BANGKOK, 14 July 2014-The Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s office has ordered all warehouses and silos to follow the defining code of conduct, while the office itself is gearing up to maintain the quality of rice.
In the recent inspections, there were indications that several rice sacks had been gutted. All the warehouses and silos which received pledged rice must tighten their security measures and ensure high standards are maintained.
ML Panadda Diskul, Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, said that all warehouses and silos in the country are to follow the code of conduct strictly and maintain appropriate standards in safeguarding the large stock of rice. The Code of Conduct is intended to ensure high standards fully apply in stocking grain.
The code promotes best practice and is a detailed guide to the warehouse and silo provider who must observe regulations and procedures relating to the merchandising, inspection, grading, weighing, storing and handling of grain and other commodities.
The warehouses and silos must be rodent-free. Stores must be kept clean at all times including during the storage operation. Walls and roofs must be free of cobwebs, dampness, condensation or mould. The immediate surroundings of stores must also be kept clean and free of weeds and debris.
Pallets, building materials, etc. should be kept in clearly defined places away from storage areas to avoid providing refuge for rodents and insects. Other buildings on the site should be kept clean for the same reason. The labeling must be specific and clearly written.
