Sampling

No matter how carefully a Test House follows the prescribed test method, the test result obtained is only as good as the sample used. It is absolutely essential that any sample is representative of the bulk, and that it is identified, packaged and transported correctly.

The integrity of AWTA Ltd’s Certificates is largely derived from the Company’s long standing policy of only certifying test results where the samples have been obtained under AWTA Ltd’s supervision. This allows AWTA Ltd to guarantee that all aspects of sampling, testing and data processing have been conducted according to the relevant Specifications and Regulations. The Federation of Australian Wool Organisations supports this policy. Sampling Officers employed by the Company are always present during sampling when an IWTO Certificate is required.

AWTA Ltd Sampling Officers work in co-operation with store staff and their activities are integrated into the sampling line operations to ensure that this does not add unnecessarily to costs.

In cases where the sampling has not been carried out or supervised by AWTA Ltd staff, a non-certified Test Report is issued. The same approach is taken where the testing method used is not a recognised standard (e.g. testing of Fleece samples).