JOINING
Am I eligible to join NRoSO?
Membership is available to pesticide operators who are either:
a) holders of an NPTC Certificate of Competence in the Safe Use of Pesticides, with the minimum of a PA1 Foundation Module plus one or more of the Pesticide Application Modules (PA2 - PA13), or
b) non-certificate holders operating under the age exemption under the Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 (FEPA) and the Control of Pesticides Regulations (amended) 1997, i.e. they were born before 31st December 1964 and hold ‘Grandfather Rights’, and are applying pesticides on their own holding.
How long does membership last?
A membership term runs for three years from the initial joining date to the scheme. Payment can be made on an annual or three year basis.
How much does membership cost?
There is a registration fee of £6 for all new members and either an annual fee of £20 per year or £51 if paying for 3 years. There is an incentive to pay for the three years upfront as you make a £9 saving.
One year payment route – new members can join online and pay by either debit or credit card or direct debit. Existing members are encouraged to pay online via the secure login area. Alternatively, payments can be made via cheque or BACS.
Three year payment route - new members can join online and pay by either debit or credit card. Existing members are encouraged to pay online via the secure login area. Alternatively payment can be made via cheque or BACS.
What do I receive when I join?
New members are issued with a membership folder which contains information relating to the scheme and a membership ID card with receipt of payment. They will also receive meetings with agronomist record sheets, NSTS sprayer test sheet, terms and conditions, code of conduct and disputes and appeals procedure as well as the latest edition of the Pro Operator magazine.
What are the benefits of joining NRoSO?
• Recognition of training and professional development.
• More efficient and effective application of pesticides and improved knowledge of products.
• Improved job opportunities.
• Proof to assurance schemes of up-to-date knowledge, skills and compliance.
• An annual training event providing members with up to date industry information, technical updates and excellent networking opportunities.
• A Pro Operator magazine for members containing information on a variety of industry topics and training. This is published in January, June and September of each year.
• Dedicated customer support team to help and advise members.
Can I apply to join online and make payment?
Online applications are available by clicking ‘Join Now’ on the homepage and are processed within 5 working days. Applicants or there employers have the option of paying by either debit/credit card or direct debit. Please note that with direct debit applications you will need to have the facility to print out a direct debit mandate and send it to us.
Can I apply by post to join instead?
Online applications are the preferred method for new members to join the scheme as they can be processed more efficiently. Applications by post are still accepted but processing times are approximately 10 - 12 working days. The paper based form can be accessed here
Will joining NRoSO protect my ‘Grandfather Rights’?
There is currently no clear indication from Government that they plan to revoke ‘Grandfather Rights’, however, it remains a possibility. The Farming Unions and others believe that good support of NRoSO by “grandfathers” would be a very strong defence to Government if they threatened to remove Grandfather Rights, as this would demonstrate the “grandfather’s” high level of training, competency and knowledge in the application of pesticides.
For more information on Grandfather Rights please visit the Health & Safety Executive website:
http://www.pesticides.gov.uk/guidance/industries/pesticides/topics/reducing-environmental-impact/national-pesticides-strategy/phasing-out-of-grandfather-rights-for-pesticide-users
Can I transfer my membership to another person?
Memberships are not transferable from one member to another. Each member must join seperately and have their own unique membership number.
Is membership for the individual or the farm?
Membership is for the individual(s) responsible for the application of pesticides.
SECURE LOGIN
What is the ‘Secure Login’ Area?
The ‘Secure Login’ area is available for members, employers and farm assurance users to check CPD statements and make payments when due. In order to access this area we must hold a valid email address for the member, employer or farm assurance user. To login for the first time simply click the ‘Password Reminder’ button and enter your email address. A secure password will be emailed to you to allow you to login.
I have entered my email address and clicked ‘Password Reminder’ but I have not received my password login details. What is the problem?
It is likely that we do not hold a current email address against your member/employer record. Please call 02476 857300 or email NRoSOsupport@cityandguilds.com to ensure we have your correct email address.
How secure is the online payment system?
