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:
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Clause to develop a Producers Forum
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Clause to introduce independent sampling and site spot checks
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Updated section on laboratory appointments
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Change to certificate renewal timings and requirements with defined timescales for suspension and withdrawal
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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.
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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.
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Requirements for sample storage and transport
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Requirements for forming a co-operative.
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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.