EN 13725:2022 | The European Standard for Odour Measurement
Silsoe Odours has been at the forefront of odour science for decades. We help industry, regulators and developers understand and manage odours effectively.
Notably, our Director Robert Sneath contributed to the development and revision of the European odour standard EN 13725:2022. He served as the UK expert on CEN Technical Committee TC264 Working Group 2 (WG2) for over 25 years.
Today, EN 13725:2022 is the established standard for odour measurement across Europe. It provides a robust, consistent and internationally recognised framework.
EN 13725:2022 – The European Standard for Odour Measurement
History & Purpose
EN 13725 was first published in 2003 to standardise odour measurement across Europe. Since then, its primary goal has been to allow repeatable, reproducible and accurate determination of odour concentration and emission rates. This supports regulators, planners and industry in managing odours effectively.
The standard has evolved through successive revisions. The latest version, EN 13725:2022, reflects up-to-date scientific understanding and best practice.
Our Director’s Role
Robert Sneath played a central role throughout the development of the standard.
From 1996 to 2022, he acted as the UK expert on CEN WG2. His decades of research and practical experience were instrumental in shaping the standard.
WG2 ensured that EN 13725:2022 is both scientifically rigorous and applicable to real-world odour management.
Director at Silsoe Odours
What EN 13725:2022 Measures
The standard provides standardised methods for several key aspects.
| Area | What It Covers | Related Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Odour Concentration | Dynamic olfactometry of gaseous samples | ↗ Everything You Need to Know About Olfactometry |
| Odour Emission Rates | Measurement from stationary sources | ↗ Odour Measurement: How to Measure Odour |
| Laboratory | Design and operation | ↗ UKAS Accredited Odour Testing Laboratory |
| Olfactometer | Design, calibration and operation | |
| Odour Panellists | Selection, training and certification | ↗ An Overview of Odour Testing |
| Data Processing | Measurement uncertainty and assessment |
Together, these criteria ensure that odour measurements are scientifically robust and comparable across laboratories.
Key Features of EN 13725:2022
The 2022 revision strengthened the standard through practical, safety-focused improvements. These updates make EN 13725:2022 the definitive reference for odour measurement in Europe.
| Area | Improvement in 2022 Standard |
|---|---|
| Health & Safety Guidance | Formalised safety requirements for all personnel involved in dynamic olfactometry |
| Sampling Procedures | More robust sampling and pre-dilution methods to improve reliability |
| Uncertainty | Enhanced methodology for assessing measurement uncertainty |
| Scope | Clear exclusions, including field olfactometry and exposure measurement |
Compliance & Accreditation in the UK
In the UK, compliance is demonstrated through UKAS accreditation. This is maintained and evidenced through regular proficiency testing in UKAS-accredited laboratories.
Accordingly, Silsoe Odours delivers accredited odour sampling and testing, ensuring alignment with the latest European standards.
Compliance also supports adherence to:
- Environment Agency guidance on odour management
- IAQM guidance on the assessment of odour for planning
By following these standards, operators and developers can demonstrate that their odour management practices are defensible, traceable and aligned with best practice.
For a broader overview, see Odour Management UK: Compliance & Permits.
Practical Advice for Operators
- Firstly, use competent, UKAS-accredited suppliers for all odour sampling and testing. See our guide to choosing the right odour consultant.
- Follow BS EN 13725:2022 sampling and measurement procedures
- Ensure odour assessors are trained and screened regularly
- Finally, maintain clear records for compliance and planning approvals
Why Consistency Matters
Standardised odour measurement is essential to:
- Maintain regulatory compliance across industry, agriculture and planning sectors
- Provide reliable odour data for planning applications
- Ensure comparability of results between laboratories and over time
EN 13725:2022 provides the scientific framework for all of these activities. It helps organisations manage odours effectively and responsibly.
Silsoe Odours – Thought Leadership in Olfactometry
Silsoe Odours combines decades of practical experience with active participation in European standardisation. Our contributions to EN13725, through Robert Sneath’s role on CEN WG2, reflect our commitment to scientific excellence and professional credibility.
We help customers:
- Understand and apply the standard in practice
- Implement effective odour management strategies for industrial and planning contexts
Contact Us
If you would like expert guidance on BS EN 13725:2022, odour measurement or compliance, Silsoe Odours can help.
Call: 01525 860222 | Email: info@silsoeodours.co.uk
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need BS EN 13725:2022 Compliant Odour Testing for My Site?
Required for regulatory submissions, permitting and planning applications where odour is a factor.
Does EN 13725:2022 Cover Sniff Surveys?
No. Sniff surveys are outside the scope of the standard.
How Often Should Odour Assessors be Screened?
Staff responsible for assessing odour should complete odour sensitivity testing at least annually. This forms part of competency and quality assurance procedures.
Can a Lab Follow EN 13725:2022 Without UKAS Accreditation?
Yes, but UKAS accreditation is the recognised route for demonstrating compliance and acceptance by regulators.
What Did the 2022 Revision Improve?
It strengthened health and safety guidance, introduced stricter sampling procedures, and clarified measurement uncertainty. This helps operators achieve more reliable, safe odour assessment.
Last updated April 2026.
