Equivalence & Co-management
Biosecurity risk management operates in a dynamic environment. While many risk management systems operate at the border, MAFBNZ recognises new systems and different points of intervention may also be appropriate. Equivalence and co-management offer industry opportunities to implement new intervention options and systems at, or before the border. This page provides definitions, application requirements and key contacts to enable engagement with those interested in taking a greater role in biosecurity risk management.
Equivalence
An equivalent system is defined as:
‘the use of different biosecurity risk management interventions to achieve the same or better outcome as prescribed in a standard’.
In other words, substituting one standard approved practice for a system that is shown to achieve the same or better outcome. An example would be substituting heat treatment for fumigation of a container.
Co-Management
Co-management is defined as:
‘MAFBNZ sharing management of biosecurity risks and hazards through the application of non-MAFBNZ resources’.
This includes:
- where external parties perform a function/task on behalf of MAFBNZ under a formal arrangement; and
- where external parties‘ systems and process are managing risks to a degree where MAFBNZ can change their processes and levels of intervention (for example, verify and audit systems and processes)
Examples include accredited persons inspecting low risk containers on MAFBNZ’s behalf and where sea containers are cleaned offshore by the importer/ exporter reducing the need for full MAFBNZ inspections on arrival in NZ (sea container hygiene system).
It is important to note:
1. Neither equivalence nor co-management is a discharging of legal responsibilities from MAFBNZ. Equivalent measures may be put in place to meet legal requirements and such decisions are empowered under the Act. In some cases the management of that system may be managed under co-management.
2. These options are not regulatory requirements that all must comply with. They are not compulsory nor even an option for everybody to adopt.
3. All costs associated with development of the application and undertaking trials are incurred by the company seeking approval.
Application Process
These guidelines are designed to be followed for any application to MAFBNZ seeking approval to carry out co-management or equivalence systems. This process is not for development or research into potential intervention or management options. MAFBNZ reserves the right to decline any proposal submitted. MAFBNZ recommends discussing new co-management or equivalent system proposals with them prior to applying.
Contact
Equivalent system applications:
Operational Standards and Facilities Group
Border Standards Directorate
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand
PO Box 2526
Wellington
Email: standards@maf.govt.nz
Co-management applications:
Cargo Advisory Team
Cargo Directorate
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand
PO Box 2526
Wellington
MAFBNZ Guidelines for approving co-management and equivalent systems applications 
(59 KB)
Guidelines have been developed to explain the processes and requirements for setting up a sea container hygiene system.
Page last updated: 12 February 2010