What exactly is a ‘systems approach’ based certification?
As defined by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), a systems approach is the integration of different risk management measures, at least two of which act independently, and which cumulatively achieve the appropriate level of protection against regulated pests. Risk management measures might include isolation of incoming stock, testing the water supply for water borne diseases, scouting stock at prescribed intervals, use of new or sanitized containers, etc.
Source [ISPM No. 14, 2002; revised ICPM, 2005]
SANC has also developed a Framework for a Systems Approach to Nursery Certification. (pdf)
How does SANC impact how I do my job?
Inspectors working with a SANC-certified facility shift their focus from individual plants to the entire facility. Each individual state will need to manage their SANC availability while conducting existing state business. The inspector may provide guidance during the writing of the Facility SANC Manual.
What can I expect when a nursery wants to join SANC?
Plant production facilities that are interested in participating in SANC are encouraged to reach out to their SPRO or a state horticultural inspector. The steps to SANC certification include interaction between the plant production facility and the State Certifying Authority. The state will be certifying the facility in SANC, and will be conducting audits at the facility. Inspector/SPRO SANC training opportunities are available.
How does SANC impact individual state requirements?
SANC is a system for meeting the shipping requirements of receiving states, not superseding state requirements. If a compliance agreement is necessary, that agreement is incorporated into the Facility SANC Manual. Many state statutes are written broadly enough to provide flexibility in the methods used for nursery stock certification. The NPB has model nursery and plant pest laws available for states to review and consider.
How do I qualify to be an auditor?
It is recommended that regulatory agencies with facilities participating in or that have interest in the SANC program attend at least one SANC program training. Auditors are required to have attended a federal or state-supported audit training. National Plant Board provides opportunities for inspectors to attend various audit trainings. If you are interested in attending, please contact your nursery program manager or SPRO.
