Spray Buffer Zones Explained
When applying Plant Protection Products (PPPs), it is a legal requirement that, where required, you adhere to LERAP buffer zones.
LERAP
Local Environmental Risk Assessment for Pesticides (LERAP) is legislation that is designed to provide protection to water courses. It requires the operator applying PPPs to conform with the LERAP classification on the pesticide label. Not all pesticides have a LERAP but where they do. It can be found on the label. LERAP is divided into 2 categories A + B.
LERAP A.
LERAP A requires a 5m minimum spraying buffer zone from the top of the bank of any watercourse. This can be reduced to a 1m buffer zone only if it is a dry ditch.
LERAP B.
LERAP B also requires a minimum 5m spraying buffer zone, but allows for a reduction to 1m if it is a dry ditch, or if 3* application equipment is used, or if application is at ¼ of label rate or less (only where appropriate and where resistance would not be an issue). The buffer zone can be reduced to 2m if the water course is greater than 6m wide, or if 2* or 3* application equipment is used.
LERAP Star rated nozzles.
Some spray nozzles are reduced drift and can be awarded a star rating by Chemical Regulations Division of the Health & Safety Executive. Nozzles are tested against a reference system using a standard Teejet TP 110 03 nozzle operating at 3 bar pressure 0.5m above the crop.
No LERAP - Low drift rating
Drift levels greater than 75% of that from reference system.
LERAP - Low Drift - one star *
Drift levels greater than 50% and up to 75% of that from reference system.
LERAP - Low Drift - two star *
Drift levels greater than 25% and up to 50% of that from reference system.
LERAP - Low Drift - three star **
Drift levels up to 25% of that from reference system.
| Collier Turf Care supply air bubble jet 3-star nozzles, ask your local Rep for details. |
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If you would like any advice or help, ask one of Collier Turf Care’s BASIS & FACTS Qualified Advisors.
Chris Humphrey M.I. Soil Sci. MBPR FQA
Technical Manager
For advice, contact your Collier Turf Care representative or call 01328 700600