WOAH Standards Navigation Tool: Modernising Access to WOAH International Standards

The right information, at the right time, changes everything.

Reflecting on the importance of timely access to data, the development of the new WOAH Standards Navigation Tool is a concrete example of WOAH’s drive to modernise access to WOAH International Standards and improve accessibility and visibility of this text for Members and stakeholders. The new Standards Navigation Tool presents an efficient and modern platform for users to consult the WOAH Standards and will support them in their implementation.

The Standards Navigation Tool has been available on the WOAH since 22 April and has replaced the previous Codes and Manuals section. 

WOAH International Standards (the Terrestrial Code, Aquatic Code, Terrestrial Manual and Aquatic Manual) establish the standards for the improvement of terrestrial and aquatic animal health and welfare and veterinary public health worldwide.  In this digital age, Competent Authorities must have access to the WOAH Standards using a fit-to-purpose digital tool: the Standards Navigation Tool provides just that, an intuitive, accessible and flexible solution.

Simplified Access for Improved Use

The platform allows access to WOAH Standards enabling users to search across multiple standards and filter content based on specific needs. The user-friendly interface also assists users in finding recommendations for safe international trade by commodity, making it easier for Competent Authorities and stakeholders to develop and negotiate appropriate sanitary measures in accordance with the animal health situation of the trading partners.

The WOAH Standards Navigation Tool modernises how users interact with the WOAH Standards. In just a few clicks, searching using different criteria, navigating through various sections of a WOAH Standard and accessing the most up-to-date information is possible.

Facilitating Safe International Trade

International trade plays a pivotal role in the global economy. The WOAH Terrestrial Code and Aquatic Code provide sanitary measures for animals and animal products which Members should apply pending the animal health situation of the trading partners (including cross references to the WOAH Terrestrial Manual and Aquatic Manual).

The platform includes a module ‘Recommended measures for safe international trade by commodity’ to support users such as Veterinary Services or Aquatic Animal Health Services and policymakers to assess appropriate sanitary measures. This aspect of the tool allows for informed decision-making, enabling Members to inform their animal health systems and ensuring safe trade, while avoiding unjustified sanitary barriers to trade. Access to this information enables Members to develop targeted sanitary measures, supporting not only disease prevention but also fostering safer global trade practices.

Engagement and Policy Evolution

‘The flexibility of this tool is one of its key strengths,’ explains Dr Francisco D’Alessio, former WOAH project manager. ‘As we work towards supporting our Members to improve national regulations, the ability to quickly access WOAH Standards will help ensure that their policies and sanitary measures are harmonised with WOAH Standards’.

Bringing Standards Closer to Users

Aligned with the WOAH 7th Strategic Plan, WOAH continues to modernise its operations.

‘Our Organisation is evolving to meet the demands of a changing world. The Standards Navigation Tool is a testament to our commitment to develop modern, agile and efficient tools for our Members.

Dr Gillian Myrlea, WOAH Head, Standards Department

Access the new Standards Navigation Tool from the website: https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/

Contact: WOAH Standards Department ([email protected])