OEKO-TEX, a renowned organization in Switzerland that provides cooperative solutions to partners in the leather and textile sectors, has strengthened its dedication to quality by implementing a strict set of audits and control procedures. This program demonstrates the organization’s commitment to fostering trust among its partners, in its operational procedures, and—above all—in its internationally recognized certifications. OEKO-TEX’s 17 authorized, independent textile and leather partner institutions, each vital to the certification process, form the foundation of the organization’s integrity. Every three years, these institutes go through extensive audits to make sure that high standards are maintained. The goal of these audits is to maintain quality and spot any obstacles. They are carried out by the Secretary General of OEKO-TEX in collaboration with an experienced auditor from the OEKO-TEX secretariat from another institute.
Spot checks on certification procedures and randomly chosen certificates are examined during these assessments for appropriate certification accounting, on-site visit reports, and testing scope appropriateness. 25% of the certifications for Standard 100, Organic Cotton, and Leather Standard are subject to product control checks as part of OEKO-TEX’s proactive measures to guarantee that certified articles accurately represent the goods supplied. These tests, which cover different manufacturing phases and nations, are essential to preserving standard compliance. Tests are performed in laboratories to ensure that the goods satisfy the requirements; samples that do not meet the standards call for improvement or the withdrawal of the risk certificate.
Every year, OEKO-TEX performs Round Robin Tests to make sure that the laboratory results from its partner institutes are accurate and comparable. The accuracy of testing procedures used in various laboratories must be evaluated, which requires interlaboratory comparisons.
The technical and general management meetings rely heavily on the test results, which guarantee that any inconsistencies are quickly resolved with remedial measures.
Every three years, OEKO-TEX requires an on-site inspection for initial and renewal certifications under Standard 100, Organic Cotton, and Leather Standard. These visits evaluate the applicant’s capacity for long-term standard compliance and quality maintenance. Chemical handling, quality control, and traceability receive particular care. Implementing a standardized questionnaire in all operational nations guarantees a standardized assessment procedure.
The foundation of OEKO-TEX’s assessment procedure is the STeP certification audit, which focuses on social responsibility, environmental impact, chemical management, traceability, and quality control. In-depth instruction, including self-study and online assessments, is provided to STeP auditors to make sure they are prepared to conduct thorough facility audits.
