PA1 & PA6 Training Explained

The PA1 and PA6 courses are a UK-recognised, Level 2-accredited qualification for professionals who use pesticide sprayers. It provides training in the safe handling, storage, and application of pesticides through the PA1 foundation module, along with practical instruction in using handheld knapsack sprayers in the PA6 module.

These industry-recognised certifications are required for amateur-use pesticides when applying professional pesticides, and even when applying amateur-use pesticides when it is outside your own property.

• PA1 (Foundation Module): A theoretical module covering legislation, label interpretation, personal safety, environmental risk assessment, and storage.
• PA6 (Hand Held Application): A practical module covering the calibration, operation, and maintenance of hand-held applicators (e.g., knapsack sprayers).

This online course consists of 2 parts -

PA1 Safe Use of Pesticides Spraying Course (E-Learning)

• Candidates will receive an email directly from the training provider (LANTRA)
• Candidates will have access to the E-Learning for as long as they need, and are able to log on & off to pick up as and when needed.
• Registration is manual, so please allow 24-48 hours from purchase to receive your link.

PA1 Safe Use of Pesticides Online Assessment

• Upon purchase, candidates will be asked for some further registration information via email (DOB, passport-style photo, postcode, candidate's name & email address)
• Candidates will receive an email from 'Proctor Exam' with access to the assessment.
• Once the registration is complete, candidates have 7 days to sit the 1hour exam.
• Once the exam is initiated, a 1hour timer is started.

Objectives:

• Understand legislation relevant to pesticide use
• Interpret product labels for safe usage
• Select, maintain, and store correct PPE (per COSHH risk assessment)
• Apply personal hygiene procedures to prevent contamination
• Handle accidental contamination correctly
• Store pesticides safely
• Dispose of containers, surplus pesticide, and washings properly
• Keep accurate records
• Recognize risks to people and the environment during application

Once both parts are completed, the assessment recording goes to the training provider, LANTRA, to be invigilated. This can take up to 7 working days to receive the official pass via both marking and meeting exam conditions. A further 7 working days will see your certificate available via your portal, providing the course has been passed.

Also a 2-part training course, but conducted in person. Primarily, this is conducted in-house, we do offer the option to conduct this course at a location of your choice for a minimum of 4 candidates.

PA6A/AW Pesticide Training – Hand Held Applicator Safe Use

• A full day's practical training course with our technically verified in-house expert instructor
• Conducted in a group of 4-6 people
• Available both in-house (Peterborough) or at your location (Price varies)

PA6A/AW Pesticide Training – Hand Held Applicator Examination

• Conducted usually on the next day, availability may vary
• Individual examination time slot to be agreed on the training day
• Conducted at the same location as training (in-house or at the candidate's choice of location)

Once complete, providing a PASS has been achieved, candidates will be issued with a PA6 certificate 7-14 days from the issue date. This will be in the form of an E-certificate with a paper copy shortly following via post.

Objectives

• Prepare, calibrate, and operate hand-held applicators safely
• Use product labels to identify approved uses and hazards
• Conduct daily and routine maintenance of applicators
• Clean PPE and equipment contaminated with pesticide
• Calibrate sprayers using approved methods and record results

Candidate requirements

• Rubber Wellingtons
• Nitrile Gloves
• Coveralls
• Full Perspex Face Shield
• Knapsack Sprayer

All of the above are available for purchase from ProGreen A1Lawn for collection on the day.

Please note - you must have a valid PA1 certificate in order to sit your PA6 training & Examination.

In summary, completing both the PA1 and PA6 qualifications gives you the knowledge and practical skills required to use pesticides safely, legally, and effectively.

Whether you are maintaining grounds, working in landscaping, or carrying out professional weed control, these qualifications are an essential investment in both compliance and competence.

With flexible online learning for PA1 and hands-on practical training for PA6, candidates can gain the confidence to work safely while meeting all current UK pesticide regulations.

If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly team.