GSCP Environmental Audit Process Methodology
GSCP Environmental Audit Process Methodology
Compliance Programme
Reference
Environmental
Audit Process
& Methodology
November 2010
About the GSCP
Global Social Compliance Programme
1. The Equivalence Process is a mechanism by which a social and/or environmental compliance scheme is objectively benchmarked against the requirements defined in
one or more GSCP Reference tools, to determine their level of equivalence. Through the Equivalence Process, the GSCP enables the comparison of various standards and
schemes against the GSCP Reference tools, aiming at bringing convergence in requirements and approaches and building mutual recognition.
Acknowledgments
Thank you to those who contributed to this Reference tool
This Reference tool has been developed by supply chain experts from GSCP member companies, with input from key
stakeholders, including other brands and retailers, initiatives and international organisations, auditing and certification
bodies and civil society representatives. The GSCP would like to thank all those who have helped with the development
and continuous improvement of this Reference tool.
Global Social
Compliance Programme
Table of contents
// Introduction 02
// 2. Audit request 05
2.1 Launching the audit request 05
2.2 Pre-audit employment site profile 05
// 3. Preparation 06
3.1 Background and context review 06
3.2 Audit organisation 06
3.3 Communicating the audit arrangements 08
3.4 Supplier preparation 10
// 4. Audit execution 11
4.1 Opening meeting 11
4.2 Employment site tour 12
4.3 Interviews 13
4.4 Document review 14
4.5 Alert notifications 15
4.6 Audit team pre-closing meeting 16
4.7 Closing meeting 19
// 5. Audit outputs 19
5.1 Audit report 19
5.2 Supplementary audit information 20
5.3 Information management 20
5.4 Audit follow-up 21
// Glossary of terms 22
// List of appendices:
There are seven reference tools available that complement the audit process described above by providing further
reference guidelines and templates for carrying out the described process. These are:
Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 2: GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Appendix 4: GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Appendix 6: GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
Appendix 7: GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
the audit process. After benchmarking existing processes, advice on ways to address common environmental
the members of the Expert Working Group on Audit Process compliance issues;
& Methodology developed the following process.
• by encouraging suppliers to request environmental
compliance audits themselves. This can be promoted
Involvement of suppliers in the audit process as a way of prompting continuous improvement or of
demonstrating their own commitment to environmental
Glossary
Audit Request
• Country of employment site (Appendix 1)
• Industry
• Processes
• Material use and storage
• Sensitivity of local environment/ecosystems
• Self-assessment questionnaire (optional)
Preparation
REQUEST FOR environmental AUDIT
STEPs GSCP REFERENCE TOOLs
• Initial communication with employment site • Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site
Audit Execution
• Collection of site information Profile (Appendix 2)
PREPARATION
STEPs GSCP REFERENCE TOOLs
• Background and content review • No specific tools (une information from Reference
Audit Outputs
• Audit organisation: type, team Environmental Self-Assessment Questionnaire [Appendix 1]
• Communication of audit arrangements and Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site
• Supplier preparation Profile [Appendix 2])
AUDIT execution
Glossary
STEPs GSCP REFERENCE TOOLs
AUDIT OUTPUTS
STEPs GSCP REFERENCE TOOLs
The self-assessment questionnaire is an optional tool and Companies should communicate the following to employment
can be used by: sites when requesting this information:
• a buying company to risk assess suppliers/employment • reason for the information request;
sites (e.g. to provide a basis for the development of an
• how the risk assessment fits within the audit process;
audit programme);
• to whom to send the completed self assessment (or how to
• a supplier or employment sites as an aid to their own
upload the self assessment on to a database);
Audit Outputs
Audit Request
and environmental performance of the employment site.
• the employment site;
For example, industry or monitoring bodies.
• the supplier;
Any company/organisation requesting an audit is termed an
• the buying company; ‘audit requestor’.
Preparation
2.2 Pre-audit employment site profile
When an audit request is made, the auditor may supply • the pre-audit employment site profile should be completed
the employment site with a pre-audit employment site and returned to the auditor two weeks from the date of
profile questionnaire. However, the use of the pre-audit the request being made;
Audit Execution
employment site profile questionnaire is at the discretion
• if an audit is requested and scheduled in less than two
of the audit requestor. The pre-audit employment site
weeks, the auditor and employment site should work
profile questionnaire asks for general information about the
together to ensure the pre-audit employment site profile
site, for example its: location, size, production processes,
is returned as soon as possible, and in any event before the
licences and permits, energy use, sources of emissions to
audit is carried out.
air, land and water, hazardous substances use and storage,
waste management, pollution prevention measures, major A pre-audit employment site profile should have four main
incident prevention and management and environmental areas:
Audit Outputs
nuisance. This information allows auditors to:
1. s upplier overview;
• prepare relevant briefing materials (industry or country-
2. e mployment site overview;
specific);
3. e mployment site details;
• plan the assessment, for example in relation to the
experience and language capabilities of the audit team 4. a summary of activities routinely undertaken by contractors
members and the required number of auditor days (cf. on-site.
Glossary
3.2.2 Audit length);
Where the employment site itself is the audit requestor, the
• focus the audit on potential high environmental risk areas. auditor should ensure that an agreement is in place with the
employment site to allow the auditor to communicate audit
The audit company should communicate the following
findings and alert notifications to relevant customers.
to each employment site to be audited and any relevant
Appendices
parties, such as agents, in the supply chain: A reference pre-audit employment site profile is available
in Appendix 2.
• the importance of accuracy in completing the pre-audit
employment site profile;
• timeframe for completion of the pre-audit employment
site profile;
• to whom to send the completed pre-audit employment
site profile.
Recommended timeframe:
• the auditor should supply the pre-audit employment site
profile to the employment site within five working days of
the audit being confirmed;
3. Preparation
Audit organisation
the conditions, challenges and issues prevailing in the country, may apply to the employment site. This should include an
region and industry where the audit is to be conducted. understanding of non-mandatory schemes and certifications
The auditing organisation and/or the auditor should be such as those for environmental management systems
Communicating the audit arrangements
knowledgeable and aware of the issues which could impact (EMSs) to the internationally recognised standards of
the environment in the country, region or industry/industrial ISO14001 or EMAS. The auditing organisation or auditor
sector concerned. The auditing organisation or auditor should also have knowledge of what constitutes operational
should have a detailed awareness of the local and national best practice within the industrial sector in question.
Preparation
site is in operation. the buying company should clearly communicate its policy
on unannounced audits to suppliers and employment sites.
Audits may be: The policy should state that:
• unannounced (the employment site has no prior warning • audits may occur at any time on an unannounced basis;
of the audit);
• employment sites may be required to provide self
Audit Outputs
• semi-announced (whereby the employment site is aware assessment information on a regular basis and this
that an audit will take place during a given time period, but information must be accurate;
the actual date of audit is not communicated);
• auditors presenting the correct credentials should be
• announced (at a mutually convenient date agreed with allowed full access to the employment site;
employment site).
• the necessary records should always be kept on the
In all cases, the buying company should clearly communicate employment site or be readily available (cf. 3.4 Supplier
Glossary
for all types of audit under certain circumstances. on semi-announced audits to suppliers and employment
sites. The policy should include the following points:
The risk assessment process can be used to influence the
type of audit selected. For example, the audit requestor • the buying company will specify a window during which an
may decide to execute semi-announced audits in all high audit may take place. Audit windows may range between 2
risk employment sites. However, other considerations such weeks and 2 months;
as the relationship with the employment site should be • all employment sites are required to provide up-to-
taken into account since semi-announced and unannounced date and accurate pre-audit and, when requested, self
audits can negatively impact supply chain relationships. assessment information at the beginning of the window;
> Unannounced audits • auditors presenting the correct credentials during the audit
window should be allowed full access to the employment
Unannounced audits allow auditors to assess the operations site;
and activities at the employment site in their ‘normal state’,
since the employment site has not had the opportunity to • the necessary records should be kept at the employment
make any special preparations. site during the window.
Audit organisation
part of the commercial relationship. However there is a risk The number of auditor days at the employment site should
that employment sites may make special preparations for be based on, for example, the size and complexity of the site
the audit and best practice is to use a mix of announced, and the type of operations with the potential to impact the
semi-announced and unannounced audits to mitigate this environment. The length of the audit should allow sufficient
risk. Buying companies should clearly communicate their time to undertake a site tour of the complete site, interview
policy on announced audits to suppliers and employment a number of workers, including individuals who have direct
Audit Request
sites. The policy should include the following points: environmental roles and responsibilities and to undertake
Preparation
• auditors presenting the correct credentials on the date of be given to the size and geographical spread of the business
the audit should be allowed full access to the employment and the number of growing locations to ascertain person
site; days required.
• the necessary records and the concerned personnel should The following provides an indication of the length of audit
be available at the employment site on the day of the audit. for different sites:
Audit Execution
Supplier preparation
Indicative Length
Site Description of Audit
Less than a 50 employees, single small geographical area site, low pollution/hazard potential 1-2 person days on site
(no hazardous substances handled or emissions to air/land/water), simple manufacturing/
processing operations
Audit Outputs
50-500 employees, larger single geographical site or more than one site, higher pollution/ 2-3 person days on site
hazard potential (e.g. handling hazardous substances, on-site waste treatment activities)
500+employees, large single geographical site or multiple sites, high inherent pollution- hazard 4-6 person days on site
potential (e.g. handling highly hazardous substances on site), complex processing operations
Glossary
However, the information provided in the table above is • language skills;
intended as an indication only. The actual length of audit
• ethnic/national background reflecting that of the
should be agreed between the audit requestor and the
workforce;
auditing company.
Appendices
• reputation;
3.2.3 Audit team • integrity;
• commitment to improving environmental compliance and
The audit should be conducted by a competent environmental performance.
auditor, who may be self-employed or be employed by a
commercial organisation, NGO or industry body3. Auditors To prevent any conflict of interest, the auditor must not
and auditing bodies should be selected based on: have any connection with the employment site. It would be
recommended that an audit be performed by two auditors,
• a udit training and skills; particularly if the site is remote and/or there is the potential
• a udit experience; for safety/security issues to be associated with the audit.
• local and industry knowledge;
3. The GSCP has launched an Expert Working Group that works exclusively on auditor competence. Its role is to identify and gather best practice in that area in order to build
reference requirements for recognition of auditors and auditing bodies.
3.3.1 Information for the employment site / procedures (e.g. waste handling and disposal, spill
containment etc.);
The buying company and/or auditor should communicate / training records;
the following information to the employment site at least / details of permits, consents and licences (or
2 weeks before the audit. This should be communicated in documented exemptions where applicable) for:
writing and in the relevant local language. - water abstraction;
Communicating the audit arrangements
Audit Request
of conducts against which the employment site is being / hazardous substances list/inventory;
audited. / safety data sheets for hazardous substances;
• Introduction of the audit team. / emission sources inventories (e.g. emissions to air, land
• The audit agenda including: and water);
/ inspection/service logs and inspection reports for
Audit Execution
/ timetable;
environmental-critical equipment e.g. abatement
/ topics to be covered.
Supplier preparation
equipment etc.;
• Key personnel invited to participate in the audit, including / spill/incident log and remedial steps taken including
but not limited to: correspondence with authorities regarding e.g. spills,
/ management; leaks, odour, noise etc.;
/ engineering/maintenance; / environmental emergency procedures;
/ environmental; / inventory (or similar) of air emission points;
Audit Outputs
• List of documents (where applicable) that the employment / wastewater monitoring log/results;
site will need to make available to the audit team on the / waste documentation including manifests for off site
day of the audit, including: disposal, waste contractor licences and permits etc.;
/ management structure (e.g. organogram); / site audits of waste contractors;
Appendices
/ environmental committee meeting minutes; / bulk tank inventory (including contents, capacity etc.);
/ employee handbooks; / bund/secondary containment inventory;
/ previous environmental reports/Corrective Action Plan / tank/bund inspection logs/reports;
Report; / tank/bund integrity testing logs/reports;
/ employment site layout/floor plan; / asbestos survey reports, asbestos register, management
/ maps of the surrounding area, if available; plan and inspection reports;
/ information on nearby protected habitats (e.g. local / ozone depleting substances (ODS) inventory and inspection
nature reserves) including distance from site, if available; logs/reports;
/ information on the site geology and hydrogeology, if / polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) inventory and inspection
available; logs/reports;
/ company environmental policies; / ionizing radiation sources registration, disposal records
and inspection records;
/ government/agency Inspection Reports, e.g. environ‐
mental compliance, etc.;
Audit organisation
/ major incident risk assessments and/or incident reports; pollution incidents (air, water, effluent, wastes, odour
and noise).
/ nuisance/complaints log;
/ notices of violation or fines from a regulating agency;
Audit Request
3.3.2 Sample Audit Agenda
Preparation
Day 1 – date
Audit Execution
• Internal production areas • Internal production areas
• Internal areas including boiler room, • Internal areas including boiler room,
Supplier preparation
compressor house, waste handling compressor house, waste handling
areas etc. areas etc.
• External areas (e.g. waste storage, • External areas (e.g. waste storage,
wastewater treatment plant) wastewater treatment plant)
and including site perimeter survey and including site perimeter survey
• Worker interviews • Worker interviews
Audit Outputs
Lunch time Lunch break/Auditors’ meeting
Glossary
• Manufacturing/operations manager
• Procurement/purchasing personnel
• Representatives from contractors
on-site
Appendices
Clarification/Auditor meeting
Employment site management should ensure that: 3.4.1 Information for workers
• all documentation is available on the day of the audit.
This includes information and documents that are usually Clear information about the audit should be communicated
stored at another location (e.g. a central office where by the employment site to applicable workers explaining the
environmental data or records are held such as waste purpose of the visit and the process. This information should
be available in the principal languages spoken by workers
Communicating the audit arrangements
Sample communication
On (insert date), representatives from (insert audit The visit will primarily consist of meetings with management,
company) will be visiting (insert employment site name) to a facility inspection, and document reviews.
assess environmental performance and compliance. The
A limited number of worker interviews with identified
representatives will be looking at the following areas:
workers who have specific roles and responsibilities
• environmental management systems; for managing environmental issues or environmental
Audit Outputs
• contaminated land/soil and groundwater pollution prevention; If you would like to get in touch with the representatives
from (insert audit company) to discuss the audit or any other
• land use and biodiversity; issues, please do not hesitate to get in contact using the
• nuisance. contact details below:
(Insert contact details of audit company)
Interviews
• opening meeting; • closing meeting, including summary of findings;
• employment site tour (and perimeter survey) – this may • agreement of findings.
