Pest control specialist offers free seminars on ISPM compliance

IGNORANCE OF the rules governing ISPM 15 compliance coupled with unscrupulous operators who don’t play by the rules is impacting negatively on South Africa’s shipping industry The International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM) came into effect in South Africa on March 1, 2005 and demand that all import and export solid wood packaging be fumigated to reduce the risk of spreading quarantine pests globally. But few shippers and forwarders are up to speed on the requirements, while a number of operators are cutting corners with serious implications, says Dominique Sauvage, managing director of East Rand-based Scientific Pest Control Services. “Very often an agent or shipper will appoint the cheapest available contractor who will issue a certificate. In South Africa the competency of a contractor is never evaluated at any stage which has serious implications for South Africa’s reputation globally.” With 23 years of experience in the field, Sauvage is passionate about raising standards in the sector by educating the industry. “For example, a lot of people are unaware that items like foam rubber, skins and hides and original oil paintings can’t be fumigated with methyl bromide,” says Sauvage. “They’re also sometimes not aware that plywood, particle board, sawdust and wood shavings are exempt from the ruling.” At last count there were 41 participating countries and the list is growing, which is all the more reason for greater industry awareness. “It’s crucial for exporters and their forwarding agents to understand the compliance criteria,” says Sauvage. “If they don’t the financial implications are often costly.” Scientific Pest Control Services runs regular seminars for the industry, at no charge. An informationfilled booklet comes as part of the package. Anyone interested should contact Sauvage who will gladly schedule a date.