A no deal scenario when the UK leaves the EU means that it will leave without agreement. Negotiations have been going on for a while. In the event of a no deal, the government has prepared us for all eventualities to know what to do when it comes to UK pest control chemicals. A lot of people have been asking about pesticides and Brexit.
Pest control chemicals, also known as pesticides, protect us against pests. They benefit is us by protecting our health and safety, as well as our crops and foods.
Currently the pest control chemicals used in the UK are subject to the EU regulations. It has three main rules:
- Regulating what pesticides are available on the market. This includes approving any new pesticides and products whilst managing the associated risks.
- Regulating how much of the pesticide can remain in marketed foods once it’s been used.
- A framework of action to ensure the sustainable use of pesticides.
So what happens if there’s no deal?
In a no deal situation, the UK would have to establish its own pest control chemical regulations. A new framework will be put in place for pest control chemicals to ensure the protection of our health and the environment. The new policies will also make it straightforward for businesses to put their products on the market. Pest controllers will be able to continue to access a range of safe and effective pesticides.
The good news is that not much would change for the UK when it comes to pest control chemicals. The existing standards will be maintained and the environmental protections upheld. All the current chemicals that are available in pest control treatments are still allowed to be sold and be in use until March 2019.
The biggest change that comes from Brexit would be for people who have products on the market that rely on EU membership. These products would still be able to be used for two years after March 2019 in the transitional period, but after expiry the products would no longer be allowed to be used or sold in the UK.
Would it be a smooth transition?
Any crops that have been treated with pesticides in the UK that aren’t approved through the EU separately once Brexit comes in cannot be exported after the transitional period of three years.
These are the guidelines that have been given by the government when it comes to the use and trade of pest control chemicals:
- No immediate action needs to be taken in regards to chemicals you are currently using. Pesticides and residue levels will still comply with the EU standards and will remain so even after exit day.
- The UK may put forth new rules in their framework for the use of pesticides in the UK. Start to consider whether you need to make a new application for specific pest control chemical use. Plan ahead as these will expire over time and it’s better to get a head start.
- Keep yourself in the loop to see if any new regulations come in for the UK regarding pest control chemicals if you use or work with them on a regular basis.
Overall for pest controllers Brexit should be relatively smooth, maintaining the standards the EU have put forward. Remember that this post is only for guidance. Seek out professional guidance for anything you are unsure of.