All transactions are performed on a secure web server. We use SSL encryption software to keep the details of your order and credit/debit card information secure. All of the information you provide is encrypted so that none of your details can be read in the secure line between your computer and our processing department. After processing, your details are held in our subscription system which is a completely separate area, unlinked and away from our internet pages. If you pay for your subscription by Direct Debit you will be protected by our Direct Debit Guarantee. This means you can cancel at any time and receive a full refund on any disputed payments.
Why can I not see my direct debit bank details within the ‘pay fees’ section of the secure login area?
This is due to data protection reasons and to ensure that bank details remain secure and confidential.
EMAIL REMINDERS
Can I receive payment reminders via email?
The ability to receive payments reminders via email (rather than by post) is now available. In order to do this it is vital that we have the correct email address (if your employer pays for you we need to have their email address recorded against their employer record).
If you would like to confirm your correct email address please send an email to NRoSOsupport@cityandguilds.com stating your NRoSO membership number and employer details (if applicable).
CPD
What are the scheme requirements?
Members are required to collect a minimum of 30 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points from ‘registered activities’ over a three year period from their registration date. Click the ‘CPD’ tab to discover the various ways to collect points.
When do I have to collect CPD points?
Members may collect CPD points at any stage throughout the three year membership term. Ideally members should achieve their points with an even distribution across each of the three years, to truly reflect ‘continuing professional development’. However, it will be equally valid to get all points in a single year.
The achievement of CPD points by individual members will be monitored throughout their membership and members will receive a CPD points statement with their payment renewal reminders. Alternatively, members can view their CPD points online if they have registered an email address with us via the ‘Secure Login’ area.
How do I collect CPD points?
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points can be gained through a variety of means; such as activities on the farm or through attending registered courses and event.
To claim points for activities on the farm, such as meetings with an agronomist or attending an NSTS test, members need to send in the appropriate evidence to the NRoSO administrators at City & Guilds for the points to be added to their CPD statement.
What type of training is suitable for CPD?
Training events must contain pesticide-related content in order to be eligible for NRoSO CPD points. The content of training events should ideally include some or all of the following:
• Legislation.
• Application Equipment.
• Environmental Safety (including Flora, Aquatic life & Wildlife, Air Water Soil Protection in respect of crop protection).
• Occupational Health & Safety (in respect of pesticide use).
• Crop Protection Technology.
• Plant Protection.
• Integrated Crop Management.
How do I find out about events where I can claim CPD points?
Individual members are responsible for achieving the required 30 CPD points. Details of some applicable events will be published in either the Pro Operator Magazine (sent out to members three times per year) or on the NRoSO website under the ‘Events’ section. Some of the events or shows on the website may not have a location but instead will have the trainers name and a contact form to email them for further information. Alternatively you can contact your local training provider, agrochemical supplier, agricultural college/university or assessment centre for further advice.
What are the ways to collect CPD points?
Please refer to the ‘CPD’ section of the website for further information.
What is the NRoSO annual training event?
Please refer to the ‘CPD’ section of the website for further information.
I am a training provider/event organiser, how do I apply for NRoSO points for an event?
Events must contain pesticide-related content in order to be eligible for NRoSO CPD points. Applications for CPD points from training providers and event organisers will be awarded according to the course content and the objectives as specified by the trainers/organisers on the ‘Application for Allocation of CPD points for Events & Courses’ form that is sent to City & Guilds. The application form can be downloaded here.
How much will it cost to accrue 30 CPD points?
The cost varies depending on how you choose to accrue the points. Many of the points can be gained from simply recording activities already undertaken on the farm, such as meeting with your agronomist or being in attendance whilst having your sprayer tested. Costs vary for other activities, such as subscribing to technical publications, attending technical events and research farm open days.
How do I prove attendance at shows/events to qualify for points?
All shows and training events eligible for CPD points will be issued with a NRoSO reference number and will have an attendance register for you to sign, with your membership number. Once the attendance register is returned to us (we ask for them to be sent to us as soon as the event or show has taken place) we can then input membership numbers onto records so that member’s CPD statements are updated.
Can I carry CPD points over from one membership term to another?
Yes if you achieve more than 30 CPD points you can carry over a maximum of 10 CPD points into your next three year membership term. They will appear in the subsequent term as ‘carried forward’ points on your CPD statement.
Can I access my CPD statement online?
