Online Commenting System (OCS) Training Session

Background

The Online Commenting System (OCS) is the IPPC's primary tool for submitting, sharing and managing comments on draft International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs), draft specifications and draft guides and training materials. The annual OCS consultation period is from 1 July to 30 September. During this time, Contracting Parties, through their Contact Points, submit their comments through the system.

To ensure that IPPC Contact Points and designated reviewers are fully prepared to use the OCS effectively, the IPPC Secretariat will hold a two-hour virtual training session on 24 June 2026, just before the opening of the consultation period.

Objectives

• To guide IPPC Contact Points and designated reviewers in using the OCS effectively
• To clarify the process for submitting, sharing and publishing comments on draft documents.
• To enable the IPPC Secretariat to compile and manage comments efficiently and in a standardized format.

Participants

• IPPC Contact Points 
• Designated reviewers from IPPC contracting parties

Expected outcomes

• Participants will have a clear understanding of how to navigate and use the OCS effectively.
• Improved quality and timeliness of comment submissions during the July–September 2026 consultation period.
• Participants will be better prepared to contribute structured and high-quality inputs during the 2026 IPPC Regional Workshops, supporting more productive discussions on draft ISPMs under consultation.
• Reduced technical difficulties and fewer support queries during the consultation period.