We are writing at a time for urgent action; as regulation changes coming into effect from 1 January 2026 necessitate new enhanced proof of competence requirements for everyone buying or using professional rodenticides.

From 2026 farm assurance will no longer be acceptable as proof of competence; and so as a user of rodenticides you must ensure you meet the new requirements before the end of this year.

There are two options for obtaining the mandatory certification, and we strongly encourage early action to ensure continued access to the rodenticides you may need.

From 1 January 2026 you will need to either:

• Provide proof of training on a CRRU UK approved course, that must have been completed in the past 5 years.

OR

• Be part of a CRRU UK recognised Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme.

Starting 1 January 2026, you will need to provide evidence of one of these requirements at the point of sale. Additionally, as of April 2025, an updated declaration has been issued and will need to be signed and returned to the place of rodenticide purchase.

Appointed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), CRRU was established to promote responsible use of rodenticides among all professional user groups, including professional pest controllers, farmers and gamekeepers.

To find out more about CRRU’s training and CPD schemes use the links on the dedicated page of our website www.thinkwildlife.org/training-certification/; and follow us on social media for the latest updates.

We look forward to assisting you,

CRRU – The Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use