This is particularly true within the apparel and footwear sector, one of the largest consumer goods sectors in the world, and makes driving socially responsible sourcing practices and increasing supply chain transparency a business imperative. One way buyers and suppliers can tackle this important issue is with a WRAP audit. 

What is WRAP?

Established in 2000, Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) is an independent certification programme focused on promoting and certifying safe, lawful, humane, and ethical manufacturing globally, specifically in the apparel and footwear industry. 

Following WRAP’s 12 Principles, buyers and suppliers work towards the same set of social compliance assessment protocols that address factory conditions, labour practices and environmental compliance. The 12 Principles are:

1. Compliance with laws and workplace regulations
2. Prohibition of forced labour
3. Prohibition of child labour
4. Prohibition of harassment or abuse
5. Compensation and benefits
6. Hours of work
7. Freedom of association and collective bargaining
8. Health and safety
9. Prohibition of discrimination
10. Environment
11. Customs compliance
12. Security

WRAP provides a certificate to factories that meet standards outlined in the above 12 WRAP principles, with WRAP audit/measurement efforts executed through approved audit bodies that have passed the accreditation process.

The Wrap Certification Process

Certification may be granted for either six months or one to two years, depending on the final audit results and the duration that the facility has successfully held certification: 

1. Application: A production facility requests a WRAP audit and pays a registration fee to begin the certification process.
2. Pre-audit self-assessment: Facilities complete a pre-audit self-assessment of their facility to show that they have been utilising socially compliant practices for a minimum of 90 days (or at least 45 days if seeking recertification). 
3. Monitoring: The facility then chooses and contacts a WRAP accredited monitoring firm and must successfully pass the audit within 6 months of paying the registration fee. The report and recommendations are sent to both the facility and WRAP.
4. Evaluation: WRAP will review the recommendation report and notify the facility if a revision is necessary. After the report is reviewed and approved, WRAP will certify the facility. 
5. Certification: WRAP determines whether to issue a Platinum, Gold, or Silver certificate depending on the extent to which the audit indicates full compliance and management commitment to the WRAP Principles.

What are the benefits of WRAP compliance?

A WRAP certification audit from an independent, third-party monitoring firm offers several benefits for your organisation:

• Above all, it ensures  that workers in apparel, footwear and garment factories are treated ethically and humanely
• Taking any necessary corrective measures can improve employee morale and boost productivity
• Reduces workplace health and safety hazards 
• Improves your brand’s image among consumers and avoids reputational damage

Why choose Eurofins Assurance for your WRAP audit?

As a WRAP-accredited monitoring firm, the Eurofins CPA network of companies is approved to conduct WRAP audits in key textiles and footwear manufacturing countries and support your business as it implements and improves sustainable practices in your supply chain.  

To meet the requirements of hectic sourcing schedules, we can complete WRAP audit reports in short working days. Our reporting efficiency gives customers a competitive edge when it comes to sourcing and supply chain management. 

As a Full Member Firm of the Association of Professional Social Compliance Auditors (APSCA), we have demonstrable expertise in quality social compliance audits.