All About the Fumigation Certificate By Pest Free Services

1. 1. What is a fumigation certificate?
2. 2. What is Fumigation and type of fumigation?
3. 3. What is Methyl Bromide Fumigation?
4. 4. Types of Fumigation Certificates
5. 5. Why is the Fumigation Certificate Required?
6. 6. When Fumigation Certificate Required?
7. 7. Regulatory Compliance of Fumigation?
8. 8. Process of Fumigation Certificate?
9. 9. How does Fumigation work?
10. 10. Export Shipping to Australia or Vietnam (Compliance)?
11. 11. Cost of getting a Fumigation Certificate?
12. 12. Difference between a Fumigation Certificate, Phytosanitary Certificate, and Heat Treatment?
13. 13. How long is a Fumigation Certificate valid for?
14. 14. Conclusion

FAQ’s

What Is a Fumigation Certificate?

A fumigation certificate is an official document that confirms the fumigation treatment to eliminate pests, insects, or pathogens from a specific area or goods is completed. It is typically required for different purposes such as export/import, agriculture commodities, or quarantine purposes to ensure that products are free from pests and safe for transport or consumption. The certificate provides details about the fumigation process, fumigant applied, date of fumigation, applied dose of fumigant, temperature, and compliance with relevant rules, regulations and standards.

What Is Fumigation and What Type of Fumigation?

Fumigation is a procedure of control pests that involves the use of gaseous chemicals, known as fumigants(Methyl Bromide & Aluminium Phosphide), to eliminate pests, insects, rodents, or pathogens from enclosures, agriculture commodities, or any type of structure. It is commonly used in agriculture, food storage, shipping, and building maintenance to protect products, structures, and public health. The choice of fumigation treatment depends on the type of pest, and the specific requirements of the treatment. It is essential to conduct fumigation treatment by a trained professionals who adhere to safety regulations and standards to ensure effective pest control and minimize health and environmental risks.

Also Read: How to get fumigation certificate in India for export goods to other countries.

There are several types of fumigation methods, depending on the target pests and the environment in which it is applied:

Container Fumigation: Shipping containers are fumigated to prevent the spread of pest and disease to another country. When the container is sealed, methyl bromide fumigant is released with the help of equipment to eliminate any pests inside the container.

Silo Fumigation: Tons of food grains are stored in silos for many years, during which pests make the food grains useless. To protect food grains from those pests, fumigation of silos is done in which silos are fumigated using aluminum phosphide(ALP) tablets or methyl bromide(MBR). So that no pest can spoil the grains.

Wooden Pallets/Boxes Fumigation: Wooden Pallets/Wooden Boxes fumigation is a process used to eliminate pests, from wooden boxes and wooden packing material used for shipping goods. 

Food Grain Fumigation: Agro Commodity fumigation, or Commodity Fumigation is the process that utilizes a gas, aluminium phosphide tablets, or other chemical to treat a commodity in order to reduce the risk of a pest infestation.

Warehouse Fumigation: A warehouse is a large commercial building used for storing commodities and goods. Warehouses are essential to many industries, including manufacturing, distribution, and logistics.

Structural Fumigation: This method is used to treat entire buildings or structures, particularly for termite control. The structure is tented or sealed, and a fumigant gas is introduced to penetrate the wood and eliminate termites or other wood-destroying organisms.

Commodity Fumigation: Commodity fumigation is employed to treat bulk or packaged goods like grains, nuts, or dried fruits in storage. It prevents infestations during storage or transportation and ensures the product’s quality and safety.

Soil Fumigation: Soil fumigation is used in agriculture to control soil-borne pests, nematodes, and pathogens. Fumigants are injected into the soil to kill pests and improve crop yields.

Tarpaulin Fumigation: This method is similar to structural fumigation but is used for specific items, such as furniture or artifacts, which are enclosed in a sealed tent for treatment.

Chamber Fumigation: In laboratory or industrial settings, fumigation chambers are used to treat equipment, materials, or products on a smaller scale. This allows for precise control of fumigant concentration and exposure time.

Burrow Fumigation: This technique is applied to control pests or burrowing animals like rodents. Fumigants are introduced into burrows to eliminate pests in their underground habitats.

