Responsible Supply Chain Initiative (RSCI)

WHAT IS RSCI?

The Responsible Supply Chain Initiative (RSCI) is a group of companies and associations focused on a sustainable automotive supply network. The RSCI provides tools and other support to its members so they can fulfil this goal. The Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) supports the programme. It is the world's largest industry coalition dedicated to responsible business conduct in global supply chains.

The groundwork for the RSCI was initiated in February of 2021 by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA). After several exploratory discussions with automotive stakeholders at the European level, VDA officially launched the RSCI initiative in October 2021.

The RSCI audit is a standardised sustainability assessment for production sites. TÜV SÜD’s RSCI audit helps organisations implement environmentally friendly standards in the automotive supply chain.

Why RSCI is important

Using the RSCI framework, you can demonstrate full transparency about working conditions, safety, and remuneration. Auditee assessment results for different customers can be shared on a web-based platform. This means you can avoid multiple RSCI audits. The Responsible Supply Chain Initiative also helps organisations to gain a competitive advantage, as improved working conditions create a motivated workforce and higher quality products.

How TÜV SÜD can help you with RSCI

TÜV SÜD’s qualified auditors are authorised by RBA and RSCI to conduct RSCI assessments. The RSCI Assessment evaluates a location’s conformity with social, occupational safety, and environmental protection aspects. These are listed in the RSCI operative manual and requirements relate to:

• General Management
• Child Labour and Young Employees
• Freely Chosen Labour
• Employee Rights
• Employee Participation
• Working hours and payment
• Fire Safety and Emergency Evacuation
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Chemicals and Hazardous Substances
• Environment

• Supply Chain Management

After TÜV SÜD’s on-site assessment a full or interim label will be issued, depending on the assessment’s result. Auditees can schedule a follow-up assessment after nine months to improve their performance.

A RSCI assessment can be requested through the RSCI Website. 

After an on-site assessment, the report will be uploaded to the RSCI-Online platform and may be shared with the relevant clients. After passing the assessment and depending on the result of the assessment a full or interim label will be issued. Auditees will be able to schedule a follow-up assessment after nine months through the RSCI-Online platform to improve their performance.

To know more about the RSCI assessment, please read the RSCI Flyer that has more information about how the RSCI helps to build a responsible supply chain for the automotive industry.

RSCI - Responsible Supply Chain Initiative e.V. | VDA