Certification and Product Testing
National Certification Unit
The National Certification Unit (NCU) is the legal entity responsible for certification activities within the Dominica Bureau of Standards (DBOS). The NCU was established in 2018 for the development and implementation of certification schemes for processes, products, systems and personnel.
Mission
To improve quality of products, processes, systems, personnel and services in Dominica through certification activities.
Vision
To become the leading provider of accredited certification services in Dominica and the Sub-Region.
Schemes/programmes offered by the NCU:
- Dominica National Farm Certification Scheme - DOM-GAP
- Dominica National Pack-house Certification Scheme
- Good Manufacturing Practices Recognition Certification Scheme
- Biodegradable Certification Scheme
- Certificate of Free Sale
National Center of Testing Excellence Unit
The National Center of Testing Excellence (NCTE) is a national laboratory facility attached to the Dominica Bureau of Standards. The laboratory is located in Stockfarm, Dominica. This facility was conceptualized between 2001 and 2003 after a series of national consultations and became fully operational in July 2018.
What We Do
The National Center of Testing Excellence (NCTE) is divided into two main laboratories: the Microbiology Laboratory and the Chemistry Laboratory. The NCTE provides laboratory conformance testing and specialized consumer-based testing. It provides an extensive range of testing services to the various sectors in Dominica for food, plant, soil, air, water samples and other materials. Our suite of testing areas includes:
- Chemical Contaminants (pesticide, metals, pharmaceuticals, plastics and microplastics)
- Water Quality Monitoring (microbiological and chemical)
- Food Analysis for Nutrient Content, Microbiological Contaminants, Trace Minerals and Shelf-life
- Environmental Assessment including indoor air quality testing for microbiological contaminants
Inspection Unit
Standards Compliance Inspections
Standards Compliance is a sub-unit within the Inspection Unit at the Dominica Bureau of Standards (the Bureau). The Sub-unit is responsible for monitoring all product labels for locally manufactured and imported goods for trade. Currently, goods are monitored under the eight (8) compulsory Dominica National Standards - Specifications for Labelling. These Standards assist in the welfare, health, and safety of consumers and the environment. The Sub-unit is engaged in various inspection and public awareness activities to ensure that the labelling requirements are adhered to.
Importance of the sub-unit:
- To ensure that substandard goods do not enter our market
- To ensure customers receive value for money
- To ensure that products imported and produced locally comply with labelling requirements
- To ensure that locally manufactured products become competitive in local and regional markets
- To assist local products in accessing regional and international markets
Services
- Label Evaluation and Registration
- Barcodes
- Training