British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is a

not-for-profit organisation A nonprofit organization (NPO) or non-profit organisation, also known as a non-business entity, not-for-profit organization, or nonprofit institution, is a legal entity organized and operated for a collective, public or social benefit, in co ...

and

trade association A trade association, also known as an industry trade group, business association, sector association or industry body, is an organization founded and funded by businesses that operate in a specific Industry (economics), industry. An industry tra ...

representing over 750 organisations and more than 3500 individuals with a professional interest in the eradication of

public health Public health is "the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting health through the organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities and individuals". Analyzing the det ...

pest Pest or The Pest may refer to: Science and medicine * Pest (organism), an animal or plant deemed to be detrimental to humans or human concerns ** Weed, a plant considered undesirable * Infectious disease, an illness resulting from an infection ** ...

s without risk to third parties, non-target species or the environment. Member criteria are strict, and include adequate insurance, professional qualifications, CPD and adherence to Codes of Practice. BPCA provides a wide range of benefits and services to members including technical advice and support, sample documentation, and appearance on the Association's directory. Only full servicing and consultant BPCA members appear in the web-based search or via the telephone service centre based in

Derby Derby ( ) is a city and unitary authority area in Derbyshire, England. It lies on the banks of the River Derwent in the south of Derbyshire, which is in the East Midlands Region. It was traditionally the county town of Derbyshire. Derby gai ...

, where BPCA is administered. Members of the public also find the Association
A to Z of pests
an invaluable tool when understanding what pests, such as wasps, rats, mice or even bed bugs invade their home.

Pests in the United Kingdom

There are thought to be around 120 million rats in the United Kingdom; some figures estimate around 81 million brown rats (''Rattus norvegicus'').

Training

BPCA offers a number of training courses and exams working in partnership with The

Royal Society for Public Health Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) is an independent, multi-disciplinary charity dedicated to the improvement of the public's health. RSPH helps inform policy and practice, working to educate, empower and support communities and individuals ...

(RSPH). The primary qualification for pest technicians is currently known as the Level 2 Award in Pest Management.

PestEx

PestExPestEx website
/ref> is BPCA's biennial exhibition for the industry and its customers. It is a two-day event featuring industry relevant exhibitors and seminars. In 2017, there were over 2500 attendees.

PestAware (Blog)

PestAware blogs are published once a month by BPCA and its members on different aspects of pest control.

Professional Pest Controller PPC (magazine)

A paper and electronic magazinePPC Magazine Website
/ref> aimed at those working in the pest control industry and focusing on technical, commercial, customer service advice in addition to the latest news, events and updates regarding professional pest management.

References