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A systems approach using High-temperature forced-air treatment (HTFA)

The use of the systems approach for the export of commodities from the region is normally covered by a bilateral quarantine agreement and therefore each of the processes will be specific for a particular country. Issues relating to the audit of a systems approach are not covered here because these are the responsibility of the receiving country. In this example, only the basic elements of the process are outlined. For national adoption, it may be necessary for a specific set of instructions to be developed for each of the commodities that are exported.

Steps in a generic systems approach involves a high-temperature forced-air (HTFA) treatment and is based on the Fiji systems outlined in Fresh produce export system training modules (SPC–LRD 2006).

Overall, the activity will be covered by a compliance agreement and will not be initiated until the exporter has obtained an import permit from the biosecurity office (import).

STEPS

PROCEDURE FOR A SYSTEMS APPROACH USING HTFA TREATMENT
1 Farm registration by the biosecurity office (export) with details of:

  • farmer and grower agreement
  • registration and identification of places of production (areas)
  • map of the area
2 Field control measures (during season)

  • appropriate pest control measures maintained
  • discarded fruit removed and disposed of
  • harvest – only from registered areas; at correct ripeness stage and only field bins used for harvest
3 Exporter/packhouse – registered

  • daily records of operation
  • grading is done by trained staff
  • the biosecurity officer inspects the commodity
  • the biosecurity officer issues a transfer slip for movement to a treatment facility
  • transport to a treatment facility
4 Treatment facility – registered

  • treatment only of quantity accepted
  • treatment undertaken and monitored and recorded
  • commodity packed and labelled as treated
  • stored in secure pest free area after treatment
5 Phytosanitary certification (PC)

International PC issued in accordance with requirements:

  • data on grower/packer/treatment/quantity
  • treatment data and efficacy as additional declaration
  • post-certification security of facility and transport
6 Complete documentation:

  • phytosanitary certificate
  • treatment audit and records
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