INTERNSHIP REPORT

ON

“The State of ACCORD and Alliance Certification of Expert Group”

This Internship Report is submitted for the Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirement for the Degree of MBA in Apparel Merchandising-
2023

Supervised by
Farhana Karim
Associate Professor│Faculty of Business Studies
BGMEA University of Fashion &Technology (BUFT)

Prepared By
S.M.Sakib Rahman
BBA in Apparel Merchandising
ID: 221-076-4111

BGMEA UNIVERSITY OF FASHION & TECHNOLOGY

DHAKA, BANGLADESH

9 March 2023
 Declaration
I am S.M.Sakib Rahman, a student of MBA in Apparel Merchandising from 221 batch. ID:
221-076-4111 at the Department of Business Administration of BGMEA University of Fashion
& Technology does hereby declare that the internship report on The State of ACCORD and
Alliance Certification of Expert Group is work done under the supervision of Farhana
Karim, Associate Professor. Department of Business Administration of BUFT.
I also declare that the report is an original work and no part of this report has been copied from
elsewhere. Furthermore, this report has not been published or submitted for being awarded any
degree, diploma or recognition earlier.

S.M.Sakib
Rahman
Program: MBA
ID: 221-076-4111
Batch: 221
Department of Business Administration
BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT)
 Letter of Approval

This is to certify that S.M.Sakib Rahman, Program: MBA, Batch: 221, ID: 221-076-4111 has
completed his internship report on “The State of ACCORD and Alliance Certification of
Expert Group” under my supervision as a part of partial fulfillment of the requirement for the
Degree of Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Apparel Merchandising in the
Department of Business Studies of BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology. This report
can be accepted for evaluation.

Farhana Karim

Associate professor

Department of Business Administration

BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT)

 Letter of Transmittal
9 March 2023

To
Farhana Karim
Associate Professor
Department of Business Administration
BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT)
Nishatnagar, Turag, Dhaka-1230

Subject: Submission of Internship Report

Dear Sir,

With due respect, as student of Master of Business Administration at BGMEA University of

Fashion and Technology, I have prepared my internship report on “The State of ACCORD and
Alliance Certification of Expert Group”
I have tried my level best to follow your guidelines in every aspect of planning of this report. I
have also collected what I believe to be the most important information to make this report specific
and coherent as possible. I enjoyed the challenge of preparing the report as it provided me with an
opportunity to enlarge knowledge. I am honestly thankful for your guidance during the preparation
of this report. I hope you will appreciate my effort. I have done the study in a complete form and
I have tried my level best to conduct this in a professional manner. It is true that, it could have
been done in a better way if there were not limitations. I hope you will assess my report considering
the limitations of the study.

S.M.Sakib Rahman
Program: MBA
ID: 221-076-4111
Batch: 221
Department of Business Administration
BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT)
 Official Certification

This is to certify that S.M.Sakib Rahman, Program: Master of Business Administration, Batch: 221, ID:
221-076-4111 has completed his internship report on The State of ACCORD and Alliance
Certification of Expert Group of Bangladesh under my supervision as a part of,Partial Fulfillment of
the requirements for the Degree of Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the Department of
Business Administration of BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology. This report can be accepted
for evaluation.

Farhana Karim

Associate professor
Department of Business Administration

(DBA) BGMEA University of Fashion &

Technology Dhaka-1230
 Acknowledgment

A warm felicitation goes for me to acknowledge the people, who hold the desirability for encouraging, praising,
assisting as well as believing me on the tasks of activities what I have worked through my internship period.

First of all I would like to take the opportunity to thanks our honorable Associate professor Farhana Karim ,
BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology & my internship supervisor for providing me guidelines, help
in assisting my report. He was constantly supporting me with his inspiring personality. I will always be always
thankful for his extraordinary reinforcement.

I also acknowledge the loving support of my teachers, parents, and friends. I express my honest and sincerest
gratitude to the Divisional Merchandiser, Marketing & Merchandising of Esquire Knit composite limited., Md.
Saiful Islam who assisted me a lot by giving an opportunity for eye opening in this particular sector and extended
an all-out support in all respect for writing this report in the most comprehensive manner within the specified
time frame.

I will show my gratitude to all the Management & Non-Management Staffs who have helped me during the
internship period and the entire persons who somehow have impact on me in completing my whole report.

I was bound in my theoretical knowledge. It is my first experience to acquire knowledge in the practical field.
So, it is natural that there might have some mistakes. For these reasons, I am really sorry and I beg pardon.

