BSCI

Detailed introduction

BSCI Business Social Compliance Initiative

Standard Introduction

BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative) is a business social compliance certification launched by amfori, the European Foreign Trade Association. As one of the most influential supply chain social responsibility audit systems globally, it aims to help companies manage and improve their social performance in global supply chains through unified audit standards and a shared platform.

Review Content

Labor Rights:No child labor or forced labor; freedom of association and collective bargaining rights protected.
Work Hours & Compensation:Compliant hours management, minimum wage protection, and overtime compensation
Occupational Health and Safety:Workplace Safety Facilities, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and Emergency Response Plans
Environmental Protection:Waste Management, Chemical Control, Energy Usage
Business EthicsAnti-corruption, anti-bribery, and information transparency
Management System:Social Responsibility Policy, Internal Audits, Continuous Improvement Mechanism

Audit Process

Register with amfori BSCI and create a supplier profile
Select an accredited third-party auditor to schedule the on-site audit.
Auditor conducts on-site assessment using the BSCI audit checklist (typically 1-3 days).
Generate audit report and share on BSCI platform
Develop and track a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) for non-compliance items.
Audit results are typically valid for 12–24 months and require revalidation upon expiration.

Fee Details

Audit fees are borne by the company and vary based on factory size and the number of audit days, typically ranging from RMB 15,000 to 40,000. An annual membership fee for the amfori platform is also required.

Accredited Institutions

Audits must be conducted by third-party audit firms recognized by amfori, including internationally renowned certification bodies such as SGS, TÜV, Intertek, and BV.

Certificate validity period

BSCI audit report validity ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on the audit rating. A and B rated reports have a longer validity period; C-rated or lower require more frequent re-audits.