Types Of Fumigants and Methods Use In Fumigation To Kill Pests

Methyl Bromide(MBR)

Methyl bromide fumigation is a specific type of fumigation process that utilizes the chemical compound methyl bromide (CH3Br) as a fumigant to control and eliminate harmful pests, and insects. Methyl bromide is a colorless, odorless gas that is highly effective in pest eradication but the use of methyl bromide for fumigation is subject to strict regulations and controls in many regions, and it should only be applied by certified and trained professionals who follow safety protocols and legal requirements.

Key characteristics of methyl bromide fumigation include:

• • Highly Effective Pest Control: Methyl bromide is known for its broad-spectrum pest-killing capabilities. It is particularly effective against insects, nematodes, fungi, and weeds, making it valuable for the fumigation of agricultural products, soils, and commodities.
• • Versatile Application: Methyl bromide fumigation can be applied in various contexts, including soil fumigation in agriculture, commodity fumigation for stored products, and structural fumigation for pest control in buildings and facilities.
• • Rapid Action: Methyl bromide acts quickly to eliminate pests, often requiring shorter exposure times compared to some alternative fumigants.
• • Environmental Concerns: Methyl bromide has been found to deplete the ozone layer and is considered harmful to the environment. Due to its ozone-depleting properties, it has been regulated under international agreements like the Montreal Protocol. Consequently, its use has been significantly restricted and phased out in many countries.
• • Health and Safety Considerations: Methyl bromide is toxic to humans, and exposure to high concentrations can lead to health risks, including respiratory and neurological effects. Proper safety precautions, such as protective equipment and adequate ventilation, are crucial when using this fumigant.

Aluminium Phosphide(ALP)

Aluminum phosphide (ALP) is a highly toxic inorganic compound with the chemical formula ALP. It is used as a fumigant to protect stored grain from insects and rodents. ALP is also used as a rodenticide and insecticide.

Aluminium Phosphide(ALP) is a colorless solid that is generally sold as a grey-green-yellow powder. It is marketed as dark grey 3-gram tablets and common brand names include Celphos, Quickphos, Alphos, Synfume, Phostek, Phostoxin, Phosfume, and Pestphos.

Aluminium Phosphide(ALP) is toxic to all stages of insects. It is also highly potent, does not affect seed viability, and leaves little residue on food grains.

Aluminium Phosphide(ALP) reacts with moisture to release phosphine gas, which is the toxin in the fumigant. When ingested, ALP releases phosphine gas in the presence of HCl in the stomach. This gas is rapidly absorbed throughout the gastrointestinal tract, leading to systemic toxic effects.

ALP is on the Hazardous Substance List because it is cited by ACGIH, DOT, NIOSH, DEP, IRIS, NFPA, and EPA.

Heat Treatment

Heat treatment is a pest eradication treatment performed by using high temperatures to kill insects. In this process a chamber is created in which the temperature is maintained at about 54-60 degrees Celsius where the insects cannot sustain life. Heat treatment can also be used to kill fungus, bacteria, viruses, dust mites and other indoor allergens from wooden objects.

Heat treatment has been used for many years in the food-processing industry for insect control. However, the decision between termite heat treatment or fumigation depends on several factors. For example, fumigation may be necessary for 100% effective, entire-home treatment.

Types of Fumigation Certificates

Fumigation certificates come in various types, and the specific type required depends on the nature of the fumigation treatment and its intended purpose. Each type of fumigation certificate typically includes important details such as the fumigation date, type of fumigant used, concentration levels, duration of exposure, and compliance with relevant regulations and safety standards. Fumigation certificates are essential for demonstrating compliance with pest control and safety requirements in various industries, including agriculture, international trade, and public health. They provide assurance that fumigation treatments have been carried out correctly and effectively.

