Indicator 4.1.2.10

Filter content

by selecting applicable filters below

System

Water Type

Feed Dependent

Species

Indicator 4.1.2.10

by Contact on 8 October 2026

Requirement

The UoC shall ensure that the HMP includes a water quality monitoring process according to Appendix 12 (12.3, Table 2). In the case of live transport,7373An exemption applies where live transport after harvest is conducted by a third party outside of the scope of the UoC’s certification. Once the product leaves the certified supply chain it can no longer be sold as ASC certified. monitoring shall be conducted at the point of departure, during transport and on arrival. An exception applies where monitoring during transport negatively affects fish health and welfare, in which case monitoring is not required.

How Do I Interpret This Requirement?

  • Maintaining good water quality is a critical factor during fish handling.

  • Concentrations of substances within the water system that rise above or fall below specific levels can be harmful to fish populations and should be monitored.

  • For developing an adequate environment for fish during handling the UoC should consider:

    • Water quality monitoring equipment e.g.

    • Constant monitoring.

    • Every 15 minutes (by hand, automatic).

    • Water quality monitoring frequency.

      • Prior to, during, and post handling.

    • Water quality monitoring for live transport.

    • Departure/arrival and during live transport unless this could cause detrimental impact.

    • While Table 2 of Appendix 12 of the ASC Farm Standard specifies water quality parameters that must be included in the monitoring process, other parameters may be considered based on the specific requirements of the UoC.

    • Conformance with maximum and minimum thresholds for the required parameters, customised to suit the species and environmental conditions, should be incorporated as part of the HMP water quality monitoring process.

    • Corrective actions must be provided according to the HWMP that may be considered acceptable as a reference to develop and implement a water quality monitoring process (Indicator 4.1.1.10.1).

Evidence of Implementation

  • The water quality monitoring process, that incorporates the minimum elements required, included in the HWMP.

  • Records confirming the monitoring of the required parameters and their conformance with maximum and minimum thresholds.

  • Employees should demonstrate awareness of the established water quality monitoring process during handling.

Auditors Should Confirm

  • The water quality monitoring, that incorporates the minimum elements required, included in the HWMP. and cross-checking with the handling operations present in the HMP.

  • Implementation can be verified by cross-checking the process with records, information from employee interviews and observations.

Useful Resources