Challenge inspections

In addition to routine inspections, the Convention provides for the possibility of a challenge or surprise inspection of any site (whether or not declared) in the participating States.

A challenge inspection may be initiated by a State which is party to the Convention to clarify any concerns it may have about another state's compliance with the Convention. Twelve hours notice will be given of such inspections, which may last up to 84 hours and may involve inspectors working round the clock at the site.

No State Party has yet received a challenge inspection. Some States Parties for example the UK have mounted trial challenge inspections to assist the OPCWs preparedness.