SGS Guide to Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) Certification in Pakistan: Benefits and Best Practices

In today's globalized economy, the demand for ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices is more critical than ever. WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production) certification stands as a beacon of responsible manufacturing, promoting lawful, humane, and ethical conditions in sewn goods, apparel, textiles, and related industries.

This article, written by Asim Majeed, Manager Audits, Business Assurance at SGS Pakistan, provides an overview of WRAP, its 12 core principles, the benefits of WRAP certification, the certification process, its validity, and the top non-conformities identified by SGS auditors in Pakistan, along with solutions and best practices.

What is WRAP?

Established in 2000, WRAP is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting and certifying lawful, humane, and ethical manufacturing worldwide. As the largest independent certification program for the sewn goods sector, WRAP is endorsed by over 20 international trade associations, including the International Apparel Federation (IAF).

WRAP is trusted by the expectations of hundreds of leading brands and retailers, reducing audit fatigue and enhancing their competitiveness in the global market.

WRAP's 12 Core Principles

WRAP's principles are grounded in internationally accepted workplace standards, local laws, and workplace regulations. These principles aim to foster responsible business practices and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Here is the list of WRAP’s 12 Core Principles

1. Compliance with Laws and Workplace Regulations

• Comply with all local, national, and international laws and regulations.
• Ensure adherence to labor laws, ethical standards, and environmental regulations.
• Uphold transparency and combat corruption in business practices.

2. Prohibition of Forced Labor

• Prohibit all forms of involuntary, forced, and trafficked labor.
• Maintain strictly voluntary employment practices.
• Ensure workers retain control of their personal documents.

3. Prohibition of Child Labor 

• Do not employ individuals below the legal working age.
• Ensure employment does not interfere with compulsory education.
• Follow local and international laws on child labor. 

4. Prohibition of Harassment and Abuse 

• Provide a work environment free from harassment and abuse.
• Prohibit any form of corporal punishment or physical coercion.
• Ensure proper training to prevent harassment and abuse. 

5. Compensation and Benefits 

• Pay at least the legally mandated wages, allowances, and benefits.
• Ensure timely payment of wages and benefits.
• Comply with legal requirements for overtime and holiday pay. 

6. Hours of Work

• Adhere to legal limitations on working hours.
• Provide at least one day off per week.
• Ensure transparency and voluntary compliance with working hours.
• Keeping local OT limits WRAP has introduced WHAP (Working Hours Action Plan)
• In WHAP if facility is fully transparent no NC on working hours (OT) shall be given
• WHAP is given to comply with local limit on OT to meet local laws from one audit to next audit 

7. Prohibition of Discrimination

• Do not discriminate in hiring, compensation, promotion, or termination.
• Base employment decisions on ability and qualifications.
• Ensure equal treatment regardless of personal characteristics or beliefs. 

8. Health and Safety 

• Provide a safe and healthy work environment.
• Ensure access to clean drinking water, medical resources, and safe working conditions.
• Provide safe housing if applicable. 

9. Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining 

• Respect workers' rights to form and join unions.
• Allow workers to bargain collectively.
• Ensure non-discrimination against union members. 

10. Environment 

• Comply with environmental laws and adopt sustainable practices.
• Manage waste responsibly and minimize environmental impact.
• Promote reducing, reusing, and recycling in operations. 

11. Customs Compliance

• Comply with customs laws and regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of materials and production.
• Ensure proper labeling and documentation of products.

12. Security

• Maintain procedures to ensure corporate, transportation, and physical security.
• Safeguard against non-manifested cargo introduction.
• Follow security guidelines such as the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism CTPAT for Foreign Manufacturers. 

Who is WRAP Certification for?

WRAP certification is essential for manufacturers in the sewn goods, apparel, and textile industries aiming to demonstrate their commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.

It is especially relevant for companies seeking to improve their brand reputation, expand their market reach, and meet the growing consumer demand for ethically produced goods.

Benefits of WRAP Certification

• Enhanced Brand Reputation: Showcasing a commitment to ethical manufacturing enhances consumer trust and brand loyalty.
• Market Access: Many global retailers and brands require WRAP certification from their suppliers.
• Operational Improvements: Implementing WRAP's principles often leads to better management practices and operational efficiency.
• Risk Mitigation: Reduces the risk of labor rights violations and associated legal issues.
• Sustainability: Promotes environmentally conscious practices and contributes to global sustainability goals.

