Factory Technical Audits

Business

The wrong factory choice can lead to defects, delays, and costly rework. Inspections only show the outcome; our factory assessment reveals the operational capability behind it, from systems and processes to people and controls.

Know Your Factory. Manage Your Risk.

Our factory audit service gives you a complete, objective picture of a facility’s capabilities, compliance status, and working conditions before you commit to an order and throughout your relationship with them.

Every audit is conducted on-site by experienced professionals and reported in full through the CLIV platform, giving you a permanent, accessible record of every facility in your supply chain.

Audit Types

Full Factory Assessment:

Comprehensive on-site review of facilities, machinery, production capacity, workforce (e.g., number of operators, lines), and quality processes.

Quality Management System (QMS) Audit

Evaluates ISO 9001 compliance, including policies, document control, process audits, training records, incoming/outgoing inspections, and corrective actions; verifies consistency in garment defect handling.

Social Compliance Audit:

Checks labor standards (e.g., SA8000/SMETA protocols) for working hours, wages, child/forced labor, health/safety, and discrimination via worker interviews and records; critical for apparel supply chains.

Technical/Process Audit

Focuses on production workflows, sewing equipment maintenance, efficiency, and in-line quality checks (e.g., seam strength, stitching); identifies bottlenecks in manufacturing.

WHAT YOU GET

A comprehensive written audit report with photographic evidence
A risk rating and compliance score by category
A prioritised list of findings and recommended corrective actions
Full report access and historical records stored in CLIV

We understand that your reputation depends on who makes your product. We give you the evidence to make the right decisions.

Talk to our team about an audit programme for your supplier base.

FAQs

01. What is a factory audit and why do brands need it?

A factory audit objectively evaluates a facility's production capabilities, compliance, and quality systems before placing orders. It helps sourcing teams avoid costly mistakes, mitigate risks, and ensure ethical standards for fashion, footwear, and home goods production.

02. What types of factory audits does Two Eight One offer?

We provide Capability Audits (production capacity and expertise), Social Compliance Audits (BSCI, SA8000, ethical labor), Quality System Audits (internal QC processes), ISO/Certification Audits (9001 gap analysis), and Follow-Up Audits to verify corrective actions.

03. What does the factory audit process involve?

Our 25+ year experts conduct on-site assessments using your code of conduct or global standards. We deliver comprehensive CLIV reports with photos, risk ratings, compliance scores, prioritised findings, and corrective action plans within 24-48 hours.

04. How do I get a factory audit report and access historical data?

Every audit generates a detailed written report with photographic evidence, risk scores, and action recommendations. All data is stored permanently in your CLIV platform for easy access, tracking improvements, and supplier benchmarking.

05. Why choose Two Eight One for factory audits over competitors?

Unlike generic inspection firms, we combine senior expertise with CLIV digital tracking for actionable insights trusted by Paul Smith, River Island, and Superdry. Our audits reduce supply chain risks and support ongoing vendor management, not just one-off checks.