What is Chain of Custody?
Chain of Custody (COC) Certification is a process of ensuring that a forest product has come from a legal, responsible source. It is a link from the initial logging stage, through the supply chain, potentially ending with the joinery company. Even if you used certified timber, you can only claim to be passing on a Chain of Custody product if you are a certified link in the chain. If you are not, then you break the link. By having Chain of Custody, you allow an environmentally conscious potential customer to make an informed choice. The BWF can help you achieve both FSC and PEFC certifications.
Why undertake Chain of Custody Certification?
In the UK, COC certification is becoming an industry standard for companies buying and selling timber, panel and paper products to demonstrate that they source their products responsibly. Over 70% of timber brought into the UK is now legal, and responsibly sourced, with nearly 2000 companies having achieved Chain of Custody Certification. The demand for certified timber is increasing as more and more central and local government and private development projects insist on it.
What is involved?
The basis for COC is that you manage your supply of timber in a way that identifies certified timber from any non-certified timber. To start with, you must buy from companies that can supply FSC or PEFC timber. When that timber arrives at your workplace, everybody involved in checking goods in must see that it is accompanied by the correct paperwork. The timber must then be stored and managed separately from any other non-certificated timber. When a customer asks for FSC or PEFC products, this must appear on all of your internal paperwork. When the product is assembled ready for despatch, delivery notes and invoices must include the COC codes and a description of the certificated product.
Why join the BWF’s Group Chain of Custody Scheme?
the BWF has set up a consultancy package to help companies with 16 employees or more to achieve Chain of Custody (smaller companies might be interested in our Group Chain of Custody Scheme). The consultancy package includes an experienced consultant visiting your factory to assist you in setting up the procedures required to satisfy the requirements of the COC and the audits required to achieve and maintain the certification.
Click here for further information, costings, and an application form.
