: CA by AI le AM b J a ail S av D e DAR d a m TAN ion S at OF c i bl U pu A A RE BU HE
T
Issue no. 2. Jan.–Mar. 2011
Inside This Issue:
The Quarterly
Standard
• Standards Updates • How are Jamaican Standards Developed? • National Standards – Working to Protect You! • Upcoming Events • CAP – Ensuring Quality in the Agro-Sector And more!
Jamaica (BSJ) Goes to China to Talk Starch d in g of ISO TC 93 was hel th The 13 Plenary Meetinth th of December 2010. 9 and 10 Beijing, China on the egates from China, In attendance, were del and Jamaica. the Russian Federation
Starch is undeniably one of the most important compounds found in nature. A renewable and virtually limitless resource, it is produced primarily by green plants as a means of energy storage. Of equal prevalence and utility are the vast collection of derivatives (e.g. sugars) and by-products (e.g. glutens) obtained from starch’s physical, chemical or biological transformation. Starch, its derivatives and its by-products are often essential ingredients or additives in the production of foods, pharmaceuticals, textiles, paper, polymers, and construction materials. Therefore, with the global yield expected to tip the scales well pass 75 million tonnes in 2012, the extraction of starch from its traditional sources (namely corn, wheat, potatoes and soya beans) is expected to become an even larger and more lucrative agro-industry. To describe the effect this industry has on the world economy as anything less than significant, would clearly be a gross underestimation of its present demand. This demand however cannot be allowed to take priority over quality and safety. It is under these circumstances that the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has sought to normalize the methods applied for the sampling and testing of starch and its related compounds. This unification of standards, helps to alleviate concerns of product reliability and safety, especially for trans-border trade. Since 1958, starch related ISO Technical Committees (TCs)
comprised of industry representatives, government authorities, academia and consumer commissions have conferred to compose the aforementioned standards. Designated ISO TC 93, this Technical Committee to date has cumulatively published 26 standards and are presently drafting others to keep pace with starch’s complexity and variety. Jamaica’s involvement in the formulation of these international standards has been duly recognized with our assignment of the Secretariat for ISO TC 93. Since 2003, the BSJ has shouldered this enormous responsibility and to date, our island is the only member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to host the Secretariat of any ISO Technical Committee. With the 13th Plenary Meeting of ISO TC 93 scheduled for the 9th and 10th of December 2010, our duties took us to Beijing, China where the Jamaican delegation of Dr. Andrew Pearson (UWI), Mrs. Julia Bonner Douett (BSJ) and Mrs. Vonetta Nurse-Thompson (BSJ) met with representatives from both China and the Russian Federation. Agreements were reached to revise and further develop starch-related standards, as commonly accepted terminologies have since changed and analytical procedures are now more advanced and exact. New work items were proposed as well. Since starch may also be characterized by its viscosity, colour and grain size, new standards are being pursued to properly quantify these properties.
Additionally, research and development with regards to cassava starch will now be a major priority for the Committee going forward. So what does this all mean for Jamaica? In short it is great news, especially a global consensus to further advance cassava starch research. Despite cassava’s high starch yield, it has received far less attention than the more recognizable grains and potatoes. Cassava and the starches obtainable from its tubers, possess a host of properties that are in high demand. One of the major challenges though, has been the complete separation of the native starch from cyanogenic glucosides: the toxic precursors that are often present at dangerously high levels in some types of cassava. The direction in which research will progress will hopefully address these and other challenges. Nonetheless, the agreement could not have been more ideally timed since in 2008, the Ministry of Agriculture, led by Dr. Christopher Tufton, had made a strong push towards an increase in cassava cultivation throughout the island. As an important decision maker in ISO TC 93, Jamaica’s input will be considered in shaping international standards for cassava starch. More importantly, we may be able to access technologies and expertise that can lead to a significant advancement of our established cassava, and fledgling starch industries.
