DNV GL’s involvement with SLCP
By: Antonio Astone, DNV GL - Business Assurance
DNV GL – Business Assurance has joined the Social Labour & Convergence Project (SLCP) earlier this year, and will be one of the signatories contributing to the development of an industry-wide, standard-agnostic assessment framework in the apparel and footwear sector.
The assessment framework is scheduled to be ready in 2018, aiming to accelerate social progress. The project is to develop a descriptive tool and verification methodology and replace proprietary standards.
Developing an open, publicly available assessment methodology
There is a common understanding in the industry that a compliance based approach is necessary, and has been important for the improvements of the working conditions in the industry. However, there is magnitude of standards, codes and protocols that demands multiple audits, taking a lot of time and resources. The SLCP seeks to develop a common framework for data collection that will reduce duplicated efforts.
“It is important for us to be part of the development of a standard-agnostic framework for assessments in this industry. We have been involved in audits and assessments in the apparel and footwear sector for many years, and see the need for a non-proprietary framework. We are looking forward to share from our experience and knowledge from the industry and from years of supply chain assessment, hoping to bring value to this important project” says Antonio Astone, global sustainability manager in DNV GL – Business Assurance.
The project is organized in four working groups, each with their specific focus area: Tool Development, Verification, Stakeholder Engagement and Communication & Public Relations. DNV GL – Business Assurance is participating in the verification group.
About DNV GL – Business Assurance
Business Assurance is a world-leading certification body helping businesses assure the performance of their organizations, products, people, facilities and supply chains through certification, verification, assessment, and training services. As part of the DNV GL Group, their professionals help companies in a range of industries in more than 100 countries.