Audit Request
require visits to separate geographical locations if these
This chapter sets out best practice for each step of the audit.
Document review
are part of the activities operated by the employment site
relevant to the products being produced for the buying As a general principle, the conduct of the audit team at all
company requesting the audit; times must be in the best interest of the workers.
• management and worker interviews;
Preparation
• document review;
Alert notifications
4.1 Opening meeting • establish the audit agenda and indicate the personnel
required at each stage of the inspection;
The opening meeting must be conducted in the language
Audit Execution
• review the information provided in the pre-audit
spoken by management. It should be attended by relevant
Audit Outputs
for environmental issues and their availability for interview/
This should be formally presented in a format agreed with the
participation during the course of the audit;
audit requestor to ensure the audit requestor’s perspective
is clearly communicated in an appropriate tone. • c onfirm any special arrangements/precautions required for
Closing meeting
the employment site tour;
In the opening meeting, the audit team should:
• confirm permission to take photographs.
• introduce the audit team;
Glossary
Agree process for communicating issues as they arise during
• explain the purpose and scope of the audit, including:
the audit. It is best practice to communicate issues as they
/ potential benefits to the employment site (opportunity arise to build consensus around findings and corrective
for management to identify and manage risk, opportunity actions and allow management to:
to engage in continuous improvement, opportunity
to meet customer needs, opportunity to save money • provide additional evidence where necessary;
Appendices
Opening meeting
areas of the employment site and to form a view of how • identify and confirm off-site contractors or suppliers that
these practices measure up to the GSCP Environmental provide environmental services to the employment site
Audit Request
Reference Requirements, applicable legal and regulatory (e.g. waste contractors, maintenance service providers of
requirements and other applicable requirements, e.g. environment-related equipment);
Document review
customer requirements/policies. The findings from the tour • observe management systems and practices, including the
are triangulated with evidence from management and key relationship and interactions between management and
personnel interviews and document review. workers.
As a general principle, the auditor should be able to visit all The team should raise issues as they arise during the
the areas of the employment site and should set the pace
Preparation
escalate according to the audit requestor’s policy. and activities, but also non-routine operations and activities,
Audit team pre-closing meeting
district, etc.);
• ask that they be accompanied by only one or two people;
usually the site or environmental manager, or whoever is • the nature of immediate neighbouring facilities (e.g.
best placed to answer questions on environmental issues manufacturing, waste treatment/disposal, etc.);
(e.g. facility maintenance or operations representatives); • areas of potential off-site impact to the employment site
Appendices
• be aware of site traffic and stay on dedicated pedestrian (e.g. pollution or contamination associated with off-site
routes (wherever possible); bulk storage tanks, off-site waste storage areas, etc.);
• avoid walking where workers are trying to move or transport • areas of potential impact from on-site activities (e.g.
product from one area to another. distressed vegetation, the nature and quality of external
surface areas etc.);
The audit team should walk around the employment site,
external areas and site perimeter (where feasible), internal • other facilities located on the employment site property
production areas, raw material/chemical and waste storage (e.g. waste water treatment plants, electricity substations
areas, bulk storage areas, boiler rooms, compressor houses etc.);
and other applicable areas with managers in order to: • other production units within the employment site property,
• understand the work done at the employment site; which are not part of the scope of the audit.
Interviews
environmental compliance will be undertaken. Worker
management present;
interviews may also be undertaken to establish the level
of awareness of environmental issues across the facility • informal interviews may also take place during the physical
Audit Request
and to help identify any issues or good practice on-site. tour of the employment site, at lunch time or in breaks;
The interviews are strictly confidential and the identity of
Document review
• where possible, worker interviews should be held in
workers who participate will remain anonymous.
the interviewee’s language, where this is not possible
worker interviews may be conducted through a translator.
4.3.1 Worker interviews Translators must be independent of employment site
management and must speak the language concerned.
Points raised by workers should be fed back as early as
Preparation
Protection of workers:
Alert notifications
possible to members of the team carrying out management
interviews or document review to facilitate verification. • auditors should ensure that problems raised by workers
are discussed with management in a non-attributable
Audit team members carrying out worker interviews must way. Auditors must ensure that the comments they report
have the skills to make workers feel at ease. It is best practice cannot be traced back to an individual worker;
to use interviewing techniques to encourage interviewees to
Audit Execution
identify the issues of most importance to them. In any case, • auditors/worker interviewers should leave a contact
Audit Outputs
/ different departments, including workers associated Interview structure:
with managing waste, undertaking environmental • introduction: The audit team should introduce themselves
monitoring as well as production workers; and communicate the purpose of the audit. They should
Closing meeting
/ health & safety representatives/personnel, where assure interviewees that all information shared during the
appropriate; interview will remain unattributed;
/ environmental committee representative(s), if applicable; • confidentiality: No manager or representative of the
Glossary
/ new employees/trainees (to evaluate training quality); employment site, apart from the workers concerned,
/ employees from different shifts. should be present during any worker interview.
Appendices
Opening meeting
related documents. Auditors should also, where applicable, to refuse permission to view their files if they so wish.
Audit Request
Document review
In order to administer your employment, your employer about environmental standards. As part of this review,
collects and uses certain personal information (such as (Insert Audit Company Name) may need access to your
your contact details, roles and responsibilities and training personnel file.
records/attendance). This information constitutes your
You have confirmed that you are happy for (Insert Audit
Preparation
personnel file.
Company Name) to have access to your personnel file for
Alert notifications
available;
The documentation requested by the auditor should be • company environmental policies;
available on-site, including, but not limited to, applicable
licences/permits, internal and external reports, emission • government/agency Inspection Reports, e.g. environmental
sources inventories, spill or incident release records and compliance, etc.;
notifications, maintenance records, integrity testing records,
Audit Outputs
employment site should explain why this is the case. For / effluent wastewater discharges;
example, the employment site has been operational for less / storm water discharges;
than 2 years. / emissions to air;
The auditor should go through a comprehensive document / chemical and fuel storage;
Appendices
trail including the following (this is not an exhaustive list): /o n-site waste management and storage; and
• management structure (e.g. organogram); / off-site waste disposal information including contractor’s
• environmental committee meeting minutes; licences;
•p
revious environmental reports/Corrective Action Plan • safety data sheets for hazardous substances;
Report; • emission sources inventories (e.g. emissions to air, land and
• employment site layout/floor plan; water);
• maps of the surrounding area, if available; • inspection/service logs and inspection reports for environ‐
mental-critical equipment e.g. abatement equipment etc.;
• process diagrams;
• spill/incident log and remedial steps taken including
• information on nearby protected habitats (e.g. local nature correspondence with authorities regarding e.g. spills,
reserves) including distance from site, if available; leaks, odour, noise etc.;
Interviews
• major incident risk assessments and/or incident reports;
• energy use data; • nuisance/complaints log;
• water sources (e.g. from abstraction borehole), uses (e.g. • notices of violation or fines from a regulating agency;
Audit Request
process water, cooling etc.) and consumption data;
Document review
• communications with environmental regulating agencies/
• employment site drainage plan; authorities relating to environmental violations and pollution
• wastewater monitoring log/results; incidents (air, water, effluent, wastes, odour and noise).
Particular emphasis should be placed on evidence that there is
• waste documentation including manifests for offsite
a systematic approach to managing all aspects of the relevant
disposal, waste contractor licences and permits etc.;
codes or requirements.
Preparation
Alert notifications
• site audits of waste contractors;
• bulk tank inventory (including contents, capacity etc.); 4.4.2 Document inconsistencies
• bund/secondary containment inventory;
Inconsistencies between different types of documents
• tank/bund inspection logs/reports; and worker testimony may be considered a critical non-
Audit Execution
compliance, depending on the potential environmental
• tank/bund integrity testing logs/reports;
Audit Outputs
• polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) inventory and inspection context of the issue, and its frequency, and the department(s)
logs/reports; concerned both at the closing meeting and in the audit report.
Closing meeting
4.5 Alert notifications
Glossary
Where a ‘critical’ non-compliance (whether a non-compliance If an auditor believes they might be at risk as a result of
with legal requirements or the GSCP Environmental communicating a critical non-compliance, the audit team
Reference Requirements) is identified, the auditor should, should wait until it is removed from that situation before
wherever possible, inform the audit requestor as soon as issuing the alert notification.
possible. If the audit requestor is on site, the auditor should
Examples of non-compliances can be found in paragraph
Appendices
Opening meeting
verified, and a suggested timeframe for completion; of certificates/licences/permits, monitoring data, etc.
submitted by the employment site. Desk-based follow-
• systematic problems and issues from one-off, isolated,
up cannot be used where actions need to be verified
non-systematic issues;
through worker testimony;
• the root cause of problems, where possible; / follow-up audit are recommended for critical or major
• good practice examples; non-compliances or when corrective actions can be
evaluated only through interviews and extensive
• a prioritisation of issues;
Audit Outputs
work with the employment site to develop a corrective / one original, signed copy for the employment site
action plan or manager;
/ a second original, signed copy retained by the auditor
• require auditors to identify evidence-based findings,
together with other audit documentation;
develop the appropriate corrective action and agree with
the employment site on their follow-up. / a hard or soft copy to the audit requestor.
Interviews
all of the level 1 and level 2 requirements. An employment
site can be fully meeting a particular performance level and The below provides guidance on how to categorise different
be demonstrating that it meets some of the requirements of issues as minor, major or critical non-compliances. The list
the next performance level.
Audit Request
gathers examples and is not intended to be exhaustive. It
Document review
Auditors should classify non-compliances against Level 1 gives an indication of how various issues should be considered
Requirements and observations and examples of good practice in light of the reference guidelines and the reference code
against all performance level. and taking into account the potential environmental impact
of the issues identified and the regulatory regime of the
Should any critical or major legal non-compliance be country. These examples are for illustration only; auditors
identified in relation to a particular Performance Area, then should still use their discretion when classifying non-
the employment site cannot be considered as meeting
Alert notifications
Preparation
compliances.
the basic requirements associated with Level 1 for that
Performance Area. Minor
In relation to Level 1 Requirements, Auditors should record • basic environmental management structure and defined
non-compliances, whether they be non-compliances management responsibilities are in place, however, this is
with legal requirements or non-compliances with the not documented;
Audit Execution
Environmental Framework Requirements themselves.
Audit Outputs
The auditor should record in the Audit Report (Appendix 5)
whether a non-compliance identified is a non-compliance licence requirements;
with specific legal requirements. • the site has a mechanism to remain up to date with appli-
If no non-compliances are identified, then the Employment cable local legal requirements, but has not documented
Site is considered to have met the Level 1 Requirements this process;
Closing meeting
for that Particular Performance Area. However, should any • an issue which presents a risk to the environment (low risk)
critical or major non-compliances be identified in relation (either on-site or the surrounding areas);
Glossary
to a particular Performance Area, then the employment site
cannot be considered as meeting the basic requirements • site has a procedure to ensure that external third parties
associated with Level 1 for that Performance Area. If only utilised by the site for environmental matters (e.g. waste
minor non-compliances are identified, then it will be removal/disposal) are appropriately licensed, but has not
judgement decision by the Auditor (and possibly by the Audit documented this process;
Appendices
Requestor) as to whether the Employment Site is considered • occasional or isolated instances of missing monitoring/
to have met the Requirements of Level 1 in relation to that performance data (that is not a legal requirement).
particular Performance Area.
Major
Non-compliances and observations should be classified
according to: • basic management structure/defined management
responsibilities not in place, either in relation to overall
• the frequency of the problem or whether the issue is an environmental management or particular Performance
isolated occurrence; Area;
• the potential severity of the problem; • site has identified that it has potentially significant
• the probability of recurrence of the problem. environmental aspects/impacts, but has not acted on this
information;
The auditor must be able to justify his/her classification with
detailed evidence. • site is not aware of its legal requirements in relation to a
particular performance area;
Opening meeting
• site has no mechanism for remaining up to date with • non-operation of critical abatement equipment e.g. air
applicable legal requirements; emission scrubber, incineration unit etc.;
• site not aware of relevant permit/ licence/ consent/exemption • evidence of the deliberate provision of false information
requirements; to auditors or regulators so as to disguise non-compliances
with permit/licence/consent requirements;
Interviews
• a systemic breach or violation of a legal requirement; been addressed or for which no significant improvement
has been made by the time of a follow up audit and which
• a breach of a legal requirement or environmental permit/
has increased the level of environmental risk, e.g. of
licence/consent which is considered likely to attract
causing incidents;
regulator intervention;
• site knowingly utilises illegal/unlicensed external third
• site has not confirmed that all external third parties utilised
parties in relation to environmental matters (e.g. waste
Alert notifications
Preparation
Information management
any problem. This meeting should involve all those attending Actions by both auditor and employment site:
Audit Request
the opening meeting and should:
/w
hen agreed with the audit requestor, a copy of the
• reconfirm the purpose of the assessment; corrective action plan should be left with management;
• confirm the performance level for each of the 11 Performance / t he corrective actions should include a timeframe for
Areas; completion and the type of verification needed;
• recognise good practices; • if the Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions is
not agreed, the auditor should leave a copy with the
Preparation
• agree any non-compliances;
Audit follow-up
employment site and report disputed points to the audit
• record non-compliances which can be corrected immediately; requestor, copying the employment site.
Audit Execution
5. Audit Outputs
5.1 Audit report
Audit Outputs
The context, findings, issues and actions, where applicable, • for each non-compliance or observation, provide a:
against each of the 11 Performance Areas should be reported / description of the non-compliance or observation and
to the audit requestor. The report should be available its frequency;
in English to ensure that it can be shared with various
/ evidence found to substantiate it;
stakeholders, as well as in the language of the management
wherever this is possible. The report should be delivered to / classification to applicable law, code of conduct, etc.
the audit requestor within 10 business days of the audit. The report must not include any information that could
Glossary
The report should include: be used to identify specific workers – such as names, ID
numbers, job descriptions and/or work location.
• a summary of the auditors’ evaluation of the employment
site’s performance against each of the 11 Performance The report should include photos4 of the employment site
Areas; such as:
Appendices
4. Photographs should only be taken with the permission of the employment site as they may contain or reveal confidential information.
Audit report
• wastewater treatment areas; Unless agreed by all parties in writing, the audit organisation
will not distribute the report to any entities except the audit
• abatement equipment;
requestor. However, the audit requestor should share the
• good practices where these can be photographed; report with the employment site/customer/supplier as soon
as possible in order to facilitate co-operation on continuous
• non-compliances where these can be photographed.
improvement.
A reference audit report is available in Appendix 5.
Audit Request
Information management
the audit.
