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Welcome to the Verifier (Body) Application Page!
This is the starting point when seeking to become an SLCP approved Verifier (Body).

Introduction
The Social and Labor Convergence Program (SLCP) has developed a Converged Assessment Framework (CAF) that can replace all current audit methodologies by delivering one verified data set that can be used by standards and brands to decide on certification, compliance and more.

SLCP assessments consist of a self or joint-assessment at the facility followed by verification. Verification is key to ensuring high-quality and reliable data for the industry.

SLCP is therefore looking for highly skilled and qualified social auditors to become SLCP Verifiers.  Before beginning your application, please review the other program info by clicking the button below.

Note: As of January 1st, 2024, SLCP is moving forward on full alignment with APSCA, and the VOO will no longer accept new VB applications from non-APSCA member VBs as of this date. Meaning that all VBs will need to apply and be approved as a member firm by APSCA. Existing non-APSCA VBs will be given 1 year to continue to do business with SLCP and within that 1-year period, the APSCA application process will need to be initiated to continue as an approved VB. Please consider this update when submitting VB applications to the VOO for consideration.

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How do I start my Verifier Body application?

The first step will be to set up a username and password (below). If you are unable to finish the application in one sitting, simply click Next >> and then exit. Your answers from the previous pages will be saved. You can then return to your application by logging into your account with the username and password you created. After your application is submitted, the Verification Oversight Organization (VOO) will begin reviewing your information. Once the review is finished you will receive an email regarding your status. If your company is approved as a Verifier Body, you will be provided with a link that can be forwarded to candidate Verifiers for them to apply.

*Note: The business/company name included in this application will be considered the VB for each of the country/region(s) selected. If your company uses a decentralized model where each subsidiary or regional office is responsible for their own auditor/Verifier competency, training, and quality policies/procedures then each subsidiary or regional office should complete a separate application and will be considered a separate entity for the purposes of administration (e.g. verifications, invoicing, etc.).  If you are unclear on this, please contact our Verification Oversight Organization before proceeding with submitting your application.

Where is SLCP seeking Verifiers?

SLCP is taking a phased approach to global roll-out. Verifiers are needed in the countries where SLCP has already launched as well as in the countries where roll-out is about to begin. For an up-to-date list of these countries, please visit the Gateway.

How do I become an SLCP Verifier?

It all starts with a 3rd or 2nd party [1], auditing firm/ department qualifying as an SLCP approved Verifier Body (VB). Once approved, the VB can put forward social auditors as candidate SLCP Verifiers.

  1. To qualify as an SLCP VB, the audit firm/ body must become an SLCP signatory. Only signatories can become approved VBs. To become an SLCP signatory, email info@slconvergence.org. There is a one-off signatory fee of 1000 USD.
  2. The 2nd or 3rd party audit body must meet SLCP VB criteria. See criteria below.
  3. The approved VB then puts forward candidate Verifiers that meet SLCP criteria. See criteria below.
  4. Pre-selected candidates complete SLCP e-learning and pass the online proctored Verifier Exam.
  5. Candidates that successfully complete the process become Verifiers.
  6. An approved VB that has approved Verifiers is added to the SLCP System and the VB can be selected by facilities to conduct their verification.

[1] A 2nd party VB is defined as a VB that has a business relationship with the manufacturer that owns the facility, e.g. a brand that sources from the facility. A 3rd party VB does not have any business ties to the manufacturer apart from being hired to conduct the SLCP verification, e.g. service provider, NGO or other external party.

Verifier Body (VB) Criteria


Verifier Criteria

 

What are the costs related to SLCP?

Apart from the one-off signatory fee of USD 1000, a Verifier Body pays an annual Verifier Access Fee of USD 200 per approved Verifier. Also, SLCP invoices the Verifier Body a USD 300 Verification Upcharge Fee per verification conducted. There are no costs associated with the SLCP selection process. Acces to the e-learning and the proctored Verifier Exam are free of charge.

 Useful Resources

To make sure you understand what it is that you sign up for please review the required commitments to become an SLCP VB:

  • Commitment to develop and enforce written policies and procedures on SLCP competence. Competency requirements must cover all staff involved in SLCP assessments, not just Verifiers. SLCP report reviewers and program managers must be qualified. The qualifications for these support/admin staff include taking SLCP’s training courses.
  • Commitment to develop and enforce written policies and procedures on training SLCP Verifiers. This includes providing internal training to Verifiers on SLCP. This training includes onboarding training provided to all newly qualified SLCP Verifiers as well as ongoing training. Ongoing training must cover both labor and human rights issues that are relevant to SLCP as well as SLCP protocols for conducting verifications
  • Commitment to develop and enforce written policies and procedures on internal quality. This includes taking responsibility for requirements as stated in the Verification Protocol, e.g. on assigning the right Verifier for a verification. Other requirements, e.g. each SLCP verified assessment report is internally reviewed before allowed for upload on the Gateway, also apply.
  • Commitment to develop and enforce written policies and procedures on calibration. This means ensuring verifier understanding and implementation is consistent across all verifications and in line with SLCP guidance.
  • Commitment to require / provide documented integrity / ethics training to verifiers on a regular basis. Integrity and ethics are of utmost priority to the SLCP. Training should set ethical standards and train verifiers on the importance of integrity in the verification work performed.