FSC (COC) certification system requirements

The purpose of FSC (COC) certification is to ensure that the raw materials for the production of labeled products are produced in forests that have been audited and obtained FSC certification. FSC (COC) procedures must be performed at all critical points such as when product ownership transfers or when the product is significantly affected by the manufacturing process. Organizations involved in FSC (COC) certification need to establish a system that includes the following elements:

A. Organization and training

B. Procurement

C. Product identification and traceability

D. Process control

E. Handling, Storage, Packaging and Shipping

F. Record

A. Organization and training

The organization needs to appoint a management representative who has the authority and responsibility to ensure the implementation and maintenance of the COC system. All personnel performing work related to this certification program must be qualified to work on the basis of appropriate education, training, and practice. Staff training, practice records shall be maintained within the appropriate operating range.

B. Procurement

Enterprises under audit must have procedural documents for purchasing materials, so that the source of materials can be easily identified.

C. Product identification and traceability

Businesses are required to maintain procedural documentation that identifies specific sources, shipments, bills of lading or other categories of products. Each batch/product must have a unique identification record.

D. Process control

Businesses under audit are required to identify all production processes that involve the processing of wood products from materials derived from recognized forests. Enterprises must ensure that the production and processing of COC certified products can only be used after confirming that the raw materials are from recognized forests. And establish program files that control these tasks.

E. Handling, Storage, Packaging and Shipping

Businesses under audit are required to document and maintain procedures for product handling, storage, packaging and shipping. If necessary, a secure storage area shall be provided to prevent mixing of approved materials with materials from other sources. Label design is subject to FSC guidelines.

F. Record

The audited enterprise shall establish, implement and maintain procedures for identifying, collecting, indexing, populating, storing, maintaining and disposing of records of its main activities, according to the scope of operations. Product records must be clear. Records must be comprehensive to trace the origin of wood and wood products