Revised Upcoming Changes to CRRU Stewardship:
Ensuring Clarity and Compliance
The pest control industry is facing significant changes as the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) UK introduces updated requirements for proof of competence. Starting on 1st January 2026, the criteria for purchasing and using professional-use rodenticides will be tightened as part of CRRU’s commitment to responsible stewardship and environmental protection. These strengthened measures aim to ensure that rodenticides are used safely and effectively by trained professionals, thereby protecting both public health and wildlife.
Key Changes from January 2026:
- Sellers will require proof of certification to a CRRU-approved training course completed within the past five years. More details can be found at: www.thinkwildlife.org/training-certification/
- Alternatively, certifications older than five years must be supported by current membership in a CRRU-approved Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme, which is recommended as best practice for ongoing professional development. Learn more about the CPD options at: www.thinkwildlife.org/training-certification/continuing-professional-development-cpd-and-stewardship/
The Importance of These Changes: CRRU’s new requirements are designed to raise standards within the industry and align best practices. This move emphasises the need for pest controllers to stay informed, maintain their expertise, and demonstrate their commitment to responsible rodenticide use.
The proactive approach of maintaining annual membership of a CRRU UK approved CPD scheme is likely to future-proof professional Pest Controllers from any further stewardship strengthening measures.
NPTA’s Role in Clarifying the Message: Recognising that initial communications about these changes may have led to confusion, the National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA) has worked closely with CRRU to ensure clearer messaging. Through our ongoing partnership with CRRU, we are committed to ensuring that pest control professionals are equipped to meet the updated requirements without disruption to their work.
What Does This Mean for Professional Pest Controllers?
- If certified within the last five years: You are already compliant, and no further action is necessary. However, maintaining membership in a CPD scheme is still recommended as best practice to keep your skills sharp and stay prepared for any future stewardship updates.
- If certified more than five years ago: being a member of a CRRU-approved CPD scheme, commenced by latest 2025, is necessary and will demonstrate your ongoing commitment to professional development but also help future-proof your ability to purchase and use rodenticides should further changes be introduced. This requirement will roll on in future years if you want to continue using rodenticides.
- Approved CPD schemes include:
- Basis Prompt: www.basis-prompt.co.uk/
- BPCA Registered: www.bpca.org.uk/registered
These schemes provide essential training and require members to accumulate 3 points/hours/credits in rodent control content annually, as outlined by CRRU guidelines. Participation ensures that you remain up-to-date with current best practices and are prepared for potential future enhancements to stewardship requirements.
NPTA’s Commitment to Support: At the NPTA, we are dedicated to supporting our members through these transitions. We provide access to resources, training opportunities, and CPD schemes that align with CRRU’s standards. Our aim is to empower pest controllers to maintain high professional standards, uphold best practices, and seamlessly adapt to changes in regulation.
Dr Matthew Davies, Head of the CRRU UK Training and Certification Work Group, added, “This is the next step in the journey to support stewardship aims – to control rodents effectively while minimising risk to non-target species and the environment. Since the inception of stewardship, standards have been raised – from introducing a CRRU UK approved list of training & certification, implementing secure exams and regulated qualifications across the board, to now require mechanisms to show up-to-date knowledge for all professional users of rodenticides. Regular training and a focus on Continuing Professional Development is the right course of action.”
For more detailed guidance and resources on how to comply with these new standards, visit https://www.thinkwildlife.org/ or reach out to the NPTA office.
Stay proactive, stay informed, and ensure you are ready for January 2026.
