We're encouraging grounds people to attend a forthcoming webinar on the safe, effective and responsible use of plant protection products following new Health and Safety Executive (HSE) data that highlights widespread compliance issues across the amenity sector.
Figures presented at the Amenity Forum Updating Event revealed that 97% of pesticide inspections carried out by HSE in 2025 required some form of corrective action. The inspections, conducted across England, Scotland and Wales, identified a range of issues including poor pesticide storage, inadequate stock control, incomplete spray records, failures to inspect application equipment where required and gaps in regulatory registrations.
In response, the GMA is hosting a dedicated webinar designed to help members better understand their responsibilities, review current procedures and ensure they are operating in line with regulatory requirements and industry best practice.
Plant Protection Products: Safe, Effective and Responsible Use
Taking place on Wednesday 22 July 2026 at 18:00, the webinar will be hosted by Julien Morris, the GMA's Senior Regional Pitch Advisor (Football).
Joining him will be industry experts Keil Barrett, Head Groundsperson at Leeds United, and Jonathan Knowles, Head of Sports Turf Academy at Leicester City, who will provide practical insight into compliance requirements, current industry challenges and the responsible use of plant protection products within grounds management.
The session will offer attendees the opportunity to gain expert guidance on maintaining compliance, protecting people and the environment and implementing effective management controls across sports turf and amenity sites.
The webinar comes at a crucial time for the sector, with increasing scrutiny surrounding the use of plant protection products in public spaces and sports facilities.
