Verification Procedure
Systematic reviews of laboratory results through the re-evaluation of archived samples ensure the long-term reliability of quality control data. This procedure provides a check on the consistency of both internal and third-party testing facilities used by garment brands. It involves selecting a random percentage of previously cleared materials and submitting them to a different accredited laboratory for a second round of analysis.
Discrepancies between the original report and the audit findings trigger an investigation into the testing process.
Integrity Maintenance
Holding suppliers accountable for the accuracy of their chemical disclosures requires this periodic oversight. If a retest audit reveals a failure that was missed in the initial screening, the mill must identify the root cause of the variation. This process prevents the gradual drift of standards that can occur when testing becomes a routine formality.
Sample Storage
Preservation of material from each production lot is a prerequisite for this type of inspection. Retained samples must be kept in conditions that prevent degradation or cross-contamination for at least six months. The retest audit draws from these physical records to confirm that the goods shipped to the customer matched the approved specifications.
Resolution Protocol
Findings from these audits influence the ranking of preferred laboratories and suppliers within a global sourcing network. Corrective actions might include upgrading equipment or revising the extraction methods used for specific fiber types.
