What role do IT brands have in relation to TCO Certified

IT brands apply for certification and are responsible for ensuring that their products meet all criteria in TCO Certified.

This responsibility is defined by contract and includes both the product and the factories where it is manufactured. Non-compliance has real consequences — certificates can be withdrawn, and factories may lose the right to manufacture products certified according to TCO Certified.

To get a product certified, IT brands must use factories listed on TCO Certified Accepted Factory List. These factories are independently audited, with specialist auditors given full on-site access to carry out assessments in line with RBA-VAP or SA8000. Brands must also provide product samples and documentation, which are reviewed as part of the independent verification process.

IT brands can also contribute input during the criteria development process. However, they do not decide the criteria, which are developed and managed by TCO Development.

For IT brands, using TCO Certified means gaining access to a structured system for continuous improvement that helps organize and accelerate sustainability work. Clear criteria, independent verification, and regular follow-up provide a practical framework for identifying risks, prioritizing actions, and implementing improvements over time.