Introduction

In the global food and consumer products supply chain, achieving and maintaining certification to BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards) is not merely a competitive advantage but a critical demonstration of commitment to product safety, quality, legality, and operational excellence, opening doors to major retail markets worldwide. Mastering BRCGS Global Standards is absolutely critical for food manufacturers, packaging producers, storage and distribution centers, and agents/brokers seeking to implement robust management systems, pass stringent audits, and secure their position within the international supply chain. This essential training course is designed to equip quality managers, food safety supervisors, technical directors, production managers, internal auditors, and compliance officers with the specialized knowledge and practical skills required for interpreting the specific requirements of relevant BRCGS standards (e.g., Food Safety, Packaging Materials, Storage & Distribution), developing compliant management systems, preparing for successful certification audits, identifying and correcting non-conformities, and driving continuous improvement in product integrity. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the BRCGS framework, the nuances of risk-based thinking, the challenges of maintaining consistent compliance across complex operations, and the critical role of robust documentation and strong internal audit programs in achieving and sustaining certification. This program emphasizes practical application, adherence to benchmarked industry best practices, and real-world scenarios pertinent to achieving and maintaining BRCGS certification, empowering you to confidently elevate your organization's safety and quality standing.

Target Audience

• Food Safety & Quality Assurance (QA) Managers
• Technical Managers & Directors
• Production & Operations Managers
• Internal Auditors for BRCGS Standards
• HACCP Team Leaders
• Food Safety & Quality Consultants
• Regulatory & Compliance Officers
• Supply Chain Professionals working with BRCGS certified sites

Course Objectives

• Master the core principles and specific requirements of the chosen BRCGS Global Standard (e.g., Food Safety, Packaging).
• Learn sophisticated techniques for interpreting BRCGS clauses and applying them to your operational context.
• Develop proficiency in understanding the audit process and expectations for a successful BRCGS certification.
• Understand advanced strategies for developing and implementing a robust BRCGS-compliant management system.
• Explore best practices in conducting internal audits against BRCGS requirements as per ISO 19011.
• Grasp advanced techniques for identifying, documenting, and resolving non-conformities effectively.
• Learn about robust approaches to managing key BRCGS areas like food defense, food fraud, and allergen control.
• Identify the critical role of senior management commitment and culture in achieving and maintaining BRCGS.
• Develop skills in preparing comprehensive documentation required for BRCGS audits.
• Understand the importance of corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) for continuous improvement in BRCGS.
• Formulate strategies for maintaining BRCGS certification through ongoing monitoring and review.

Duration

5 Days

Course Outline

Module 1. Introduction to BRCGS Global Standards

• Overview of BRCGS: history, purpose, and global recognition
• Understanding the various BRCGS Global Standards (e.g., Food Safety, Packaging Materials, Storage & Distribution, Agents & Brokers)
• The role of BRCGS in the global food supply chain and GFSI benchmarking
• Benefits of BRCGS certification: market access, brand protection, consumer confidence
• Key changes and updates in the latest version of the chosen BRCGS Standard

Module 2. Understanding the BRCGS Requirements (Specific Standard)

• Clause-by-clause review of the chosen BRCGS Standard (e.g., Food Safety Issue 9)
• Management commitment and continuous improvement
• Hazard and risk management systems (HACCP/HARPC principles)
• Food safety and quality management system requirements
• Site standards: layout, maintenance, utilities, hygiene

Module 3. Operational Controls & Processes

• Product control: raw material management, supplier approval, traceability, allergen management
• Process control: operational PRPs, CCPs, OPRPs, foreign body control
• Personnel: training, protective clothing, health screening, personal hygiene
• Food defense and food fraud requirements
• Control of specified materials (e.g., packaging, chemicals)

Module 4. Audit Preparation & Documentation

• Understanding the BRCGS audit protocol: planning, duration, grading
• Essential documentation for BRCGS compliance: policies, procedures, records
• Developing an audit-ready mindset and preparing audit teams
• The role of internal audits in continuous readiness
• Mock audits and readiness assessments

Module 5. Conducting Effective Internal Audits (ISO 19011 Aligned)

• Principles of auditing according to ISO 19011
• Planning and conducting an internal audit against BRCGS requirements
• Gathering objective evidence through observation, interviewing, and document review
• Identifying and classifying non-conformities (major, minor, critical)
• Effective questioning and communication skills for internal auditors

Module 6. Non-Conformity Management & Corrective Actions

• Documenting non-conformities accurately and clearly
• Principles of root cause analysis for identified issues
• Developing and implementing effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
• Verification of CAPA effectiveness
• Managing audit findings and follow-up activities

Module 7. Maintaining BRCGS Certification & Continuous Improvement

• Understanding the certification body's role and the post-audit process
• Key performance indicators (KPIs) for BRCGS compliance
• Management review of the BRCGS system
• Crisis management and product recall readiness under BRCGS
• Fostering a strong food safety and quality culture for sustained compliance

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.