What is ISO 38200?
ISO 38200:2018 sets out the requirements for the chain of custody (CoC) of wood and wood-based products, ensuring that the materials sourced and processed are traceable and verifiable throughout the supply chain. The standard provides a framework for businesses to prove that their products originate from responsibly managed forests or sources, supporting environmental sustainability, reducing illegal logging, and enhancing market transparency. It applies to all types of wood and wood-based products, including timber, paper, and furniture.
By implementing ISO 38200, companies can demonstrate their commitment to responsible sourcing and gain consumer confidence in the environmental integrity of their products.
Purpose
The purpose of ISO 38200:2018 is to establish a globally recognized system that ensures the traceability and sustainability of wood and wood-based products from their origin through all stages of production, processing, and distribution. This standard aims to support environmental responsibility by certifying that wood products come from sustainably managed forests and legal sources. It helps organizations provide assurance to consumers, regulators, and stakeholders that the wood products they use comply with environmental standards and regulations.
Scope and Applicability
ISO 38200:2018 applies to any organization involved in the production of wood and wood-based products. It is particularly relevant to industries where precision and measurement integrity are essential, such as pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, oil and gas, food safety, and manufacturing. The standard sets the framework for producing materials that can be reliably used for calibration, validation, and quality assurance in a variety of scientific and industrial applications. Organizations from these sectors must adhere to this standard to ensure their wood products meet internationally recognized quality and traceability requirements, ultimately ensuring the accuracy of measurement instruments and testing systems across different applications.
Key Definitions
- Chain of Custody (CoC): The process of tracking and verifying the origin, handling, and movement of wood and wood-based products throughout the entire supply chain.
- Sustainable Forestry: Forest management practices that meet the needs of present generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often involving biodiversity conservation and responsible harvesting.
- Certification Body: An independent third party that audits and verifies compliance with ISO 38200:2018, issuing certificates for organizations that meet the standard’s requirements.
Clause-wise Structure of ISO 38200
Clause Number |
| Title |
| Description |
Clause 1 |
| Scope | Defines the scope of the standard, specifying the types of products covered and the range of organizations it applies to. | |
Clause 2 |
| Normative References | Lists the referenced standards and documents that support the requirements of ISO 38200:2018. | |
Clause 3 |
| Terms and Definitions | Provides key terms used in the standard to ensure clarity and consistency. | |
Clause 4 |
| Principles of the Chain of Custody | Outlines the fundamental principles for maintaining an effective chain of custody, including traceability, transparency, and responsibility. | |
Clause 5 |
| General Requirements | Specifies the overall requirements for implementing a CoC system, including policies, procedures, and documentation. | |
Clause 6 |
| Responsibilities | Details the roles and responsibilities of organizations in ensuring that wood and wood-based products are traceable and compliant. | |
Clause 7 |
| Supply Chain and Documentation | Establishes the documentation requirements for tracking wood products and verifying their source, including record-keeping and reporting. | |
Clause 8 |
| Auditing and Certification | Describes the audit and certification process for verifying CoC systems and ensuring compliance. |
What are the needs of ISO 38200?
ISO 38200 requires organizations to implement a comprehensive chain of custody system, which includes several key components.
- First, traceability must be established, ensuring that wood and wood-based products are monitored and documented at every stage of the supply chain, from harvesting to final product distribution.
- Documentation is a critical requirement; detailed records of sourcing, processing, and handling must be kept to verify compliance with the standard.
- Additionally, organizations must ensure that they engage in responsible sourcing by ensuring the wood products they use come from legal, sustainable sources.
- Auditing and certification processes are integral to verify that the chain of custody is being properly maintained and that the organization adheres to the specified requirements.
- Independent third-party certification bodies are involved in the auditing process, ensuring credibility and compliance.
- Finally, communication with stakeholders is necessary to ensure that all parties in the supply chain understand their responsibilities in maintaining the chain of custody system.
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What are the benefits of ISO 38200 Certification?
ISO 38200 certification offers several advantages for organizations in the wood and wood-based products supply chain. Achieving certification helps improve the credibility of the business and opens access to global markets that demand sustainability. Below are some key benefits of obtaining ISO 38200:2018 certification:
- Certification provides assurance to customers that wood products are sourced sustainably, enhancing your brand’s credibility.