 Here are some common types of fumigation certificates:

• • Phytosanitary Certificate: This certificate is issued to indicate that a shipment of agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, or grains, has undergone fumigation to eliminate or control pests. It is often required for the international trade of agricultural products to comply with phytosanitary regulations.
• • Quarantine Fumigation Certificate: Some countries or regions have strict quarantine requirements to prevent the introduction of invasive pests. Quarantine fumigation certificates are issued when goods, equipment, or materials have undergone fumigation to meet quarantine regulations.
• • Container Fumigation Certificate: When shipping containers are fumigated to prevent the spread of pests during international transport, a container fumigation certificate is issued. It ensures that the container is pest-free and compliant with import/export requirements.
• • Structural Fumigation Certificate: Structural fumigation certificates are typically provided after fumigating buildings, homes, or other structures to control pests like termites. These certificates certify that the structure has been treated according to relevant regulations and is safe for occupancy.
• • Agriculture Commodity Fumigation Certificate: This certificate is issued after the fumigation of bulk or packaged goods, such as grains, nuts, or dried fruits, to confirm that the treated agro commodities are free from pests or pathogens. It is often required for international trade and food safety compliance.

Why is the Fumigation Certificate Required?

A Fumigation Certificate is required to confirm that a specific area or commodity has undergone fumigation treatment, ensuring that pests and contaminants have been effectively eradicated. In the context of international trade, Fumigation Certificates are often mandatory. They serve as evidence that exported or imported goods have been fumigated to meet the phytosanitary or quarantine requirements of both the exporting and importing countries. Many nations have strict regulations to prevent the introduction of invasive pests or diseases through trade, and a Fumigation Certificate demonstrates compliance with these regulations. A Fumigation Certificate is required to meet these quarantine requirements, preventing the spread of harmful organisms that could disrupt local ecosystems and agriculture, and to ensure that fumigation treatments are conducted effectively, safely, and in compliance with regulations. It plays a pivotal role in international trade, agriculture, food safety, pest control, and public health by certifying that pests have been eliminated, goods are safe for consumption or transport, and environmental and regulatory standards have been met.

When Fumigation Certificate Required?

A fumigation certificate is required when shipping and exporting certain types of goods and commodities internationally. This certificate serves as official documentation that a specific fumigation treatment has been carried out on a shipment, ensuring that it is free from harmful pests or diseases.  Fumigation certificates are often required for goods shipped in wooden packaging, such as crates or pallets, as these materials are more susceptible to infestation. The certificate must be issued by a licensed fumigation service provider or fumigation agency and must comply with all relevant international regulations. The specific requirements for when a fumigation certificate is needed can vary from one country to another, and they depend on the type of goods being shipped and the regulations of the importing and exporting countries.

Regulatory Compliance of Fumigation?

Fumigation is the process of using chemicals to eliminate pests from infested goods and commodities, Accredited Fumigation agencies offering fumigation services are required to have a fumigation license to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations. Compliance helps ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods, protects public health, and prevents the spread of pests and diseases through trade. Regulatory compliance for fumigation in India is governed by various laws, regulations, and guidelines to ensure the safe and effective use of fumigants while safeguarding public health, the environment, and agricultural products. The National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) is responsible for regulating fumigation in India. The NPPO has established guidelines for the assessment, audit, and accreditation of fumigation agencies. The guidelines cover various aspects of fumigation, including the use of methyl bromide and aluminum phosphide.  The NPPO requires that all commodities that are fumigated just prior to export must be endorsed on the phytosanitary certificate or the fumigation certificate issued by an approved fumigation agency of PPQS, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India.

Process of Fumigation Certificate?

The certificate is essential for international trade, especially when exporting agricultural products or items susceptible to infestations. Here’s an overview of the process of obtaining a fumigation certificate in India:

Find an accredited Fumigation Service Provider: Ensure that the fumigator has the necessary licenses and qualifications to perform fumigation treatments.

Pre-fumigation Inspection: The fumigator conducts a thorough inspection of the goods or commodities to be fumigated. This inspection assesses the type and extent of pest infestation and determines the appropriate fumigation method and fumigant to use.

Prepare the Fumigation Plan: The fumigation service provider prepares a fumigation plan, which includes details about the fumigant, dosage, application method, duration of exposure, and safety measures to be followed during the fumigation process.

Execute the Fumigation Treatment: The fumigation treatment is carried out according to the approved plan of the fumigation operator. This involves applying the fumigant in a controlled environment, such as a fumigation chamber, shipping container, or storage warehouse. Safety measures and precautions, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), are strictly followed by the fumigation agency.

