This article explains what an SLCP Shadow Verification is, how stakeholders can observe and participate in the verification process, and how SLCP uses the insights from Shadow Verifications to strengthen data quality and verification integrity.
- What is a Shadow Verification?
- What are the steps to arrange and conduct Shadow Verification?
- How does SLCP support stakeholders with Shadow Verifications?
- How does SLCP use Shadow Verification Report data?
- More Information
What is a Shadow Verification?
A Shadow Verification is an on-site observation of an SLCP verification. Any interested stakeholder that is not a representative of a Verifier Body (VB) can conduct a Shadow Verification. This includes:
- Brands
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
- Other interested parties
By observing a Shadow Verification, interested stakeholders will gain hands-on experience
in the Verifier’s on-site work and gain a better understanding of how SLCP’s Verification
Protocol is implemented in practice.
What are the steps to arrange and conduct Shadow Verification?
- Identify the facility for the Shadow Verification (check the Facility list on Gateway)
- Reach out and inform the facility about their plans to conduct a Shadow Verification.
- Submit the Shadow/Observation Request Form to request facilities’ approval and inform the VOO.
- The facility approves the verification request
- Get ready for the Shadow Verification by reviewing SLCP Verification Protocol
- Conduct the Shadow Verification and while onsite, fill in the Shadow Observation Report
- Share the Shadow Observation Report with SLCP and schedule a joint call to analyze the results and share feedback.
How does SLCP support stakeholders with Shadow Verifications?
To ensure a fair and accurate assessment of a Verifier’s work, it is essential that stakeholders are familiar with SLCP requirements before going onsite. To support this, SLCP helps through:
- Training on the Shadow Verification process and how to use the Shadow Observation Report template.
- Joint discussions after the Shadow Verification on findings and observations, ensuring that feedback is analysed and translated into actionable improvements.
How does SLCP use Shadow Verification Report data?
Shadow Verification results, like other QA processes, are reviewed for potential issues that may require further investigation or Corrective Action Requests (CARs).
Every feedback submission is assessed for quality, and the insights gathered help improve SLCP’s processes and verification systems.
More information
Check our Shadow Verification Info-Pack here.