• concerns which cannot be substantiated through evidence
and/or interviews; A template for reporting additional information is available
Audit follow-up
requestor:
decisions and ratings to the employment site and/or audit
• the Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile; requestor as needed;
• the completed audit report, including photographs; • have an appeals procedure should the employment site or
audit requestor challenge one of the findings and in case of
• summary of findings (and corrective actions, if applicable);
any complaint by the employment site against the auditor.
• supplementary audit information, where applicable;
Glossary
Information management
• follow-up audits should generally take place within six
Where such corrective actions were agreed:
months of the date of the initial audit;
Audit Request
• the auditor will be responsible for verifying whether actions
• a follow-up report should be issued. This is an updated
have been taken and recording verification of actions;
version of the original report, with all new issues and
• for corrective actions where desk-based verification is updates to previous issues clearly highlighted;
adequate, the auditor will review evidence submitted [see / for all sections where non-compliances have previously
section 4.6]; been raised there should be a clear explanation of the
• where a follow-up audit is required, the length of time evidence reviewed, comments on applicability and
Audit follow-up
Preparation
taken at the follow-up should be related to the number effectiveness and whether the issue is now considered
and severity of issues to be verified; closed or remains open;
/ improvements should be mentioned even if the non-
Follow-up audits may be commissioned by the audit
compliances are not fully corrected;
requestor, typically in relation to critical or major non-
compliances identified in relation to Level 1 issues, and/ / if new non-compliances are found these should be
or when corrective actions can be evaluated only through recorded and marked as “new” and should be reported
Audit Execution
interviews and extensive documentation reviews. in as much detail as they would have been in the initial
report;
• a partial follow-up audit does not include a full review
/ a desk-based follow up may be used to verify corrective
but only focuses on the issues identified in the corrective
actions for minor non-compliances but provide
action plan;
less assurance than a follow-up audit. Desk-based
• a full follow-up audit should include a full review of all verification should check corrective actions through
areas of the standard audit process, including the complete photos, copies of certificates, invoices, submitted by
the employment site. Desk-based verification cannot
Audit Outputs
re-sampling of documents, conducting interviews and
the employment site tour. The auditor should focus on be used where actions need to be verified through
identifying changes which would address issues raised in worker testimony.
the initial report, but also investigate potential additional
issues.
Typically, a full follow-up audit would only be necessary
where the non-compliances identified in the initial audit
Glossary
indicated that an environmental management system
was not in place or that there were extensive/systematic
failings associated with the site’s existing environmental
management system.
Appendices
Glossary
of terms
Audit Request
Announced audit A plan of action drawn up at the end of an audit that records
what measures have to be taken and within what time limit
to remedy the non-compliance.
An audit which is undertaken on a specified date that is
chosen in agreement with the employment site.
E
Audit Execution
Audit requestor
Employment site
Generic term referring to any entity that has requested and
commissioned an audit, including the requesting entity’s An individual/specific production site, farm, winery, quarry,
customers (where known) where agreements allowing such mine, service site etc. (including where applicable selected
disclosure are in place. sub-contractors/homeworkers).
Audit Outputs
EMAS
C
Code of conduct The European Union (EU) Eco-Management and Audit Scheme
(EMAS), is a voluntary initiative designed to help companies
evaluate, report on and improve their environmental
A set of standards concerning environmental practices adopted
performance. Its aim is to recognise and reward those
by a company and applied to its suppliers, employment sites
organisations that go beyond minimum legal compliance and
and subcontractors.
Glossary
An internal audit that an organisation performs on itself to The first audit undertaken on an employment site which
evaluate conformity with procedures or a defined standard, assesses compliance against a specific code of conduct, or is
for example an audit could solely be against regulatory requested by a specific customer.
requirements.
Audit Request
Follow-up audit M
An audit to assess the effectiveness of corrective actions, Management
undertaken to address issues from a previous audit. A follow-
up audit can be either a full or a partial follow-up audit (see People who identify and achieve organizational objectives
definitions below). through the deployment of appropriate resources. A
Preparation
manager can have responsibilities in one or more of five key
areas: managing activities; managing resources; managing
Full follow-up audit information; managing people; and managing him- or
herself at the same time as working within the context
An audit to assess the effectiveness of corrective actions,
of the organizational, political, and economic business
undertaken to address issues from a previous audit. The audit
environments.
should include a full review of all areas of the standard audit
Audit Execution
process, including the complete re-sampling of documents,
conducting interviews and the employment site tour.
P
Partial follow-up audit
G
An audit to assess the effectiveness of corrective actions,
Good practice undertaken to address issues from a previous audit. The
Audit Outputs
audit does not include a full review, but only focuses on the
A positive, innovative or novel approach, technology or a
issues identified in the corrective action plan.
process to managing environmental issues in relation to a
particular Performance Area that improves performance
over and above the standard.
R
Greenhouse gas intensity Re-audit
Glossary
The quantity of greenhouse gases emitted, for example, per A new audit which is performed on an employment site that
unit of production. This is normalised data (as opposed to has already been audited under the same code of conduct or
absolute data), which allows comparison of greenhouse by the same customer.
gas emissions even if there are increases or decreases in
Appendices
production.
S
Grey water
(also referred to as grey water or gray water) Second party audit
Wastewater, typically generated from domestic-style An external audit of one organisation (e.g. supplier of
activities, for example washing machines, showers, bathtubs, products or services) performed by another organisation
hand washing, and sinks, together with some industrial (typically a customer for those products or services) to
processes, which is recycled/re-used and put to a different evaluate conformity with procedures or a defined standard.
use, for example, use in toilet flushing, cleaning or irrigation.
The grey water may require some treatment (physical,
biological or chemical) to ensure that it is of sufficient quality
for the new use. Grey water must NOT be used as potable
(drinking) water.
Stakeholder
employment site.
An individual or a group of individuals to whom a contractor
outsources the manufacture of a product or part-product.
issues and other findings from an audit, as well as corrective Examination of claims made about the actual observance of
actions and time frames for completing these. code or standard provisions by suppliers or of claims made
about the activities that a company undertakes to give effect
Supplier to its code. Verification implies that participating companies
must have internal auditing or monitoring systems in place.
Any contract partner which supplies the retailer/brand with
goods or services.
W
Audit Outputs
T Worker
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 1
GSCP Reference
Audit Request
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
This tool forms part of the GSCP set of reference tools The self assessment reference tool below is structured in
designed to provide a common interpretation of local and accordance with the GSCP Draft Environmental Framework
Preparation
international environmental standards and requirements and Requirements but is not designed to be used as a self audit
environmental reference codes (if available and applicable). against these Requirements. Buying companies or suppliers may
The Environmental Reference Requirements reflect a tailor the reference self-assessment to their specific by adding
common understanding of good environmental practice and or removing questions to meet their specific requirements.
are applicable to all raw material processing, agricultural,
Companies should communicate the following to employment
manufacturing and logistics sites in the supply chain. The
Audit Execution
sites when requesting this information:
Environmental Reference Requirements provide a model
Audit Outputs
Reference Requirements but can be adopted and tailored to
other codes of environmental practice. • process and timeframe for updating the self-assessment;
Glossary
• a supplier or employment sites as an aid to their own or No.
risk reviews and/or preparation for their own self audit
programmes; and
• an auditor to focus on site investigation on high risk areas.
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
Reference Self-Assessment
Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
Company Overview
Audit Request
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
Employment site name
Full address
Preparation
Country
Audit Execution
Name of person completing
Audit Outputs
Email address of person completing
Glossary
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Industry sector:
Principal products:
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
What age are the buildings on-site (if known)?
Preparation
If yes, please name them
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
North:
South:
East:
Audit Outputs
West:
Glossary
wetlands or sites of special scientific interest?
If yes, please describe
1.1 Does your site have a policy defining its approach to environmental Yes No
management?
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
1.3 Does your site have a dedicated manager who is responsible for Yes No
environmental issues?
Preparation
1.5 Does your site have a system or process for assessing environmental risks Yes No
Audit Execution
processes or activities?
1.6 Does your site set environmental objectives and targets to improve Yes No
environmental performance (e.g. reductions in water use, reductions
in energy use, reductions in wastes generated)?
If yes, please provide details
Audit Outputs
1.7 Does your site have a system in place that will alert relevant personnel Yes No
to changes in any applicable environmental laws?
Glossary
1.8 Does your site have defined standards for suppliers (e.g. suppliers Yes No
of services, contractors, raw material suppliers) that prescribed expected
levels of environmental performance?
If yes, please attach a copy
Appendices
1.9 Does your site have a procedure in place to evaluate and select suppliers Yes No
(e.g. suppliers of services, contractors, raw material suppliers) based on
their ability to meet the standards mentioned in Q1.8?
If yes, please attach a copy
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
1.11 Does your site have procedures in place to control the way work is done Yes No
or activities are completed that address environmental issues?
Audit Request
1.13 Are all workers (including temporary workers) trained on relevant Yes No
environmental matters and how they, as individuals, may impact
the environment?
Preparation
1.15 Does your site have records of the names of all personnel trained Yes No
and the dates they were trained?
Audit Execution
1.16 Are visitors provided with any instructions or information in relation Yes No N/A
1.17 Are contractors/third party workers provided with training in relation Yes No N/A
to environmental matters and site environmental procedures?
1.18 Does your site have a process for periodically reviewing its environmental Yes No
performance?
Audit Outputs
If yes, please describe
Glossary
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
2.1 What energy sources does your site use (e.g. mains electricity, locally Sources:
generated electricity, coal, oil, gas etc.)?
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
Please explain what they are and what they are used for
2.2 Does your site purchase any energy from renewable sources Yes No
Audit Request
2.3 Does your site have systems or procedures in place that seek to reduce
the site’s environmental impact from:
Preparation
2.4 Does your site provide training to relevant personnel in relation to:
• Energy? Yes No N/A
• Transport? Yes No N/A
Audit Execution
2.5 Does your site monitor and track energy consumption? Yes No N/A
If yes, please specify how it tracks energy use and provide approximate
consumption figures for the energy sources listed in 2.1 on an annual
basis/12 month period
Audit Outputs
2.6 Is your site part of a recognised compliance scheme for greenhouse gas Yes No N/A
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
2.7 Has your site set any targets in relation to increase efficiency of:
• Energy use? Yes No N/A
• Transport use? Yes No N/A
• Greenhouse gas (GHG) generation? Yes No N/A
Appendices
If yes, how often are these undertaken and when was the most recent audit? How often:
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
2.9 Is your site required to monitor or calculate energy and/or GHG emissions Yes No N/A
to demonstrate compliance with applicable permits?
2.10 Does your site monitor or routinely assess emissions of GHGs associated Yes No N/A
with site processes/activities, fuel use for on-site or off-site transportation,
agricultural activities etc.?
2.11 Does your site monitor or routinely assess emissions of fluorinated-gases Yes No N/A
(F-gases)?
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
3.1 What sources of water are used at your site (e.g. mains drinking water, Sources:
mains process water, borehole abstraction, surface water abstraction etc.)?
Audit Request
3.2 If your site uses water abstracted from on-site boreholes or from rivers, Yes No N/A
streams, lakes etc. does it require a permit or licence for this activity?
If yes, are there limits and/or conditions associated with this permit/licence? Yes No N/A
Preparation
3.4 Does your site provide training to relevant personnel in relation to water use? Yes No N/A
3.5 Has your site set any targets in relation to reducing water consumption? Yes No N/A
3.6 Does your site monitor and track water consumption? Yes No
If yes, please specify how it tracks water use and provide approximate
Audit Execution
consumption figures for all water sources on an annual basis/12 month period
3.7 Does your site conduct water audits (or other similar exercises) to identify Yes No
Audit Outputs
where water is being used, whether there are any leaks, whether water is
being wasted etc.?
Glossary
3.8 Does your site use ‘grey’ water? (e.g. water typically generated from Yes No
domestic-style activities, for example washing machines, showers,
bathtubs, hand washing, and sinks, together with some industrial processes)
and recycled on-site)
Appendices
3.9 Is your site free from any fines, prosecution or warning by the regulators Yes No
in relation to water use?
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
4. Wastewater / Effluent
4.4 Does your site treat wastewater/effluent prior to off-site discharge? Yes No N/A
4.5 Does your site hold the necessary licence or permit for discharging Yes No N/A
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
4.6 If your site does have a permit/licence, has your site been fully in Yes No N/A
Audit Outputs
4.8 Does your site have systems or procedures in place that address wastewater Yes No N/A
generation and management?
4.9 Does your site provide training to relevant personnel in relation Yes No N/A
Appendices
to wastewater management?
4.10 Has your site set any targets in relation to reducing the volume Yes No N/A
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
of wastewater generated?
4.11 Is your site free from fines, prosecution or warneing by the regulators in Yes No
relation to wastewater management?
If not, please provide details (including reason for fine/prosecution/warning,
the date on which it occurred, the cost of any fine/details of any custodial
sentence or restriction on site activities and whether the matter has been
resolved or is ongoing)
introduction
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Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
5.1 What are the main point source emissions to air at your site Sources:
(point source emissions are those which discharge via a chimney, stack,
Audit Request
5.2 What are the main fugitive emissions to air at your site (fugitive emissions Sources:
are those which are not controlled (e.g. emissions from a plating bath into
the general factory atmosphere and/or unplanned emissions, e.g. leaks from
equipment, pipes etc.)?
Preparation
5.3 Are there abatement or pollution prevention devices (e.g. filters, scrubbers) Yes No N/A
on point source emissions to air?
If so, please describe the abatement techniques employed at the site
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
5.4 Does your site hold the necessary licences or permits for emissions to air? Yes No N/A
If so, please provide brief details
5.5 If your site does have a permit/licence, has your site been fully Yes No N/A
Audit Outputs
in compliance with the requirements and conditions of the permit/licence
for the last three years?
5.7 Does your site have an inventory of equipment on-site that contains ozone Yes No N/A Glossary
depleting substances (ODSs) (e.g. air conditioning equipment that contains
refrigerants)?
Appendices
If so, please describe the types and quantities of refrigerants/ODSs present on-site
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
…
Risk Assessment System
5. Emissions to Air
5.10 Does your site have systems or procedures in place that manage:
• Emissions to air? Yes No N/A
Preparation
5.11 Does your site provide training to relevant personnel in relation to:
• Emissions to air? Yes No N/A
• ODSs? Yes No N/A
Audit Execution
5.13 Is your site free from any fines, prosecution or warning by the regulators Yes No
in relation to emissions to air or ODSs?
