SCHEDULE 10Sampling and analysis for parameters other than radioactive substances in water bottled and labelled as “spring water” or “dŵr ffynnon” and bottled drinking water

PART 1General

Analysis of samples

1.

(1)

The food authority must ensure that each sample is analysed in accordance with Annex III to Directive 98/83 and this Schedule.

(2)

For each parameter specified in the first column of Table 1 in Part 2 of this Schedule the method of analysis is specified in the second column of that table.

(3)

For each parameter specified in the first column of Table 2 in Part 2 of this Schedule the method of analysis is one that is capable of—

(a)

measuring concentrations and values with the trueness and precision specified in the second and third columns of that table; and

(b)

detecting the parameter at the limit of detection specified in the fourth column of that table.

(4)

For hydrogen ion, the method of analysis must be capable of measuring a value with a trueness of 0.2pH unit and a precision of 0.2pH unit.

(5)

The method of analysis used for odour and taste parameters must be capable of measuring values equal to the parametric value with a precision of 1 dilution number at 25ºC.

(6)

For the purposes of this paragraph—

“limit of detection” (“terfyn canfod”) is—

(a)

three times the relative within-batch standard deviation of a natural sample containing a low concentration of the parameter; or

(b)

five times the relative within-batch standard deviation of a blank sample;

“precision” (“trachywiredd”) (the random error) is twice the standard deviation (within a batch and between batches) of the spread of results about the mean;

“trueness” (“cywirdeb”) (the systematic error) is the difference between the mean value of the large number of repeated measurements and the true value.

Authorisation of alternative methods of analysis

2.

(1)

The Agency may authorise a method different from that set out in Part 2 of this Schedule if satisfied that it is at least as reliable.

(2)

An authorisation may be time-limited and may be revoked at any time.

Sampling and analysis by persons other than food authorities

3.

(1)

A food authority may enter into an arrangement for any person to take and analyse samples on its behalf.

(2)

A food authority must not enter into an arrangement under sub-paragraph (1) unless—

(a)

it is satisfied that the task will be carried out promptly by a person competent to perform it; and

(b)

it has made arrangements that ensure that any breach of these Regulations is communicated to it immediately, and any other result is communicated to it within 28 days.