The question of obtaining an “extension” on an existing SIZA audit period is often raised by businesses, particularly when operations have been affected by a serious natural disaster or severe weather event.
The short answer is “no”, and there are several important reasons for this:
- SIZA Audit Validity Periods Already Support Continuous Improvement
The SIZA audit frequency model is designed to promote continuous improvement by rewarding businesses that perform well during their audits. As a result, SIZA audits are already valid for extended periods, up to 3 years, based on audit performance outcomes. Because of this structure, international markets and buyers generally do not accept further extensions beyond the existing validity period. - SIZA Audits Assess Management Systems, Not Specific Crops or Commodities
SIZA audits evaluate a business’s management systems for its social and/or environmental practices. They are not commodity-specific or crop-specific audits. It includes the entire business.
For an audit to proceed, the farm or business must simply be operational. Once the site is accessible and operational, and at least 66% of the workforce is present during a social audit, the audit may continue as planned. In essence, we do evaluate the implementation of the policies and procedures and not just the paperwork that is presented.
What is available to consider?
Bridging Letters May Be Available in Certain Circumstances
Where additional time is required to complete corrective actions during peak operational periods, businesses may apply for a Bridging Letter, subject to specific terms and conditions. The purpose of bridging periods is to complete corrective actions while you are in your busiest time – peak season – and probably out of your previous audit validity period. But this also comes back to the principle that an on-site visit must take place before you can apply for a bridging period. The focus here is on ensuring that risks are evaluated and kept as low as possible for everyone involved.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Last-Minute Challenges
Planning an audit several months before your current audit expires allows both the audit firm and your business to proactively determine the most suitable audit date.
It is also important to consult with your exporters, importers and retail buyers regarding their specific requirements, including:
- Approved and accepted audit firms;
- Required audit types (announced, semi-announced or unannounced); and
- Any market-specific compliance expectations.
In situations where weather patterns disrupt planning, please contact the SIZA office so we can find the best option in cooperation with your buyers for your specific circumstances.
Need Assistance?
If you require assistance or are unsure about the audit process, please contact:
Wian van Niekerk – wian@siza.co.za
Werner van Dyk – werner@siza.co.za
Tel: 021 852 8184