If not, please provide details (including reason for fine/prosecution/warning,
Audit Outputs
the date on which it occurred, the cost of any fine/details of any custodial
sentence or restriction on site activities and whether the matter has been
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
resolved or is ongoing)
Glossary
Appendices
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
6.2 What are the main non-hazardous waste your site generates?
Please list
Preparation
6.3 Does your site have systems or procedures in place that address waste Yes No N/A
management?
6.4 Are site waste audits undertaken (to identify what wastes are generated Yes No
where and to identify what opportunities there may be for reducing waste
or improving the management of waste)?
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
If yes, how often are these undertaken and when was the most recent audit? How often:
Audit Outputs
If yes, please provide details
Glossary
6.7 Are hazardous wastes separated from non-hazardous waste streams? Yes No N/A
If yes, please describe
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
6.8 Does your site treat wastes on-site prior to off-site disposal? Yes No
If yes, are you required to have a licence or permit do undertake this activity? Yes No N/A
…
Risk Assessment System
6. Waste Management
If yes, is there a choice of which waste contractor company your site can use? Yes No N/A
Audit Request
6.12 If external waste contractors are used, does your site undertake regular Yes No N/A
checks/audits of those contractors?
6.13 Are waste contractors required to be licensed by a regulator or local Yes No N/A
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
authority?
6.14 Does your site retain copies of waste contractor licences and permits Yes No N/A
Preparation
on-site?
6.15 Does your site retain records of off-site transfer, treatment and disposal Yes No N/A
of your wastes?
If yes, how often are these retained for? Retention period:
Audit Execution
If no, does your site know the final destination of its wastes? Yes No N/A
6.16 Does your site provide training to relevant personnel in relation to waste Yes No N/A
management?
6.17 Has your site set any targets in relation to reducing the volume of waste Yes No N/A
Audit Outputs
generated?
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
6.18 Is your site free from any fines, prosecution or warning by the regulators Yes No
in relation to waste issues?
If not, please provide details (including reason for fine/prosecution/warning,
the date on which it occurred, the cost of any fine/details of any custodial
sentence or restriction on site activities and whether the matter has been
Glossary
resolved or is ongoing)
Appendices
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
7.1 Does your site store, use or handle hazardous or potentially hazardous Yes No
substances?
Audit Request
If yes, does it maintain an inventory of those hazardous substances? Yes No N/A
7.2 Does your site have systems or procedures in place that address pollution Yes No N/A
prevention and the management of hazardous and potentially hazardous
substances?
Preparation
7.3 Is your site required to hold a licence or permit for the hazardous substances Yes No N/A
present on-site?
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
7.4 Has your site assessed whether any substances stored, used or handled on-site Yes No N/A
are prohibited by national or international laws or protocols?
7.5 Does your site maintain up to date safety data sheets (or similar) Yes No N/A
for all hazardous substances used on-site?
Audit Outputs
7.6 Does your site provide training to relevant personnel in relation Yes No N/A
to the management and use of hazardous substances?
7.8 Has your site assessed whether polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are present Yes No N/A
Glossary
in equipment on-site?
…
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
…
Risk Assessment System
7.9 Has your site assessed whether asbestos-containing materials are present Yes No N/A
on-site?
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
7.10 If asbestos containing materials are present, has the site compiled an Yes No N/A
asbestos register (or similar)?
If yes, please provide details
Audit Request
7.11 Are there any above ground or underground bulk storage tanks present Yes No
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
on-site?
If yes, please describe number, size and substance stored
Preparation
7.12 If above ground tanks are present on-site, are they provided with secondary Yes No N/A
containment or equivalent?
7.13 Does your site conduct integrity testing of bulk storage tanks? Yes No N/A
Audit Execution
If yes, please describe the frequency of testing and when the last testing
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
7.14 Does your site have emergency spill response (e.g. spill kits, spill response Yes No N/A
team etc.)?
If yes, please describe
Audit Outputs
7.15 Have there been any instances of incidents/spills of hazardous or potentially Yes No
hazardous materials on-site (or of off-site incidents caused by your site’s
activities) in the past two years?
Glossary
7.16 Is your site free from any fines, prosecution or warning by the regulators Yes No
Appendices
resolved or is ongoing)
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
8.1 Have there been any major incidents at your site in the past 2 years? Yes No
If yes, please provide details
Audit Request
given the potential for a major incident?
8.3 Does your site have a site emergency response plan and/or procedure? Yes No N/A
8.5 Are local communities or emergency services involved in the development Yes No N/A
Preparation
or review of the plan?
8.6 Has your site communicated the emergency response plan to those parties Yes No N/A
that could be impacted?
If yes, please provide brief details
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
8.7 Are drills or major incident scenarios practised? Yes No N/A
8.8 Is your site free from any fines, prosecution or warning by the regulators Yes No
in relation to any major incidents on-site or caused by the site?
If not, please provide details (including reason for fine/prosecution/warning,
Audit Outputs
the date on which it occurred, the cost of any fine/details of any custodial
sentence or restriction on site activities and whether the matter has been
resolved or is ongoing)
Glossary
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
9.1 Has your site assessed the site sensitivity and potential pathways and Yes No
receptors in the vicinity of the employment site?
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
9.2 Has your site identified any known impact to soil and groundwater Yes No
from current activities/operations (is there soil and/or groundwater
contamination)?
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
9.3 Has your site undertaken any previous intrusive soil and groundwater Yes No Not required
investigations?
If yes, please provide brief details of the extent and nature of the investigations
Preparation
9.4 If yes to 9.3 has any soil and groundwater contamination been identified? Yes No N/A
9.5 Is your site aware of any legal requirements in relation to contaminated Yes No
Audit Execution
land?
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
If yes, does this include an awareness of the requirements in relation to the Yes No N/A
assessment, investigation, remediation and soil and groundwater pollution
prevention?
9.6 Does your site provide training to relevant personnel in relation Yes No N/A
to the prevention of soil and groundwater pollution?
Audit Outputs
9.7 Is your site free from any fines, prosecution or warning by the regulators Yes No
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Appendix 1: GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
10.1 Has your site assessed the potential impacts of the site operations Yes No
on designated protected areas or the ecosystem (plants, animals
10.2 Is your site aware of the legal requirements in relation to land use Yes No
and biodiversity that apply to the employment site?
Audit Request
10.3 Is the site required to hold a permit/licence in relation to land use Yes No
or biodiversity issues?
Preparation
10.5 Has your site implemented any control measures to minimise impacts Yes No
to biodiversity?
If yes, please provide brief details
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
10.6 Does your site provide training to relevant personnel on land use Yes No
and biodiversity issues?
10.7 Does your site assess land use implications and legal requirements when Yes No
planning major on-site projects or expansions?
Audit Outputs
10.8 Is your site free from any fines, prosecution or warning by the regulators Yes No
Glossary
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
11. Nuisance
11.1 Has your site identified where there is the potential for nuisance could be Yes No
caused by on-site operations?
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
11.2 If yes to 11.1, what sources (e.g. noise, dust, odour, visual, litter) of potential Types of nuisance:
nuisance has your site identified and assessed?
Audit Request
11.3 Has your site assessed potential nuisance that might arise from non-routine Yes No
or out of hours’ operations/activities?
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
11.4 Does your site have systems or procedures in place that manage/reduce Yes No
the potential for the site to cause nuisance?
Preparation
11.5 Has your site received any instances of nuisance or complaints relating to Yes No
on-site activities in the last 2 years?
If yes, please provide details as to the nature and extent of these
11.6 Does your site provide training to relevant personnel in how to reduce Yes No
the potential for nuisance and complaints?
11.7 Is your site free from any fines, prosecution or warning by the regulators in Yes No
relation to nuisance or complaints?
If not, please provide details (including reason for fine/prosecution/warning,
Audit Outputs
the date on which it occurred, the cost of any fine/details of any custodial
sentence or restriction on site activities and whether the matter has been
resolved or is ongoing)
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Glossary
END OF QUESTIONNAIRE
Appendices
introduction
Appendix 2
GSCP Reference
Audit Request
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
This tool forms part of the GSCP set of reference tools Recommended timeframe:
designed to provide a common interpretation of local and
Preparation
• the auditor should supply the pre-audit employment site
international environmental standards and requirements and
profile questionnaire to the employment site within five
environmental reference codes (if available and applicable).
working days of the audit being confirmed;
The Environmental Reference Requirements reflect a
common understanding of good environmental practice and • the pre-audit employment site profile questionnaire should
are applicable to all raw material processing, agricultural, be completed and returned to the auditor two weeks from
manufacturing and logistics sites in the supply chain. The the date of the request being made;
Audit Execution
Environmental Reference Requirements provide a model
• if an audit is requested and scheduled in less than two
Audit Outputs
Reference Requirements but can be adopted and tailored to Note on updates
other codes of environmental practice.
Glossary
• prepare relevant briefing materials (industry or country- areas:
specific); 1. company Overview;
• plan the assessment, for example the required number of 2. employment Site Details;
audit days;
Appendices
3. environmental Matters;
• focus the audit on priority or higher risk areas and topics.
4. subcontractor Details.
The audit company should communicate the following to
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
each employment site to be audited and any relevant parties, Where the employment site itself is the audit requestor, the
such as agents, in the supply chain: auditor should ensure that an agreement is in place with the
employment site to allow the auditor to communicate audit
• the importance of accuracy in completing in the pre-audit findings and any alert notifications to any buyers, brands or
employment site profile; retailers concerned.
• timeframe for completion of the pre-audit employment
site profile;
• to whom to send the completed pre-audit employment
site profile.
1. Company Overview
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
Where possible, the pre-audit employment site profile should detail the following overview of the company.
Company Overview
Audit Request
site to be audited:
Telephone number:
Fax number:
sites?
If yes, how many?
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Glossary
Appendices
introduction
Appendix 2: GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
2.1 Employment Site Contact Details
Full address:
Full address
Preparation
(in local language, if applicable):
Country
Audit Execution
Employment site telephone number:
Audit Outputs
Languages of the employment site
management:
Glossary
Key contact job title:
introduction
Appendix 2: GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
What is the employment site size?
Preparation
What age are the buildings on-site (if known)?
Audit Execution
Are there any other parties on site as tenants Yes No
or sub-tenants?
Audit Outputs
facilities and types:
South:
East:
Glossary
West:
…
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
…
Risk Assessment System
What is the location of the nearest surface water Name of water course:
courses? Distance and direction from site:
Use:
Official grade of water quality if applicable/known
Audit Execution
introduction
Appendix 2: GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
Industry sector:
Preparation
Main production processes:
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
Hazardous chemicals used on-site:
Audit Outputs
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Does your site use any of the following Yes No N/A
materials in its products (or their
components):
• Lead
• Mercury
Glossary
• Hexavalent chromium
• Cadmium
• Polybrominated biphenyls
• Polybrominated diphenyl ethers
Appendices
…
Risk Assessment System
condensers
year:
introduction
Appendix 2: GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
at the employment site:
Preparation
Language(s) spoken
Please detail the different native
languages of the workforce
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
Nationality of workers
Please detail the different nationalities
of the workforce
Audit Outputs
to perform any activities on-site?
If yes, please provide a brief overview
Glossary
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
3. Environmental Matters
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
Where possible, the pre-audit employment site profile should detail the following information relation to environmental
matters at the employment site.
Environmental permitting
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Energy
Audit Outputs
Coal Yes No
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
Timber Yes No
Other Yes No
(please specify)
introduction
Appendix 2: GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Groundwater Yes No
(from wells/boreholes)
Audit Request
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Surface water Yes No
(e.g. from river, lake, pond etc.)
Other Yes No
(please specify)
Preparation
Wastewater
Which of the following types and/or sources of wastewaters are generated at the facility?
Audit Execution
Process wastewater Yes No
Audit Outputs
(i.e. domestic wastewater)
Glossary
Oil or petrol interceptors Yes No N/A
…
Global Social Compliance Programme_11
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
introduction
…
Risk Assessment System
Emissions to air
on site?
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
Waste management
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
introduction
Appendix 2: GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
taken place in the past?
Preparation
If yes, please provide details
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
Hazardous materials
Audit Outputs
Are any wastes generated on-site Yes No N/A
which contain radioactive materials
Glossary
Is asbestos present on-site? Yes No N/A
…
Risk Assessment System
Have neighbours or the public complained about nuisance/visual impact from any of the following:
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
Noise Yes No
Litter Yes No
Dust Yes No
…
Glossary
Appendices
introduction
Appendix 2: GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
Have any intrusive investigations been Yes No
Preparation
and/or groundwater contamination
from neighbouring properties?
If yes, please describe
Audit Execution
Are regulatory authorities aware Yes No
Audit Outputs
any site remediation or clean-up
programme?
Glossary
Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
If yes, please provide details of previous audits: Date of audit Code or standard Auditing company/
audited against organisation
Preparation
completed?
Please detail outstanding corrective actions Issue found Corrective Timescale Person
and your expected completion date? action responsible
Audit Outputs
introduction
Appendix 2: GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
subcontracted by the employment site:
Preparation
Subcontractor details: Please complete the table below for each process subcontracted. Add more tables as required.
Subcontracted Process:
Process 1
Products involved:
Audit Execution
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
No. of subcontracting companies:
Audit Outputs
If yes, against which code of conduct/requirements?
