25 October 2007
This Notice is to advise industry of the definition of “manufacturing” and provide guidance on when a company or individual is recognised as a “manufacturer” and must apply for certification under the Australian Wood Packaging Certification Scheme (AWPCS).
AQIS has received requests for clarification concerning the definition of “manufacturing” and requests for guidance on when a company/individual is considered to be a wooden packaging “manufacturer” under the AWPCS.
Manufacturing
For the purpose of the AWPCS manufacturing includes all activities that constitute the construction of a finished article of wooden packaging, eg nailing pieces of timber to construct a frame, or support structure, constructing crates or pallets. Individuals/companies that are undertaking such activities must be certified under the AWPCS.
Exemptions
The following activities are not recognised as “manufacturing” under the AWPCS
- Where an individual/company purchases certified timber that is marked and the timber is sawn into pieces/lengths and then used to support cargo during export.
- Where an individual/company purchases a finished article such as a crate/box from a certified company and nails the lid on after purchase.
- Where an individual purchases a wooden packaging kit (a wooden packaging kit is comprised of all the necessary components required for assembly into a single pallet, box, or crate) that is unassembled and them assembles the kit around a product.
Individuals/companies that undertake the activities listed above are not recognised as wood packaging manufacturers and do not require certification under the AWPCS.
Contact: 02 6272 3229