FSC® Chain Of Custody Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide.pdf

## Preparing for FSC Chain of Custody Certification: A Concise Guide (March 2014)

This guide assists companies preparing for FSC® Chain of Custody certification, building on both FSC requirements and NEPCon's best practices.

Key Steps:

1. Appoint an In-House Coordinator: Even with external consultants, designate someone to manage the process, ensuring valuable internal expertise.

2. Develop a Comprehensive Procedure:

Define a clear chain of custody detailing material control and quality management adherence.
Prepare supporting documentation:
Signed "FSC Policy of Association" declaration.
Documentation of employee training.
Verified FSC supplier list.
FSC product group list.

3. Establish Roles & Responsibilities:

Clearly define roles and responsibilities for all involved staff, ensuring full implementation of the procedure.
Appoint a safety representative and implement a work environment procedure, with all employees trained accordingly.

4. Training and Documentation:

Train all relevant staff on their roles and responsibilities.
Submit evidence of training to NEPCon before the main evaluation.

Certification Requirements (FSC STD-40-004 V2-1):

Part I (Sections 1-6): Foundational principles and general requirements.
Part II (Selected Sections): Tailored to your chosen chain of custody system (transfer, credit, or percentage).
Part III (Sections 10-11): Relevant for trademark usage.
Part IV (Section 13): Addressing outsourcing of FSC product handling.

Additional Considerations:

Familiarize yourself with relevant FSC standards, policies, and regulations, using NEPCon's certification toolkit as a guide.
Stay updated on system changes through NEPCon's e-newsletter 'Certified Wood Update'.