PPC114 | Ask the technical team

CPD, drain surveys, scabies and Asian hornets all feature in this issue of Ask the BPCA technical team.

What’s the difference between unstructured and structured CPD? And are they both worth the same amount of points?

Our answer to this question focuses on how BPCA Registered works, and we'll try to break it down simply.

Structured activities are ones where the learning outcomes are set ahead of time and delivered in a structured way.

This could be a training course, a technical meeting or a regional forum. Attendance or completion of the activity can be verified either by attendance records or digital records.

Unstructured learning is where participation cannot be verified or where learning outcomes are not formally set.

This can be learning that is achieved in the field; activities that are new to the learner or where additional problem solving is needed. Other unstructured activities include webinars, videos, podcasts or even networking at events.

In terms of whether they're worth the same amount of points or not; all CPD is valuable, but we do recognise practical, hands-on learning as being the most valuable and that is reflected in our allocation of points. To find out more contact us at registered@bpca.org.uk

I’ve been asked to spray a house for scabies, what can I do?

Scabies is an infestation of the skin by the human itch mite. The microscopic scabies mite burrows into the upper layer of the skin where it lives and lays its eggs. As such, this is a medical condition and individuals need to contact their GP for treatment. 

The scabies mite will only survive for a short period of time off the body. The general advice is to launder sheets and thoroughly clean the surrounding areas. Steam cleaners can also be employed as mites will desiccate quite easily.

You should not spray a customer’s house for scabies. There are no professional pest control products authorised for this purpose.

Do I need a drain survey if a customer has rats in the loft again?

If rats are active within a property, especially if it’s a recurring issue that you’re having to return to, then my question would be: why wouldn’t you consider the drains? They’re often a huge weak spot for properties and need investigating.

Remember, pest management is not just about eradicating the pest, it is also about root cause analysis.

Why are the rats there? How did they gain access to the cavities? These questions should be at the forefront of any pest manager’s mind.

Yes, sometimes rats will enter a property from the garden or through a hole in the wall but, from experience, the drains are also often a likely suspect!

If you aren’t equipped to carry out drain surveys yourself, there are companies that specialise in pest control drain surveys.

Can we treat Asian hornets this year?

Unfortunately, no. Unless you are instructed to do so by the appropriate authority, it is very important that you follow the usual reporting process, and allow them to treat and remove a nest.

Following the correct process ensures that the nest is correctly removed and analysed in a lab. To read more, see this article: ppconline.org/ppc-news/guest-blog-asian-hornet-dos-and-donts-for-uk-pest-controllers/277261 

We’re aware that this is a frustrating topic for pest controllers. We know you have the skills and knowledge which you could apply to Asian hornet control.

However, the authorities currently believe that the best way we can help is with a collective effort to control this particular invasive species. If this changes, we will let you know and help transition the industry into the fight against Asian hornets.

Changes to the technical team

As of the beginning of this year, John Horsley has taken a position in BPCA’s training and development team. He’ll be lending his technical expertise to improving professional development opportunities for members and non-members. 

Who you gonna call?

The members of our technical team are happy to come out to visit sites with BPCA members who are struggling with a tough infestation and need hands-on advice. Get in touch!

Are you a BPCA member with a technical question? Get in touch...

technical@bpca.org.uk
01332 294 288
twitter.com/britpestcontrol