What is ISPM15? - INTERNATIONAL STARDARD FOR PHYTOSANITARY MEASURES (ISPM15)
ISPM15 is an internationally agreed standard for the treatment of wood packaging. It covers pallets, cases, crates, as well as dunnage (loose packing or wedges) that are manufactured from non-man made wooden materials. Materials such as plywood, chipboard and oriented strand board which pose no risk are exempt, as is wood of 6mm (1/4inch) or less, as used in fruit boxes etc.
In order for wood packaging to become compliant it is required to undergo either a process of heat treatment or fumigation, both of which mustbe carried out to an agreed standard and by an approved source.
Only once the packaging has been treated it may be officially marked as ISPM15 compliant.
Why do we need ISPM15?
ISPM15 is progressively being adopted worldwide as a measure to minimise the risk of unintentional plant pest transportation such as the Asian longhorn beetle and Pine wood nematode, the effects of which can be devastating as the USA and a number of other countries have experienced. What is involved in heat treatment?
It is required that the core temperature of the timber is heated to a minimum of 56 Deg Celsius for 30 minutes. To achieve this the timber is placed in our kiln with temperature probes inserted into the core of the timber. The kiln is then heated, whilst being monitored by a computer, until the core temperature is achieved and maintained for 30 minutes. (Approximately 5-6 hours).
How do I know that the timber has been treated?
Approved heat treated timber in the China will be stamped with the China Commodity Inspection Bureau stamp, which is governed by the forestry commission which inspects our kiln every 6 months. Every Pallet, crate etc will carry this mark in a visible location. (i.e. Pallet Block).
