Halspan is committed to ensuring compliance with the United Kingdom Timber Regulations (UKTR) and the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR), demonstrating diligence in verifying the legality of all timber-based products sold within the UK. Our approach to due diligence is robust, with EnviroSense, a third-party provider, overseeing and managing our processes to ensure they meet regulatory standards effectively. 

Due Diligence and Timber Legality 

Halspan operates as a trader within Global markets (although classed as an Operator in UKTR terms) , focusing on sales of timber products. When required, species and country of origin details are made available. In instances where FSC-certified suppliers are unable to provide specifically requested information, the inquiry is escalated to upstream suppliers until the necessary information is retrieved. Envirosense ensures compliance with all legal and due diligence regulatory requirements, especially in situations where importing becomes a necessity and sample audits are required. 

UK Timber Regulations (UKTR) 

Our due diligence system is designed to ensure compliance with all relevant UKTR, EUTR, FSC, and PEFC requirements suppliers are subject to a rigorous evaluation process that assesses their sustainability practices and history of compliance before they are integrated into our supply chain and thereafter reviewed annually. We gather extensive details on all timber products, including product descriptions, the scientific and common names of tree species, harvest locations, quantities, and the identities of suppliers and customers, along with all necessary compliance documentation. Documentary evidence such as Bills of Lading, Statements of Origin, and complete supply chain documentation are essential components of our legality verification process. 

Risk Assessment Procedures 

We require comprehensive documentary evidence to back all supplier data, including detailed invoices that trace timber movement from natural forests and plantations through to delivery. Our risk assessment process also considers factors such as the prevalence of illegal logging, the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), and the vulnerability of species. This thorough evaluation helps us maintain a stringent check on the sources of our timber products. 

Risk Mitigation Procedures 

If risks were identified, further verification, if necessary, would be undertaken, which could involve additional audits or the request for more detailed documentation from our suppliers to ensure the transparency and legality of the timber supply chain. We prioritise purchasing products certified by FSC and PEFC as these are recognised as indicators of lower risk, aiding in our compliance strategy. 

Forensic Testing 

As part of our risk mitigation strategy, we employ forensic testing methods such as anatomy, isotopes, and DNA testing where appropriate. These techniques help us verify the species and origin of the timber, ensuring that our products meet all legal standards. 

Order Placement and Monitoring 

Orders are placed only once all risk assessments and mitigation strategies confirm the negligible risk of illegal timber presence. We maintain a comprehensive archive of all related documents, including contracts, invoices, risk assessments, and mitigation reports, for a minimum of five years to ensure transparency and facilitate compliance monitoring. Our advanced tracking systems provide real-time visibility throughout the supply chain, enhancing our ability to trace and verify our timber products. 

Continuous Improvement 

We conduct regular supplier assessments and random factory audits to reinforce the integrity of our supply chain. Updates on changes in timber trade regulations are provided regularly, along with continuous training for our suppliers to ensure they remain compliant with evolving legal requirements. Performance metrics related to due diligence are closely monitored and linked to incentives to promote adherence to our high standards. 

For more information on our due diligence processes or to verify our certifications, we encourage stakeholders to visit our website or contact our compliance team.