How are Jamaican Standards Developed?
1
The need for a standard is first identified and a request submitted to the BSJ.
2
A Technical Committee of stakeholders
discusses and drafts the details and requirements of the standard.
3
The draft is submitted to the
Standards Council for approval.
The approved standard is released into the public domain for comments.
4 5
After comments have been addressed,
ministerial approval is
Standards Updates A brief look at standards being developed with you in mind! Used Pneumatic Tyres For Passenger Cars - Substandard used tyres can pose a significant threat to public safety. A continued loss of traction can render a vehicle unresponsive to its driver while in motion. Against this and other safety implications, a new Jamaican Standard Specification for Used pneumatic tyres for passenger cars has been drafted, and is awaiting ministerial approval. The standard specifies compulsory requirements and inspection parameters for the importation and sale of used tyres to the Jamaican consumer. Once approved the standard will be available at the BSJ’s Technical Information Centre. The Jamaican public is being encouraged to be aware of the basic requirements when purchasing used car tyres. Spa Entities - To effectively regularize the quality of service delivered by our local spas and health resorts, the Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo.), in association with the BSJ and other stakeholders, have drafted a new national spa standard. The Jamaican Standard Specification for Spa entities addresses, but is not limited to: personnel training, equipment and infrastructure safety, the responsibilities of management, and maintenance and security. A draft of the standard will soon be available for review at the BSJ’s Technical Information Centre, at public libraries and online through the BSJ’s website. The Jamaican public is being encouraged to submit their documented comments and concerns on the draft to the BSJ. Composite Cylinders - In recent years, the conventional, metallic LPG storage cylinder has received strong competition (especially in Europe) from the more technologically advanced and highly convenient composite cylinder. Made from high performance and durable materials, composite cylinders are characteristically lightweight, easy to handle, safer to transport and are, in come cases, translucent – offering actual visibility of the content within. Industry stakeholders are interested in introducing composite cylinders to the local market as an alternative to LPG cylinders. Presently however, there is no Jamaican standard to specify mandatory requirements and testing parameters for their importation. The BSJ’s Transportable Gas Containers Technical Committee has recently begun the development of this standard. All stakeholders are welcomed to participate. General Purpose Hydraulic Cements - Presently, there is an abundance in the varieties of cement sold on the local market. Whether domestically manufactured or imported, the list of components and the ratio in which they are combined, leads to the production of different types of cement. A new Jamaican standard is being drafted in response to the need for such product diversity. The standard covers performance specifications for hydraulic cements and is expected to promote the manufacture of ‘green cement’ by encouraging the use of recycled materials in the production process. All cements however must conform to the basic physical and mechanical test requirements to ensure their suitability for construction purposes.
given…
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…and the new standard is officially gazetted and published. Exercise your civic duty and participate in a technical committee. Help write the standards that protect you!
!
Furniture - To better guide manufacturers, international traders and distributors of furniture, the JS 106:1996 (Jamaican Specification for Minimum requirements for wooden, metal, plastic and upholstered accommodation furniture and craft intended for export and import), is currently being revised. The standard will continue to specify the basic requirements for the materials, construction, craftsmanship and finishes used in manufacturing furniture. The revised standard will incorporate references from the regional CARICOM standard. Ultra-Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD) - Environmental agencies across North America and Europe have all begun to implement standards to drastically reduce the sulphur content of diesel fuel and thus improve air quality. Not to be left behind, the Jamaican Petroleum (Quality Control) Act is presently being updated to include an adopted standard specification for ULSD. In addition to the environmental and health implications, the move is in anticipation of automobile imports that use ULSD exclusively, and to provide consumers with an alternative fuel option. The specification is expected to take effect in 2012.
