Normec OWS’s services also include performing administrative and technical audits on waste streams, treatment processes, and installations. The main purpose of these activities is to give precise insight into the actual composition of waste streams. This is done to verify the amount of waste, for example, or to determine the degree of contamination in waste streams for recycling or composting.
For our administrative auditing we act as an independent third party to verify the incoming and outgoing waste streams and recycled materials. This can be done as an administration inspection service at waste collection and processing companies. We check the accuracy of existing data with a strong technical-operational comprehension of the processes and materials involved.
Our technical audits include taking inventory of different kinds of waste stream to determine the composition of waste. The different kinds of material can be quantified by weight or volume, whereby either can be the most important parameter for certain aspects of waste management. Paper and cardboard is much heavier when it is wet, for example, while plastic and glass bottles can have the same size but very different weights.
The exact composition of waste streams has to be taken into account for the proper functioning of processing, treatment, and recycling plants. Our technical audits therefore include the technical analysis and quality control of new or existing waste treatment processes and installations. Our evaluation provides insight into the purity of sorted waste streams to check if the requirements for proper recycling or composting are being met. Based on the outcome, we can also advise on process improvements.
Since 2013, Normec OWS has been ISO 17020 accredited for data validation and conformity verification of the take-back obligation and legal obligations of WEEE (Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment) management. Wherever and whenever possible, we also perform all other inspection services according to high quality standards. This verifies that Normec OWS acts as an independent and neutral inspection agency, working for all parties from industry to government.
Yes, we are recognized by DIN CERTCO in line with ISO 17025. This accreditation covers all test procedures and standards with regard to compostability and biodegradation. Additionally, we are ISO 17025 accredited by BELAC for our compost analyses and also recognized by TÜV Austria. Normec OWS is also ISO 17020 accredited for inspection services and ISO 14001 approved for environmental management. View our recognitions & certificates.
Our main offices are located in Ghent, Belgium. We also have a subsidiary located in Kettering, Ohio to serve the needs of our American customers.
Testing duration depends on the specific type of test and the product itself. This can range from a couple of weeks for material characteristics testing, to months or even years for biodegradation testing. As these are microbial processes, we cannot predict the exact duration beforehand.