WRAP Certification Process with SGS

SGS offers comprehensive support throughout the WRAP certification process, from initial guidance to the final evaluation.

Application: SGS assists facilities in preparing and submitting their application and conducting a thorough self-assessment.

Monitoring: Facilities undergo an on-site audit conducted by SGS auditors to ensure compliance with WRAP’s 12 principles.

Evaluation: The audit results are evaluated by WRAP, and facilities are awarded certification by WRAP based on their compliance level:

• Platinum (Valid for 2 years): Full compliance for three consecutive certification audits.
• Gold (Valid for 1 year): compliance with WRAP's 12 principles.
• Silver (Valid for 6 months): Substantial compliance with minor issues.

By partnering with SGS, facilities receive expert guidance and thorough auditing services to achieve and maintain WRAP certification, demonstrating their commitment to ethical and responsible manufacturing practices.

Validity of Certification

WRAP certification is granted for varying periods based on the level of compliance: Platinum (2 years), Gold (1 year), and Silver (6 months). Facilities must undergo periodic audits to maintain their certification status.

Top 10 Non-Conformities Highlighted by SGS Auditors in Pakistan

1. Insufficient Health and Safety Measures: Lack of proper safety equipment and inadequate training.
   Solution: Conduct regular safety training and provide necessary protective gear.
2. Non-Compliance with Minimum Wage Laws: Paying below the minimum wage.
   Solution: Regularly review and adjust wages to comply with legal requirements.
3. Child Labor: Employment of underage workers.
   Solution: Strict age verification processes during hiring.
4. Inadequate Emergency Preparedness: Poorly maintained emergency exits and lack of drills.
   Solution: Regularly conduct emergency drills and maintain clear exit routes.
5. Forced Labor Practices: Withholding of passports and other coercive practices.
   Solution: Ensure voluntary employment and return of personal documents.
6. Discrimination in Employment: Bias based on personal characteristics or beliefs.
   Solution: Implement fair hiring practices and conduct anti-discrimination training.
7. Lack of Freedom of Association: Hindering the formation of worker unions.
   Solution: Respect and support workers' rights to organize.
8. Environmental Non-Compliance: Improper waste management and pollution.
   Solution: Adopt environmentally friendly practices and comply with local environmental laws.
9. Inadequate security risk assessment: for business partners and cargo services.
   Solution: Conduct comprehensive security and business risk assessment of business partners and cargo handlers.
10. Social benefits: not paying social benefits.
    Solution: Paying full social benefits as required by law to all eligible workers.
11. Working hours violations: Excessive overtime.
    Solution: Implement a robust time-tracking system and ensure adherence to legal working hours from one audit to next audit.
12. Emergency Exit Door: Sliding type with locking type mechanism to keep it open.
    Solution: Replace the sliding door with a push-bar emergency exit door that swings outward. This ensures quick and easy egress in case of an emergency and complies with WRAP certification standards.

Best Practices

Adhering to WRAP certification standards requires more than just compliance; it demands commitment to best practices. Here are some key strategies to ensure your organization not only meets but exceeds WRAP expectations:

• Regular Training: Conduct ongoing training on WRAP principles for all employees.
• Transparent Policies: Maintain clear and transparent policies on workplace practices.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and improve compliance programs.
• Engage Stakeholders: Involve all stakeholders, including workers, in compliance efforts.

Highlighting SGS WRAP Certification in Pakistan

SGS offers comprehensive WRAP certification services, including formal audits and guidance on self-assessment. Our experts support your journey to achieving WRAP certification, ensuring your manufacturing practices meet the highest ethical standards.

The SGS Guide on WRAP in Pakistan provides tailored solutions for local manufacturers, helping them navigate the certification process effectively. With SGS, you can confidently showcase your commitment to responsible production and gain a competitive edge in the global market.

Partnering with SGS for WRAP certification ensures you receive expert support and comprehensive auditing services, helping you achieve and maintain the highest standards of responsible production.

Reach out to know more.

About SGS

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