Good Experimental Practice (GEP): What Forestry Needs to Know
Jacqui Meyer, TIPWG Coordinator
From August 2025, Only GEP-Approved Data Will Count
From 25 August 2025, all forestry efficacy and phytotoxicity trials supporting pesticide registrations under Act 36 of 1947 must comply with Good Experimental Practice (GEP).
This is more than a paperwork update. GEP introduces a recognised quality framework that ensures forestry trial data is reliable, reproducible and globally respected, boosting stewardship, certification compliance and export confidence.
To support this rollout, Good Experimental Practice South Africa (GEPSA) has been established to manage training, accreditation and audits.
What GEP Means in Practice
Under the European Plant Protection Organisation (EPPO) framework, adapted for South Africa, every field trial must show:
• Clear trial protocols defining objectives and assessments
• Trained, competent staff
• Calibrated, fit-for-purpose equipment
• Full data traceability from start to finish
• Legal and environmental compliance
NOTE: Residue studies remain under OECD GLP standards – not part of GEP audits.
Training: The Heart of Compliance
In GEP, “trained” means qualified, competent and auditable.
Researchers and technicians must complete formal GEP training, covering:
• Trial design and data handling
• SOP compliance and deviation reporting
• Health, safety and Act 36 requirements
Each facility must keep documented training records showing who was trained, when and by whom. These will be checked during audits.
Who Needs to Comply
If your organisation conducts efficacy or phytotoxicity trials, GEP applies to you:
Research Institutes and CROs
• Must join GEPSA and undergo full facility audits
• Maintain facility SOPs aligned with EPPO standards
• Keep current staff training records
In-House Forestry or Pesticide R&D Teams
• Must also comply and document SOPs, calibration and training
• Pay annual membership and audit fees
Key Dates and Costs
• 13 June 2025 – GEPSA applications due
• 25 August 2025 – GEP compliance mandatory
• Membership: R10,000 per user per year
• Audit fee: Around R15,000 per facility
Why Forestry Should Welcome GEP
GEP brings clear benefits to the Industry:
• Data credibility – Trials are defensible and globally recognised
• Certification alignment – Supports FSC and PEFC standards
• Better pest management – Data-driven IPM decisions
• Export confidence – Boosts international trust in South African forestry
GEP is about quality, credibility and stewardship — not just compliance.
TIPWG, in partnership with CropLife SA, is aligning forestry guidelines with GEPSA to ensure one clear, unified voice on compliance across the Industry.
Get Ready Now
• Train your staff
• Finalise facility SOPs
• Apply for GEPSA membership
• Prepare for your audit
Only GEP-compliant trial data will count – so make sure your forestry research is ready for the new standard.