Q: Why do I have to join?


A : All assurance schemes are voluntary and the decision to join must be based on the business needs of the individual.

Q: How quickly will my assessment be carried out?


A: We aim to complete initial assessments as quickly as possible taking into account when pigs will be ready to market (if known) but certainly within 4 weeks of receiving your application form. An assessor will contact you to arrange a visit.

Q: What happens if the assessor notes any non-compliances on my farm?


A: The assessor will tell you about any non-compliances as they are identified. The non-compliances will also be noted on his report, a copy of which he will leave with you.

Q: What happens after my initial assessment has been carried out?


A: The assessor returns their report to the SFQC office. The assessor will have explained to you that corrective action must be submitted to the SFQC office within 21 days of your assessment visit. Your report will be presented at the next meeting of the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) taking into account corrective action submitted. The TAC will award your unit a category and inspection interval. You will be notified of their decision by telephone within 3 days of the meeting and by letter within 3 weeks.

Q: How often will my unit be assessed?


A: Inspection interval will depend upon which category you have been awarded. Intervals can range from 1 – 18 months.