TCO Certified improves supply chain conditions by combining comprehensive environmental and social criteria, independent verification, and a structured system for continuous improvement.
The criteria address key risks, including working hours, health and safety, worker exposure to hazardous substances, and environmental impacts. To ensure progress, factories are regularly audited. All criteria are mandatory, and non-conformities must be corrected within set timeframes.
Factories that manufacture certified products are risk-categorized and listed on TCO Certified Accepted Factory List. High-risk factories are audited more often. IT brands can view the list and choose to locate production at a lower-risk factory, creating a business incentive for factory owners to prioritize sustainability.
Criteria include: