EXPLORING THE CHALLENGES OF ODOUR MEASUREMENT

Odours can be difficult to measure, because they are subjective. Each person has their own unique sense of smell, which can vary dramatically. There have been attempts to create artificial noses to reduce this subjectivity. However, the human nose remains the most reliable odour measurement tool. In this blog, we look at how we can harness this human sense to produce fair, accurate and objective results.

THE HUMAN NOSE IS FUNDAMENTAL

So the key to odour measurement lies, unsurprisingly, in the human nose. Our noses offer the only method to measure odour, because odour is a human sensation. As such, it cannot be properly quantified mechanically. Our sense of smell is generally very reliable. This stems from the survival advantage it provided to our ancestors. Early humans relied on their ability to detect and interpret odours. It allowed them to identify food, recognise dangers and establish social connections. But, we all perceive odour in different ways. What might be a strong smell for one person may not be as noticeable for another. So, the challenge is to find a standard way to measure odour. In doing so, we can limit these variations and achieve consistent results.

RIGOROUS TESTING IN ACCORDANCE WITH BS:EN13725:2022

Odour assessors are crucial to measuring odours accurately. They must have an average and consistent sense of smell. It is important that they don’t pick odours up too easily and don’t miss odours either. European odour standard BSEN13725:2022 outlines requirements for odour assessors. We regularly test ours according to these rules. In doing so, we ensure they produce reliable and accurate odour measurements.

If you use your odour assessors to monitor odours, you must also make sure they comply with BSEN13725:2022. Assessors should complete an odour sensitivity test to confirm this.

QUALITATIVE INSIGHTS FROM SNIFF SURVEYS

It is often helpful to conduct a sniff survey. The results might verify a complaint or confirm an odour source. It can be especially useful when accessing an odorous site is impossible. During a survey, odour assessors record their observations. They will do this at set intervals across different locations around a site. By its nature, this type of survey is subjective. But when carried out in a systematic way, very believable. When assessors meet the requirements of BSEN13725:2022, their observations are trustworthy. With this in mind, sniff survey results can also be helpful in planning applications or court proceedings. But only if assessors comply with BSEN137125:2022.

QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS FROM ODOUR SAMPLING

For objective odour measurement, odour sampling and analysis is critical. Our experienced odour consultants will collect samples from the source. We then return them to our UKAS-accredited odour laboratory. Using dynamic olfactometry, our carefully screened odour assessors analyse the samples. We can test odour samples for:

• Odour concentration
• Odour intensity
• Odour characterisation
• Odour detection threshold
• Chemical analysis

UKAS-ACCREDITED: Ensuring Precision in Odour Measurement

UKAS accreditation adds an extra layer of credibility to odour measurement. EN13725:2022 is an international standard that provides a methodology for odour professionals. It outlines how to achieve consistent, reliable odour data. UKAS is the body which confirms compliance with this standard.

Silsoe Odours holds UKAS-accreditation for odour sampling and analysis. This demonstrates our technical excellence and commitment to providing accurate results.

OBJECTIVITY IN ODOUR MEASUREMENT

In conclusion, the human nose remains the most reliable tool for odour measurement. But to achieve objective results, we must ensure careful management of assessors. A key element of this is UKAS accreditation. Silsoe Odours holds accreditation for both odour sampling and analysis. As a result, you can be confident that our services are accurate and reliable. So, if you would like to find out more, please get in touch with our team. You can reach us at 01525 860222, info@silsoeodours.co.uk, or by clicking the button below. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, X (previously Twitter) and Facebook.