Further updates to Explosives Precursors Guidance
The FAQs in AIC's guidance on the upcoming implementation of the Explosives Precursors Regulations on 1 October 2023 have been updated.
Click below to view this resource.
AIC's free downloadable information flyer for farmers has been updated accordingly. Click below to view and download it.
The update comes after clarification from the Home Office to questions raised by AIC, including which fertiliser products containing AN are affected:
The fertiliser product is regulated if it contains 16% or more nitrogen (N) from ammonium nitrate (AN).
It is the nitrogen content from the AN within the product that is being sold that is relevant. If the fertiliser product contains N of 16% or more from AN, then it is in scope as a regulated product. Below this level it is reportable.
For example:
- 20.10.10 NPK containing 16.5% N from AN is a 'regulated' substance and therefore Photo ID is requred
- 20.10.10 NPK containing 15.5% N from AN is a 'reportable' substance and does not require Photo ID.
The regulations apply to all formats of fertiliser product i.e.
- Straight N (& NS), both solid and liquid
- Compounds, both solid and liquid and both complex and blends
In practice, any fertiliser product containing at or above 45.7% AN (CAS RN 6484-52-2) is regulated. Note that this includes any calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) substance made using AN, such as AN mixed with limestone.
CAN with CAS number 15245-12-2 remains a reportable substance.
Further information on regulated and reportable substances under the Poisons Act 1972 is included in the Q&As.
Talks with on earned recognition for FIAS
AIC met with The National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) on 8 September to seek their support in negotiating earned recognition with the Home Office for FIAS Participants to avoid the need for photo ID.
Discussions are ongoing and Members will be kept up to date on developments.
Authors
Jo Gilbertson
Jo Gilbertson is AIC’s Head of Fertiliser and is based at our Head Office in Peterborough.
Jo is responsible for the management and co-ordination of all matters relating to the production and distribution of fertilisers on behalf of Members.
Graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Health, he has additional post graduate qualifications in air pollution control, health and safety, advanced negotiation skills, and quality assurance management.
Roberta Reeve
Roberta Reeve is Technical Manager for AIC Services. She is based at AIC Head Office, Peterborough and is responsible for the management and coordination of the AIC assurance schemes.
Hazel Doonan
Hazel is based at AIC Head Office, Peterborough and is responsible for management and coordination of the Crop Protection Sector.