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Vermin Control

Version 5.1 (modified)

Click to view all Vermin Control

Key – Those standards which have greater significance (all other standards are normal)

Recommendation – Those which do not affect certification

New – A completely new standard which the member must now adhere to

Revised – A standard that has changed and requires the member to take some different or additional action to before

Upgraded – The standard has been upgraded to a Key standard or from a Recommendation to a full standard

Appendix – Referenced in ‘How you will be measured’. Indicates that additional information is provided in the Appendices, which are available at the end of each section.

This icon indicates that a record is required.

Where to find help – at the end of each section we have indicated where you can get extra guidance if you need it.

Aim:

Effective and responsible control of birds, rodents, insects and other animals to prevent contamination and food safety risk

TR.VC.1 Key

Standards

There must be effective control of vermin

How you will be measured

TR.VC.1.a

No build-up of vegetation close to farm structures that could harbour vermin

TR.VC.1.b

A site survey is completed at least quarterly, detailing: - date of inspection - locations inspected - findings - actions required - date actions completed

TR.VC.1.c

Dead/trapped vermin are searched for and disposed of when bait points are checked

Site surveys

TR.VC.2

Standards

Toxic bait must be used responsibly

How you will be measured

TR.VC.2.a

Prior to treatment with baits the use of non-chemical control methods is considered first followed by the least toxic alternatives (see Appendix – risk hierarchy)

TR.VC.2.b

An Environmental Risk Assessment is undertaken in accordance with the Appendix before bait is laid

TR.VC.2.c

Where baits are used a Bait Plan identifies: - location of bait points - bait used - bait point inspection - replenishment dates

TR.VC.2.d

Non-target animals do not have access to baits

TR.VC.2.e

Bait is prevented from contaminating animal feed

TR.VC.2.f

Permanent baiting is not routinely undertaken and toxic bait is removed when treatment is finished

TR.VC.2.g

Product label directions are followed

TR.VC.2.h

A documented COSHH assessment is carried out where there are 5 or more employees
  • Environmental Risk Assessment
  • Bait Plan
  • COSHH assessment (where applicable)
  • VC.1 – A site survey is a record of every inspection and/or survey undertaken to look for signs of rodent activity and/or environmental management requirements
  • VC.2 – Permanent baiting is the application of a rodenticide product when no active infestation is present. Permanent baiting is strictly limited to sites with a high potential for reinvasion when other methods of control have proven insufficient and can only be carried out by professional users and only with products authorised for this use.