Overview
EN ISO 16122-4:2025 - "Agricultural and forestry machines - Inspection of sprayers in use - Part 4: Fixed and semi-mobile sprayers (ISO 16122-4:2024)" - defines requirements and test methods for the inspection of fixed and semi-mobile sprayers when in use. Used together with ISO 16122-1:2024, this standard focuses on the sprayer’s condition as it relates to environmental risk and application performance. It supersedes EN ISO 16122-4:2015 and is published by CEN for harmonised national adoption across EU/EFTA members.
Key topics and technical requirements
The standard provides structured inspection criteria and verification methods covering components and performance areas such as:
- Leaks and dripping - static and dynamic leak checks, and spray/drip on components.
- Pump performance - capacity, pulsation and air chamber checks.
- Agitation systems - hydraulic and mechanical agitation requirements for spray mix homogeneity.
- Spray tanks - lids, filling strainers, pressure compensation, content indicators, emptying/filling and induction hoppers.
- Cleaning and container rinsing - cleaning devices for plant protection product containers and cleaning equipment.
- Measuring, control and regulation - pressure indicators, measurement devices, pressure adjustment and direct injection systems.
- Pipes, hoses and filters - integrity, isolation devices and filter serviceability.
- Application units - spray booms (horizontal & vertical), nozzles, distribution and dripping controls.
- Blowers and airflow systems - condition and performance checks where applicable.
The document includes specific clauses and methods of verification (see clause headings 4.1–4.13 in the table of contents). It also contains Annex ZA describing how normative clauses map to the health, safety and environmental requirements of EU Directive 2009/128/EC (sustainable use of pesticides).
Practical applications and users
EN ISO 16122-4:2025 is intended for:
- Inspection bodies and field inspectors performing in-use checks on fixed and semi-mobile spraying installations.
- Equipment manufacturers and OEM service teams to design, validate and document compliance of sprayers.
- Farmers, contractors and forestry operators seeking to maintain equipment performance, reduce drift and environmental risk.
- Regulators and certification bodies using the standard as a voluntary means to demonstrate conformity with pesticide-use legislation (Directive 2009/128/EC).
- Maintenance technicians for targeted maintenance, troubleshooting and performance tuning.
Note: Requirements for inspector protection and general inspection framework are provided in ISO 16122-1:2024; EN ISO 16122-4:2025 complements that by detailing component-level checks.
Related standards
Keywords: EN ISO 16122-4:2025, inspection of sprayers, fixed and semi-mobile sprayers, sprayer inspection, agricultural and forestry machines, plant protection equipment, spray boom, pesticide application equipment.
