The scheme

The National Sprayer Testing Scheme (NSTS)
is a commitment made by the agricultural and
horticultural industries to submit sprayers working
in the UK to an annual inspeaction by a qualified person.

The test

The test is carried out by a person qualified by the National Proficiency Test Council (NPTC) to a level 3 Certificate of Competence in Sprayer Examining.

Where is the test conducted ?

The test can be carried out at the premises of the machine owner or any other premises provide spray out water is disposed of under the terms of the Groundwater Regulations.

Benefits

In addtion to showing commitment to the Voluntary Initiative (VI), signing up to the NSTS also ensures maximum efficiency of your sprayer and can significantly reduce costly downtime. Part of the test includes checks on the delivery system of the sprayer, confirming it''s accurate output and application distribution.

The cost of replacing worn or damaged nozzles that deliver only 5% above the recommended rate is readily recovered in chemical savings and improved chemical efficacy from better and consistent spray quality.

Sprayers covered

The scheme is aimed at all pesticide application equipment used in amenity, grounds care and local authority sector as well as agriculture and horticulture. Other equipment used in public health and industrial sectors would also be eligible. The scheme covers all new sprayers as well as those traded through dealers, in addition to those already in use.

What does the test consist of?

The test contains forty items, thirty of which the sprayer must pass to qualify for a pass certificate. The other ten items will recieve a cautionary note if a fault is found. It is then up to the machine owner to have those items rectified.

Can I prepare my sprayer for the test?

An operator check sheet is downloadable here. Keeping the sprayer in good condition can help when submitting the machine for test, by reducing time taken and rectification required.

It is also important that the sprayer is thoroughly cleaned, both inside and out, before being submitted for the test.