Emergency Contacts: Killgerm Emergency: 01865 407 333 | Rentokil Emergency: 01342 833 022 | National Poisons Information Service: www.npis.org

To access suppliers for metallic phosphide products please refer to BASIS registration ltd.

About RAMPS UK

RAMPS UK Aims

BASIS-RAMPS UK has been formed as a company limited by gurantee by the main importers of Metallic Phosphides in the UK along with distributors and other interested parties to deliver the following outputs:
  • The establishment and continuation of RAMPS UK comprising of a committed cross industry group responsible for the development and delivery of the safe and controlled use and supply of phosphine.
  • A communication strategy to promote the uptake and compliance to current and future requirements and help affected groups meet and adhere to external standards set under legislation.
  • Development and implementation of a code of best practice for use of phosphine, including operator training and certification by assisting in the development of a recognised and certificated qualification based on the need to prove user competence.
  • To make information on legislative changes and compliance available to stockists and users of metallic phosphides.
  • To provide information to emergency services in cases of accidental release or misuse of the products.
  • Challenge changes in use and legislation on behalf of the (UK) industry to ensure the continued and sustainable use of the products.

Why Stewardship

Phosphine is a vitally important fumigant used in the UK for the control of burrow living vertebrate pests (rabbits, rats and moles) and a wide range of invertebrate pests which infest stored food commodities.

Pure phosphine is a highly toxic colourless, tasteless and odourless gas applied as an easily handled solid known as Metal Phosphide; aluminium phosphide and magnesium phosphide are the metallic phosphides used and these react with water vapour in the environment to generate the active ingredient phosphine (Hydrogen Phosphide PH3); when freshly generated from solid formulations the resultant gas will contain impurities (substituted phosphine and disulphide) which gives it a garlic type smell and can serve as a warning to its presence in the atmosphere at very low concentrations. Phosphine may also ignite in air at concentrations above 18,000 parts per million.

Phosphine’s high toxicity makes it the most toxic substance used for controlling pests in the UK and, as such, deserves special attention to protect people and non-target animals from malicious or irresponsible use, storage, transport and disposal.

Its use is governed under both the Biocidal Products Regulations and the Plant Protection Products Regulations. The use of metal phosphides is captured under the Plant Protection (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012 which requires that:

  • You need to hold a recognised certificate of competency (accredited level 2 qualification) to purchase the product.
  • This affects all professionals including pest controllers, farmers, gamekeepers, amenities managers, small holders and anyone else having a professional need for the product.
  • Users must sign the completed poisons register on every occasion they make a purchase.