ISPM 15 - X Frequently Asked Questions
INTRODUCTION ● ISPM
15
stamp
certification
has
been
adopted
and
implemented by more than 85 countries. ● Therefore understanding the stamp regulations and their applications in particular situations can be extremely useful for anyone looking to export their products.
What is ISPM 15? ● International
Standards
for
Phytosanitary
Measures Publication No 15. ● Guidelines
for
regulating
wood
packaging
material in international trade. ● It is one of the several phytosanitary measures adopted
by
the
IPPC-International
Protection Convention.
Plant
How is the ISPM 15 stamp applied? ● The stamp is applied in the form of an ink stamp, stencil or brand in a visible manner on the exterior surface of the packaging. ● At least two opposite sides of the packaging should be stamped with the ISPM 15 mark to certify that the requirements have been met.
What kind of measures are included in ISPM 15? ● The measures included in ISPM 15 reduce the risk of introducing and spreading pests during the trade. ● The guidelines provide protection only during the trade process.
Which type of wood packaging materials comes under the purview of ISPM 15? ● Both softwoods and hardwoods-creates, reels, drums, dunnage etc come under ISPM 15 regulations. ● Wood packaging made of a combination of exempted materials and solid wood components must have an ISPM stamp. ● However, processed woods like plywood, veneer etc are exempted from these regulations.
What happens if we don't get an ISPM 15 stamp? ● Each
country
takes
its
measures
in
such
situations. ● Some countries will fumigate the package and its contents and then charge the shipper, others may deny the shipment.
What process is used in ISPM 15? There are two options for treating wood products: 1. Heat treatment(56 degrees) to the core for 30 minutes 2. Fumigation with methyl bromide. Only one of these treatments is needed for getting the ISPM 15 stamp.
Do the ISPM 15 processes-heat and fumigation guarantee permanent protection against timber and non-timber pests? No, these processes only control the pests at the time of the treatment.
Is there any expiration date for the treatment? No, once treated and stamped, it does not expire.
Is there any expiration date for the treatment? ● Yes, they can be reused without getting new stamps. ● However, if the material has been altered or remanufactured in any way, then it will need a new stamp.
What are the guidelines related to bark on the wood? ● When the wood packaging material is fumigated, the bark should be removed completely before the process. ● It is a possibility that small amounts of barks may still be attached after heat treatment. ● ISPM 15 mentions the dimensions allowed in such cases.
● If you are still confused about the ISPM certification process, get in touch with the best pest control company in Dubai to help you with the process and make your business hassle free.