The Sustainable Use Directive (SUD) requires that all pesticide application equipment (PAE) is tested on a regular basis*

Any machine applying pesticides  must be tested by the relevant dates. Timescales of test vary depending on type and size of equipment.

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Boom sprayers over 3 metres wide, air blast sprayers, train and aircraft sprayers (includes Livestock Assurance Schemes)
          1. First test due before the sprayer is 5 years old
          2. All sprayers over 5 years old must have been tested within the last 3 years
          3. Re-test every 3 years

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Boom sprayers 3 metres and under and other types of PAE to include slug pellet applicators, micro-granular applicators, weed wipers, seed treatment and other specialist application equipment
          1. First test due before the machine is 5 years old
          2. Re-test every 6 years

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Knapsack, handheld and pedestrian equipment
          1. Do not require a formal test but need to be checked
          2. You should keep a record of the inspection

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Crops and Fresh Produce Assurance Scheme requirements
          1. Annual testing for sprayers over 3 metres incl. air blast sprayers
          2. Annual testing of nematicide applicators and fogging machines
          3. All other equipment to SUD requirements

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*The legal requirements are contained in the Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012