1. HIGG INDEX TOOL

The Higg Facility Tools measure an individual factory’s social and environmental performance. The tools are made up of two modules:

       a. Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM)

The Higg FEM assesses the environmental impact of facilities, so that improvements can be made to reduce any negative impacts. The Facility Environmental Module measures:

• Environmental management systems
• Energy use and greenhouse gas emissions
• Water use
• Wastewater
• Emissions to air
• Waste management
• Chemical use and management

       b. Higg Facility Social & Labor Module (Higg FSLM)

The Higg FSLM assesses the social and labor conditions present in a facility and the effectiveness of social management programs. The Facility Social & Labor Module measures:

• Recruitment and hiring
• Working hours
• Wages and benefits
• Employee treatment
• Employee involvement
• Health and safety
• Termination
• Management systems
• Facility workforce standards and those of value chain partners
• External engagement on social and labor issues with other facilities or organizations
• Community engagement   

For additional information about HIGG, please visit: www.higg.com

2. ICS TOOL

ICS is an international sectoral initiative with the aim to enhance working conditions along global supply chains of its member retailers and brands.

ICS is composed of 65 multinational retailers and brands in the sectors of textile, retail, footwear, electronics and furniture.

ICS members collaborate with common tools, to mutualize audits, contributing to the reduction of the ‘audit fatigue’ and share knowledge and best practices

ICS measures:

• Management System, Transparency and Traceability
• Minimum age, Child Labour and Young workers
• Forced Labour
• Discrimination
• Disciplinary Practices, Harassment and Abuse
• Freedom of association and Grievance Mechanisms
• Working hours and Overtime
• Remuneration and Benefits
• Health and Safety

For additional information about ICS, please visit: www.ics-asso.org