Aeration and Degassing of Commodity: After the fumigation treatment, the treated area or goods undergo aeration and degassing to remove residual fumigants and make the products safe for handling and transport.

Issuance of Fumigation Certificate: Once the fumigation treatment is complete and successful, the fumigator issues a fumigation certificate. This certificate includes essential details such as:

• • Name and contact information of the fumigation service provider.
• • Name and Address of Exporter and Importer
• • Description of the treated goods or commodities.
• • Date of fumigation.
• • Fumigant used and its concentration.
• • Dosage of Fumigant
• • Weather Temperature
• • Duration of exposure.
• • Statement confirming that the treatment complies with applicable regulations and standards.

How does Fumigation work?

Fumigation is a procedure for eliminating the infestation of pests such as insects, rodents, nematodes, and microorganisms of commodities, wooden assorted items, and wooden packing material as per international compliance with a gaseous fumigant. Next, the fumigant releases gas into the enclosure (the area covered to create a sealed environment) and is held for a period of time. Post-operation ventilation of the area is a critical safety aspect of fumigation. After aeration, a post-fumigation inspection is conducted to confirm the effectiveness of the treatment and assess whether any reinfestation has occurred. If the fumigation is successful, a fumigation certificate is issued, providing the information that the treatment is carried out in compliance with regulations and standards.

Export Shipping fumigation to Australia or Vietnam (Compliance)?

Export shipping fumigation to Australia or Vietnam involves compliance with strict regulations to ensure that goods are free from pests or diseases and meet the import requirements of these countries. Both Australia and Vietnam have rigorous biosecurity and customs regulations governing fumigation treatments. These countries have their specific standards (such as the applied dose of fumigant and the time period of fumigation) which are followed by the accredited fumigation agency. After successful fumigation, a fumigation certificate must be issued by the accredited fumigation service provider. This certificate confirms that the treatment complies with Australian or Vietnam biosecurity regulations and is free from pests.

What is the Cost of getting a Fumigation Certificate?

A fumigation certificate is a document that validates whether all the export cargo, such as goods, commodities, boxes, and pallets, have been disinfected by fumigation. The cost of obtaining a fumigation certificate can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of fumigation, the size and nature of the shipment or treated area, the location, and the specific requirements of the fumigation service provider. This allows you to compare prices and choose a provider that meets your needs while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Fumigation certificate cost in India approximately Rs 5,000 per container for FCL (Full Container Loaded) and around Rs 500 per pallet or box for LCL (Less than Container Loaded) shipments as these prices are approximate and can vary depending on different factors.

Difference between a Fumigation Certificate, Phytosanitary Certificate, and Heat Treatment?

Fumigation certificates, Phytosanitary certificates, and Heat Treatment are all related to the control of pests and diseases in international trade and transportation, but they serve different purposes and involve distinct processes, and are obtained from different departments. Here are differences between these:

Fumigation Certificate:-

Purpose: A fumigation certificate is issued to confirm that a specific fumigation treatment has been performed on a shipment, cargo, or facility to eliminate or control pests, insects, or other organisms.

Process: Fumigation involves the use of chemicals or gases (fumigants) to kill or eradicate pests that may be present in the cargo, packaging, containers, or storage facilities.

Usage: Fumigation certificates are typically required when shipping goods that are at risk of pest infestations or when importing products to ensure they are pest-free.

Examples: Maritime Fumigation Certificate, Container Fumigation Certificate, Warehouse Fumigation Certificate.

Phytosanitary Certificate

Purpose: A phytosanitary certificate, often referred to as a plant health certificate, is issued to confirm that a shipment of plants, plant products, or certain regulated items (like wood packaging) complies with the phytosanitary regulations of the importing country.

Process: The focus of a phytosanitary certificate is to ensure that the plants or plant products being shipped are free from pests, diseases, or contaminants that could harm local agriculture, ecosystems, or human health.

Usage: Phytosanitary certificates are mainly associated with the international trade of agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and wood packaging materials.

Examples: Phytosanitary Certificate, ISPM 15 Certificate (for wood packaging materials).

Heat Treatment:

Purpose: Heat treatment is a method used to control pests and diseases in certain types of commodities, particularly wood and wood products.