- Helps meet increasing government and industry regulations on sustainable sourcing and illegal logging.
- With growing demand for certified wood products, ISO 38200:2018 certification opens doors to international markets that prioritize sustainability.
- Provides clear visibility of the supply chain, allowing organizations to manage risks and ensure responsible sourcing.
As environmental sustainability continues to gain importance, the demand for certified wood products is expected to increase significantly in upcoming years. Organizations involved in the wood and paper industries, including manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers, are under increasing pressure to demonstrate their promise to sustainability. ISO 38200 certification supports this demand by offering a credible and verifiable system for tracking wood products from sustainable sources, ensuring organizations meet both regulatory and consumer expectations.
Certification Process:
The certification process for ISO 38200 involves several key steps:
- Pre-Certification Assessment: Conduct a gap analysis to identify areas for improvement in existing processes.
- Documentation Review: Review existing documentation and ensure that traceability and CoC systems are in place.
- Stage 1 Audit: Initial review of the management system and documents to assess readiness for full certification.
- Stage 2 Audit: A thorough on-site audit to evaluate the effectiveness of the chain of custody system and verify the traceability of wood products.
- Certification Decision: A certification body makes the final decision based on audit findings, awarding certification if all requirements are met.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular audits and recertification are required to maintain ISO 38200:2018 certification.
For audits and certification, contact support@pacificcert.com.
Timeline
The typical timeline for ISO 38200:2018 certification involves several phases. The pre-assessment and preparation phase generally takes about 1–2 months, during which the organization reviews its current practices and makes necessary adjustments to meet ISO 38200:2018 requirements. The Stage 1 audit, which focuses on documentation review, takes about 1 month. The Stage 2 audit is a more comprehensive on-site audit that takes 1–2 months to assess the actual systems in place. Certification issuance happens within 3–6 months, depending on the audit findings and the organization’s readiness.
What is the Cost of ISO 38200?
The cost of ISO 38200 certification depends on several factors, including the size of the organization, complexity of operations, and the number of reference materials produced. Costs cover:
- Audit Fees: Fees for the certification body’s audit process.
- Training Costs: For educating staff on chain of custody practices and documentation requirements.
- Maintenance Costs: Ongoing audits and compliance checks, with recertification required every 3 years.
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How Pacific Certifications Can Help?
At Pacific Certifications, we provide comprehensive auditing and certification services for ISO 38200:2018. Our team of experts will guide you through the entire certification process, ensuring your supply chain meets all requirements for traceability and sustainability. We help businesses implement robust CoC systems that align with international standards.
Our Role Includes:
- Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits to evaluate documentation and technical procedures.
- Objective conformity assessments based on impartial auditing principles aligned with ISO 38200
- Certification issuance upon successful completion of audit
- Ongoing surveillance audits to maintain compliance
- Support for multi-site or global operations
- Rapid processing and efficient audit scheduling
- Recognition across regulatory and accreditation bodies, enabling your CRMs to be accepted globally.
Training and Courses
Various training courses are available to help organizations comply with ISO 38200:2018, including:
- Lead Auditor Training– Equips professionals to conduct external third-party audits.
- Lead Implementer Training– For those responsible for planning and executing ISO implementation.
- Internal Auditor Training– Preparing internal auditors for certification audits.
Pacific Certifications provides accredited training programs. If your organization is looking for ISO 38200 training, our team is equipped to help you, contact us at support@pacificcert.com.
FAQ: ISO 38200
How long does it take to get ISO 38200 certification?
The certification process typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the organization’s preparedness.
Is ISO 38200 certification mandatory for all wood product industries?
It is not legally required, but it is highly recommended for organizations that wish to demonstrate responsible sourcing and gain market credibility.
What are the main benefits of ISO 38200 certification?
ISO 38200 certification improves credibility, ensures regulatory compliance, enhances market access, and increases supply chain transparency.
Can I apply for ISO 38200 certification without a traceability system in place?
No, organizations must have a system in place for traceability and documentation of wood products to achieve certification.
How often do I need to renew ISO 38200 certification?
ISO 38200 certification is valid for three years, after which recertification is required.
Ready to get ISO 38200 certified?
Contact Pacific Certifications to begin your certification journey today!
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