What is a BCP?
A BCP (Border Control Post) is a location designated by the competent authority of the UK to handle the import of animals, animal products and plants from both the EU and the Rest of the World. They are typically located near ferry terminals and airports.
What happens at a BCP?
A BCP is authorised to carry out official controls on certain types of imports, for example:
- Live animals
- Product of animal origin for human consumption
- Animal by-products
- High risk foods not of animal origin
A BCP must have suitable and secure inspection facilities to handle these goods at the appropriate temperature, during the designated opening times.
The importer must pre-notify the shipment’s arrival via the IPAFFS system (Import of products, animal foods and feed system) and create part I of the CHED (common health entry document).
There are three potential checks that the goods may receive:
- Documentary check on the paperwork to ensure all is in order
- Identity check eg on the container seal or vehicle registration, to ensure these match the paperwork
- Physical check on the goods, including temperature checks and potential sampling for disease. The latter checks are carried out on a risk basis.
Who runs a BCP?
A BCP is typically run by the local authority and may be staffed by:
- Veterinarians, qualified and trained to carry out official controls.
- Environmental health officers, who can inspect certain goods eg fish and lower risk consignments
- Port inspectors, who can assist with the inspection process
- Stevedores/handlers who load and unload the containers
How can Amivet help?
Amivet staff have undergone training in BCP / portal inspection work and have experience in official controls and audit. We would be happy to assist with any inspection work required on an ad hoc or a contracted basis. Please get in touch with us to discuss in more detail.
