Cross-inspection is a core activity that allows members to collectively monitor standard compliance and maintain transparency within PGS.
1. Frequency and timing of inspections
Inspection frequency by target group
- Organic fields are inspected unannounced at least twice a year; conventional fields at least once.
- Processing units, traders, and retailers are inspected at least twice a year.
- Inspections are arranged while crops are still in the field, prioritizing stages with a high risk of non-compliance.
2. Arranging the inspection
- The Certification Manager prepares the master plan; group leaders prepare forms and inspection schedules.
- Inspectors do not inspect their own fields; leadership roles are rotated.
- The inspection checklist must be sent to the Inter-group Certification Director within three days.
- Surprise inspections are unannounced; soil and water samples must be clearly labeled.
3. Field Preparation and Inspection
- Bring the updated farm management plan, production data, past reports, PGS standards, and inspection checklists.
- Interview farmers, inspect farm record books and individual field plots according to the management plan.
- Review results with farmers immediately after completing the inspection.
4. Reports
The inspection checklist is completed on-site, read back to the farmer, signed by both parties, and submitted to the Inter-group Leader within three days.
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