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Advisors - Best Practice

Farmers and growers need to follow best practice, as indeed do advisers. There are legal requirements for giving advice and the Yellow Code (LINK) is an important reference point on minimum legal standards. It is a statutory requirement only for those selling professional pesticides to hold the appropriate BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection. However the Yellow Code makes it clear that anyone advising on or specifying professional pesticides should also hold this Certificate.

The minimum in best practice for modern agronomists is summarised for all by membership of the BASIS Professional Register. The Register's code of Ethics states that: "all members of the Register should order their affairs such that they always uphold the dignity of the Pesticide and Fertiliser Industries." And set out the following rules:
1. At all times a member must ensure that the advice given, and any sales of product or service resulting there from, is in accordance with current legislation and, in particular:
  a) has due regard to any environmental impact;
  b) gives priority to the health and safety of those that purchase/use the products or services concerned.
2. Members shall respect the confidentiality of information relating to a customer/ client/employer.
3. Members shall maintain awareness of progress and knowledge in their roles as pesticide/fertiliser practitioners in order to maintain a high standard of professional competence relative to their sphere of activity in line with the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirement for their sector of the Register.
4. Members shall publicise their professional service with dignity and not create an invidious distinction between other members nor bring the profession into disrepute.
5. Members shall co-operate with professional colleagues so that customers/clients, the public and the environment may benefit.
6. A member should carry out his/her professional work with a proper regard for the technical and professional standards expected of him/her. A member should not undertake professional work which that he/she is not competent to perform.
7. Members should note that failure to comply with the Code may lead to disciplinary action including suspension or removal from the Register, in accordance with the Disciplinary Code of the Register.
In addition, the best practice for the Voluntary Initiative advocates the following:
  		• Advice should always be based within the context of Integrated Crop Management;
  		• Advisers will ensure that they are aware of the key environmental features (wildlife and water) on customer's farms and in their locality; and ensure that they are aware of local water protection concerns and key biodiversity species
  		• Advisers will use Environmental Information to minimise or avoid environmental risks;
  		• Advisers should ensure they are familiar with the customer's crop protection management plans and their associated annual action plan;
  		• Wherever practical and appropriate provide written recommendations with an explanation of the reason for treatment;
  		• Advisors should obtain the BETA qualification in order to demonstrate their knowledge and competence in the area of Biodiversity and Environment
  		• Assist customers in complying with legal requirements by:
        
  		• Drawing attention to the LERAP and buffer zone requirements on product labels
     
  		• Assisting with the pesticide store management and ensuring products are used up before expiry dates.