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National Sprayer Testing Scheme

Ensuring all PAE operators are tested & certified

Sustainable Use Directive (SUD)

The Sustainable Use Directive (SUD) requires that all pesticide application equipment (PAE) is tested on a regular basis.

The Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012 states that all types of PAE must be tested to certain timescales depending on the age of the machine. The legislation relates to all sectors, agriculture, horticulture, amenity and fruit but for anyone applying a professional pesticide, the equipment must be tested.

The requirements have been put in place to help ensure safe and accurate application of plant protection products. Along with qualified operators, when pesticides need to be used they can be applied in a safe and sustainable way.

Equipment testing requirements

  • For all new PAE, the first test is due before the machine is 5 years old. Boom sprayers over 3 metres, air blast sprayers, and train and aircraft sprayers must be tested at least every 3 years.
  • Boom sprayers 3 metres and under, micro-granular and slug pellet applicators, weed wipers, seed treatment and other specialist application equipment are due a re-test every 6 years.
  • Knapsack, handheld and pedestrian equipment must be inspected on a regular basis by a competent person. Make any repairs necessary and keep a record.
  • There are no changes to crop assurance scheme requirements, boom sprayers and micro-granular nematicide applicators must be tested annually.

Qualified testers

C L Tesseyman are fully qualified to carry out MOT testing on all models of crop sprayers, quad bike sprayers and slug pellet applicators.

The legal requirements are contained in the Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012. You can view the PPP regulations on the Governnment legislation website.

Relevant documentation and testing leaflets can be found on the NSTS website.

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Slug pellet testing

To discuss your requirements or to book a test please get in touch