Indicator 4.2.2.4

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System

Water Type

Feed Dependent

Species

Indicator 4.2.2.4

by Contact on 8 October 2026

Requirement

The UoC shall ensure that the HMP includes consideration of the environmental conditions associated with handling activities, with the intent of preventing handling under adverse conditions that could affect the health and welfare of the crustaceans.

How Do I Interpret This Requirement?

  • Examples of considerations of external conditions:

    • Avoid handling in the event of storms.

    • Avoid handling crustacean without using a shade net on a sunny day.

  • Avoid transferring post-larvae during periods where there are less than favourable conditions:

    • Rainfall can quickly alter pond conditions and trigger a chain of events resulting in sub-optimal conditions for crustaceans.

    • Potential for Vibrio spp. to flourish, increasing the risks of bacterial infection to the shrimp.

    • Trigger the production of hydrogen sulphide. This is a toxic gas produced by sulphate reducing bacteria and is highly toxic to shrimp.

Evidence of Implementation

  • HMP includes consideration for external conditions necessary to perform handling.

  • Records:

    • Weather forecast verification.

    • Employees should demonstrate knowledge of the considerations and the verification of external conditions before handling.

Auditors Should Confirm

  • HMP includes considerations for external conditions for handling and are implemented.

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