Social Responsibility Audit On-Site Preparation Guide

This guide outlines essential preparations for a Social Responsibility Audit (also commonly referred to as a Code of Conduct (COC) Audit). Successfully passing such an inspection requires meticulous attention to detail across all factory areas. The following checklist covers critical areas auditors will examine to ensure compliance with health, safety, and welfare standards. Note that specific requirements may vary slightly between different client audit protocols.

1. Fire Safety (A Key Inspection Point)

Fire safety equipment and its proper maintenance are rigorously checked during the factory audit.

• Fire Extinguishers:

  • Quantity: Sufficient number must be provided (minimum 1 per 80 sqm). They are also mandatory in canteens and dormitories.

  • Condition: Must be fully charged and functional (not expired or damaged).

  • Placement: Must not be placed directly on the floor. They should be in a dedicated cabinet or mounted on walls.

  • Mounting Height: If wall-mounted, the height must be between 50cm and 150cm from the floor.

  • Signage: A clear red sign marked "Fire Extinguisher" or "Fire Extinguisher Storage Point" must be posted above it.

  • Records: A periodic inspection record card must be attached to each extinguisher and kept up to date.

• Fire Hydrants / Hose Reels:

  • Components: Must not be missing any parts (glass, hose, nozzle, valve handle).

  • Accessibility: The area immediately around fire hydrants and extinguishers must be kept clear and unobstructed at all times.

  • Records: A periodic inspection record card is required.

2. Evacuation Safety (Scrutinized During the Audit)

Emergency evacuation routes and equipment are critical for certification compliance and will be thoroughly verified.

• Emergency Lighting: All emergency exits, passageways, and stairwells must have functional emergency lights. Doors connecting two workshops must have lights on both sides.

• Functionality Check: There must be a system and records proving emergency lights are tested regularly to ensure they work.

• Evacuation Plans: Clearly marked evacuation plans must be posted on all emergency exit doors (including in canteens and dormitories).

• Egress Paths: Workshops must have clearly painted safety passage lines with directional arrows leading to exits (also required in canteens/dormitories). These paths must be completely free of obstructions.

3. First Aid, Health & Hygiene (Subject to Detailed Inspection)

Proper first aid and hygiene standards are mandatory for audit approval.

• First Aid Kits:

  • Availability: Each workshop must have at least one fully stocked first aid kit.

  • Contents: Kits must contain an itemized list of contents, instruction manuals for use, and must NOT contain any oral medication. All items must be within their valid expiration date.

  • Records: A weekly inspection log must be maintained and kept with the kit.

  • Posting: The kit must be accompanied by a posted list of certified first-aiders (with photos) and general first aid/medical information.

  • Accessibility: The area around the first aid kit must be kept clear.

• General Hygiene: All workshops, as well as canteens, dormitories, and toilets, must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition.

4. Equipment & Operational Safety (Critical for Audit Success)

Machine safety is a high-priority area during the factory inspection to prevent workplace injuries.

• Machine Guards: Protective covers/guards are required for all drive belts and pulleys.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Metal-mesh gloves must be provided and used in cutting areas.

• Needle Guards: All sewing machines must be equipped with broken needle traps or protective rings on the needle bar.

• High-Risk Equipment: Clearly visible red "Caution" or "Danger" warning signs must be posted on hazardous machinery like punch presses.

• Operating Procedures: Safety operation instructions must be posted beside high-risk equipment.

• Tool Safety: All scissors (regardless of size) must be tethered with a cord. Tools like screwdrivers must be stored in a toolbox when not in use.

Final Recommendation: This checklist provides a foundation for compliance. To ensure full readiness, it is highly advised to conduct a comprehensive internal gap analysis audit or hire an independent consultant for a pre-audit inspection before the official client or third-party audit. This proactive verification helps identify and rectify non-conformities, significantly increasing the likelihood of a successful audit outcome and obtaining the necessary certification or client approval.

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