BMSB UPDATE 48 - Sulfuryl Fluoride Interim Measures (UPDATE)

The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources yesterday afternoon released an updated Industry Advice Notice (IAN)  24-2019 - Interim measures for goods treated with sulfuryl fluoride fumigation
 
http://www.agriculture.gov.au/import/industry-advice/2019/24-2019
 
Whilst Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and other representative bodies advocated against the financial burden and responsibility sitting with industry (as below), the department has taken an alternative approach introducing the interim measures effective immediately.
 
"Goods subject to this revised interim process will require industry to be responsible for arranging a third party sulfuryl fluoride detection and monitoring operator (SF operator) to be present at the biosecurity inspection to monitor for residual sulfuryl fluoride gas levels."
 
"All costs associated with the third party sulfuryl fluoride detection provider are the responsibility of the industry and the SF provider must invoice industry directly."
 
This is disappointing outcome however we understand that the number of consignments potentially effected in this IAN to be minimal. (this notice needs to read concurrently with IAN 05-2019)
 
We will continue to seek updates from the department as to when these interim measures will be removed and will advise members accordingly.
 
Andrew Crawford FTA / APSA