NRS use both Endecott’s and Matest Sieve Shakers and hold a range of 200mm and 300mm sieves from 0.063um to 125mm. All testing procedures are compliant with relevant British standards and all the equipment is calibrated either in-house OR externally.

Materials Tests are:

• Sample reduction BS EN 932: Part 2
• Washing of particle size distribution BS EN 933: Part 1
• Sieving of particle size distribution BS EN 933: Part 1

The following products are tested on a weekly basis for Woodcote Wood, Saredon and Meriden, for quality purposes and comply with British standards required frequency:

• 0/2mm Washed Building Sand
• 0/4mm Washed Concrete Sand
• 4/10mm Washed Gravel
• 10/20mm Washed Gravel
• 4/20mm Gravel (when required)

The chemical and physical properties are tested on a yearly basis with relevant Safety Data sheets, UKCA marks and Declaration of Performance available on request. NRS also cover concrete testing for Midland Mix.

The Aggregate and Concrete Technician is fully qualified holding ACI-ICT certification for concrete testing, NVQ Level 3 Laboratory and associated technical activities, IOSH Managing safely and Technical Member in the Institute of Quarrying.

With the new lab and increased technical side to the business it was becoming difficult to site visit and test all the materials within a week turnaround. To support this growing area of the business, NRS recently expanded the team with a Trainee Technician to help with sampling and testing across NRS and Midland Mix Concrete.

There are already plans to increase the capabilities of the laboratory and hope to have testing on recycled materials available in the coming months.