PGS Inspection Procedures (Cross-Inspection)

1. Inspection Frequency and Timing

Inspection Frequency by Target Group

• Organic fields receive unannounced inspections at least twice a year; conventional fields at least once.
• Processing units, traders, and retailers are inspected at least twice a year.
• Inspections are scheduled while crops are still in the field, prioritizing periods with a high risk of non-compliance.

2. Organizing the Inspection

• The certification manager develops the overall plan; group leaders prepare forms and the inspection schedule.
• Inspectors do not inspect their own fields; the lead inspector role is rotated.
• Inspection checklists are submitted to the Inter-Group Certification Director within three days.
• Surprise inspections are completely unannounced; soil and water samples must be clearly labeled.

3. Preparation and Field Inspection

• Bring the updated farm management plan, production records, previous reports, PGS standards, and inspection checklists.
• Interview the farmer, verify farm records and logbooks, and inspect each plot according to the management plan.
• Review the findings with the farmer immediately upon concluding the inspection.

4. Reporting

The inspection checklist is completed on-site, read aloud to the farmer, signed by both parties, and submitted to the Inter-Group Head within three days.