Overview
ISO 22369-2:2010 specifies a field-based drift classification procedure for field crop sprayers. The standard sets out test methods and evaluation criteria for measuring spray drift sedimentation downwind of the treated area, following the field-measurement principles of ISO 22866. It enables manufacturers, test laboratories and regulators to rate mounted, trailed and self‑propelled field sprayers by comparing their ground sediment drift to a defined reference spraying system and to allocate spray drift reduction classes (as defined in ISO 22369-1).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Field measurements of spray drift sedimentation for field crop sprayers (mounted, trailed, self-propelled).
- Measurement method: Conduct measurements downwind from the directly sprayed zone according to ISO 22866; collect ground sedimentation at prescribed distances.
- Zones and distances: Defines zones 1–11 (1 m to 50 m range). Representative sampling distances include 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 m depending on zone.
- Reference spray system: Characterized by equipment data (nozzle type comparable with ASAE 572, borderline fine/medium nozzle size, nozzle height ~50 cm, driving speed 6–8 km/h), crop-related data and meteorological conditions. Reference system may be adapted for regional good agricultural practice but must include the baseline equipment parameters to allow comparison.
- Statistical evaluation: Classification requires that the median values for representative zones of the candidate sprayer are ≤ the representative reduction class values of the reference, and that the zone mean(s) are statistically significantly different from the reference (t-test).
- Output: Allocation of drift reduction classes (A–F per ISO 22369-1) for one or more zones.
Applications and users
Practical uses of ISO 22369-2 include:
- Assisting farmers and advisers in selecting low-drift field sprayers to reduce off-target contamination and potentially reduce buffer zones.
- Supporting manufacturers in product development, performance claims and marketing of drift-reducing sprayer designs.
- Providing test laboratories with standardized field testing protocols for certification and validation.
- Informing regulators and certification bodies evaluating spray drift for environmental protection and compliance.
Target users: sprayer manufacturers, agricultural testing labs, agronomists, regulatory agencies, and advisory services.
Related standards
- ISO 22369-1 - Crop protection equipment: Drift classification - Part 1: Classes (defines the reduction class scale).
- ISO 22866 - Equipment for crop protection: Methods for the field measurement of spray drift (measurement procedures referenced).
- ISO 22856 - Laboratory measurement methods of spray drift (wind tunnel methods) - useful for complementary lab testing.
Keywords: ISO 22369-2, drift classification, field crop sprayers, spray drift, field measurements, ISO 22866, drift reduction classes, spray drift sedimentation.