Chief Inspection or main audit

After the measures as indicated in the preliminary investigation are implemented, the main inspection follows.

The main inspection is performed by a team of inspectors. Given the diverse aspects that emerge in the certification process, the team usually consists of three people: with forestry, ecological and socio-economic background.

The main inspection is done by means of:

• Desk research: checking maps cards, surveys, plans, reports and annual reports.
• Field research: visit to the forest management unit or units
• interviews and meetings with stakeholders (stakeholder consultation)

The forest management is tested with the standard, this is a list of criteria, indicators and standards. On the assessment forms a score indicated. Based on this, a SWOT analysis is made for all 9 or 10 principles made. The findings of the certifiers are firstly presented  to the company by the inspection team and discussed with management.