International Standards for Fumigation
In recent times, two major international standards for fumigation procedures have been implemented to govern the quarantine services to exporting countries. The ISPM 15 standard applies to all countries exporting to any country. The AQIS standard applies to all countries exporting to Australia. These standards prescribe the technical specifications of fumigation work which the fumigator has to adhere to. When taken together with the criterion exercised by local Quarantine officials, these form the basis of a system to appraise the condition of incoming cargo and whether they pose any quarantine threat.
At Rentokil, our licensed fumigators are trained to provide the treatment service according to the Standards.
Exporters are responsible for ensuring the pest-free status of their goods at the time of export, and the suitability of the freight containers they have chosen to carry their goods abroad. A competent fumigator can advise the Exporter how best to reduce the risk of pest infestation in his goods.
To know more about our fumigation services, please call us at (65) 63478139.
- What is ISPM 15?
- What does wood packaging material ( WPM ) refer to?
- Who will require the application of ISPM15?
What is ISPM 15?
ISPM 15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures, Publication No.15) is the compliance guidelines that regulate the treatment of wood packaging materials (including dunnages) in international trade; it specifies the phytosanitary measures that are required to lessen the spread of quarantine pests. ISPM 15, as with other ISPMs, was developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) which addresses plant quarantine on behalf of the United Nations Food & Agricultural Organisation (FAO).
What does wood packaging material ( WPM ) refer to?
It refers to raw wood packaging material (both softwood and hardwood); does not include processed wood such as plywood, strandboard, chipboard etc.
Who will require the application of ISPM15?
This is the most widespread fumigation service required by persons engaging in international commerce.
As long as WPM is present within the cargo, or within an individual shipping container being sent abroad, you will need to comply with the ISPM 15 standard.
This requires the services of a suitably qualified professional fumigator, who has been authorized to provide the treatment by the AVA.
The treatment comprises fumigation using methyl bromide, following which all WPM has to be marked with the ISPM 15 Mark. A Fumigation Certificate accompanies the shipment on its journey. Upon arrival at the port of entry in another country, quarantine officials will check for compliance to ISPM 15. Non-compliance can result in the cargo being sent back, or destroyed.
ISPM 15 is being implemented progressively around the world. Already, its effects have been felt in exports headed towards Canada and the United States where quarantine officials are exceptionally vigilant. The case of North America emphasizes the need to select a suitable fumigation company whose internal controls ensure a fumigation result which will not delay the consignment.