If you’ve ever wondered about the secrets behind the treatment of wooden pallets and how it connects with the vital ISPM 15 standards, Keedwell Scotland is here to unravel the mystery. In this blog, we’ll break down the intricacies of wooden pallet treatment, so you can understand its significance in ensuring the safety and hygiene of your shipments, both within the UK and beyond.
How Are Wooden Pallets Treated?
Wooden pallets undergo a meticulous treatment process within specialised kilns. This treatment involves subjecting the wood to controlled heat, effectively sterilising it. The result? Protection against insects, bacteria, and natural contaminants that could compromise the integrity of the pallets. This heat treatment is a crucial step for ensuring the long-term durability of wooden pallets and related accessories.
Why Wooden Pallets Are Treated
The treatment of wooden pallets aligns with the ISPM 15 regulations, enabling their safe transport between the UK and the EU. Since January 1st, 2021, all wooden pallets and wood packaging must conform to international standards. This involves undergoing heat treatment and proper marking.
By subjecting wooden pallets to heat treatment, the risk of pest contamination is dramatically reduced. Modern kilns can effectively eliminate various threats, including insects like Anobiidae, Bostrichidae, Buprestidae, and more. Additionally, this process removes excess moisture within the wood, contributing to the pallets’ longevity by preventing rotting or cracking.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Heat-treated pallets are free from any chemical residue, making them safe for reuse in various projects. From wooden planters to furniture, the possibilities are endless. Explore creative reuses for your pallets and collars in our dedicated blog.
Understanding ISPM 15
ISPM 15, or International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15, might sound imposing, but it’s all about global safety. Our comprehensive guide to ISPM 15 simplifies this vital information. These regulations have been meticulously crafted by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) to ensure worldwide safety standards.
Are There Other Methods of Treating Wooden Pallets?
While heat treatment is a robust choice, there are alternative treatments if you’re looking to enhance pallet durability and weather resistance. Applying varnishes and specialised finishes can shield wooden pallets against rain and snow, reducing moisture absorption.
However, it’s essential to note that heat-treated pallets reign supreme when it comes to ISPM 15 compliance. Other treatments, like chemical fumigation, can lead to recalls in industries like food and pharmaceuticals due to lingering chemical traces in the wood.
At Keedwell Scotland, we commit to demystifying wooden pallet treatment and ensuring that we meet the highest standards of safety and hygiene for your shipments. Join us in prioritising quality and compliance in the world of pallets. Get in touch today for more information.