RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) certification is a standard that ensures the ethical and sustainable sourcing of wool. It focuses on animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility throughout the wool supply chain.

Key Aspects of RWS Certification:

• Animal Welfare: Ensures that sheep are treated humanely, with specific requirements to prevent practices like mulesing and to ensure proper living conditions.
• Environmental Stewardship: Promotes sustainable land management practices, reducing the environmental impact of wool production.
• Social Responsibility: Includes criteria for fair labor practices and safe working conditions for workers involved in wool production.
• Traceability: Guarantees that wool can be traced back through the supply chain to ensure that it meets RWS standards.
• Certification Process: Involves regular audits and inspections of farms and supply chains to verify compliance with RWS standards.

Steps to Obtain RWA Certification:

1. Understand RWS Requirements

• Review Standards: Familiarize yourself with the RWS requirements and criteria for animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility.
• Determine Scope: Define which parts of your wool supply chain (e.g., farms, processing facilities) will be covered by RWS certification.

2. Develop and Implement an RWS Compliance Plan

• Form a Team: Assemble a team responsible for managing RWS compliance, including members from sourcing, production, and quality control.
• Assess Current Practices: Evaluate current wool sourcing and processing practices to identify gaps relative to RWS requirements.
• Develop Policies and Procedures: Establish and document policies and procedures to align with RWS standards, including animal welfare, environmental practices, and labor conditions.

3. Engage with Certified Suppliers

• Source Certified Wool: Ensure that the wool you source comes from RWS-certified farms or suppliers.
• Verify Certification: Obtain proof of RWS certification from suppliers to ensure compliance with RWS standards.

4. Conduct Internal Audits

• Internal Review: Perform an internal audit to ensure that all practices and documentation comply with RWS requirements.
• Correct Non-Conformities: Address any issues or non-conformities identified during the audit and implement corrective actions.

5. Select a Certification Body

• Choose an Accredited Certifier: Select an accredited certification body recognized by the RWS for auditing and certification.

6. Apply for Certification

• Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documentation, including policies, procedures, and records related to wool sourcing and processing.
• Submit Application: Apply for RWS certification with the chosen certification body, providing the required documentation.

7. Undergo External Audit

• Prepare for Audit: Ensure that all documentation and practices are ready for review by the certification body.
• Conduct the Audit: The certification body performs an on-site audit to assess compliance with RWS standards.
• Address Audit Findings: Respond to any findings or recommendations from the audit and make necessary adjustments.

8. Certification Decision

• Review Results: The certification body reviews the audit results and determines whether to grant RWS certification.
• Receive Certification: If successful, you will be awarded RWS certification, which may require ongoing surveillance or re-certification.

9. Maintain Certification

• Ongoing Compliance: Continuously adhere to RWS standards and maintain up-to-date documentation and records.
• Regular Audits: Prepare for periodic surveillance audits by the certification body to ensure continued compliance.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and improve practices to enhance compliance with RWS standards and address any new issues.

WHY RWS?

RWS certification ensures that wool is sourced responsibly, focusing on animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and fair labor practices. It builds consumer trust, meets market demands for ethical products, and promotes transparency in the wool supply chain.