Glossary
No. of subcontracting companies:
Subcontracted Product:
Process 3
Process:
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
Appendix 3
GSCP Reference
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
This tool forms part of the GSCP set of reference tools The reference AUDIT CHECKS have been designed to provide
designed to provide a common interpretation of local and auditors with the minimum requirements regarding audit
Preparation
international environmental standards and requirements and methodology and evidence gathering. The audit checks are
environmental reference codes (if available and applicable). structured around the 11 Performance Areas and include
The Environmental Reference Requirements reflect a guidance on:
common understanding of good environmental practice and
• physical employment site inspection;
are applicable to all raw material processing, agricultural,
manufacturing and logistics sites in the supply chain. The • employment site procedures and processes;
Audit Execution
definition)
Level 3:
9. Forward looking environmental strategy to drive leading practice
10. Environmental management and environmental performance targets are designed to improve or sustain the environment and local ecosystem, or global when
appropriate
11. Proactive engagement with relevant stakeholders to achieve significant performance improvement
12. Where relevant, commitment to voluntary standards
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
Evidence Gathering on Environmental Management System Notes
LEVEL 1
❒ Based on observations, the site has identified the significant impacts and aspects associated with the employment site
❒ Procedures that have been established to manage site aspects and impacts are being followed
LEVEL 1
❒ Environmental management policies and procedures are in place (e.g. written policies and procedures, employee
❒ The environmental management system includes a formal mechanism to remain up-to-date with applicable local legal
requirements (e.g. legal/regulatory register)
❒ The environmental management system outlines a member of management responsible for the coordination
of environmental management activities and outlines their roles and responsibilities
❒ Environmental management policies and procedures consider the significant aspects and impacts (negative
and positive) associated with the employment site
1.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Management is aware of, and understands, the significant aspects and impacts (negative and positive) associated
with the employment site
❒ Management describe the basic environmental management controls that have been implemented
❒ Policies and processes regarding environmental management are effectively communicated to workers
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
…
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources (including assigning a member of management responsible
for coordination of environmental management activities) to ensure that compliance with applicable laws
and regulations is maintained
LEVEL 2
❒ Information on environmental performance is made available to appropriate internal and external stakeholders
LEVEL 3
❒ Management promote a forward looking strategy to drive leading practice in environmental management
❒ Management understand how environmental management and environmental performance targets are designed
to improve or sustain the environment and local ecosystem, or global when appropriate
❒ The site actively engages with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to achieve significant performance
improvement
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with document checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
LEVEL 1
❒ Workers understand how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can impact the environment
❒ Key workers with environmental management responsibilities receive specific training as required
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
1.4 Document checks
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to environmental management are available and up to date
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to environmental
management, the documentation is retained on file for the required period of time
❒ Relevant management are assigned with environmental roles and responsibilities and these are documented
LEVEL 2
❒ The EMS includes documented environmental risk assessments, objectives and targets
❒ All personnel (management, workers and their representatives, contractors) are engaged in the management
of environmental issues according to their function.
❒ Communications with internal and/or external stakeholders include discussion around environmental performance
…
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
LEVEL 3
❒ The employment site has identified environmental management and environmental performance targets designed
to improve or sustain the environment and local ecosystem, or global when appropriate
❒ The employment site has investigated and used, if relevant, alternative water sources with lower ecosystem impact
❒ The employment site has established a forward looking strategy to drive leading practice
❒ Communications with appropriate stakeholders through the value chain show that achieving significant performance
improvement has been discussed
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Level 1:
1. Meet legal requirements
2. Relevant, up-to-date permits are held and compliance maintained
3. Tracking of energy consumption/calculation of GHG emissions including fuel use for on-site transport
Level 2:
4. Formal systems and processes in place to manage and audit energy use and GHG emissions as per the site EMS
5. Energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (including on-site vehicle emissions) are made available to appropriate internal and external stakeholders
6. Renewable energy use targets and GHG emission reduction targets (normalised) are established/reviewed at least on an annual basis to drive continuous improvement
7. Demonstrable reduction in energy (normalised; please refer to the guidance section for further definition)
8. Targets include on-site vehicle emissions reduction, which are reviewed on an annual basis to drive continuous improvement
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
LEVEL 1
❒ Based on observations, the site has established procedures to manage energy use, transport and greenhouse gases
are being followed (e.g. management of substances, activities etc.)
LEVEL 1
❒ Policies and procedures in relation to energy use, transport and GHG emissions management have been established
and implemented (e.g. written policies and procedures, employee handbook, induction training, etc.)
❒ Formal systems and processes in place to manage and audit energy use and GHG emissions as per the site EMS
2.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations concerning energy use, transport and GHG emissions and compliance
❒ Policies and processes regarding energy use, transport and GHG emissions are effectively communicated to workers
❒ Management is aware of how energy consumption and how the calculation of GHG emissions is tracked
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources to ensure that compliance with applicable laws and regulations
is maintained
…
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
LEVEL 2
❒ The management are driving continuous improvement and reviewing the on-site transport reduction emission target
on an annual basis
❒ Management are proactively driving continuous improvement through reviewing renewable energy use and GHG
emission reduction targets on an annual basis
❒ The employment site ensures energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (including on-site vehicle emissions)
data is made available to relevant internal and external stakeholders
❒ The employment site demonstrates, where appropriate, improvement in energy use performance and that
it is achieving renewable energy use and GHG emission reduction targets
❒ For energy sources with lower GHG intensity, management understands the concept of sustainable energy
consumption within availability of local energy resources
❒ Management understand what recognised international standard practice is in relation to energy and fuel efficiency
and GHG emission targets for their sector/geography and have set site targets that exceed those practices
❒ Management are proactively driving continuous improvement in the entire transport fleet through reviewing fuel
consumption and vehicle emission reduction targets on an annual basis
❒ The site actively engages with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to identify ways to reduce GHG
emissions
❒ Management actively promotes the implementation of leading practice greenhouse gas intensity mechanisms
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with document checks
and management interviews. They confirm the following:
LEVEL 1
❒ Workers have a general understanding of how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can impact energy use
and greenhouse gas emissions
❒ Key workers are aware of energy use and greenhouse gas emissions permit/licence requirements, where applicable
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
…
❒ Workers receive training on energy use and greenhouse gas emission issues at induction, where appropriate
❒ Key workers with energy use, transport and greenhouse gas emissions management responsibilities receive specific
training as required
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, energy use, transport and greenhouse gas emissions procedures, where
appropriate
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to energy use, transport and GHGs are available
and up to date
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to energy use,
transport and GHGs, these are held on file for the required period of time
❒ Procedures that address energy use, transport and GHGs at the site are made available to relevant employment site
personnel
❒ Energy consumption/calculation of GHG emissions including fuel use for on-site transport data is recorded, tracked
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
and documented
❒ An inventory of main point sources emissions to air is maintained. The site has also considered the potential for
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
fugitive emissions
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
LEVEL 2
❒ Reviews of renewable energy use targets and GHG emission reduction targets (normalised) undertaken and available
❒ Targets in place to phase-out use of specific types of ODS, such as CFCs, halons, TCE, CCl4 in line with recognised
international standard practice
❒ Provide a short summary as to how the employment site has made demonstrable achievement of reducing energy
❒ Provide a short summary as to how the employment site has made demonstrable achievement of meeting
or exceeding air quality improvement targets (normalised)
LEVEL 3
❒ The employment site has confirmed that energy consumption levels are sustainable (in relation to the availability
of local energy sources)
❒ The employment site has implemented leading practice mechanisms to reduce GHG intensity
❒ Air quality improvement targets are stretching and are being achieved
❒ Communications with appropriate stakeholders through the value chain show that identifying ways to reduce GHG
emissions have been discussed
❒ Energy and fuel efficiency and GHG emission targets are stretching and are being achieved
❒ The employment site has documented the specifications of the most environmentally efficient combinations of vehicle
types, fuels and technologies for distribution fleet
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
3. Water use
Employment site requirements at each performance level:
Level 1:
1. Meet legal requirements
2. Relevant, up-to-date permits are held and compliance maintained
3. Measurement of water consumption is undertaken
Level 2:
4. Formal systems and processes in place to manage and audit water consumption as per the site EMS
5. Water consumption data are made available to relevant internal and external stakeholders
6. Water consumption efficiency targets are reviewed on an annual basis to drive continuous improvement
7. Demonstrable achievement of water efficiency targets (normalised)
Level 3:
8. Where relevant, water consumption level is sustainable within local ecosystem limits and water catchment area
9. Investigation of and use, if relevant, of alternative water sources with lower ecosystem impact
10. Demonstrable achievement of stretching water efficiency targets beyond recognised international standard practice
11. Leading practice water efficiency mechanisms in place, including re-use, recovery and recycling
12. Engagement with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to improve water efficiency
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
Evidence Gathering on Water Use Notes
LEVEL 1
❒ Employment site operations and activities observed are in line with legal requirements relating to water use
(including water abstraction permit requirements)
LEVEL 1
❒ Policies and procedures in relation to water use management established and implemented (e.g. written policies and
procedures, employee handbook, induction training, etc.)
❒ Formal systems and processes in place in relation to water use management, as per the site EMS
3.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations concerning water use and compliance
❒ Policies and processes regarding water use are effectively communicated to workers
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources to ensure that compliance with applicable laws and regulations
is maintained
LEVEL 2
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
…
…
❒ Management are proactively driving continuous improvement through reviewing water consumption efficiency
targets on an annual basis
❒ The employment site ensures water consumption data is made available to relevant internal and external
stakeholders
❒ The employment site demonstrates, where appropriate, improvement in water use and performance and that
it is achieving water efficiency targets
LEVEL 3
❒ Management understands the concept of sustainable water consumption within the local ecosystem limits and water
catchment area
❒ Management actively investigate and uses, if appropriate, alternative water sources with lower ecosystem impact
❒ Management understand what recognised international standard practice is in relation to setting water efficiency
targets for their sector/geography and have set site targets that exceed those practices
❒ The site actively engages with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to improve water efficiency
❒ Management actively promotes the implementation of leading practice water efficiency mechanisms including,
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with document checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
LEVEL 1
❒ Workers understand how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can impact water use
❒ Key workers are aware of water use/consumption permit/licence requirements, where applicable
❒ Key workers with water use/consumption management responsibilities receive specific training as required
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, water use procedures, where appropriate
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
3.4 Document checks
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to water use are available and up to date
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to water use/
consumption, the documentation is retained on file for the required period of time
❒ Procedures that address water use issues at the site are made available to relevant employment site personnel
LEVEL 2
❒ Reviews of water consumption efficiency targets are undertaken and are available
❒ The employment site has made demonstrable achievement of meeting or exceeding water efficiency targets (normalised)
LEVEL 3
❒ Site has identified whether water use/consumption is sustainable (in relation to the local ecosystem limits and water
catchment area)
❒ Site has investigated and used, if relevant, alternative water sources with lower ecosystem impact
❒ Site has implemented leading practice mechanisms to promote reducing water use/consumption
❒ Communications with appropriate stakeholders through the value chain show that water efficiency has been discussed
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
4. Wastewater/effluent
Employment site requirements at each performance level:
Level 1:
1. Meet legal requirements
2. Relevant, up-to-date permits are held and compliance maintained
3. Drainage plan in place with a general understanding of wastewater flow direction and discharge points
4. Identification of the contaminants, their flow direction and potential impact
Level 2:
5. Formal systems and processes in place to manage wastewater effluent as per the site EMS
6. Basic on-site wastewater treatment in place to achieve improvements in wastewater quality or connection to off-site wastewater treatment system
7. Regular wastewater quality testing/ monitoring is undertaken to ensure ongoing compliance with permitted effluent limits and as per the site’s EMS
8. Wastewater quality data are made available to relevant internal and external stakeholders
9. Wastewater quality and volume improvement targets are reviewed on an annual basis to drive continuous improvement
10. Demonstrable improvement in wastewater quality
Level 3:
11. Wastewater effluent quality and discharge volume are sustainable in the context of local receptors and ecosystem limits
12. Leading practice wastewater treatment in place
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
13. Leading practice mechanisms in place to improve quality of wastewater discharged to local environment, including reuse of grey water
14. Demonstrable achievement of stretching wastewater effluent quality improvement and volume reduction targets (normalised) beyond recognised international
standard practice
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
15. Engagement with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to improve wastewater effluent quality
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
Evidence Gathering on Wastewater / Effluent Notes
LEVEL 1
❒ Based on observations, sources of wastewater generated across the employment site have been identified
❒ Based on observation, confirmed that wastewaters are not discharging direct to unprotected ground and are directed
to a drainage system
❒ Based on observation, sumps/pits receiving wastewater are in good condition and of sound integrity
❒ Is wastewater/effluent directed to a wastewater/effluent treatment plant or undergoes treatment prior to discharge
❒ Procedures established to manage wastewater/wastewater discharges are being followed (e.g. management
of wastewater, activities etc.)
LEVEL 2
❒ Check whether basic on-site wastewater treatment is in place to achieve improvements in wastewater quality
or connection to off-site wastewater treatment system
LEVEL 1
❒ Policies and procedures in relation to wastewater/effluent management have been established and implemented
(e.g. written policies and procedures, employee handbook, induction training, etc.)
❒ Regular wastewater quality testing/monitoring is undertaken to ensure ongoing compliance with permitted effluent
limits and as per the site’s EMS
…
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
4.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Management describe how the employment site identifies the contaminants, their flow direction and potential
impact in relation to wastewater/effluent discharges from the employment site
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources to ensure that compliance with applicable laws and regulations
is maintained
LEVEL 2
❒ Management are proactively driving continuous improvement through reviewing wastewater quality and volume
improvement targets on an annual basis
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ The employment site ensures wastewater quality data is made available to relevant internal and external stakeholders
❒ The employment site demonstrates, where appropriate, improvement in wastewater quality and performance
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
LEVEL 3
❒ Management understands the concept of sustainable wastewater effluent quality and discharge within the local
ecosystem limits and local receptors
❒ Management understand what recognised international standard practice is in relation to setting wastewater effluent
quality improvement targets and volume reduction targets (normalised) for their sector/geography and have set site
targets that exceed those practices
❒ Management understand leading practice wastewater treatment and this has been implemented at the site
❒ The site actively engages with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to improve wastewater effluent quality
❒ Management actively promotes the implementation of leading practice mechanisms to improve the quality
of wastewater discharged to local environment, including reuse of grey water
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with Document checks
and management interviews. They confirm the following:
LEVEL 1
❒ Workers understand how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can impact wastewater/effluent quality
and discharge volumes
❒ Key workers with wastewater/effluent management responsibilities receive specific training as required
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, wastewater/effluent procedures, where appropriate
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to wastewater/effluent discharge are available and up to date
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to wastewater/
effluent, the documentation is retained on file for the required period of time
❒ Procedures that address wastewater/effluent issues at the site are made available to relevant employment site personnel
❒ The employment site has identified and documented the contaminants, their flow direction and potential impact
associated with wastewater/effluent discharges leaving the site
❒ An up-to-date drainage plan of the employment site is available and confirms a general understanding of wastewater
flow direction and discharge points
…
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
LEVEL 2
❒ Reviews of wastewater quality and volume improvement targets are undertaken and are available
❒ The employment site has made demonstrable achievement of meeting or exceeding wastewater quality and volume
improvement targets (normalised)
LEVEL 3
❒ The employment site has identified whether wastewater effluent quality and discharge volume is sustainable
(in relation to the local ecosystem and local receptors limits)
❒ The site has implemented leading practice mechanisms to promote reducing water use/consumption
❒ Wastewater effluent quality improvement and volume reduction targets are stretching and are being achieved
❒ Communications with appropriate stakeholders through the value chain show that wastewater effluent quality
has been discussed
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
5. Emissions to air
Employment site requirements at each performance level:
Level 1:
1. General: Meet legal requirements (including monitoring)
2. General: Relevant, up-to-date permits are held and compliance maintained
3. General: An inventory of main point source emissions to air is maintained and site has considered potential for fugitive emissions
4. Ozone Depleting Substances: Meet legal requirements
5. Ozone Depleting Substances: Relevant, up-to-date permits are held and compliance maintained
6. Ozone Depleting Substances: An inventory of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) is maintained
7. Ozone Depleting Substances: Regular maintenance of ODS containing equipment
Level 2:
8. General: Formal systems and processes in place to manage emissions to air as per the site EMS
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
LEVEL 1
❒ Based on observation, site has identified point and fugitive sources of emissions to air
❒ Based on observation, no abnormal emissions to air are discernible across the site and at the site perimeter
❒ Based on observation, site has identified that equipment present on-site that has the potential to contain ozone-
depleting substances (e.g. chillers, air conditioning units, etc.)
