Topics are: Exposure of wildlife to rodenticides; Direct bait application in burrows; Environmental risk assessments; and Changes to classifications and pack sizes. Each one includes detailed notes and some offer suggested additional reading.
The modules can be downloaded from here. They have been compiled by Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use UK experts, co-ordinated through CRRU work groups. More are in the pipeline, according to the CRRU Training & Certification work group leader Dr Matthew Davies.
"For the time being, participation in continuous professional development (CPD) is not a condition for proof of competence to purchase stewardship-label rodenticides," he explains. "Even so, CPD is strongly advised and supported by CRRU UK.
"In addition to DIY use by committed pest controllers, farmers and gamekeepers, the modules can, as one example, be used to support CPD by registered trainers with relevant stewardship-certification organisations including BASIS, City & Guilds and LANTRA.
"CRRU will monitor uptake of CPD materials as an indicator of rodenticide users' appetites for pursuing best possible practice," Dr Davies adds. "This information will be included in rodenticide stewardship's reporting to the UK Government panel that oversees its operation."