ICTI Ethical Toy Program
The ICTI Ethical Toy Program (formerly known as ICTI CARE Process) is a certification and monitoring program designed to promote ethical and responsible manufacturing practices in the toy industry. It aims to ensure that toys are produced under safe, fair, and humane working conditions while respecting environmental standards.
Key features of the ICTI Ethical Toy Program include:
Code of Business Practices: The program sets out a comprehensive Code of Business Practices that covers various aspects of toy manufacturing, including child labor, working hours, wages and benefits, health and safety, and environmental sustainability. Participating toy companies commit to upholding these standards and implementing them throughout their supply chains.
Certification Process: Toy factories undergo an independent audit to assess their compliance with the program's Code of Business Practices. This includes on-site inspections, interviews with workers, and review of documentation and records. Factories that meet the requirements are granted ICTI Ethical Toy Program certification.
Continuous Improvement: The program emphasizes continuous improvement and provides guidance and support to factories in addressing any non-compliance issues identified during the audit process. Participating companies are expected to develop corrective action plans and work towards remediation and ongoing compliance.
Worker Engagement and Training: The program promotes the involvement of workers in shaping their own working conditions. It encourages open dialogue, worker representation, and the provision of training and capacity-building opportunities to enhance workers' knowledge and awareness of their rights.
Transparency and Accountability: The ICTI Ethical Toy Program promotes transparency and accountability in the toy industry. Certified factories are listed in a public database, allowing brands, retailers, and consumers to verify their compliance and make informed choices.
By choosing toys that bear the ICTI Ethical Toy Program certification, consumers can support ethical manufacturing practices and contribute to the well-being of workers involved in the toy production process. The certification assures that the toys are produced in factories that prioritize fair treatment, safe working conditions, and environmental responsibility.