GEP was developed by the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO) by the adoption of Standard PP1/181 (Conduct and reporting of efficacy evaluation trials, including good experimental practice). In South Africa, efficacy and phytotoxicity trials must be conducted in accordance with EPPO Standards PP1/181 and PP1/152 (Design and analysis of efficacy evaluation trials) to comply with GEP. Even though only these two EPPO standards are referenced in the regulations, compliance with all applicable standards are implied.
The primary aim of GEP is to ensure that high-quality trials are conducted and GEP is concerned with the management of efficacy evaluation trials as well as with the conditions under which trials should be planned, conducted, assessed, recorded and interpreted so that their results are comparable and reliable. GEP relates to various aspects including staff qualifications, use of suitable equipment and facilities, protocols, modes of operation, and recording of results.
It is important to note that residue trials conducted in support of agricultural remedy registrations are not conducted in accordance with GEP, but in line with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), which is applicable to all non-clinical health and environmental studies.
In order to implement GEP in South Africa, various industry associations and affected stakeholders have jointly established an independent, not-for-profit company called Good Experiment Practice South Africa (GEPSA).
By aligning with internationally recognised standards, the implementation of GEP in South Africa helps to ensure the quality and credibility of efficacy and phytotoxicity trial data submitted in support of agricultural remedy registrations, supporting transparency and predictability in the registration process, which further supports investment and innovation in South African agriculture.
To be the trusted national authority for Good Experimental Practice in South Africa, ensuring that efficacy and phytotoxicity trial data are credible, internationally aligned, and support a transparent, innovative, and sustainable agricultural sector, to the benefit of the environment, growers and consumers.
Good Experimental Practice South Africa (GEPSA) exists to promote, implement, and uphold Good Experimental Practice in South Africa by:
Ensuring the safe and responsible use of Agricultural Remedies to protect the environment, the consumer, the grower and South Africa's position as global producer of high quality agricultural products
Each company must designate one primary user to complete the registration process on behalf of the company. Once the company is registered, the primary user will be designated to add additional users.
Companies or individuals interested in becoming a GEPSA member but do not seek GEP compliance
REGISTER NOWCompanies or facilities conducting efficacy and phytotoxicity trials seeking GEP compliance
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