The first step is to submit an application for GOTS certification.

This can be completed online through the website, or by filling out the application form and sending it to NimkarTek at certifications@nimkartek.com.

Once the application is reviewed, NimkarTek will provide a tailored quotation. Upon acceptance of the quotation, the certification process begins with the signing of the Contract, the Process Agreement and the Certification Terms and Conditions.

NimkarTek will request the necessary technical documentation for each product requiring certification. This includes the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which must comply with one of the regulations or guidelines listed under the GOTS document.

While the SDS serves as the primary reference document, certain GOTS requirements may require additional documentation. Documents typically required for review include:

• Technical Data Sheet (TDS) of the product
• Test Reports demonstrating compliance with GOTS input chemical criteria
• Declarations related to product hazards and composition
• Supporting documents, such as traceability records or other relevant information.

Once the product has successfully completed the documentation review, chemical manufacturers and formulators undergo an environmental and safety audit at their production facility. This audit is conducted during the first year of certification and is repeated every three years, or earlier if updates to the GOTS standard require it.

The audit evaluates compliance with key GOTS requirements, including:

• Chemical Management (Section 4.2.1)
• Prohibited and Restricted Inputs (Section 4.2.2)
• Hazard and Toxicity Requirements for Input Chemicals (Section 4.2.3)
• Product Stewardship of Input Chemicals (Section 4.2.4)
• Environmental Management (Section 4.2.5)
• Wastewater Management (Section 4.3.2)
• Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) (Section 4.4.7)

For traders and distributors, an onsite audit is generally not required, provided that they source certified products from approved manufacturers or formulators.

Following the successful completion of all required assessments, NimkarTek will issue a GOTS Letter of Approval, valid for three years. This approval confirms that the manufacturer’s input chemicals meet the GOTS Criteria and are permitted for use in the production of GOTS-certified Textiles.

Once products are certified, any associated labels and artwork must be approved by NimkarTek to ensure compliance with GOTS branding and labelling guidelines. Clients are required to submit their proposed designs to NimkarTek for review, verification, and final approval before use.