What’s New in Pest Control? Highlights from NPTA Forum

Monday 24/02/2025

PestFix’s Technical Manager, Elaine, recently headed to Nottingham for the February NPTA On the Road Day - and what a day it was! With a packed schedule of insightful talks, engaging discussions, and industry updates, Elaine came back with plenty to share.

Here’s a roundup of the key highlights from the day:

Richard Faulkner’s Take on Unusual Insects:

One of the most engaging talks came from Richard Faulkner, who had the room captivated with his discussion on some of the more unusual insects pest controllers encounter. Among his personal favourites? The cockchafer beetle - a large, clumsy insect often mistaken for other pests.

It was a fascinating deep dive into the world of lesser-known creepy crawlies, reminding us that pest control isn’t just about rats and wasps!

Graeme Turner on Tiny Flies, Big Problems:

Another standout talk came from Graeme Turner, who tackled the challenges of dealing with very small flies. Identification is key when dealing with these tiny pests, as different species require different treatment approaches. Graeme shared valuable tips on recognising the subtle differences between these troublesome insects and applying the most effective control methods.

Mental Health in the Pest Control Industry:

Pest control can be a demanding job, both physically and mentally. Anna led an important discussion on the challenges of mental health in the industry, emphasising the importance of simply talking to people.

Fox Control - A Hot Topic:

While foxes are a beloved part of British wildlife, they can cause serious issues in urban and rural settings alike, making professional pest control expertise essential.

Elaine’s Interview on Attracting New Talent to Pest Control:

When asked to take part in an interview about careers in pest control, Elaine was straight in with a yes! As someone with deep industry experience, she’s passionate about highlighting the benefits of a career in pest control and encouraging younger talent to join the field.

Elaine shared her thoughts:
"While the idea of a 'job for life' is becoming outdated in many industries, pest control is an industry for life. The demand for pest control isn’t going anywhere, making it a stable and rewarding career choice."

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Elaine came away from the NPTA On the Road event inspired and full of new insights. Events like these remind us just how dynamic and vital the pest control industry is—not just in tackling pest problems, but in supporting professionals, fostering innovation, and ensuring the well-being of those in the field.

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