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Heat Treatment / ISPM15 pallets for Export
(International Standard for Phytosanitary Measure No.15)
As a result of growing concerns about the spread of pests such as the Asian long-horn beetle and the pine wood nematode, new rules have been introduced to set a uniform standard, applicable in different regions of the world, by listing the allowed treatments.
The standard states that all timber must be heat treated to a core temperature of 56° for no less than 30 minutes. Whirlowdale has the facilities to produce compliant pallets for export and the heat treatment process can be applied either to the timber (prior to pallet manufacture) or to used or recycled pallets.
Problems can arise for exporters when pallets are re-imported into Europe from certain countries. Pallet owners need to prove that their pallets comply with the new phyto-sanitary standards and that they bear a new, internationally recognised mark. Meeting the standards involves rigorous inspections of quality procedures and records. Non-compliance, however, can lead to large fines.
Whirlowdale supplies compliant export pallets
To prevent the risk of customers sending untreated pallets into ‘at risk’ areas, we operate a complete pallet management system where pallets are carefully tracked. We mark our export pallets to show that they comply with the new phyto-sanitary standards and have implemented rigorous checking procedures and systems to demonstrate that this is the case.
The Heat Treatment stamp should be visible on each pallet, and contain the following:
- The IPPC logo
- The unique UKWPMMP Registration No
Leading zeros are optional if printing space is limited
- The Treatment code (as appropriate)
- The Forestry Commission logo
The inclusion of the words'Forestry Commission' is optional if printing space is limited
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Some countries, for example China, still require some back-up certification, known as a Phytosanitary note. This certificate verifies the source of the Heat Treatment. Each batch of Heat Treated pallets has the same unique code as the certificate so they can be easily traced. (See FAQ’s for more info about Heat Treatment). Heat Treatment regulations are constantly changing so please call our sales team on 01709 829061 for the latest information about using pallets for export. All of Whirlowdale's wooden pallets are suitable for heat treatment.
Anyone who is concerned about whether the pallets they are exporting meet the new rules
can call us for advice and information on 01709 829061 or email: sales@whirlowdale.com
View Timcon's regularly updated "Global Guide to ISPM15 implementation and import regulations for wood packaging materials" here.
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