Development of the MSC scheme documents
Why were a new set of scheme documents developed?
The MSC releases its improved certification requirements (PDF, 2.4mb) in August 2011 resulting from a 12-month-long process to revise the original MSC scheme requirements.
The need to revise core MSC scheme documents was the result of the rapid evolution of the MSC certification program over its more than 10 years of operations. In that time over 50 separate documents have been written, all of which contain requirements, guidance or both.
As the system grew it became important that the scheme be consolidated into a consistent format that would make it easier to read, use and update.
How have the new certification requirements changed?
Previously the MSC had 3 separate core documents that certifiers used to assess and certify fisheries and supply chain businesses:
- Fishery Certification Methodology
- Fishery Assessment Methodology
- Chain of Custody Methodology
In addition to these documents over 50 other scheme documents (Manuals, TAB Directives, Policy Advisories, etc.) had been developed.
Following a recommendation by the MSC’s Technical Advisory Board (TAB) , the MSC rewrote all scheme documents (excluding the standards) into a new streamlined, simple to read and amend set of consolidated documents called the MSC certification requirements (PDF, 2.4mb).
The new MSC certification requirements have been designed for use by certifiers. They are structured in sequence based on the ISO Guide 65, the document upon which the MSC certification system is based. There are 3 parts that replace previous methodologies:
- Part A: General requirements for all certifiers
- Part B: Chain of Custody Certification Requirements
- Part C: Fishery Certification Requirements
In addition, a separate document, the Guidance to the MSC Certification Requirements (PDF, 2.1mb), provides information to help certifiers understand the reason for and application of specific requirements. This includes material such as intent, examples, and interpretations.
TAB Directives, Policy Advisories and further guidance
The introduction of the MSC certification requirements means the MSC will no longer issues TAB Directives or Policy Advisories. The MSC will continue to develop program improvements based on the best science available that will be incorporated into the certification requirements.
