Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1184 of 20 April 2017 governs the monitoring of carcase classification, carcase presentation and weighing. The legal tolerances for authorisation of a mechanical classification system are set in that legislation.
The figure quoted of 60% is the minimum accuracy figure for conformation and fat cover that must be achieved for a mechanical classification system to be authorised for use in any EU state. The average performance for conformation in Ireland in 2018 was 91.8% for conformation and 94.8% for fat cover.
In 2018, 23 machines were inspected during 412 inspections. During these inspections, on 112 occasions the accuracy was between 80% and 90% for both conformation and fat. In all other instances, the machines were above 90% accuracy.
In the year to date, (up to 30/6/19), 23 machines were inspected during 229 inspections. During these inspections, on 39 occasions the accuracy was between 80% and 90% for both conformation and fat.
In all other instances, the machines were above 90% accuracy.