5 Easy Steps to Certification

Step 2

Inspection

The inspector assigned to your file will make a definite appointment to inspect your operation. Initial applicants may be inspected prior to handling of organic products. The inspection will occur during the growing season or while organic products are handled by your operation.

During the inspection, the inspector will verify that operations are occurring as described in the submitted System Plan/Updates. The inspector will assess your compliance and/or your ability to comply with applicable standards / regulations. Further, the inspector will ensure there is no evidence of contamination or commingling with unpermitted substances and/or non-compliant products.

Inspections also include an audit component whereby the inspector will select compliant commodities and conduct traceability and mass-balance (in vs out) audits. The inspector will close the inspection with an exit meeting where they will discuss their findings with you and provide you with a summary of the same.

 Step 3

Evaluation & Resolution

After the inspection, Pro-Cert’s Certification/Evaluation Committee will evaluate the conformity of your operation and/or its products to the applicable standards, regulations, and/or equivalency arrangements and export agreements. You will be notified of any non-compliances and/or any missing information need to complete the evaluation. You will have 30 days to submit a corrective and preventative action or a plan for the same.

Step 4

Certification

The annual certification decision is made by a consensus seeking mechanism within the Certification/Evaluation Committee of Pro-Cert. The nature of this certification decision varies with the program but in essence involves one of the following options:

1. granting or extending certification;
2. denial (initial applicants only) of certification;
3. suspension of certification;
4. revocation or cancellation or certification.

A Certificate of Conformity will be issued in the case of granting or extending certification. In the case of denial, you will be informed of the reasons for denial and the applicable appeal procedures and costs. Certification once granted remains in place until surrendered by you or suspended, cancelled or revoked by Pro-Cert or the program regulators.

Step 5

Surveillance & Enforcement

Pro-Cert will monitor the conformity of your operation and produce during the certification period by such procedures as:

1. follow-up on implementation of corrective actions,
2. unannounced inspections,
3. collection and review of labels and advertising material.

Sanctions for serious non-compliances discovered during inspections and surveillance include suspension, revocation or cancellation of your certification status.