The Fertiliser and Pesticide Authority or FPA Issues Strict COA Guidelines for the submission of analytical standards and Certificates of Analysis (COA) for confirmatory analysis of pesticide active components and plant growth regulators. This step is intended to ensure the accuracy and reliability of analytical testing in the sector.
Key Requirements for Analytical Standards and COAs:
The memorandum, directed at all FPA pesticide and fertiliser handlers, defines precise requirements for approved analytical standards and their related COAs, complying to PNS ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards:
COA Requirements:
- The purity or verified value of the analytical standard/reference material.
- Statement of measurement uncertainty.
- Coverage factor
- Method for determining declared purity or certified value.
- Expiry date.
Analytical Standard Acceptance Conditions:
Source of Reference Material must be obtained from reputable producers, manufacturers, or suppliers, preferably certified in accordance with ISO 17034. For novel pesticide active ingredients without commercially available standards, companies must provide official certification attesting to this.
Packaging and label specifications need original packaging with an undamaged label. Items in resealable plastic bags, aluminium foil, or other non-original packaging will be refused.
The FPA has specifically advised against tampering with the COA, emphasising that such activities are completely forbidden. The agency emphasises that these severe criteria are necessary for assuring metrological traceability and increasing trust in test result quality.
Impact and Compliance of FPA Issues Strict COA Guidelines:
This regulation is likely to have a substantial impact on pesticide and fertiliser handlers, forcing them to follow strict sourcing and documentation guidelines. The FPA’s action demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the integrity of agricultural inputs and protecting public health. The agency strongly encourages all stakeholders to take note of these criteria and guarantee complete compliance.
This memorandum is intended to provide information and ensure strict compliance.
