Mandatory since 1 January 2009, sprayer inspection is carried out at the request of the owner by an approved inspection centre (GIP Pulvé). This applies to all new or used sprayers more than 5 years old intended for the application of phytosanitary products in liquid form. Earlier, this inspection applied only to machines with booms more than 3 m long and to machines used to spray trees or shrubs (including vines). Thus, a certain number of machines were exempt from this obligation of inspection. Now the new regulations cover all machines.

Sprayer inspection is a comprehensive operation that includes visual inspections, functional tests, and measurements to diagnose the overall condition of the equipment, the ability to apply the desired amount of product, and the ability to apply the products properly. A thorough health bulletin of the sprayer, the inspection is an important moment to take stock of the actual condition of the machine.

Discover its different stages:

Identification

During its first inspection, each machine is identified and marked with a plate or sticker. The identification No. consists of the national approval No. of the inspection centre and a sequence No.. Type of machine, identity of the owner, identity of the inspection body and the inspector and inspection date are also recorded.

Preliminary examination

This examination allows the inspector to ensure that he/she can inspect the machine safely. In particular, the following two points are checked: condition of the equipment (cleanliness and functionality) and safety elements (hydraulic and mechanical transmissions). In the event of a fault, the inspector may refuse to inspect the machine.

Examination of the general condition

This visual examination covers the following points: structural elements (chassis, hitch, etc.), pumps, tanks, spray mixture leaks, tyres, road safety elements and accessories.

Examination of the inspection points

Inspection of the pump, tank, hoses and piping, filters, air chamber, anti-drips, nozzles, manometer, tyre wear, booms and blower. The manometer and the nozzles must be inspected systematically because they are often the cause of the main malfunctions.

Measurements: general and partial stop of spraying, pressure regulating device, pressure indicator, indicators used for control, pressure applied to the nozzles, speed information.

Inspection report

At the end of the inspection, the inspector drafts a report indicating the defects found, the results of the measurements taken and the conclusion of the inspection.

Sticker

When the sprayer is in good condition, the inspector affixes a sticker on the machine indicating the year and month of the next inspection. Otherwise, a partial or total follow-up inspection may be required.

On this subject, you can also consult GIP Pulvé.