BCS Scheme Rules published

Posted: 27 July, 2015. Written by Ciaran

The Version 4 of the BCS Scheme rules have now been published and are available on the BCS website here - http://www.biofertiliser.org.uk/certification/england-wales/scheme-rules

Some key changes to the rules include:

• Clause to develop a Producers Forum
• Clause to introduce independent sampling and site spot checks
• Updated section on laboratory appointments
• Change to certificate renewal timings and requirements with defined timescales for suspension and withdrawal
• Requirement for producers to notify their certification body of of any changes relating to their process so that the certification body can make a decision on whether it is a significant chage that requires re-validation or not. The certification body may request that the producer provide evidence, such as test results, to demonstrate that the change did not have a negative impact on the quality of digestate.
• Requirement that a process must not include a equipment designed to reduce physical contaminant particle size to less than 2mm so as to pass the physical contaminants test.
• Requirements for sample storage and transport
• Requirements for forming a co-operative.
• Requirement that all members must permit UKAS inspectors to accompany auditors

There is a transition period of 6 weeks which will come to an end on the 7 September. Members may choose to be audited against either version of the scheme rules during the transition period.