ASI noted for exemplary criteria and assurance practices in “Certifications Red Flags” report

30 July 2024

The “Certifications Red Flags”, published by Rights CoLab in July 2024, guides investors and companies in identifying potential risks associated with certification schemes they depend on for ensuring responsible business practices. The report outlines 14 significant red flags, highlighting weaknesses in various certification processes to help stakeholders make more informed decisions about the reliability of these schemes. Notably, ASI is referenced in the report as a positive example for addressing Red Flags 5 (Gender Scope) and 9 (Sample Size in Audits) demonstrating its commitment to comprehensive and responsible certification standards.

The ASI Performance Standard is referenced under Red Flag #5 related to Gender for incorporating gender consideration, addressing the unique challenges and rights of women and supporting gender-based approaches in the workplace. The report references that the Standard “requires members to ‘implement a program which promotes gender equity and women’s empowerment.’ It also requires gender analysis as part of the organization’s human rights impact assessments and a gender-sensitive impact plan.” By embedding gender-specific criteria, the Standard ensures that gender equity is an integral part of the certification process, promoting inclusive practices across the aluminium value chain.

Under Red Flag #9 related to adequate sample size in audits, the report references ASI for its risk-based approach. The report also notes that the Assurance Manual provides a clearly stated sampling methodology that companies should follow: “Ideally all Facilities in a Certification Scope should be visited and this should be the aim over a reasonable time period. However, where an Entity’s activities within the Certification Scope are carried out in a similar manner at different Facilities, and that all are managed and controlled by the Entity’s systems and procedures, a representative sample of sites can be selected.” ASI’s requirement for adequate sample sizes in audits prevents the issuance of certifications based on incomplete or unrepresentative data, thus supporting the reliability of the certification process. The report underscores the importance of this approach, noting that insufficient sample sizes can lead to unreliable certifications that do not accurately reflect practices on the ground.  

For more detailed insights into the “Certifications Red Flags” report and ASI’s highlighted practices, the full document is available here. 

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