Lesson 1: Introduction to Inspection
Topic 1: Principles of Inspection
In this topic, we will explore the principles of the inspection process and discover how the inspection process safeguards domestic agriculture and ensures safe trade internationally.
Objectives:
- Participants will define the objectives of the inspection process.
- Participants will identify how the inspection supports phytosanitary efforts for both exports and imports.
When discussing the topic of plant protection, many people immediately think of performing inspections because this is one of the most common pest risk mitigation methods. It is common because it is also one of the most effective phytosanitary risk mitigation measures when used as part of a systematic approach. Inspection is the only guaranteed opportunity to physically examine the commodity.
According to ISPM 23, the term “inspection” describes any procedure performed to confirm compliance of required phytosanitary measures in any consignment of plants, plant products, and/or other regulated import/export articles. Therefore, the entire purpose for inspecting is to verify that all phytosanitary measures required by trading partners have been successfully carried out before the inspection occurs. The level of phytosanitary compliance established after inspection determines if the consignment will be accepted, detained, rejected, or require further investigation after inspection. This decision is made after completing an inspection and applies to both imported and exported goods.
For exported goods, a phytosanitary inspection and certification ensures phytosanitary compliance up to the point of export. Once inspection procedures verify that the consignment is in compliance with all phytosanitary requirements, then it is eligible for a phytosanitary certificate and export. If the commodity is not in compliance, then the consignment may remain in the country or be exported. If it is exported, then the exporting country will still need to comply with the importing country’s requirements. If the consignment arrives in the importing country without phytosanitary requirements in place, then the importing country may reject the shipment or follow other requirements, such as requiring a phytosanitary certificate.
For imported goods, an inspection confirms that the consignment remained in compliance with all phytosanitary requirements before the consignment was allowed entry into the country. An inspection is the last defense against possible pest threats if pests of significance are present on the shipment.
The types of phytosanitary measures required for any given consignment vary greatly depending on each country’s phytosanitary requirements. Therefore, inspection procedures include not only visual examination of the consignment, but also reviewing documents, and checking the identity and integrity of consignments. This three-part approach ensures that every type of phytosanitary measure has been successfully enacted.
In this topic, we discussed the principles of the inspection process. For exported goods, a phytosanitary inspection and certification ensures phytosanitary compliance up to the point of export. For imported goods, an inspection confirms the consignment remained in compliance with all phytosanitary requirements before allowing entry into the country. The inspection process safeguards domestic agriculture and ensure safe trade internationally.
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