REGULAR More than ticking boxes
Nicky Biggart, Chair of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association’s (CHSA) Accreditation Schemes, explains how you can turn audits into a business advantage.
Third party verification matters. Claims are evidenced, not just asserted. Instead of relying on assumptions, clear specifications define what a product must deliver, and testing confirms those requirements are met. Buyers can be certain they get the fit for purpose product they believe they’re paying for.
For many, however, the certification
process can trigger anxiety. It can feel like a test they must pass. Yet, inspection can be something much more valuable: an opportunity to strengthen operations, improve standards and build a more resilient business.
The difference lies in how the process is approached. Collaboration is the key. Genuine engagement from both sides can transform an audit from a test to a significant business improvement process.
This is particularly important within the CHSA, where maintaining integrity, quality and trust across the supply chain is essential. Independent inspection is not simply about identifying faults; it’s about helping members achieve and demonstrate the standards customers expect and deserve.
The CHSA’s Independent Inspector, David Luffman, audits every member at least annually, checking they conform to the rigorous requirements of the Association’s five Accreditation Schemes. The audit process is detailed and rigorous, making sure members maintain the high standards expected of them – but it’s not a test, with the Inspector marking the member’s homework. Rather than members seeing the audit as a last-minute exercise, we want it to be a structured framework for continuous improvement. To this end the Inspector creates a collaborative atmosphere, starting the moment the first inspection is scheduled.
This begins with extensive support to help members and prospective members prepare effectively. The pre- inspection guidance, available to all on our website, includes definitive guides to the auditing process for manufacturers and distributors. Also available on the resources page on the website are clear fact sheets on every scheme, detailed compliance checklists, guidance on the rules governing product sourced from non-Accredited manufacturers, own label guidance and information on the ethical audit requirement.
We have also compiled and answered the questions members have often posed during the process. This means members know what’s expected and the evidence the Independent Inspector will be looking for when on site. Members can also access consultancy services tailored to their specific circumstances.
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This proactive support changes the nature of the audit. Instead of businesses feeling like they’re navigating a complex process alone, they gain access to practical expertise developed through years of industry experience. Once they see the true value of the process, members’ teams become engaged.
This collaborative relationship enables them to identify any weaknesses early, strengthen processes and address gaps before they become serious issues. The standards become embedded throughout the organisation instead of existing only on paper for inspection day.
Collaboration also helps reduce stress and uncertainty. With all the demands and complex challenges facing the cleaning and hygiene sector, this is particularly important when individuals may already be facing intense pressure.
The long-term commercial benefits should not be underestimated either. Strong systems and robust compliance processes improve operational efficiency. Clear documentation reduces risk. Consistent standards strengthen customer trust and enhance reputation. Businesses which fully embrace the audit process often emerge more organised, more confident and better positioned for growth.
One new member summed up the value of this approach perfectly after receiving a pre-inspection visit: “I found your visit really insightful and informative, and I know the guys did too. The pre-inspection was certainly worthwhile, and I would recommend it to any new prospective CHSA member. Your years of experience and advice will enable us to get everything that we had overlooked in place, ready for the official inspection.”
This feedback highlights an important truth: the greatest benefit often comes not from the audit outcome itself, but from the learning and operational improvements achieved along the way.
www.chsa.co.uk
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