The Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022: New challenges for EHPs

With the new Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022 coming into force on 31 July 2024 we invited BPCA to write a blog explaining the changes and the potential challenges for the environmental health profession. 

The Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022 marks a pivotal change in pest control legislation in England. Under the new law, from 31 July 2024, rodent glue traps can only be used under specific circumstances and require a licence.

This legislation reflects growing concerns over the humane treatment of animals and aims to minimise the suffering of rodents trapped in glue boards.

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is a not-for-profit trade association which represents 80% of the UK pest management industry. Whilst BPCA share concerns over animal welfare, we believe that the new regulations are too restrictive and pose a risk to public health.

In a 2023 survey of BPCA members, 89% of respondents believe that rodent control will become harder in the next five years. While BPCA welcome restrictions to the general public, the threats to our toolkit equate to threats to public health management.

For EHPs, understanding and navigating these new regulations is crucial for ensuring public health and safety.

What’s changed?

The new regulations introduced under the Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022 have fundamentally altered the landscape for pest control using glue boards. Key changes include:

• License requirement: Licenses will only be issued in exceptional circumstances where all alternative methods of control are exhausted. Only professional pest controllers involved in rodent control management can hold a licence.
• Types of licences:
  • Class Licence (CL53): Register in advance to use when needed urgently, in very specific circumstances.
  • Individual Licence (A15): Apply for a single-use licence at the time you need it, to deal with a particular problem at a particular site.

What to do if you encounter someone using glue boards without a licence

If you come across anyone using glue boards without a licence, you must:

1. Inform them about the new regulations and the requirement for a licence
2. Advise them to cease using the glue boards immediately
3. Report the incident to the police if they do not comply.

Challenges EHPs will come across

The new licensing regime presents several challenges for EHPs, who must balance compliance with the law and the imperative to protect public health.

Negative impacts on public health

Infestations in local food businesses, such as restaurants and supermarkets, pose a significant concern. EHPs will need to ensure that glue traps are not being used and employ alternative methods of pest control.

Licensing fees and potential additional charges can strain budgets, particularly for smaller businesses and public health departments. These costs could impact the ability to maintain consistent and effective pest control measures.

Administrative burden

The requirement to apply for and maintain licences adds an administrative layer to pest control operations.

EHPs need to be familiar with the different types of licences and when they are used to ensure all necessary documentation and evidence are prepared and submitted accurately and timely, potentially slowing down response times in critical situations.

Ensuring compliance

To navigate these challenges, EHPs must ensure robust Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies that prioritise preventive measures and non-lethal control methods.

• BPCA’s practical guidance: EHPs should read through BPCA’s Practical Guidance to familiarise themselves with the duties pest professionals have. You can request a copy by emailing [email protected].
• Stakeholder engagement: Engage with businesses and the public to raise awareness of the new regulations and the importance of humane pest control practices.

Call to action

• Stay informed: Familiarise yourself with the new regulations and licensing requirements by accessing BPCA’s Practical Guidance and other resources
• Enhance IPM strategies: Help develop and implement robust Integrated Pest Management strategies that prioritise humane and effective pest control methods
• Collaborate for success: Join BPCA, policymakers, and fellow EHPs to refine these regulations and balance public health with animal welfare
• Let us know how the scheme is affecting EHPs by emailing us at [email protected].

By addressing these challenges head-on and working collaboratively, EHPs can strive to maintain public health standards within the constraints of the new regulatory framework.

However, it is crucial to continue advocating for practical solutions that do not compromise public health. Potential adjustments to the legislation will be necessary to better balance the need for effective pest control with the goal of humane animal treatment.

Are you keen to find out more about the impacts of the new licensing regime? Join the panel discussions online at the CIEH Pest Control Conference on 17 October 2024.