Certificate in Vertebrate Pest Control

Vertebrate Pest Control (AVP02)

When staff are using varying methods of pest control on vermin and pests, it is essential that they understand what they are doing and can use products correctly and effectively.

This qualification covers the control of vertebrate pests through a range of methods, covering preventative management, site survey, species recognition, health and safety, legislation and safe practice. The

certificate is endorsed according to the species covered in the assessment. 

The assessment is divided in to 4 mandatory units:

Unit 1. Reasons for Vertebrate Pest Control and Responsibilities Under Legislation
Unit 2. Characteristics of chosen species
Unit 3. Site Survey
Unit 4. Control Methods
Unit 5. Application of Hazardous Substances for Vertebrate Pest Control (NOT FOR AVIAN PESTS)

Candidates are required to successfully complete all Assessment Activities in Units 1, 2, 3 & 4 but only the appropriate Assessment Activity/ies in Unit 5 in according to which species they wish to be assessed in. Details of each units activities can be found by visiting the NPTC Assessment Schedule (link opens in a new window).

Candidates must be a minimum age of 16 or over.

Species include:

A. Commensal Rats (Including or not including gassing)
Or B. Commensal Mice
Or C. Rabbits (Including gassing)
Or D. Grey Squirrels
Or E. Moles (Including gassing)
Or F Avian pests

Learning Outcomes:
To achieve a satisfactory outcome the candidate must:
- Identify key aspects of legislation relevant to vertebrate pest control and product data sheets as highlighted in the assessment criteria
- Recognise and state damage caused by a specified vertebrate pest species
- Identify possible implications from the damage caused
- Identify chosen species at different levels of maturity
- Assess environmental sensitivity
- Identify typical habitats
- Explain natural population control
- Identify nature and source of pest infestation at a given site
- Carry out and implement a practical Risk Assessment
- Assess the environmental status of the given site
- Identify non-target species present
- Demonstrate a range of control methods, including the use of harmful substances/poisons
- Clear up after the operation and complete appropriate record

For further information detailing the activities taken during the assessment of each unit please visit the NPTC Assessment Schedule (link opens in a new window).

Booking is easy...

Simply add your chosen exam to your basket and complete your order at the checkout. We will then send you a confirmation email confirming your examination request. Then shortly after this we will contact you to complete the necessary information for your exam registration. This may include:

• Additional personal details
• Selecting from optional modules
• Choice of examination dates
• Choice of examination location
• A Passport Sized Photo
• Date of Birth
• Place of Birth (Animal Transport Assessments only) 

Depending on which exam you are taking.

We aim to give you all the necessary information on this page. However, we appreciate it can all get a little confusing and should you feel this is the case, please don't hesitate to contact us, either by emailing info@avalonassessments.co.uk or telephoning 01934 86 22 88.