Additional information regarding these and any other published standards is available at the Technical Information Centre (TIC) at the Bureau of Standards Jamaica, or via our website: www.bsj.org.jm
News Bulletins JMM Programme Renewed Authentic Jamaican products are to receive added domestic and international recognition with the reintroduction of the Jamaica-Made Mark (JMM) Programme. Jamaica Standards Network Meeting On March 1, stakeholders turned out in droves to attend the Jamaica Standards Network Meeting. Participants saw dynamic discussions regarding new and emergent CARICOM regional standards for good management practices for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Soaps and Detergents With both the levels and environmental concerns about phosphates in wastewater effluents on the rise, a technical committee has been convened to revise the JS 73:1992 (Jamaica Standard Specification for Synthetic laundry detergent powder).
Upcoming Events SME Awareness – The BSJ will host an awareness session for the new CARICOM Specification for Honey. The assembly is scheduled for Apr. 12. The BSJ is also scheduled to participate in the following: • A meeting of the CROSQ Council Apr. 11 - 15. Nassau Bahamas. • A meeting of ISO CEO for NSB (CEOs of National Standards Bodies) - May 10 - 11, Santiago Chile. • An ISO 26000 (Social Responsibility) training sessionMay 10 - 11, at the BSJ. • A General Assembly of the Pan-American Standards Commission (COPANT) May 12 - 13, Santiago Chile. For a complete list of scheduled training programmes offered, call the Bureau of Standards Jamaica Training Unit at (876) 920-6848.
Construction Playgrounds and Play / Sports Equipment Issues concerning the safety of playground equipment have led to a call for the development of a national standard. A new committee was convened in March.
Your
Standard
B r a i n t e a s e r !
National Standards – Working to Protect You!
The Processed Food Act (1959) & JS 36:1991
Down 1. JS 0 affirmative 2. Making ______work for you... 4. ISO 19011 actions 5. Regional stds. developer 6. ___ standards 9. Starch applications 11. Formerly NBS in USA 12. ISO 9001: corrective ____ 15. Progress measure
Across 2. Q. Mngmnt _____ 3. Starch source 7. Standard type 8. JS 87:2007 10. Presentation of J’can Standards, order 11. Business prize 13. Starch product 14. JS 303:2008 16. GMP tenet
The Processed Food Act of 1959 clearly dictates that before a local establishment may lawfully engage in the manufacturing, processing or packaging of food items for sale, it must be registered and issued a “Certificate of Registration” from the BSJ. To achieve this certification, the Jamaican Standard Specification for Processed Food (General), JS 36:1991, borne from the Processed Food Act, would have been a significant guide for the facility’s launch and subsequent operations. The Processed Food Act and the JS 36:1991 follow the globally accepted tenets of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) that must be adhered to if the integrity of the food product is to be assured and the health and safety of the consumer are to be protected. Both specifically guide the selection and preparation of an establishment’s environs and infrastructure, general food hygiene protocols and the handling, packaging and storage of raw materials and finished goods. Additionally, they outline employee personal hygiene routines, pest control regimens, general sanitation procedures and the use and maintenance of a clean water supply. Try to imagine the food manufacturing process and the quality of foods on the Jamaican market if both Act and Standard were circumvented or ignored: backyard workups by unsuitably attired workers of questionable qualifications and training, recurrent vermin infestations, unsatisfactory sanitation systems and disorganized warehouses making little distinction among its contents. In short, apart from conscience, there would be little preventing neglectful individuals from short changing the consumer, or worse, taking dangerous risks in an effort to cut corners. This makes the Processed Food Act and the JS 36:1991 two of the most important pieces of consumer protection legislation, impacting each and every Jamaican!
