Within the regulatory framework of the updated European Fertiliser Regulation, different modules outline specific compliance pathways for manufacturers, depending on the product type, the starting materials used and the product function (PFC - Product Function Category).

In this second guidebook in our series and first guide book concerning the European Fertiliser Regulation and how to implement the different modules, we will start with the first one and

explore module A assessments for fertilisers, and
explain the difference with module A1

There are, all in all, five modules under the EFR: A, A1, B, C and D1.

Module A is the main scope of this second guide book and first of the series pertaining to the EFR.

Module A

Referred to as "Internal production control”, whereas

“Internal production control” is the conformity assessment procedure whereby the manufacturer fulfils the obligations in terms of technical documentation, compliance and monitoring of manufacturing process is in line with the requirements, as well as the EU declaration of conformity and labelling, declared on his or her sole responsibility.

Module A1

Referred to as “Internal production control + supervised product testing”, whereas

Internal production control plus supervised product testing is the conformity assessment procedure whereby the manufacturer fulfils the obligations in terms of technical documentation, compliance and monitoring of manufacturing process is in line with the requirements, product checks for oil retention and detonation resistance, as well as the EU declaration of conformity and labelling, and ensures and declares on his or her sole responsibility that the EU fertilising products concerned satisfy the requirements of this Regulation that apply to them. In addition, a notified body will perform the product testing before the EU declaration of conformity is issued.

Module A applies to fertiliser products belonging to Product function Categories (PFC) 1 to 4, and composed of one or more of the following Component Material categories (CMC): 1, 4, 6, 7, 8 and/or 11.

Module A can also be applied to PFC 7.

So far, so good. now, let's get into the practical side of things.

First, we need to have some basic background knowledge on the EFR and its provisions in order to conduct the assessment. This basic knowledge encompasses (though not limited to) the understanding of the different PFCs and CMSs.