Responsible supply certificates extended for marine ingredients industry
Marin Trust, which oversees certification of the responsible supply of marine ingredients for the feed industry, has adapted procedures because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
It allows extensions to certifications in areas where the spread of the disease makes on-site audits impossible.
The organisation, formerly called IFFO RS, said: “Amid the outbreak and rapid spread of Covid-19, Marin Trust wants to support its stakeholders and cause minimal disruption whilst maintaining the assurance of the programme.
Safeguarding health
“The stakes are twofold: it is a question of safeguarding the health and safety of auditors and of ensuring a continuous supply of marine ingredient products from Marin Trust and Marin Trust CoC (Chain of Custody) certified facilities.”
Recertification applicants whose certification is due to expire before September 30 shall have their current certificate extended by six months from the expiry date.
Four-month window
All certified sites must have an annual surveillance assessment to maintain the continuity of their certificate. Where an on-site audit is not possible in Covid-19 affected areas, this will be scheduled for the 12-month due date of the surveillance and Marin Trust will permit a four-month window allowance to complete this audit after that due date.
New applicants for the Marin Trust programme will have onsite audits postponed for six months, or until travel restrictions have been relaxed to allow an approved auditor to conduct an on-site audit safely.
Read more about the changes here.
