Introduction

Classes and uses of pesticides

Legal framework

Approval Levels

Scientific information in the regulatory process.

Risk Management Process

Constitution and function of the various organisations

Management of pesticides in the future.

Pesticides in water....

The Environment Agency monitors for pesticides in environmental waters, sediment and aquatic life. This programme is largely dependent on requirements set out in a number of European Directives. Additional non-statutory monitoring tailored to local pesticide usage patterns is also undertaken. In 2003, the Agency monitored around 180 pesticides (including metabolites and isomers). Samples were taken from over 3000 sites with approximately 330,000 separate analyses recorded.

The Environment Agency provides a detailed annual report on aquatic pollution incidents caused by pesticides. This is used to inform the risk assessment process for product approval and review. The most recent Pesticides in the Environment Report is available on the Environment Agency website at Pesticide Incidents Appraisal Panel (PIAP)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Pesticide Incidents Appraisal Panel aims to consider all incidents investigated by HSE or local authority inspectors in which the use of pesticides may have affected a person’s health. The Panel receives detailed information about each incident, including a report of the field investigations carried out by the HSE’s Field Operations Directorate or the local authority together with the results of any medical investigations and the known or suspected adverse effects of the chemical involved.

A report of the incidents considered by PIAP is published annually and is available from HSE Books. These reports are presented to the ACP to check whether further action is considered necessary. In addition, the findings in relation to specific pesticides are taken into account when they are reviewed.