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By 30 June, the Inspector had completed 83 audits, just over half the total scheduled for 2023.
During the inspections approximately 1,000 labels have been checked to make sure they accurately represent the content of the packaging, guaranteeing ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’. Approximately 2,700 individual products have been checked, making sure they meet the specifications of the relevant Accreditation Scheme standard. For distributor members, the Independent Inspector has checked approximately 24,000 stock lines.
While the full year results for 2023 will be published in January 2024, the interim results indicate high levels of compliance.
“The integrity of our Accreditation Schemes is at the heart of all we do,” explained Lorcan Mekitarian, Chair of the CHSA. “People must be able to trust the CHSA mark wherever they see it, reccognising the Accreditation Scheme logo as a guarantee of quality. The interim audit results for 2023 provide the evidence buyers need to know our members continue to maintain standards.
“Our advice to buyers is to look first for the Accreditation Scheme logo to guarantee quality. If there is any uncertainty about the legitimacy of the manufacturer’s or distributor’s claim, check our website. It carries a full list of members. If they are not listed on our website, they are not CHSA Accredited.”
The CHSA operates six Accreditation Schemes. They are for manufacturers of paper-based products, plastic-based products, cotton-based products, and cleaning chemicals, for general manufacturers and for distributors of cleaning and hygiene products.
During the auditing process the Independent Inspector checks the labels contain the required information and that the product is as stated on the label. Depending on the product, this involves checking the sheet count, width, duty, weight and or performance of the product. He also assesses the member’s quality assurance procedures. For distributors he confirms if product is from a CHSA Accredited Manufacturer and where it is not, that it conforms to the specification of the relevant scheme.
Every CHSA member has also signed the CHSA’s rigorous Code of Practice, which includes the Competition & Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code.
The combination of the Code of Practice and Accreditation Scheme membership means every member:
· Trades ethically and sustainably;
· Provides supporting information for claims made;
· Provides quality, fit for purpose products; and
· Makes sure what’s on the box is what’s in the box.
Committed to the integrity of the Schemes, the CHSA’s governing Council will expel any Scheme member who, despite being offered the guidance required to correct issues, consistently fails to conform to the relevant Scheme Standard.
