New Updates to the R2 Code of Practices

An updated version of the R2 Code of Practices (COP 2.1) was released on July 22, 2021 to clarify areas of the COP.  The changes were based on questions the arose from the Certification Bodies as they started to implement the COP for R2v3 certification programs.   Download the COP 2.1 from the R2 Document Library.

Some of the changes that could affect the way facilities are audited and certified:

• Clarification on acceptable EHS & QMS certifications. The certification must be granted by a certification body (CB) that has been accredited by an International Accreditation Forum (IAF) MLA signatory.  This added level of accountability for certification bodies helps to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the audit and certification process – which serves as the foundation for a strong and effective R2 Certification Program.
• Certification structure must be included on R2v3 certificate. There are many different business models and organizational structures that make up the community of R2 certified facilities.  Table 3 of the COP provides a list of various R2v3 certification structures.  The applicable certification structure from the table must be included on the R2v3 Certificate to provide clarity about the specific locations or entities that have been audited and included in the R2v3 certification.
• Clarified minimum audit time calculations. This is to ensure consistency for both onsite and remote audits, and to ensure adequate time is allocated for specific audit activities.
• Correcting nonconformities.  With the release of R2v3 and the COP 2.0, the timeframe for correcting nonconformities was shortened.  To avoid suspension, facilities need to act quickly to correct nonconformities and provide evidence of correction to their auditor.  COP 2.1 has extended the time frame from 30 to 60 days in some instances.  This will still require swift action on the part of facilities.  Facilities are encouraged to consult the COP 2.1 and their certification body for more details.
• More specific Scope terminology. One of the changes in R2v3 is more transparency about the specific capabilities and processes certified at each R2 facility.  To ensure that this information is clearly and consistently communicated, Table 9 of the COP provides specific terminology to be used when developing the scope statement that is included on the R2v3 certificate.   The most recent update in COP 2.1 adds more specific descriptions relating to Appendix B and C.
• Clarifying options for facility moves. Facilities that plan on transitioning to a new location may want to consider a temporary “Campus” certification structure during the transition.  This could allow them to operate both the original and new locations as Campus facilities during the transition.  Facilities should contact their certification body to determine whether this would be beneficial in their specific situation.
• Clarification on R2 Downstream Vendors (DSVs) – All references to R2 DSVs in the COP have been changed to R2v3 DSVs. In Appendix A (7) of R2v3, qualification of an R2 DSV includes, verifying their “R2 Certification is active with a certification scope, including applicable Process Requirements, consistent with the equipment, components, and materials received and the processes performed.”  In order to have an R2 Certification with the “applicable Process Requirements” the DSV would need to be certified to R2v3.   COP 2.1 clarifies this by specifying “R2v3” DSV.

For the full list of changes, see the Version History on page 49 of the COP 2.1, which can be downloaded from the R2 Document Library.