AIC Services assurance schemes plan a phased return to on-site audits
AIC Services in conjunction with the certification bodies have led the agri-supply sector in adopting remote auditing during the COVID 19 pandemic. This method of auditing has proved to be a reliable way of auditing companies and has the support of various sectors of the agri-supply industry.
With the lifting of some of the movement restrictions from early July the industry is considering how to start planning a return to on-site auditing. Following discussion with the certification bodies and the industry, the initial phase of this return will be a “blended” approach to auditing.
A “blended” approach means using new technology that has been adopted over the last few months in combination with some on-site auditing. The aim is to ensure the safety of both the auditor and the participant from Covid 19, whilst ensuring that standards are upheld within the agri-supply sector.
Certified companies will still be required to use the on-line portals to submit documents before their audit allowing it to take place in the most efficient way. The post-audit submission of correction actions will continue to be carried out via the on-line portal, which again will improve efficiencies.
The certification bodies will be taking a pragmatic approach to this new auditing method and each participant will be assessed on a case by case basis by assessing the needs of each participant and the auditor.
Auditors will undergo a risk assessment to ensure that any Covid-19 risk is minimised both for themselves and the company being audited. Participants are responsible for the Covid-19 risk assessments of their sites and the implementation of any social distancing procedures or wearing of PPE deemed necessary.
John Kelley, Managing Director, AIC Services said “This approach is in step with other certification and audit bodies in the UK and Europe and we look forward to your support during these challenging times.”
ENDS
About AIC
As the UK agricultural supply industry's leading trade association, the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) represents businesses in key sectors within the supply chains that feed the nation.
Its Member businesses supply UK farmers and growers with the animal feed, fertiliser, seed, crop protection products, trusted advice and quality services that are essential to producing food, as well as trading crops and commodities across the globe.
Formed in October 2003 by a merger of three trade associations, today AIC has over 230 Members in the agri-supply trade and represents £17.8 billion* turnover at farmgate.
AIC works on behalf of its Members by lobbying policymakers and stakeholders, delivering information, providing trade assurance schemes, and offering technical support.
AIC Services manages a range of services, including Trade Assurance Schemes and professional registers recognised by the UK Government as essential means to underpin feed and food safety alongside fertiliser security.
These schemes and professional registers include:
- Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops (TASCC)
- Feed Materials Assurance Scheme (FEMAS)
- Universal Feed Assurance Scheme (UFAS)
- European Seed Treatment Assurance (ESTA)
- Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme (FIAS)
- Feed Adviser Register (FAR)
- Renewable Energy Directive (RED)
- Forage Assurance Scheme (FAA)
- AIC Services Palm Oil Credit Scheme (APOCS)
*According to a 2023 survey of AIC Members.
Press Contact
Wendy Ford, Communications Manager, AIC
+44 (0)1733 385230
[email protected]
