New NSTS testing requirements for some pedestrian sprayers

The complexity of pedestrian spray application machines has evolved such that some are now as sophisticated, and comparable in size, to tractor-mounted equipment that is required to be tested through the National Sprayer Testing Scheme (NSTS).

NSTS Manager, Ian Forman, explained that, following discussions with government’s regulatory CRD, terminology has now been added to the guidance, which is explained as follows; ‘equipment that does require an NSTS test now includes manually propelled or self-propelled trolley type equipment with three or more wheels and a motorised pump’. 

“These machines fall in the same category as boom sprayers which are 3m and under, as well as slug pellet and micro-granular applicators, seed treating and weed wipers,” highlighted Ian (below). 

Equipment that does not require a test are pedestrian sprayers with a maximum of two wheels or with a manually pressurised pump. 

To assist operators in meeting the requirements of regular inspections NSTS have check sheets available on their website which also includes somewhere to record a calibration.

All other equipment types and timescales of test and re-test remain the same. For clarification on other types not listed please contact NSTS directly and our team will be pleased to help.

The NSTS operates as part of compliance for the whole chain of plant protection product (PPP) use. HSE pesticide enforcement officers (PEO) have the role of checking all official controls are in place, from importers, manufacturers and distributors right through to the application of the product.

NSTS are the designated body in the UK to provide testing of pesticide application equipment to meet these requirements.

“Visits made to the businesses using and applying PPP’s are carried out in all sectors, but it is mainly in the horticulture and amenity sectors where clarification of test requirements of certain types of equipment has been necessary,” added Ian. 

The term ‘pedestrian’ equipment falls in the category along with knapsack and handheld where a statutory test is not required, however these still must be inspected on a regular basis.

For more information visit the NSTS website or email: info@nsts.org.uk