For the initial validation under the scheme, producers must demonstrate that they operate within the parameters specified in PAS 100. The initial validation requires 3 consecutive passes from 3 different portions of production.
Be mindful that the laboratories cannot test samples over the Christmas period and the final date for submitting samples is early December.
Following validation, the process must continue to submit samples in accordance with the frequencies described in PAS 100. For information on submitting samples please contact the appointed laboratories directly using the contact details provided.
PAS 100 Compost Analysis Request Form
Compost samples sent to the laboratories for certification purposes will need to be accompanied by the PAS 100 Compost Analysis Request Form, which can be downloaded here.
The Microsoft Word version of this form can also be downloaded here.
New applicants: as a compost producer applying to join the Compost Certification Scheme, you will need to obtain a temporary certification code and temporary PR number from REAL to put on the PAS100 Compost Analysis Request Form. Please email REAL using the email address: info@realschemes.org.uk.
Labelling your PAS 100 compost sample
It is crucial that each compost sample is labelled with the correct information before being sent to the laboratories for testing. This will provide a clear distinction between samples sent for trials or process improvement and samples sent for PAS 100 validation or renewal testing, as we are only collating the latter. It is important that the laboratories understand whether your compost sample has been sent for certification purposes so that they know to submit the results to the CCS database.
If the testing is being undertaken for certification purposes, then please label your compost sample packaging with ‘PAS100’. If the testing is not being undertaken for certification purposes, then please do not label your sample with ‘PAS100’.
For instructions on how to label your sample and prepare the relevant paperwork, you can download the guidance here.
PAS 100 test results
The PAS 100 test reports associated with your certification will be uploaded directly to the CCS database by the laboratories. In order to do this, they require the correct certification code (whether existing or temporary) as detailed above. The laboratories will also send a copy of the reports to producers but please note that the certification bodies will only accept those results submitted to the CCS database. The laboratory test results will not become publicly available, although REAL may share anonymised sets of data externally for other purposes.