(LPG) Authorization Programme
Certification Mark Programme HACCP Recognition Programme Jamaica Made Mark (JMM) Programme Certification of Agricultural Produce (CAP) Programme
CAP
– Ensuring Quality in the Agro-Sector
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The CAP Programme
Q: What are the entry requirements? In an effort to bolster the local and international reliability A: Applicants should: and competitiveness of Jamaican agro-products, the island’s • be listed with the National Farmers Registration farmers and agri-businesses are being encouraged to seek Programme • be registered members of a nationally enrollment in the Certification of Agricultural Produce established agricultural association or cooperative e.g. (CAP) Programme. CAP, developed by the Bureau of JAS, RADA, JEFA etc. Standards Jamaica in association with the Jamaica Agricul• be able to prove observance of Good Agricultural and tural Society (JAS), is a voluntary programme that offers Environmental Practices and • provide evidence of a management system. official recognition to agricultural operations and/or commodities that demonstrate conformance to the specifiQ: Which standard(s) will I be assessed against? cations of relevant standards for Good Agricultural A: The BSJ will identify which Practices (GAP), quality, safety and national, regional or international environmentally friendly protocols. standards are applicable. The Producers and manufacturers of crops, client and the BSJ then decide on livestock and agricultural inputs (e.g. which standard will be used. fertilizers) are all encouraged to apply. Q: Who will conduct the assessment? CAP offers a great deal of flexibility at the early stages of matriculation, with appliA: The BSJ assembles an experienced, highly trained and cants being permitted to enter with basic thorough team of auditors to requirements in place. Additional conduct the assessment. Each guidance geared towards meeting both member posesses knowledge of the local and international requirements is The Certification of Agricultural Produce agricultural industry and are trained auditors. made available, whereupon implementa(CAP) Mark tion, full certification is granted. CAP Q: If successful, what exactly will I provides a significant edge to its awardees: a greater and be awarded with? more relaxed access to both local and foreign markets, A: Each successful applicant is given: heightened confidence by consumers in bought products, • an official CAP license or certificate and further recognition through the programme’s promo• certification valid for a two year period with the tional marketing schemes. In their daily routines, certified option for renewal CAP members can expect a substantial improvement in their • a public listing on the BSJ’s Register of Certified quality management systems; not CAP Licensees • conditional use of the CAP Mark and/or CAP only increased operational efficiency Mark stickers in advertisement programmes. but also greater volume outputs Q: What has been the response so far? without compromises in value. Undoubtedly, Jamaica’s agroA: CAP has been met with much approval and anticipation industry has plenty to offer the world by both the agro-sector and consumers. As Jamaicans are in the way of quality, diversity and being encouraged to ‘Buy Jamaican to Build Jamaica’, we exoticism. Make it official, get have seen an increased interest in local products of high quality. CAP-ed now!
And in our next issue, look out for...
The Jamaica-Made Mark
Jamaica has a long and distinctive tradition for quality products. We have an indescribable nature to our excellence. An excellence that is easy to identify and is wholly ours. Take for example our Jamaican Jerk. Foreign businesses have tried and woefully failed in their attempt to reproduce its flavour and satisfaction. What can we do to both promote and protect this earned reputation of quality which is inherently Jamaican? We can first declare the authenticity of what is ours with an internationally recognizable insignia. It is with this in mind that the Jamaica-Made Mark (JMM) Programme is being reintroduced by the BSJ. The official Mark salutes the legitimacy of products made in Jamaica, as the programme seeks to verify their conformance to national and international standards. Products with at least 51% Jamaican raw materials, or at least 70% Jamaican input (where the principal raw material is not produced in Jamaica) are eligible for this mark of authenticity. We all stand to benefit from this initiative. Manufacturers can see improved quality, brand recognition and market advantage both locally and abroad. Local consumers can identify and reach for genuine Jamaican products with added confidence while international patrons will have more trust in our items and be better able to identify inferior copycats. Manufacturers are being invited to be aware of the requirements and apply for the Mark through the BSJ. We all have a responsibility to buy Jamaican to help build Jamaica. For more information contact the Standards Development and Certification Department of The Bureau of Standards Jamaica - 6 Winchester Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica Tel: (876) 926 - 3140 - 5 Fax: (876) 929 - 4736