Practical Pest Control: A beginner’s introduction to hands-on pest management

Are you a new pest controller wanting to build on your theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on skills?

By the end of the one-day course, you will have developed practical skills in the safe handling and use of rodenticides. This includes understanding how to apply treatments responsibly while following best practices to ensure effective pest control.

You will also learn how to correctly position bait boxes in order to achieve safe and efficient rodent management. In addition, you will be trained in how to place rodenticide inside bait boxes in a secure and controlled manner.

The course covers the different types of traps available and when each should be used, as well as how to select the appropriate equipment for treating wasp infestations. You will also gain the ability to identify a range of common pest species.

Further training includes how to monitor insect activity, replace tubes in an electric fly killer (EFK), and properly maintain and operate a sprayer to ensure it remains effective and safe to use.


Next Intake:
2 June 2026

Level

Beginner

Prerequisites

None

Mode of training

In-person classes

Duration

8 hours

Assessment type

Exam

Course Content

Upon completion of the one-day course, you will have learned:

  • Safe and practical use of rodenticides
  • Appropriate placement of bait boxes for effective and secure pest control
  • Correct methods for placing rodenticide inside bait boxes
  • The various types of traps available and when to use each one
  • How to choose suitable equipment for wasp treatment
  • Identification of a range of common pest species
  • How to monitor insect activity and usage levels
  • How to replace tubes in an electric fly killer (EFK)
  • Proper maintenance and operation of a sprayer

The assessment for this qualification takes place after completing the training course.

Candidates’ knowledge and understanding will be evaluated through a multiple-choice exam set by RSPH. The test includes 25 questions, and a minimum score of 17 is required to pass.

The exam will be supervised, and all candidates must follow standard examination rules.

A total of 40 minutes is allowed to complete the assessment.

This is a one-day, in-person course running from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

As it takes place in a classroom setting, participants are encouraged to take part in discussions, share their experiences, and ask questions.

There will be scheduled breaks throughout the day, including a lunch break.

Training slides will not be provided, so please bring a pen and paper to make your own notes.