BS 3882:2015

This standard BS 3882:2015 Specification for topsoil is classified in these ICS categories:

• 13.080.01 Soil quality and pedology in general
• 93.020 Earthworks. Excavations. Foundation construction. Underground works

This British Standard specifies requirements for the classification and composition of natural and manufactured topsoils that are moved or traded for creating soil profiles intended to support plant growth. The standard is not applicable to subsoil, or to topsoil that is to remain in situ, however, it is not intended to preclude the use of topsoil that is already on site and suitable for its intended purpose. This standard specifies requirements for multipurpose topsoil, which is fit for the majority of needs, and also specific purpose topsoils that have low fertility or are acidic or calcareous, for specialist use where low fertility or acidic or calcareous soil profiles are required. It also specifies requirements for sampling and analysis of topsoil.

NOTE Recommendations for the stripping, handling and trafficking of topsoil are given in Annex A.