Under the Control of Explosives Precursors Regulations 2014, businesses supplying these products are required to report suspicious transactions (for example, someone buying unusually large quantities of a fertiliser) to the police.
Farmers are classed as professional users and are exempt from the licensing requirements of the regulations. Your suppliers may, however, require documentary evidence of legitimate business need for regulated substances. Sale of ammonium nitrate containing over 16% nitrogen to the general public (i.e. resale by a farmer) is already prohibited under existing legislation.
Supply of ammonium nitrate and other listed explosives precursors to farmers are covered by requirements to report suspicious transactions and significant thefts and losses – this means any loss or theft which cannot be easily explained should be reported to your local police force.
You can read more about the regulations here
Recent global events have raised the UK threat level and we all have a role to play to help prevent terrorism. If you think someone is acting suspiciously around the farm try to make a note of descriptions of vehicles and people and contact your local police. If your call is of an urgent nature dial 999.
Remember whenever using nitrogen containing fertilisers :
Wherever possible use a Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme (FIAS) approved supplier.
Wherever possible keep in a secure area such as a building or sheeted away from public view.
Carry out regular stock checks and report any loss to the Police immediately (call 101).
Avoid leaving fertiliser in a field overnight – never leave fertiliser in the field for a long period of time.
Remember it is illegal to sell ammonium nitrate without the correct documentation.
Further information on fertiliser security is available from the National Counter Terrorism Security Office secure your fertiliser site here.