RSPH Level 2 Pest Management Award 5-day course

Build the expertise and practical know-how needed to work as a public health pest control technician, including methods for handling rats, mice, wasps, flies, bed bugs, and other pests.

Pest management involves applying a range of tools, techniques, and strategies to control organisms that can cause harm to people, property, or the wider environment. These pests may spread disease, damage structures, contaminate food sources, or disrupt ecosystems, making effective management essential for public health and safety.

This accredited qualification is designed to provide a strong foundation in both the theory and practice of pest control. It introduces key principles such as pest identification, behaviour, risk assessment, and the safe and responsible use of control methods. Learners gain an understanding of legal requirements and industry standards that guide professional practice.

Throughout the course, you will develop the practical skills needed to carry out inspections, identify infestations, and implement appropriate control measures. This includes working with a variety of vertebrate and invertebrate pests, using both preventative and reactive approaches to manage infestations effectively.

On completion, you will be prepared to work as a qualified pest technician, either independently or as part of a wider team. The qualification supports the development of confidence and competence in real-world situations, enabling you to deliver safe, effective, and compliant pest management services.

Next Intake:
2 June 2026

Level

Essential

Prerequisites

None

Mode of training

In-person classes

Duration

8 hours

Assessment type

Exam

Course Content

You will develop knowledge of common pest species, how to spot signs of infestation, and the different approaches used to control them.

During the five-day Level 2 Award in Pest Management classroom course, you will cover:

  • Legislation related to public health pest control
  • Safe storage and transportation of pesticides
  • The biology, behaviour, and control of rats and mice
  • Management of other vertebrate pests, including birds, rabbits, foxes, squirrels, moles, and feral cats
  • The biology and control of public health insect pests such as cockroaches, ants, wasps, flies, biting insects, and stored product insects
  • The use of pesticide application equipment
  • The role and importance of personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Different pesticide formulations and their active ingredients

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.