❒ Procedures established to manage emissions to air and ozone-depleting substances are being followed
(e.g. management of emission sources, equipment, activities etc.)
❒ Emissions to air abatement equipment has been checked to ensure that it is in appropriate working order
❒ Equipment likely to contain ozone-depleting substances has been checked to ensure that it is in appropriate working order
LEVEL 1
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
❒ Policies and procedures in relation to emissions to air and ozone-depleting substances have been established
and implemented (e.g. written policies and procedures, employee handbook, induction training, etc.)
❒ Formal systems and processes in place to manage emissions to air as per the site EMS
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
5.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations (including monitoring requirements) concerning emissions to air
compliance
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations (including monitoring requirements) concerning ozone-depleting
substances compliance
❒ Policies and processes regarding emissions to air and ozone-depleting substances are effectively communicated
to workers
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources to ensure that compliance with applicable laws and regulations
is maintained
❒ Management actively promotes or endorses proactive ODS management (including leak detection and maintenance)
❒ Management are proactively driving continuous improvement through reviewing air quality improvement targets
on an annual basis
❒ The employment site ensures air emissions quality data is made available to relevant internal and external stakeholders
❒ The employment site demonstrates, where appropriate, reduction, control and substitution of ODS targets
LEVEL 3
❒ Management understands the concept of sustainable emissions to air within the local ecosystem limits
❒ Management understand what recognised international standard practice is in relation to setting air quality
improvement targets for their sector/geography and have set site targets that exceed those practices
❒ Management understand leading practice abatement technologies to minimise emissions to air or efforts to reduce
emissions at source and this has been implemented at the site
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ The site actively engages with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to reduce emissions to air
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
…
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with document checks
and management interviews. They confirm the following:
LEVEL 1
❒ Workers understand how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can impact emissions to air
❒ Key workers are aware of emissions to air and ozone-depleting substances permit/licence requirements, where applicable
❒ Workers receive training on emissions to air and ozone-depleting substances issues at induction, where appropriate
❒ Key workers with emissions to air and ozone-depleting substances management responsibilities receive specific
training as required
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, emissions to air and ozone-depleting substances procedures, where appropriate
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to emissions to air are available and up to date
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to ozone-depleting substances are available and up to date
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to emissions to air
and ozone-depleting substances, these are held on file for the required period of time
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
❒ Procedures that address emissions to air and ozone-depleting substances at the site are made available to relevant
employment site personnel
❒ An inventory of main point sources emissions to air is maintained. The site has also considered the potential for
fugitive emissions
❒ Regular maintenance records are available for the regular maintenance of ODS containing equipment
❒ Competency records of external ODS servicing contractors are held on file, where required
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
LEVEL 2
❒ Reviews of air quality improvement targets are undertaken and are available
❒ The employment site has demonstrated proactive ODS leak detection and maintenance of ODS-containing equipment,
above legal requirements
❒ Targets are in place to phase-out use of specific types of ODS, such as CFCs, halons, TCE, CCl4 in line with recognised
international standard practice
❒ The employment site has made demonstrable achievement of reducing, controlling and substituting ODSs
❒ The employment site has made demonstrable achievement of meeting or exceeding air quality improvement targets
LEVEL 3
❒ The employment site has identified whether emissions to air are sustainable (in relation to the local ecosystem limits)
❒ The employment site has implemented leading practice abatement technologies to minimise emissions to air
or efforts to reduce emissions at source
❒ Air quality improvement targets are stretching and are being achieved
❒ Communications with appropriate stakeholders through the value chain show that reducing emissions to air has been
discussed
❒ The employment site has performed additional and proactive emissions monitoring beyond legal requirements
❒ The employment site has documented the complete phase-out of all ODS (beyond legal requirements)
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
6. Waste management
Employment site requirements at each performance level:
Level 1:
1. Meet legal requirements
2. Relevant, up-to-date permits are held and compliance maintained
3. Regular checks that waste contractors have appropriate permits are undertaken
4. Hazardous and non-hazardous waste is segregated and employee awareness and training provided on handling and segregation of wastes
5. Inventory/management/storage/transportation procedures for hazardous waste streams are in place
6. Records of on-site and off-site waste disposal/treatment maintained
7. No on-site waste burning/or uncontrolled waste landfilling is undertaken
Level 2:
8. Formal systems and processes in place to manage waste generation, storage, transportation and disposal as per the site EMS including waste minimisation audit
and consideration of waste hierarchy principles
9. Evaluation of waste management contractors (suitability, disposal/treatment methods)
10. Engagement with suppliers to identify waste avoidance/reduction/recycling/reuse opportunities
11. Segregation of waste streams in line with recognised international standard practice
12. Monitoring and measurement of waste generated and recycled with data available to relevant internal and external stakeholders
13. Waste reduction and recycling targets are reviewed at least on an annual basis to drive continuous improvement
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
15. Waste disposal method and volume is sustainable within local operating environment and availability of waste treatment and disposal facilities
16. Leading practices in place to minimise resource/virgin material use and achieve waste reduction/recycling/energy from waste
17. Demonstrable achievement of stretching waste reduction/recycling targets beyond recognised international standard practice
18. Engagement with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to identify waste avoidance/reduction/recycling/reuse/energy from waste measures
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
Evidence Gathering on Waste Management notes
LEVEL 1
❒ Containers and/or storage areas located externally are covered to prevent rain water ingress
❒ Containers of hazardous waste are labelled with their contents and hazard characteristics
❒ Surfaces of waste storage areas are in good condition to prevent spillage or leaking of waste materials
❒ Waste materials reported as being recycled are being identified and separated for on-site or off-site recycling
❒ Spill response materials/equipment (e.g. granules etc.) are available in close proximity to containers of liquid wastes
❒ Review a number of waste management activities to check whether site waste management procedures are being
implemented
❒ Try to identify the physical location where waste documentation is being stored
…
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
6.2 Employment site procedures and processes
LEVEL 1
❒ Policies and procedures regarding waste management is in place (e.g. written policies and procedures, employee
handbook, induction training, etc.)
❒ Formal systems and processes are in place to manage waste generation, storage, transportation, and disposal
as per the site EMS
6.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations concerning waste management and compliance
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations
is maintained
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ Management have nominated key workers to undertake regular checks on waste contractor permits/licences
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
LEVEL 2
❒ A nominated person has evaluated the suitability and disposal/treatment methods of waste management contractors
❒ The employment site engages with suppliers to identify waste avoidance/recycling/reuse opportunities
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
LEVEL 3
❒ Management understand the concept of sustainable waste disposal methods and whether current site waste
generation is sustainable
❒ Management is actively promoting or endorsing site implementation of leading practices in relation to, for example,
minimising virgin material use and waste generation and increasing the percentage of site waste materials that are
recycled and/or the generation of energy from waste
❒ Management understand what recognised international standard practice is in relation to waste reduction/recycling
for their sector/geography and have set site targets that exceed those practices
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with Document checks
and management interviews. They confirm the following:
LEVEL 1
❒ Key workers with waste management responsibilities receive specific training on waste management activities
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, hazardous waste inventory/management/storage/disposal procedures
LEVEL 1
❒ Documentation of off-site waste disposal/treatment is completed accurately and contains all relevant information
as required by applicable laws and regulations
❒ Regular checks that waste contractors have appropriate permits/licences have been undertaken
…
…
❒ Training materials (e.g. induction records, training matrix etc.) indicate:
• workers receive training on waste handling, segregation and storage requirements; and
• key workers receive training applicable to their waste management roles and responsibilities
LEVEL 2
❒ The employment site has considered and, where practical, applied the waste hierarchy principles
❒ Audits of waste contractors have been undertaken to determine the suitability and disposal/treatment methods
of waste contractors
❒ Communications with suppliers show that waste avoidance/reduction/recycling/reuse opportunities have been
discussed
❒ Waste reduction/recycling targets have been documented and are reviewed at least annually
LEVEL 3
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ Reviews are undertaken to assess the future waste capacity of receiving treatment/disposal facilities to identify waste
reduction priorities and drive sustainability
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
❒ The employment site has identified whether the disposal methods and volumes of its wastes are sustainable
(in relation to the local operating environment and availability of waste treatment and disposal facilities)
❒ Employment site has implemented leading practice measures to minimise virgin material use and waste generated
❒ The employment site has implemented leading practices in relation to recycling and/or the generation of energy
from waste
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
LEVEL 1
❒ Hazardous and potentially hazardous substance storage, use, handling, processing and/or disposal are in line
with legal requirements
❒ Bulk containers (including tanks) and pipework containing hazardous and potentially hazardous substances
with the potential to cause pollution are in good condition and of sound integrity
❒ Bulk containers (including tanks) and pipework containing hazardous and potentially hazardous substances
with the potential to cause pollution are labelled, where appropriate
❒ Check, through observation, for the presence and use of prohibited chemicals at the employment site
❒ Relevant up-to-date Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available in areas where chemicals are being stored/used
❒ Procedures/control established to prevent/reduce the potential for pollution are being followed (e.g. management
of substances, storage, transportation etc.)
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ Emergency response and pollution prevention equipment (e.g. spill kits) is available and has been checked to ensure
that it is in appropriate working order
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
LEVEL 1
❒ Policies and procedures in relation to pollution prevention/hazardous and potentially hazardous substances
management have been established and implemented (e.g. written policies and procedures, employee handbook,
induction training, etc.)
❒ Formal systems and processes in place for pollution prevention and to reduce the potential for pollution incidents
as per the site EMS
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
7.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Where there is the potential for pollution to occur, the employment site has identified this potential
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations concerning pollution prevention/hazardous and potentially hazardous
substances management and compliance
❒ Management is aware of the prohibited chemicals list (e.g. for agrichemicals from World Health Organisation, WHO)
and compliance with this requirement
❒ Policies and processes regarding pollution prevention/hazardous and potentially hazardous substances management
is effectively communicated to relevant workers
LEVEL 2
❒ Measures have been implemented to reduce the potential for pollution to occur at the employment site
❒ Management is actively promoting the implementation of specific pollution prevention mechanisms in agricultural
production, including optimisation of agrichemicals input
❒ Management is actively engaged in promoting and achieving a reduction in hazardous substances use (normalised)
and minimisation of associated risks, as appropriate
LEVEL 3
❒ Management is actively promoting the use of non-hazardous and non-toxic alternative substances
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with Document checks
and management interviews. They confirm the following:
LEVEL 1
❒ Workers understand how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can cause pollution
❒ Key workers are aware of pollution prevention/hazardous and potentially hazardous substances permit/licence
requirements, where applicable
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
❒ Workers receive training on pollution prevention/hazardous and potentially hazardous substances at induction
…
…
❒ Relevant workers with responsibilities for the prevention of pollution receive specific training on its prevention
and relevant response in the event of a release
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, pollution prevention/hazardous and potentially hazardous substances
procedures
LEVEL 2
❒ A dedicated site emergency response team is in place to deal with pollution incidents
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to pollution prevention/hazardous and potentially
hazardous substances are available and up to date
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to pollution
prevention/hazardous and potentially hazardous substances, the documentation is retained on file for the required
period of time
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ Pollution incidents have been notified to the authorities as required by applicable permits/legislation
❒ The employment site has considered and documented all potential pollution scenarios related to the site’s activities
and operations
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
❒ The employment site maintains an inventory of hazardous substances used and stored on-site
❒ The employment site maintains relevant up-to-date Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and these are made available
to employees in the language(s) understood by the majority of employees.
❒ The employment site has considered and documented chemicals used on-site and whether they are on the prohibited
chemicals list
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
LEVEL 2
❒ Documented evidence that regular practice drills are carried out for pollution incidents
❒ Improvement actions identified from practice drills have been implemented and closed out
❒ The employment demonstrates a reduction in hazardous substances use (normalised) and minimisation of associated
risks, as appropriate
❒ Hazardous substance use and non-hazardous alternative use performance targets are reviewed annually and reviews
have been documented
❒ The employment site has implemented pollution prevention mechanisms to reduce the potential for pollution
in agricultural production this includies optimisation of agrichemicals input
❒ A ‘Zero pollution incident’ target and policy is in place and has been documented
❒ Detailed pollution prevention inspections are documented and maintained. Inspections consider all areas
of the employment site where the potential for pollution exists.
❒ The employment site has documented non-hazardous and non-toxic alternative substances that are available
❒ Hazardous substance reduction/substitution performance targets are stretching and are being achieved
❒ Communications show the employment site engages with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to improve
hazardous substance use
❒ The employment site has implemented leading practice mechanisms to reduce the potential for major incidents
(e.g. process changes etc.)
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
8. Major incident management
Employment site requirements at each performance level:
Level 1:
1. Meet legal requirements
2. Relevant, up-to-date permits are held and compliance maintained
3. Site emergency plan in place with detailed guidelines/training for major incident response, as needed and reflecting the risks of activities undertaken on-site
4. Emergency response plan communicated to local authorities, emergency services and local communities, as required
Level 2:
5. Formal systems and processes in place to manage emergency response as per the site EMS
6. Reduction in potential occurrence and impacts of major incidents (e.g. explosions, fires, major spills etc.)
7. Regular Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) reviews
8. Major incidents reported to relevant stakeholders
9. Dedicated site emergency response team in place
10. Regular practice drills are carried out for all emergency scenarios
Level 3:
11. ‘Zero major incident’ target and policy in place
12. Proactive engagement with local community to ensure awareness of risks of major incidents and emergency response procedures
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
13. Local community is involved in site’s emergency response drill and has been contacted by the emergency response team, as relevant
14. Leading practice mechanisms in place to reduce risk of major incidents e.g. process changes
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
Evidence Gathering on Major Incident Management notes
LEVEL 1
❒ Confirm, through observation, whether substances used and/or activities undertaken at site have the potential
to cause major incidents
❒ Hazardous substance storage, use, handling, processing and/or disposal are in line with legal requirements
❒ Ensure hazardous substances are being segregated to prevent potential major incidents from occurring
❒ Bulk containers (including tanks) and pipework containing substances with the potential to cause a major incident
are in good condition and of sound integrity
❒ Check whether procedures established to prevent/reduce the potential for a major incident are being followed
(e.g. management of substances, activities etc.)
