Regulations

The IPPC is an international treaty to secure action to prevent the spread and introduction of pests in wood and plant products, and to promote appropriate measures for their control. It is governed by the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM) which adopts International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs). The CPM has confirmed the IPPC as the preferred forum for national IPPC reporting and the exchange of more general information among the phytosanitary community. The IPPC Secretariat coordinates the activities of the Convention and is provided by the FAO (the U.N.'s Food and Agricultural Organization).

ISPM

ISPM 15 is an International Standard Phytosanitary Measure, developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), that addresses the need to treat wood materials, such as pallets and shipping containers, used to ship products between countries. ISPM 15 requires that pallets and wooden export boxes be either chemically fumigated or heat-treated to prevent the spread of wood and plant pests.

The FAO's Interim Commission on Phytosanitary Measures adopted ISPM 15 in March 2002.

Two treatment measures are approved under IPSM 15. These are Heat treatment (HT) to a minimum core temperature of 56°C or 133°F for a minimum of 30 minutes, and Fumigation, using Methyl Bromide (MB) to the prescribed dosage and temperature.

An international mark has been agreed and trademarked and is authorized for use (see below).

  • A 2-letter country code (xx)
  • A unique number (000) assigned by the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO)
  • HT for Heat Treatment or MB for Methyl Bromide
  • DB to signify debarked
ISPM 15 Stamp

For more information regarding the current ISPM 15 guidlines in your country or region, please visit www.ispm15.com

GUIDELINES FOR REGULATING WOOD PACKAGING ISPM for imports info