Yes you can access your CPD statement online via the ‘Secure Login’ area. In order to successfully login we must hold a valid email address for you against your membership or employer record. To login for the first time simply click the ‘Password Reminder’ button and enter your email address. A secure password will be emailed to you to allow you to login.
Can I submit CPD points online?
At present CPD cannot be submitted via the ‘Secure Login’ area. Instead the relevant CPD evidence must be emailed, posted or faxed to the NRoSO Support Team to allow member’s records to be updated.
What happens if I get to the end of my three year membership term and have not managed to achieve the 30 CPD point target?
If you are struggling to gain the 30 CPD points at the end of your three-year membership, you have a 90 day suspension period to achieve your shortfall of CPD points. If you do not manage to achieve your CPD points by the end of the 90 day period your membership will go into ‘cancellation’. This may affect your farm assurance status and the rules of the scheme state that you will be unable to re-join the NRoSO register for a 12 month period from the date of cancellation. When re-joining you will be listed as a new member and allocated a new membership number.
What other CPD schemes are there?
NRoSO was set up in 2003 and was the first CPD scheme for mainstream agriculture. The National Amenity Sprayer Operators Register (NASOR) for pesticide operators in the amenity sector is due to be launched in spring 2012.
There is also the BASIS professional register for agronomists and BASIS Amenity Register (B.A.R) for advisors/managers. The Lantra register for trainers exists and members of the Institute of Farm Secretaries also have to accrue CPD points.
MEMBERSHIP GUIDELINES
What are the professional standards expected of NRoSO members?
In order to ensure the reputation and credibility of NRoSO it is essential for members to adhere to ethical and operational standards. These are contained in the ‘Code of Conduct’ that is included within the membership joining pack.
What are the terms and conditions of the scheme?
The ‘Terms and Conditions’ of the scheme can be accessed here.
How can I appeal against decisions made by NRoSO/City & Guilds?
Members who feel dissatisfied about any decisions of NRoSO/City & Guilds staff should initially raise their concerns with the member of staff involved. In the event that a member is still dissatisfied with the outcome, they should lodge their concerns under the ‘Appeals Procedure’ that is included within your membership pack.
Is there any provision made for long term illness as a member of NRoSO?
Yes, it has been recognised that from time to time members who have illness or accidents that have put them out of action for an extended period are unable to accumulate CPD points. It has therefore been agreed that if a member or their employer, as appropriate, sends in a letter and doctor’s note substantiating the illness, the membership can be extended at no additional cost for up to a maximum of twelve months. During this twelve month period the member will not be expected to accumulate points as they are deemed ill. Once the illness extension has passed the member will revert back into their remaining time left on their three year term and will need to gain their outstanding points required.
BASIS
Can NRoSO CPD points be accrued at events registered with BASIS?
Events and courses must be registered with both NRoSO and BASIS in order for both NRoSO and BASIS points to be available. There is a joint paper application form to apply for CPD points but organisers must send this to both organisations. Alternatively, if applying online via the BASIS website the application will automatically be forwarded to NRoSO.
Do I need to join NRoSO if I am a member of the BASIS Professional Register or BASIS Amenity Register?
Yes you will usually need to be a member of NRoSO if you are applying pesticides commercially. However, BASIS Professional register and Amenity members will be serviced by BASIS and provided your BASIS membership is up to date, membership of NRoSO will be issued free of charge and without the need to collect NRoSO CPD points.
BASIS professional register or Amenity members can apply to join NRoSO online. They need to pay a £6 joining fee and provide their BASIS account number to confirm proof of current membership.
FARM ASSURANCE SCHEMES
Is NRoSO part of the Assurance schemes?
NRoSO is not part of the Assurance schemes but belonging to NRoSO is a requirement for any sprayer operator working on a holding covered by a farm assurance scheme. ACCS has included NRoSO as a Critical Failure Point (as certificated by CMI or EFSIS-FABBL). SQC has included NRoSO as a minor non-compliance (non compliances within SQC are expected to be corrected within a 30 day period). Genesis has made NRoSO a critical requirement.
I am a farm assurance user how do I check NRoSO member’s details?
If you have previously logged in use your existing email and password to login into the secure login area. If we do not hold your email address then please call 02476 857300 and request to be set up as a farm assurance user.