Frequently asked questions
This page gives short answers to the most common questions about OBCO audits: cost, duration, audit types, documents, confidentiality, certificates, regions and sectors covered.
- Who pays for the audit?
It depends on the brand's programme: some brands pay for audits themselves, others ask the supplier to pay. When a supplier commissions a pre-audit or training, the supplier pays.
- How long does an on-site audit take?
Usually one to two auditor-days. The exact duration depends on headcount, site size and audit scope, and is set during planning.
- What is the difference between announced and unannounced audits?
In an announced audit the date is shared in advance; in an unannounced audit there is no notice at all. A semi-announced audit gives a time window but not the exact day. The brand decides which applies.
- Which documents should I prepare?
The essentials are personnel files, social security filings, the last 12 months of payroll and time records, workplace permits, the health and safety risk assessment, the emergency plan and drill records. Any extra brand requirements are shared during planning.
- What happens if a zero-tolerance issue is found?
It is reported to the brand immediately, without waiting for the report. What happens next, such as urgent remediation or suspending business, is decided by the brand under its own policy.
- Are audit reports confidential?
Yes. The report is shared only with the party that commissioned the audit; worker identities are protected and commercial information seen during the audit is not used for any other purpose.
- Does OBCO issue certificates?
No. OBCO does not act as a certification body; it carries out audits and inspections and reports the results. Certificates for a standard are issued by the bodies that standard authorises.
- Which regions do you cover?
All of Türkiye. Our office is in Istanbul, and with our central team and local auditors we can audit in every region.
- Which sectors do you work in?
We audit and inspect in home textiles and apparel, baby and children's products, toys, retail and consumer goods, stationery and office supplies, hardlines (glass, ceramics, plastic, metal, wood), small household appliances, and automotive and automotive components.
- Which languages are reports written in?
Reports can be written in Turkish or English; the brand's preferred language and format are agreed during planning.
- How quickly are reports delivered?
Fast reporting is central to how we work: reports are prepared in our digital system and delivered without delay. The exact turnaround is stated in the quote for each audit type, and zero-tolerance findings are reported straight away.
- What is the difference between a consultant and an auditor?
A consultant helps a site meet requirements; an auditor independently assesses whether they are met. OBCO is primarily an auditor, and where we help a site prepare, we keep that work separate from any independent audit of the same site wherever impartiality requires it.