RSPH Level 2 Award in using Aluminium Phosphide safely for the management of
Vertebrate pests
Aluminium phosphide is a powerful fumigant used for vertebrate pest control (rabbits, moles, rats etc.), but it’s also extremely hazardous if used improperly. UK regulations require anyone using it to have specialist training in safety, handling, PPE, emergency procedures, secure storage and correct execution. This RSPH Level 2 Award ensures you meet these legal, health & safety, and environmental standards — protecting you, your team, and the public.
Who Should Attend
This course is designed for:
• Pest control operatives / technicians who need to use aluminium phosphide or manage its use.
• Land managers, gamekeepers, who want to administer fumigant treatments.
• Supervisors overseeing vertebrate pest control programmes.
Entry Requirements: Learners should have practical experience in the management of pest and willingness to follow strict safety protocols. Prior experience handling toxic chemicals is beneficial but not mandatory.
Course Content
- Health and safety, storage, security and transportation — safe transport, how to store, lock away, security to prevent misuse or theft.
- Understanding the product label, emergency procedures — reading/interpreting label instructions, legislation/regulation requirements, dealing with spills, exposure, first aid.
- Symptoms of phosphine poisoning and PPE requirements — recognising poisoning, use & selection of correct PPE, inhalation vs contact exposure, medical advice procedures.
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Field Work / Application Techniques — when & where to apply (weather, soil type, seasons), setting up fumigation, monitoring, seal-up, post treatment safety.
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Environmental & Legal Compliance — laws around fumigants, environmental protection (e.g. monitoring off-gassing, ensuring no leakage to non target species), legal documentation needed, record keeping.
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Risk Assessment & Emergency Response Plan — how to plan for worst cases, mitigation, what to do in accident, contacts etc.
Course Points and Certificate
Upon successful completion, you’ll undertake an exam plus any practical assessment components. You will receive an RSPH Level 2 certificate, which is required to legally use aluminium phosphide as a professional operator. CPD points will be awarded, and you’ll gain knowledge and credentials that enhance your employability or licensure.
Costs
2 day intensive course plus exam. Training booklet, lunch and refreshments included.
FAQs
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Is this course mandatory to use aluminium phosphide for vertebrate pest control?
Yes it is
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How often do I need to renew the certificate?
It is advised to renew the certificate every 5 years
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What happens if I fail the exam / practical part?
Both exam and practical parts need to be passed and can be retaken if needed at an additional cost
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Do I need to have Level 2 pest control training first?
It is advised that you should have prior experience of pest control
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What PPE will I learn about / need to provide?
No PPE will be needed for the course but it is advised to bring your own if it is available
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How many people per cohort? Is there hands-on field work?
There is hands on field work and cohorts are no learger than 10