❒ Emergency response equipment is available and has been checked to ensure that it is in appropriate working order
❒ Emergency response plan and arrangements (including site/emergency service contact details) are displayed
or are available throughout the employment site
❒ Review neighbouring properties/operations and confirm whether there is the potential for a major incident that could
impact the employment site (this would be an observation rather than a compliance finding)
LEVEL 1
❒ Policies and procedures to prevent/reduce the potential for a major incident have been established and implemented
(e.g. written policies and procedures, employee handbook, induction training etc.)
❒ Policies and procedures for emergency response have been established and implemented (e.g. written policies
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
…
…
LEVEL 2
❒ Formal systems and processes are in place to prevent/reduce the potential for major incidents as per the site EMS
❒ Formal systems and processes are in place for emergency response as per the site EMS
8.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Where there is the potential for a major incident to occur, confirm whether the employment site has identified
this potential
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations concerning major incident management and compliance
❒ Policies and processes regarding major incident management is effectively communicated to workers
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations
is maintained
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
LEVEL 2
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
❒ Measures have been implemented to reduce the potential occurrence and severity of major incidents
at the employment site
❒ Management is actively engaged in promoting and achieving a reduction in the potential occurrence and impacts
of major incidents
LEVEL 3
❒ Management is actively promoting the implementation of leading practice mechanisms in relation to reducing risk
of major incidents
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with Document checks
and management interviews. They confirm the following:
LEVEL 1
❒ Workers understand how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can cause major incidents
❒ Key workers are aware of major incident and emergency response permit/licence requirements, where applicable
❒ Workers receive training on major incident prevention and emergency response at induction
❒ Key workers with responsibilities for the prevention of major incidents receive specific training on their prevention
and relevant emergency response
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, major incident prevention and emergency response procedures
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to major incident prevention and emergency response
are available and up to date
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to the prevention
of or response to major incidents, the documentation is retained on file for the required period of time
❒ The employment site has considered and documented all emergency scenarios related to the site’s activities
and operations
❒ Major incident prevention and emergency response procedures are made available to relevant employment site
personnel
❒ The employment site emergency plan reflects the risks associated with activities undertaken on-site and is maintained
up to date
❒ Documented communication of the emergency response plan to local authorities, emergency services and local
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
communities, as required
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
…
❒ Training materials (e.g. induction records, training matrix etc.) indicate:
• workers receive training on major incident prevention and emergency response; and
• emergency response team members have received appropriate training
LEVEL 2
❒ Documented evidence that regular practice drills are carried out for all emergency scenarios
❒ Improvement actions identified from practice drills have been implemented and closed out
❒ Regular Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) reviews are undertaken and documented
LEVEL 3
❒ A ‘Zero major incident’ target and policy is in place and has been documented
❒ Communications with the local community show that the risks of major incidents and the associated emergency
response procedures, where applicable, have been discussed
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ The local community is involved in site emergency response drills and has been contacted by the site emergency
response team
❒ The employment site has implemented leading practice mechanisms to reduce the potential for major incidents
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
LEVEL 1
❒ Confirm, through observation, whether substances used, wastes stored and/or activities undertaken at site have
the potential to impact underlying soil and groundwater
❒B
ulk containers (including tanks), pipework containing substances with the potential to cause impact to the environment
are in good condition and of sound integrity
❒ Procedures established to prevent/reduce the potential for impact to soil and groundwater are being followed
(e.g. management of substances, activities etc.)
❒ Emergency response equipment is available and has been checked to ensure that it is in appropriate working order
❒ No areas of the employment site have been subject to burning or burying of waste activities
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
❒ Review neighbouring properties/operations and confirm whether there is the potential for off-site activities impacting
soil and groundwater migrating onto the employment site (this would be an observation rather than a compliance
finding)
LEVEL 1
❒ Policies and procedures in relation to contaminated land/soil and groundwater pollution prevention have been
established and implemented (e.g. written policies and procedures, employee handbook, induction training, etc.)
❒ Formal systems and processes are in place in relation to contaminated land/soil and groundwater pollution prevention
as per the site EMS
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
9.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Management understands and are aware of site setting/sensitive receptors in site’s vicinity
❒ Management understand the potential impact on soil and groundwater from site activities and operations
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations concerning contaminated land/soil and groundwater pollution
prevention and compliance
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources to ensure that compliance with applicable laws and regulations
is maintained
❒ Management confirms that waste materials are not buried on-site currently
❒ Management confirms that waste materials have not been buried on-site historically
LEVEL 2
❒ Management confirms soil and groundwater assessments, and actions resulting from the risk assessment, are completed
❒ Management confirms that the soil and groundwater assessments completed to date take into account all potential
sources of risk to soil and groundwater, namely
• on-site and off-site current and historical sources of contamination;
• the potential soil and groundwater impacts presented by those sources of contamination;
• all pathways and receptors for the contamination identified; and hence
• an overall assessment of risk to soil and groundwater quality
❒ Management confirm that all actions have been completed following results for soil and groundwater risk assessment
including, as required:
• focussed Phase II investigation and
• appropriate and efficient remediation of soil and/or groundwater contamination
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
…
❒ The employment site ensures any soil and groundwater contamination is communicated to relevant internal
and external stakeholders
LEVEL 3
❒ Management have implemented and promote a ‘Zero contamination’ target and policy
❒ Management are proactive in maintaining and improving soil and groundwater quality
❒ Management actively promotes the implementation of leading practice techniques to prevent further/future soil
and/or groundwater contamination and in relation to remediation
❒ Management are proactive in engaging with stakeholders in the local community to ensure awareness of potential
soil and/or groundwater contamination
❒ Management engage with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain in relation to the prevention
and management of soil and groundwater contamination
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with Document checks
and management interviews. They confirm the following:
LEVEL 1
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ Workers understand how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can impact soil and groundwater
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
❒ Key workers are aware of contaminated land/soil and groundwater pollution prevention permit/licence requirements,
where applicable
❒ Workers receive training on soil and groundwater issues at induction, where appropriate
❒ Key workers with contaminated land/soil and groundwater pollution prevention management responsibilities receive
specific training as required
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, contaminated land/soil and groundwater pollution prevention procedures,
where appropriate
❒ Workers confirm that waste materials are not buried on-site currently
❒ Workers confirm that waste materials have not been buried on-site historically
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
9.4 Document checks
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to contaminated land/soil and groundwater pollution
prevention are available and up to date
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to contaminated
land/soil and groundwater pollution prevention, the documentation is retained on file for the required period of time
❒ The employment site has documented the site setting/sensitive receptors in the site’s vicinity
❒ Any known soil and groundwater impacts arising from off-site sources have been documented
❒ Procedures that address soil and groundwater impacts at the site are made available to relevant employment site
personnel
LEVEL 2
❒ The employment site maintains documentation relating to soil and groundwater risk assessments including, where
appropriate, focussed Phase II investigations, monitoring results and remediation activities
LEVEL 3
❒ The employment site has implemented leading practice techniques to prevent further/future soil and/or groundwater
contamination and in relation to remediation
❒ Communications with appropriate stakeholders and the local community through the value chain show that
the prevention and management of soil and groundwater contamination have been discussed
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
10. Land use and biodiversity
Employment site requirements at each performance level:
Level 1:
1. Meet legal requirements relating to planning and development
2. Relevant, up-to-date permits are held and compliance maintained
3. No negative impact on designated protection areas or species
Level 2:
4. Formal systems and processes in place to manage land use and biodiversity as per the site EMS
5. In agricultural production, proactive management to maintain soil fertility, avoid soil erosion and promote soil and biodiversity recovery
6. Where appropriate, demonstrable improvement in land use and biodiversity performance including deforestation, rehabilitation and conservation activities
Level 3:
7. Land use is sustainable within local ecosystem context
8. Leadership role in biodiversity conservation, for example partnership with relevant local organisations
9. Leading practice mechanisms in place to promote biodiversity and leading practice land management
10. Engagement with appropriate stakeholders down the value chain to improve land use and biodiversity performance, within and beyond site boundaries
11. Demonstrable achievement of stretching targets beyond recognised international standard practice
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
Evidence Gathering on Land Use and Biodiversity notes
LEVEL 1
❒ Employment site operations and activities observed are in line with legal requirements relating to land use (including
planning permission and development requirements)
❒ Review current development or construction activities to ensure that negative impacts to land use or biodiversity
are minimised
❒ Review a number of operational activities to check whether site land use and biodiversity procedures are being
implemented
❒ Policies and procedures in relation to land use management have been established and implemented
(e.g. written policies and procedures, employee handbook, induction training etc.)
❒ Policies and procedures in relation to biodiversity management have been established and implemented
(e.g. written policies and procedures, employee handbook, induction training etc.)
LEVEL 2
❒ Formal systems and processes are in place in relation to land use management as per the site EMS
❒ Formal systems and processes are in place in relation to biodiversity management as per the site EMS
10.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Management is aware of the land uses to which the site can be used
❒ Management understand the potential impact on biodiversity from site activities and operations
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations concerning land use and biodiversity and compliance
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
…
❒ Policies and processes regarding land use and biodiversity are effectively communicated to workers
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources to ensure that compliance with applicable laws and regulations
is maintained
LEVEL 2
❒ In agriculture production management actively promotes or endorses proactive management in agricultural
production to maintain soil fertility, avoid soil erosion and promote soil and biodiversity recovery
❒ The employment site demonstrates, where appropriate, improvement in land use and biodiversity performance
including deforestation, rehabilitation and conservation activities
LEVEL 3
❒ Management understands the concept of sustainable land use within the local ecosystem context
❒ The employment site demonstrates a leadership role in biodiversity conservation (e.g. by partnering with local
organisations)
❒ Management actively promotes the implementation of leading practice mechanisms in relation to biodiversity
and land management
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ Management understands what recognised international standard practice is in relation to land use and biodiversity
for their sector/geography and have set targets that exceed those practices
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with Document checks
and management interviews. They confirm the following:
LEVEL 1
❒ Workers understand how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can impact land use and biodiversity
❒ Key workers are aware of land use and biodiversity permit/licence requirements (including planning permission
requirements), where applicable
❒ Workers receive training on land use and biodiversity issues at induction, where appropriate
❒ Key workers with land use and biodiversity management responsibilities receive specific training as required
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, land use and biodiversity procedures, where appropriate
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
10.4 Document checks
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to land use and biodiversity (including planning
permission/consent and development requirements) are available and up to date
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to land use
and biodiversity, the documentation is retained on file for the required period of time
❒ Procedures that address land use and biodiversity issues at the site (including planning of new developments,
construction, changing processes etc.) are made available to relevant employment site personnel
❒ If there have been recent changes on site (e.g. building extensions, process changes, new buildings etc.), check
to ensure that potential impacts on land use and biodiversity have been considered and documented
❒ There is documented evidence that demonstrates that the employment site does not negatively impact designated
protection areas or species
LEVEL 2
❒ The employment site has made demonstrable improvement in land use and biodiversity performance
LEVEL 3
❒ Communications with local organisations show that the employment site is taking a leading role in biodiversity
conservation
❒ The employment site has identified whether land use is sustainable (in relation to the local ecosystem context)
❒ The employment site has implemented leading practice mechanisms to promote biodiversity and land management
❒ Land use and biodiversity performance targets are stretching and are being achieved
❒ Communications with appropriate stakeholders through the value chain show that land and biodiversity performance
have been discussed
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
11. Nuisance
Employment site requirements at each performance level:
Level 1:
1. Meet legal requirements
2. Relevant, up-to-date permits are held and compliance maintained
3. Understanding and awareness of nuisance levels from site activities and associated impacts (including odour, noise, visual and general housekeeping)
Level 2:
4. Formal systems and processes in place to manage nuisances (including odour, noise, visual and general housekeeping) and complaints as per the site EMS
5. Impacts and complaints data are made available to relevant internal and external stakeholders
6. Impacts and complaints reduction targets are reviewed on an annual basis to drive continuous improvement
7. Demonstrable reduction in nuisance impacts and complaints
Level 3:
8. ‘ Zero complaints’ target and policy in place
9. Proactive engagement with local community/stakeholders to reduce impacts
10. Leading practice mechanisms in place to ensure reduction of impacts e.g. process changes
11. Demonstrable achievement of stretching performance targets beyond recognised international standard practice
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
The following checks are intended as guidance and should not limit audit activities.
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
Evidence Gathering on Nuisance notes
LEVEL 1
❒ Confirm, through observation, whether activities undertaken at site, and resulting normal emissions) have
the potential to cause nuisance to surrounding neighbours
❒ There are no emissions to air, water or land that have the potential to cause nuisance
❒ Confirm, through observation, whether there are any sensitive off-site receptors adjacent to the employment site
(e.g. schools, housing, etc.)
❒ Emissions from the employment site are not noted at the site perimeter
❒ Procedures established to prevent/reduce the potential for impacts to surrounding areas are being followed
❒ Emergency response equipment is available and has been checked to ensure that it is in appropriate working order
LEVEL 1
❒ Policies and procedures in relation to nuisance management have been established and implemented (e.g. written
policies and procedures, employee handbook, induction training, etc.)
