CAAA Code of Ethics

This code defines the conduct of members of the Canadian Aerial Applicators Association in their relations with the public, employers, employees, clients and each other. It promotes just and honourable professional relationships and competent services to society.

The responsibility of a member to the public is to:

  • Provide factual and accurate information to advance public knowledge and understanding of the aerial application industry, the practice of crop protection and its function in society.
  • Endeavour to extend public knowledge of the aerial application industry and discourage the spreading of untrue, unfair and exaggerated statements regarding the profession.
  • Have due regard for protecting the environment and the safety of life, health and welfare of the public and employees who may be affected by the work for which they are responsible.
  • Refrain from expressing publicly opinions on subjects relating to the profession unless they are informed of the facts relating thereto.
  • Conduct themselves with equity, fairness, courtesy and good faith towards clients, colleagues and others.

The responsibility of a member to the profession is to:

  • Maintain a current knowledge of legislation, pesticide hazards, safe working procedures, protective clothing and devices, and shall be aware of their responsibility to their staff in these areas.
  • Ensure all aerial applications are applied in a manner that will minimize risk to humans, non-target organisms and the environment. Equipment shall be properly maintained and calibrated, all pesticides shall be applied in accordance with label directions, and the applicator shall comply with all applicable air regulations and airworthiness standards.
  • Pledge to dispose of all containers in the appropriate manner. Diluted pesticide and wash water will be collected and/or stored until it is disposed of in accordance with approved procedures.
  • Maintain adequate application, personnel and maintenance records.
  • Maintain high standards of conduct in their daily work and strive to raise the standards of practice.
  • Acquire, keep current and use specialized knowledge and skills in the practice of aerial application.
  • Endeavour to improve the competence of the aerial application profession.
  • Engage in no activity likely to result in unfavourable reflection on the profession.

The responsibility of a member to clients and employers is to:

  • Act in a conscientious, diligent and efficient manner with a spirit of integrity, good faith and courtesy.
  • Undertake only such work as they are competent to perform by virtue of their training and experience except when under supervision.
  • Undertake no assignment that may create a conflict of interest in their employer or client and to inform such employer or client of any business connections, interest or circumstances that may be deemed as influencing their judgment or the quality of their services.
  • Establish with the client fair and reasonable fees which correspond to the services to be rendered.
  • Respect the right of employees to voice their professional concerns in an appropriate manner about work which they believe to be dangerous or threatening to the environment, life, limb, or property.

The responsibility of a member to another member is to:

  • Refrain from maligning the work, reputation or business of another member of the profession.
  • Provide opportunity for the professional development of other members in their employ or under their supervision.

Approved February 27, 2009
Kananaskis, Alberta