New GB Registration Requirement for all Pesticide Users - Deadline 22 June
29 April 2022
The Official Controls (Plant Protection Products) Regulations 2020 (OCR) are now in force for the following organisations to appear on a central register under the Official Controls (Plant Protection Products) Regulations 2020 (OCR). Failure to register will be breaking the law.
All businesses, organisations or sole traders using or storing professional plant protection products (PPPs) or adjuvants in Great Britain (England, Scotland or Wales) must register with Defra, by 22 June 2022. Defra will collect this information on behalf of the Scottish and Welsh Governments. Businesses in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man do not need to register with this form.
Registration applies to all organisations whatever the size or business structure. Employees who use professional pesticides do not have to be individually registered, nor do those solely using amateur home & garden products.
You must register every address where you store PPPs and adjuvants, manage sales, keep records, or apply them (if on your business property such as land you own or rent).
You should not add the addresses where you apply PPPs for clients on their land.
This legal requirement is being backed up by increased inspections and will be enforced.
The registration form can be found here, and once completed, should be saved and emailed to: GB-OCR-Notification@defra.gov.uk
Assistance in filling the form can be gained by emailing to: Defra.helpline@defra.gov.uk or by phone to: 03459 335577.