Environment & Safety

What Is Chain of Custody?

Chain-of Custody procedures provides printing companies with the ability to manage and control the sourcing of certified materials; properly demonstrate responsible sourcing practices; and allows the company the use of certified trademarks such as FSC and SFI.

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) are the two most common forest certification programs used in the United States and Canada. While there are differences in the forest management criteria for each of the certification programs, both require printers to obtain CoC certification.  

Why Printers Should Consider Certification

The idea of certification has been thrust into the forefront as a result of heightened environmental awareness by the print customer. With this increased awareness and pressure by various environmental groups, the request by customers to be more sustainable in their products has become commonplace and is increasing at an extremely rapid pace. CoC certification is one way that printers can address customers’ environmental requests.

Obtaining CoC Certification

Obtaining CoC Certification through FSC and/or SFI requires the printer to develop written procedures for managing and handling certified paper and to keep appropriate records demonstrating that procedures are being followed. In addition, the printer must train employees with regard to these procedures. Finally, annual on-site audits are required to maintain “certified” status.

The following steps are involved:

1. Preliminary Screening
2. On-site Audit
3. Records Review
4. Report Preparation
5. Certification

Printing Industries of America Can Help Make the Process Easier

Printing Industries of America has the knowledge and support materials to assist you with developing the necessary Chain-of-Custody procedures to meet FSC or SFI standards required for certification. We offer an over-the-phone, customized service to assist you with the development of Chain-of-Custody documents, forms, and a training PowerPoint.

While the process can seem complicated and overwhelming, we are here to help make it easier. Our compliance experts will walk you through the steps, help you develop and write the procedures, establish a training program, and answer all of your questions.

Pricing

Non-member: $600 (single procedure); $750 (dual procedure)
Member: $475 (single procedure); $575 (dual procedure)

Let Us Help You With Your COC Certification Today!

For more information contact Rick Hartwig, Manager, Environmental Health and Safety Affairs at 800-910-4283, ext. 792 or rhartwig@printing.org.