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Regulated Control Scheme for Limited Processing Fishing Vessels: Operator Guidelines

Part 5: Verification Activities by an Accredited Verifier

Amendment 0

September 2004

5.1 Obtaining an Initial Verification Report

Initial verification is the process of recognising the validity of the operator documented system, with the intent of recommending registration. Initial verification is also required for renewal of registration.

Initial verifiers are available at specific ports only. The onsite pre-registration verification may be done in Auckland, Wellington, Nelson, Lyttleton and Timaru ports. If the operator uses a port other than those listed, the operator must bear any additional costs associated with carrying out such an initial verification. As part of the initial verification, the accredited verifier must conduct an on-site assessment to assess the appropriateness of the facilities and the operations described in the operator documented system. If operator validation is incomplete, the accredited verifier may make a second visit to evaluate the completion of validation.

The contents of the initial verification report will include:

• the name of the accredited verifier carrying out the initial verification and the unique identification number;

• the name and address of the operator of the fishing vessel;

• the name and registration number of the fishing vessel;

• the types of processing carried out on the vessel;

• a list of documents comprising the operator documented system that were reviewed during the initial verification;

• the completion date and location of the initial on board assessment (or reason why this was not included during renewal of registration);

• a statement of whether the operator documented system has been validated and is applicable.

A list of recognised agencies and accredited verifiers is available on the web site at: www.nzfsa.govt.nz/animalproducts/ under the heading registers and lists.

The operator is responsible for contracting an accredited verifier from a recognised agency, and for contractual arrangements regarding payment for verification services.

5.2 Verification Notification

Part 4 of the RCS specifications describes the provisions relating to external verification.

The operator must provide at least 24 hours notice to the verifier before the ship calls into port (except for emergencies), and products must not be discharged before the external verifier has given their approval.

The accredited verifier should notify the operator, in advance wherever possible, of the timing of routine visits. Unannounced visits may be made where there is a history of poor performance or for other reasons as necessary.

5.3 Verification Frequency

The frequency of verification will depend on the operator’s performance. A lower frequency may be applied if the operation complies with the documented system and is consistently meeting required standards under the RCS. A higher frequency may be appropriate if the programme is not implemented correctly (see clause 63 of RCS specifications). Note that whatever assigned frequency applies, the operator must ensure that an external verification of processing operations is carried out at least every six months (clause 61(3) of RCS specifications).

The accredited verifier may carry out additional verification for Overseas Market Access Requirements, in addition to the verification requirements of the RCS.

5.4 Verification at Renewal of Registration

When a vessel applies for a renewal of registration, the application must be accompanied by an accredited verifier's report, under the conditions applied for initial verification procedures. This report must not be more than 3 months old at the time of the application for renewal [see RCS regulations 32 and 33]. Failure to provide such a report may result in deregistration of the vessel on the grounds that the vessel is no longer operating as a limited processing vessel under the RCS [RCS regulation 37(f)].

The application must be made by the operator and received by the Director, Animal Products at least one month before the expiry of the vessel’s current registration.