BS EN 17098-1:2018

Overview

BS EN 17098-1:2018 specifies the requirements for barrier films used in agricultural and horticultural soil disinfection by fumigation. These films are essential for controlling soil-borne pests and diseases, thereby enhancing crop yield and quality. The standard outlines the physical and chemical properties necessary for effective soil disinfection, ensuring that the films provide adequate protection against harmful agents while maintaining environmental safety.

Key Requirements

• Material Composition: The barrier films must be made from materials that exhibit low permeability to gases, particularly methyl bromide and other fumigants.
• Thickness: The standard specifies minimum thickness requirements to ensure durability and effectiveness during the fumigation process.
• UV Resistance: Films should demonstrate resistance to ultraviolet (UV) radiation to prevent degradation when exposed to sunlight.
• Mechanical Properties: The films must possess sufficient tensile strength and elongation to withstand handling and environmental conditions.
• Compatibility: The films should be compatible with various soil types and fumigants to ensure optimal performance.

Implementation Benefits

Adopting BS EN 17098-1:2018 provides several practical benefits for compliance professionals and agricultural practitioners. By using barrier films that meet the specified standards, users can:

• Enhance Crop Protection: Effective soil disinfection reduces the incidence of pests and diseases, leading to healthier crops.
• Improve Yield: Healthy soil conditions contribute to increased crop yields and improved quality of produce.
• Ensure Environmental Safety: Compliance with the standard helps mitigate the risk of harmful emissions and environmental contamination.
• Streamline Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to the standard facilitates compliance with national and international regulations regarding soil disinfection practices.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS EN 17098-1:2018 is critical for agricultural businesses aiming to maintain competitive advantage while adhering to legal and environmental standards. The standard provides a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of barrier films, ensuring that they meet the necessary safety and performance criteria. By implementing these standards, businesses can:

• Minimise Legal Risks: Compliance reduces the likelihood of legal issues arising from non-compliance with agricultural regulations.
• Enhance Market Reputation: Demonstrating adherence to recognised standards can improve customer trust and marketability of agricultural products.
• Facilitate International Trade: Compliance with European standards can ease access to international markets, where such certifications are often required.

In conclusion, BS EN 17098-1:2018 serves as a vital resource for the agricultural sector, providing essential guidelines for the use of barrier films in soil disinfection. By ensuring compliance with this standard, agricultural professionals can enhance crop protection, improve yield, and maintain environmental integrity.