QQI5 Safe Handling of Pesticides – Location: Dublin

The aim of this 2 day Hand Held Pesticide Application course is to equip the participants with the knowledge, skill and competence to apply crop pesticides using a hand held applicator in accordance with recommended safe practice.

Participants on this programme will gain the following learning outcomes:

1. Describe how infestations of pests (weeds, diseases, insects and vertebrates) affect crop growth and reduce quality.
2. Describe the range of pest control methods available to farmers and growers.
3. Explain the terminology used to categorise pesticides for crop production, the factors affecting pesticide efficiency and the factors to be considered when selecting a formulation.
4. Describe principles and procedures for the safe handling, storage, application and disposal of pesticides including appropriate personal protective equipment.
5. Summarise laws and regulations relating to poisonous substances to include pesticide residues and maintenance of adequate records.
6. Explain the principles of application technology necessary for the proper application of pesticides in respect of applicator components, calibration, maintenance, field operating procedures and precautions.
7. Interpret pesticide label information including precautionary symbols, product name, class designation, registration number, purpose, precautions, first aid instruction, toxicology information, disposal, notice to user, material safety data sheets (MSDS) and directions for use.
8. Prepare a hand-held applicator for work, including calibration, in accordance with good practice and manufacturers’ instructions.
9. Make up a pesticide spray mix in accordance with good practice including the pesticide product label dosage recommendations and the application area.
10. Store a hand held applicator and personal protective equipment in a safe and efficient manner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
11. Apply a pesticide mix with a hand-held applicator in a safe and efficient manner in accordance with recommended good practice.

• Assessments

Skills Demonstration 60%

Examination – Theory 40%

• Dates

2nd and 5th March 2026

• Times:

9.30 am to 4.30 pm each day

• Location:

Riasc Centre, Swords, Dublin.

• Cost

€150pp including Certification

For more information, please contact skillnet@waterfordchamber.ie