Earlier this month PAS 100:2018, the revised standard for specification for compost material, was published. With an implementation deadline of 31st December 2018, businesses have less than three months to transition from PAS 100:2011 that it replaces.
The key changes to the PAS 100 include:
- PAS 100:2018 introduces a new ‘compost quality’ clause to make clearer the existing requirements to produce compost that is fit-for-purpose (suitable for intended use). Any quality requirements that are more stringent or wider ranging than the minimum baseline quality requirements specified in the PAS must be checked and agreed with customers in writing.
The revised standard for specification for compost material requires a team approach to developing a Safety and Quality Control System (SQCS).- The previous Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) section of PAS 100:2011 has been re-written to extend the requirements. PAS 100:2018 requires producers to set up a SQCS to consider hazards affecting quality, as well as safety, relevant to the intended use of the compost. This also relates to the new ‘compost quality’ clause.
- PAS 100:2018 requires compost to be reassessed for compliance with the requirements of the ‘compost quality’ clause when stored for a period of six months or longer.
- The dispatch of sampled batches of compost for use is restricted until after the test results have been checked for conformance to PAS 100.
All operators will be audited against the new PAS 100:2018 from 1st January 2019. For assistance to transition from PAS 100:2011 contact Wiser Environment on 01480 462 232.