Process: Instead of chemical fumigants, heat treatment involves subjecting the commodity to specific temperature and time conditions to kill pests and pathogens. This process is often used for wood packaging materials to meet international standards like ISPM 15.

Usage: Heat treatment certificates are specific to products or materials that have undergone heat treatment to meet regulatory requirements, such as those related to wood packaging used in international shipping.

Examples: ISPM 15 Heat Treatment Certificate for Wood Packaging.

While all three certificates relate to pest and disease control, they have distinct purposes and are associated with different types of goods and treatments. Fumigation certificates verify the application of fumigation treatments, phytosanitary certificates confirm compliance with plant health regulations, and heat treatment certificates validate the use of heat treatment for specific materials, particularly wood. The choice of certificate depends on the nature of the shipment and the applicable regulations in international trade.

How long is a Fumigation Certificate valid for?

The international standard for the validity of a fumigation certificate is 21 days. This means that cargo should be shipped within 21 days of fumigation. If cargo is not shipped within 21 days, it should be re-fumigated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a fumigation certificate is a very important document ensuring the successful elimination of pests for international trade, as per the agriculture, and quarantine measures. The overview emphasizes diverse fumigation methods, including methyl bromide fumigation, with a focus on environmental concerns. The significance of various types of certificates is highlighted, emphasizing their role in compliance and safety. The regulatory framework in India, the process of obtaining a certificate, and the necessity for international trade underscore the importance of fumigation. The brief also touches on compliance requirements for export shipping to specific countries, the associated costs, and distinctions between different certificates. Overall, a clear understanding of fumigation and certificates is crucial for ensuring safe and compliant global trade and pest control practices.

FAQ’s

Q. What is fumigation?

A. Fumigation is a process of using fumigant/chemical to eliminate pests or pathogens from an area or items by releasing a gas under a any enclosure or seal chamber.

Q. What is fumigation certificate for export?

A. A fumigation certificate for export verifies that a shipment has undergone fumigation to meet international phytosanitary or sanitary regulations, ensuring it is free from pests or diseases.

Q. What is phytosanitary certificate in India for export?

A. A phytosanitary certificate in India for export is an official document issued by plant health authorities, confirming that exported plant products meet the phytosanitary (plant health) requirements and are free from pests and diseases.

Q. Who issues fumigation certificate?

A. A fumigation certificate is issued by authorized and licensed holder fumigation company or operators. Who have accredited for the fumigation service providing as Per NSPM-12 & NSPM-22.

Q. What is ISPM-15?

A. ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is a global standard that regulates the treatment of wooden packaging materials or items, such as pallets, crates, or wooden assorted articles to prevent the international spread of pests. It mandates heat treatment or fumigation with methyl bromide, certifying compliance with a specific mark.

Q. Where can i get a fumigation certificate?

A. You can obtain a fumigation certificate from licensed and authorized fumigation companies. That are qualified to conduct the required fumigation process. And we Pest Free Services are licensed and authorized fumigation service provider whose provide fumigation service and certificate in Pan India. Our Licenses number are:- IN-723/MB & IN-902/MB.

Q. What is fumigation certificate in shipping?

A. A fumigation certificate in shipping confirms that a shipment/cargo has undergone fumigation process to eliminate pests or prevent their spread during transportation. It’s crucial for international trade compliance and ensures the cargo meets phytosanitary or quarantine requirements.

Q. What is fumigation in shipping?

A. Fumigation in shipping involves using fumigant gases or chemicals to eliminate pests from cargo or shipping containers. It prevents the spread of pests across borders and ensures compliance with international phytosanitary regulations.

Q. How to get ISPM-15 certification?

A. To obtain ISPM-15 certification for your wood packaging, find the certified fumigation company(Pest Free Services). Submit necessary documents, undergo inspection, and once certified, display the mark, confirming compliance with international phytosanitary standards for smooth global trade.

Q. Why fumigation is required?

A. Fumigation is required to eliminate pests and prevent the spread of diseases or insects in various commodities, including agriculture, storage facilities, and shipping. It ensures the protection of crops, goods, and environments by eradicating or controlling unwanted pests, meeting regulatory and quarantine standards, and safeguarding public health.