About the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Group
What are the Pharmaceutical Industry Principles for Responsible Supply Chain Management (the Principles)?
The Principles developed by the PSCI outline standards for safe working conditions in the pharmaceutical supply chain, for treating workers with respect and dignity, and for environmentally responsible manufacturing and operations. The Principles create an opportunity for defining, evaluating and promoting supplier performance across several areas of social responsibility including ethics, labor standards, environmental impacts, and health and safety.
The Principles may be voluntarily supported by any business in the pharmaceutical sector and subsequently applied independently by that business to its supply chain, subcontractors, or other third-party operators. Companies supporting the Principles believe the Principles are best implemented through a continual improvement approach that advances supplier performance over time.
Is there a difference between the PSCI group and the Supporters of the Principles?
Yes. Any pharmaceutical company that intends to implement the Principles within its supplier programs can voluntarily support the Principles. "Supporters" are willing to be listed publicly as part of the effort and they will be asked to report back on their progress against the Principles.
Companies do not need to support the PSCI Principles to be part of the PSCI implementation work and not all companies that support the Principles may be members of the PSCI.
What companies are Supporters of the Principles?
Abbott, Johnson & Johnson, Merck, Pfizer, Novartis and Roche.
How are decisions made by the PSCI?
The companies in the PSCI are working on a governance structure that establishes roles and responsibilities as well as guidelines for how the group will operate. These principles will govern the PSCI throughout the duration of the initiative.
The group has retained Business for Social Responsibility (BSR) as their fiscal agent and facilitators for this process.
Is the PSCI open to new Members?
Yes. Membership is open to pharmaceutical and biotechnology business corporations.
Companies interested in membership can inquire through this website on the Contact page.
Will the PSCI make changes to the Principles?
Yes. The Supporters of the Principles are currently, under the PSCI governance structure, determining a schedule for feedback and revisions to the Principles. It is expected that this will occur no more than once a year.
Will the PSCI result in a higher cost of supply?
The PSCI intends to increase efficiency and productivity for companies and suppliers. Studies of good manufacturing practices clearly link worker strain to reduced productivity, increased worker turnover and increased injury and illness. Members of the PSCI recognize that the quality of products and services, consistency of production and worker's morale are enhanced by a safe and healthy working environment.