PEFC CoC Auditor’s Initial Training 2024
NCCF along with PEFC successfully conducted PEFC Chain of Custody Auditors’ Initial Training 2024. The training was conducted online on 2nd and 3rd September 2024.
The comprehensive training program covered various important topics, including the PEFC Chain of Custody standard, PEFC Trademarks standard, PEFC CB requirements standard, and accreditation requirements for Certification Bodies (CBs)and PEFC-EUDR Module. The training was tailored for Auditors, Reviewers, and Certification Decision Makers. This initial training is mandatory for auditors who intend to conduct audits for PEFC Chain of Custody Standards.
Mr. A. M. Singh, the Director General of NCCF, opened the session by warmly welcoming the trainers from PEFC International—Mr. Rob Shaw, Ms. Linda Matole, and Ms. Ambra Scodro—as well as the participants from various certification bodies across countries such as India, Egypt, Canada, UAE, Croatia, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Following this introduction, Ms. Abhilasha Gueria, Assistant Director at NCCF, took over and provided an overview of NCCF, its certification schemes, the objectives of the training, and the importance and benefits of PEFC Chain of Custody Certification.
The training sessions were conducted by all three trainers from PEFC International, who are esteemed members of the PEFC Pool of Experts for PEFC Chain of Custody Training. The training comprehensively covered various topics, including PEFC Chain of Custody documentation, scope and management system, Due Diligence System, Multi-site certification, as well as requirements for CBs operating in compliance with PEFC Chain of Custody and PEFC trademarks regulations, among others. Additionally, a complete session was dedicated to the implications of EUDR both inside and outside EU. Trainees were also instructed on how certificate holders can utilize the PEFC-EUDR DDS module to extend their DDS scope and provide effective solutions.
The training program incorporated a blend of presentations and case studies, offering practical insights into real-world scenarios related to Chain of Custody certification. Successful completion of this training makes the auditors eligible to conduct PEFC Chain of Custody certification audits. For existing trained auditors, this program served as an opportunity to stay updated on evolving expectations, clarifications, and interpretations pertaining to the PEFC Chain of Custody Standard.
Concluding her address, Ms. Abhilasha extended her heartfelt congratulations to all the participants for their commendable achievement in successfully completing the training course. She emphasised the pivotal role that auditors play in advancing the global reach of PEFC Chain of Custody certifications.
In her final remarks, she conveyed her best wishes for the participants’ continued success in their future endeavors and expressed her anticipation of their meaningful contributions to the PEFC Chain of Custody certification community.