be used safely, responsibly and with appropriate consideration for the environment.
This means continuing to prioritise integrated pest management, carrying out appropriate environmental risk assessments, following product label requirements and ensuring rodenticides are used only where justified.
NPTA Supporting Professional Standards
The NPTA welcomes the recognition of the progress made through stewardship and the contribution that trained, competent pest management professionals make to protecting public health and the environment.
As an association, we remain committed to supporting members through technical guidance, recognised qualifications, continuing professional development and the promotion of responsible pest management practices.
The findings underline why professional standards, training and ongoing education remain so important to the future of our industry.
The NPTA will continue to monitor developments and keep members informed of any changes to guidance, stewardship requirements or product authorisations arising from the review.
Read the full HSE announcement:
