Does a certifier need to decide at the outset to use the RBF?
If the RBF is going to be used, it is advantageous to decide this at the start of the assessment process to avoid delays later on due to consultation requirements. The RBF involves additional stakeholder consultation. If a certifier considers that the RBF will be required, this should be indicated at the outset. If it becomes clear only during the assessment process that there is not enough data available to use the standard MSC process the RBF can be used on one or more indicators. Stakeholders will need to be notified of this change of methodology and additional stakeholder meetings arranged.