❒ Formal systems and processes are in place to manage nuisances (including odour, noise, visual and general
housekeeping) as per the site EMS
❒ Formal systems and processes are in place to manage complaints arising from on-site nuisances as per the site EMS
11.3 Interviews
LEVEL 1
❒ Management understand and are aware of potential nuisance levels from site activities and associated impacts
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
…
…
❒ Management is aware of laws and regulations concerning nuisance and compliance
❒ Management provide the appropriate resources to ensure that compliance with applicable laws and regulations
is maintained
LEVEL 2
❒ Management are proactively driving continuous improvement through reviewing complaints targets on an annual basis
❒ The employment site ensures impacts and complaints data is made available to relevant internal and external
stakeholders and local communities
❒ The employment site demonstrates, where appropriate, improvement in nuisance impacts and complaints
LEVEL 3
❒ Management have implemented and promote a ‘Zero complaints’ target and policy
❒ Management actively promotes the implementation of leading practice mechanisms in relation to reducing impacts
(e.g. through process changes)
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
❒ Management understands what recognised international standard practice is in relation to nuisance management
for their sector/geography and have set targets that exceed those practices
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Interviews with key workers/other workers used to corroborate worker testimony with Document checks
and management interviews. They confirm the following:
LEVEL 1
❒ Workers understand how they, and their site’s activities and operations, can impact surrounding neighbours
❒ Key workers with nuisance and complaints management responsibilities receive specific training as required
❒ Workers have access to, and understand, nuisance procedures, where appropriate
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
11.4 Document checks
LEVEL 1
❒ Relevant employment site permits and licences that relate to nuisance are available and up to date
❒ Where the employment site is legally required to hold and/or maintain documentation in relation to nuisance
and complaints, the documentation is retained on file for the required period of time
❒ Procedures that address nuisance impacts at the site are made available to relevant employment site personnel
LEVEL 2
❒ The employment site has made demonstrable improvement in nuisance impacts and complaints performance
LEVEL 3
❒ The employment site has implemented leading practice mechanisms to promote nuisance impact management
❒ Nuisance impacts and complaints performance targets are stretching and are being achieved
❒ Communications with appropriate stakeholders and the local community through the value chain show that nuisance
impacts and complaints issues have been discussed
Appendix 3: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
introduction
Appendix 4
Audit Request
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Where a ‘critical’ non-compliance
Preparation
is identified:
Where a ‘critical’ non-compliance is identified, the auditor Please note that if an auditor believes they might be at risk
Audit Execution
should follow the escalation policies of the audit requestor. as a result of communicating a critical non-compliance,
Audit Outputs
to the issue.
Glossary
of serious or significant impact to the environment (e.g. conducting a proper audit
major damage to a local ecosystem, closure of a potable
• Non-operation of critical abatement equipment e.g. air
water abstraction point, known on-site or off-site impact
emission scrubber, incineration unit etc.
to soil, groundwater or surface water).
• Evidence of the deliberate provision of false information
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
1. Key information
Employment site and Audit Information
Audit Request
Supplier name:
Country:
Audit date:
Date of alert:
Audit Execution
Lead auditor:
Issue area(s):
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Audit Outputs
Critical Non-compliance
Glossary
Management response:
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Audit Request
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
This tool forms part of the GSCP set of reference tools for a site in the supply chain to demonstrate continuous
designed to provide a common interpretation of local and improvement in its environmental performance from basic
Preparation
international environmental standards and requirements and compliance to leading-edge performance (across three
environmental reference codes (if available and applicable). defined ‘levels’ for eleven different performance areas).
The Environmental Reference Requirements reflect a
common understanding of good environmental practice and The reference tools on Environmental Audit Process and
are applicable to all raw material processing, agricultural, Methodology are based on the GSCP Environmental
manufacturing and logistics sites in the supply chain. The Reference Requirements but can be adopted and tailored to
Audit Execution
Environmental Reference Requirements provide a model other codes of environmental practice.
Audit Outputs
used should be reported to the audit
requestor
Glossary
The report should include: For each environmental Performance Area, the report should:
• a summary of the auditors’ evaluation of the employment •d
escribe the current situation including which of the GSCP
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
site’s performance against each of the 11 Performance Environmental Reference Requirements the site is currently
Appendices
Areas; meeting;
• identified non-compliances which indicate that the • provide evidence and information to substantiate the findings;
employment site is not meeting Level 1 of the GSCP
• for each non-compliance or observation, provide a:
Environmental Reference Requirements;
/ description of the non-compliance or observation and
• observations and good practices.
its frequency;
/ evidence found to substantiate it;
/ classification to applicable law, code of conduct, etc;
/ if required by the audit requestor, recommended
corrective action with a timeframe for completion and
responsibility.
The report should include photos of the employment site Auditors may feel the need to separately report to the audit
such as*: requestor in the event that, for example, the auditor has:
• outside general overview; • information that is too sensitive for the audit report itself;
• inside general overview • concerns which cannot be substantiated through evidence
and/or interviews;
• key activities and processes that have potential environmental
impact; • commentary/insight on the attitude of management
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
will not distribute the report to any entities except the audit
requestor. However, the audit requestor should share the
report with the employment site/customer/supplier as soon
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
*Photographs should only be taken with the permission of the employment site as they may contain or reveal confidential information.
Water use
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Wastewater/effluent
Emissions to air
Waste management
Nuisance
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
introduction
Address:
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Country:
Telephone:
Fax/email:
Preparation
GPS cordinates:
Unannounced
1.4 Audit conducted by: Auditing Company (please provide name below)
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
Audit Outputs
Retailer
Brand Owner
Purchaser
NGO
Union
Multiple parties. If yes, please list.
Glossary
• Audit date:
• Audit type:
* “Industrial zones with special incentives set up to attract foreign investors, in which imported materials undergo some degree of processing before being re-exported”
(ILO, 2007)
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
• Audit type:
Preparation
• Audit date:
• Audit type:
Audit Execution
1.9 Main employment site contact: Name:
Position:
Audit Outputs
who signed the summary of
findings and corrective actions
Glossary
1.14 General remarks: GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
Appendices
2.2.3 Were any alert notifications issued as part of this audit? Yes No
If yes, how many?
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
Appendices
introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Audit Request
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
Finding Evidence
(Summary of requirement, plus description of the finding, (A description of the evidence observed and related to the
details of the management position, any management audit check guidelines. Please indicate the type of evidence
involvement and element of the law that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview, documentary, observational)
Preparation
Management Interview
Site management not aware of requirement.
Audit Execution
Follow up 01/06/09 – New Issue Follow up 01/06/09 – New issue
Waste management Management Interviews
Site management has not communicated requirements of Management reported that it has scheduled a half day
Audit Outputs
The tables below present the findings of the audit against The Audit Report records whether the non-compliance
each of the GSCP Environmental Reference Requirement. At identified is a non-compliance with specific legal requirements.
Level 1 non-compliances are categorised into Critical, Major
and Minor non-compliances, together with an indication Minor
as to where these represent non-compliances with legal
Glossary
• basic environmental management structure and defined
requirements. in case legal requirements do not exist in the
management responsibilities are in place, however, this is
site’s country of operations, these reference requirements
not documented;
can be used as reference and also as parameters against
which non compliances can be identified. • site has identified and is managing its potentially significant
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
• occasional or isolated instances of missing monitoring/ • site currently under threat of prosecution, fine and/or
performance data (that is not a legal requirement). enforcement in relation to an environmental issue;
• an attempt to pervert the course of the audit through
Major
fraud, coercion, deception or interference;
• basic management structure/defined management
• a systemic violation of a legal requirement that has attracted
responsibilities not in place, either in relation to overall
(or could likely attract) regu lator intervention (e.g. continued
environmental management or particular Performance
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
• a breach of a legal requirement or environmental permit/ parties in relation to environmental matters (e.g. waste
licence/consent which is considered likely to attract removal/disposal).
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks
regulator intervention;
Critical non-compliances should trigger an alert notification
Audit Outputs
• site has not confirmed that all external third parties utilised [see Section 4.5].
by the site for environmental matters (e.g. waste removal/
• An Observation
disposal) are appropriately licensed;
/ a possible issue which could develop into a non-
• relevant inventory/register not established in relation to a compliance if action is not taken by the Employment
particular Performance Area; Site (i.e. a potential non-compliance).
• consumption/generation data not collected in relation to / an issue, on which the auditor has some evidence to
Glossary
a particular Performance Area that is relevant to the site; indicate that it may be present, but is not confirmed by
more than one data point.
• site has not provided identified and/or provided training
to employees on environmental matters which represent a / an opportunity for improvement e.g. how the
serious or significant impact to the environment. employment site can meet the requirements of the
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
LEVEL 2
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
LEVEL 3
…
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
introduction Risk Assessment System Audit Request Preparation Audit Execution Audit Outputs Glossary Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
on page 5.
Note to auditor: If this report relates to a follow-up audit, then please copy the tables from above and replicate here with the findings presented as per the template
❒ Level 3 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 1 not achieved Summary: overall level achieved for environmental management systems:
(please provide a short description of the good practice measure identified)
Examples of good practice identified
…
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
…
…
LEVEL 3
Summary: overall level achieved for energy use, transport and Greenhouse Gases (GHG): ❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
…
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
LEVEL 3
Summary: overall level achieved for water use: ❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
❒ ❒
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
…
…
LEVEL 3
Summary: overall level achieved for wastewater/effluent: ❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
…
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
LEVEL 3
Summary: overall level achieved for emissions to air, general: ❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
…
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
introduction Risk Assessment System Audit Request Preparation Audit Execution Audit Outputs Glossary Appendices
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
❒ Level 3 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 1 not achieved Summary: overall level achieved for Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS):
(please provide a short description of the good practice measure identified)
Examples of good practice identified
❒ ❒ Complete phase-out of all ODS (beyond legal requirements)
LEVEL 3
…
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
…
…
Waste reduction and recycling targets are reviewed at least on an annual
❒ ❒
basis to drive continuous improvement.
LEVEL 3
Summary: overall level achieved for waste management: ❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
…
…
Demonstrable reduction in hazardous substances use (normalised)
❒ ❒
and minimisation of associated risks, as appropriate
LEVEL 3
Summary: overall level achieved for pollution prevention/hazardous and potentially hazardous substances:
❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
Regular practice drills are carried out for all emergency scenarios ❒ ❒
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
…
LEVEL 3
Summary: overall level achieved for major incident management: ❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
…
…
All actions completed following results for soil and groundwater risk
❒ ❒
assessment, e.g. and as required:
LEVEL 3
❒ ❒
ensure awareness of potential soil and/or groundwater contamination
Summary: overall level achieved for contaminated land/soil and groundwater pollution prevention: ❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
…
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
LEVEL 3
Summary: overall level achieved for land use and biodiversity: ❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
11.0 Nuisances
Report
LEVEL 1
Non-Compliance Type
Please tick one column and also note Evidence
if it is a legal issue? Finding (A description of the evidence observed
Observation? Summary of requirement, plus description and related to the audit check guidelines.
Legal of the finding and element of the law Please indicate the type of evidence
Critical Major Minor that has been violated) listed e.g. worker interview,
Issue?
documentary, observational)
❒ ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒
Evidence
Not
Requirement Met Observation? (A description of the evidence observed
Met
and related to the audit check guidelines)
…
Appendix 5: GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
…
LEVEL 3
Summary: overall level achieved for nuisances: ❒ Level 1 not achieved ❒ Level 1 ❒ Level 2 ❒ Level 3
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
introduction
4. On-Site Pictures
Auditors should include relevant photos that were taken as part of the audit in this section of the audit report. Relevant photos
may include general pictures of the employment site – such as pictures of the employment site or pictures of the production
floor, or they may be specific to the details of the audit report – such as a picture of a non-compliance, observation or best
GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
practice.
Audit Request
The suggested photos below are examples, and the auditor should include all relevant photos.
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
introduction
Appendix 6
GSCP Reference
Audit Request
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
This tool forms part of the GSCP set of reference tools continuous improvement in its environmental performance
designed to provide a common interpretation of local and from basic compliance to leading-edge performance (across
Preparation
international environmental standards and requirements three defined ‘levels’ for eleven different performance
and environmental reference codes (if available and areas).
applicable). The Environmental Reference Requirements
reflect a common understanding of good environmental
practice and are applicable to all raw material processing, The reference tools on Environmental Audit Process and
agricultural, manufacturing and logistics sites in the supply Methodology are based on the GSCP Environmental
Audit Execution
chain. The Environmental Reference Requirements provide Reference Requirements but can be adopted and tailored to
a model for a site in the supply chain to demonstrate other codes of environmental practice.
Audit Outputs
Auditors may feel the need to produce a separate, Supplementary reports may be appropriate:
supplementary report for the audit requestor containing:
• if workers appear to be under undue pressure from
• information too sensitive for the audit report; management on the day of audit;
Glossary
• concerns which cannot be substantiated through evidence • if management was obstructive or reluctant to accept
and/or interviews; findings and the need for remediation;
• attitude of management towards the non-compliances or • where the auditor has concerns about the possibility of
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Area of Concern
Related
requirement
Environmental
Standard or legal
Appendix 6: GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
introduction
Appendix 7
GSCP Reference
Audit Request
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
This tool forms part of the GSCP set of reference tools The reference tools on Environmental Audit Process and
Preparation
designed to provide a common interpretation of local and Methodology are based on the GSCP Environmental
international environmental standards and requirements and Reference Requirements but can be adopted and tailored to
environmental reference codes (if available and applicable). other codes of environmental practice.
The Environmental Reference Requirements reflect a
The reference Summary of Environmental Findings and
common understanding of good environmental practice and
Corrective Actions has been designed to provide a structure
are applicable to all raw material processing, agricultural,
to the audit team’s findings and help the audit team develop
manufacturing and logistics sites in the supply chain. The
Audit Execution
a corrective action plan and structure a closing meeting.
Environmental Reference Requirements provide a model
Audit Outputs
A note on Corrective Actions
Audit requestors (companies and/or individuals) may take a However, reference is made here to both ‘findings
Glossary
number of different approaches with respect to corrective and corrective actions’ on the understanding that the
actions, for example: identification of corrective actions may be required.
• require auditors solely to identify corrective actions and The Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions template
require the employment site to develop the corrective includes:
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification
worker testimony;
GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile
the issue to be closed. The time allocated for corrective witnessed the representative’s signature on the copy signed
actions to be completed should be appropriate, realistic by management.
and timely.
Audit Execution
Audit date:
Time out:
Time in:
1. Employment site and auditor details
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Classification Performance
of non- area (in GSCP
Audit Findings Suggested corrective Person / party Verification Timescale for
compliance Environmental
(non compliance) actions responsible method completion
(Critical, Major, Reference
Minor) Requirements)
Requirements)
(where required) required) (where required) Reference
actions (where applicable)
completion method (where responsible Environmental Audit findings (observation)
Suggested corrective
Timescale for Verification Person / party area (in GSCP
Performance
3. Details of observations
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
GSCP Reference Environmental Alert Notification GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Checks GSCP Reference Environmental Pre-Audit Employment Site Profile GSCP Reference Environmental Self Assessment Questionnaire
GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions GSCP Reference Environmental Supplementary Audit Information GSCP Reference Environmental Audit Report
Does the employment site Representative above have the authority to complete all actions listed? Yes No
If No, who would have the necessary authority to take decisions on these points?
(Please provide names, positions and contact details of additional managers):
Environmental Audit Process & Methodology Reference Tools - november 2010
Appendix 7: GSCP Reference Environmental Summary of Findings and Corrective Actions
Appendices Glossary Audit Outputs Audit Execution Preparation Audit Request Risk Assessment System introduction
The GSCP is facilitated by
The Consumer Goods Forum
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