6
NEWS
ADDING PRODUCTS TO THE REGISTER
The requirements of SAW’s processes afford the
confidence that each product that is listed will
consistently meet quality and standards, as well as
ensure continuing reliability and transparency of
all information. Essentially, this also speaks to the
‘golden sample’ products that get approved, only
for the manufacturing process to be changed, often
resulting in non-compliance. This is not the case with
the SAW objectives.
Only once all the criteria for listing have successfully
been satisfied, and all checks and balances are in
order, will the product be added to the register. The
core requirement is that official documented evidence
of compliance has to be submitted to SAW and then
the various verification processes are initiated.
The business model is not one of a ‘once-off’
process of adding products onto the register
never to be reviewed. Each product that is listed
is consistently checked for compliance through
factual and authentic checks and balance systems.
The auditing process is very thorough. Not only
are the products and models verified, but also all
technical elements, such as the appropriateness
and consistency of the manufacturing process on
site. This applies no matter where the products are
produced: locally, in Europe, China, or the US.
Through contractual agreements, manufacturers or
suppliers carry the ultimate responsibility for their
products meeting standards, and although SAW
will not be obligated to enforce compliance or be a
‘policing agent’, they will hold the manufacturers or
suppliers to a high degree of accountability for the
products they produce and will require consistency in
meeting all requirements.
LOOKING FORWARD
Currently, SAW is at the operationalising stage with the
business model finalised and a central register being
populated with data. Keep an eye out for the official
public launch in Q1 2019.
The SAW scheme is evidence of the development
and changes that are possible for industries, coupled
with available technology and broad knowledge
bases. Industry change happens through participation
and working together. Keep watching this space for
updates on this exciting process. PA
For further enquiries about the SAW, please visit
www.sawatermark.co.za
November 2018 Volume 24 I Number 9