Finally, numerous thanks and gratitude to the Almighty Allah for paving my way to successfully finish my report
making.
SL CONTENTS Page No.
Student’s Declaration I.
Letter of Transmittal II.
Official Certification III.
Internship Certificate from Industry Supervisor IV.
Acknowledgement V.
Executive Summery VI.
Table of Contents VII.
List of Tables VIII.
List of Figures IX.
Acronyms X.
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Prelude 8
1.2 Problem Statement 9
1.3 Objective of the Study 11-12
1.4 Scope of the Study 12
1.5 Limitation of the Study 13
CHAPTER TWO: OVERVIEW OF THE ORGANIZATION
3.1 Historical Background 13
3.2 Organogram 14
3.3 Features 15
3.4 Human Resore Managemant 16
3.5 CSR Activities 16-17
3.6 Swot Analysis 18-22
CHAPTER THREE: RESULTS & DISCUSSIONS
4.1 ACCORD Certification Validation of Export Group 22
4.2 Observation of the Construction Level of Export Group’s Factory 23
4.3 Observation of the Electrical Safety of Export Group’s Factory 24
CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATION
5.1 Recommendations 25-29
5.2 Conclusions 30
5.3 REFERENCES 31
 Introduction:

FnF accessories limited is engaged in the business of export oriented garment labels & trims manufacturing
industries. Fnf accessories limited started its production in 2009 as a manufacturer and exporter of high
quality accessories for 100% export oriented Garments Industries. It produces woven and satin labels,
printed labels, woven edge satin ribbons and tags.

Products:

i)All types of Master Cartons 8,000-12,000 Pcs

ii)Inner Cartons/Boxes 40,000-60,000 Pcs

iii)Back Board 60,000-100,000 Pcs

iv)Neck Board 80,000-120,000 Pcs

v)Tissue Paper (Printing) 1,00,000 Pcs

vi)Tissue Paper Unlimited

vii)Hang Tag/Photo card 1,50,000-2,00,000 Pcs

viii)Collar stand 50,000-80,000 Pcs

Butterfly 80,000-120,000 Pcs

Woven Label 80,000-1,00,000 Pcs

Care Label 2,00,000-3,00,000 Pcs

Problem Statement:

Everything was good before working conditions in the Bangladesh garment industry came
under great scrutiny in 2012 after 117 people were killed at a fire at Tazreen Fashions, a garment
factory near the capital city of Dhaka, and even more so five months later, when more than
1,100 workers lost their lives in the collapse of Rana Plaza, after this two massive incidents
foreign buyers were back down from Bangladeshi factories for a while. As a result, Bangladesh
garments industry faced tremendous problem which was affecting our economy. The Accord
and Alliance were, of course, formed following the tragic Rana Plaza incident. Rana Plaza
itself was the price our country paid for the unregulated growth of the Bangladesh apparel
industry.
 Objectives:

After devastating incident in garments sector, something needed to be done in order to protect this
massive industry which employs 4.4 million people, mostly women, contributes more than 11
percent to the country’s GDP. So, garments industry needs a proper guideline specially for its
factory’s structure and take workers safety measures. Numerous factory and workers safety law
and international agreement should be implemented by the both parties in between them.

This is where ACCORD and Alliance rules and regulation came to the scenario. Below we are
going to brief about ACCORD and Alliance in Bangladesh Garments Industry.

The main objective of ACCORD and Alliance is building inspection and enforcement of fire and
safety standards the accord requires that contracts by international retailers with Bangladesh
manufacturers provide for compensation adequate to maintain safe buildings.

The Alliance is committed to conducting factory safety assessments in all ready-made garment
(RMG) factories producing for its members in Bangladesh. These assessments, conducted by
independent Qualified Assessment Firms (QAFs), provide factory owners with a technical
understanding of the fire safety and structural concerns related to their facilities, and prompt action
plans that aim to systematically and sustainably improve safety conditions for garment workers.

ACCORD: The Accord is an independent, legally binding agreement between brands and trade.
The ACCORD was signed on 15 May 2013. It is a five-year independent, legally binding
agreement between global brands and retailers and trade unions designed to build a safe and
healthy Bangladeshi Ready Made Garment (RMG) Industry. The Accord covers factories
producing Ready-Made Garments (RMG) and at the option of signatory companies, home textiles
and fabric & knit accessories. The Accord was created to enable a working environment in which
no worker needs to fear fires, building collapses, or other accidents that could be prevented with
reasonable health and safety measures.

The agreement was created in the immediate aftermath of the Rana Plaza building collapse that
led to the death of more than 1100 people and injured more than 2000. In June 2013, an
implementation plan was agreed leading to the incorporation of the Bangladesh Accord
Foundation in the Netherlands in October 2013. It is an example of project-oriented multi
stakeholder governance.
The ACCORD agreement consists of six key components

1. A five-year legally binding agreement between brands and trade unions to ensure
a safe working environment in the Bangladeshi RMG industry
2. An independent inspection program supported by brands in which workers and
trade unions are involve
3. Public disclosure of all factories, inspection reports and corrective action plans
(CAP)
4. A commitment by signatory brands to ensure sufficient funds are available for
remediation and to maintain sourcing relationships
5. Democratically elected health and safety committees in all factories to identify
and act on health and safety risks
6. Worker empowerment through an extensive training program, complaints
mechanism and right to refuse unsafe work.

The promise of ACCORD

Factory Inspection: All factories producing for Accord signatory companies undergo
independent regular fire, electrical and structural safety inspections.

Monitoring Remediation: The Accord monitors remediation progress and facilitates brand
support for remediation. Updated Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) are published online.

Safety Training: Joint labor-management Safety Committees are trained and all factory workers
are informed about essential workplace safety.

Resolving Safety Complaints: Workers and their representatives have a right to refuse unsafe
work and can raise complaints with the Accord Safety and Health Complaints Mechanism.

Scope:

The agreement covers all suppliers producing for the signatory companies. In the event that agents
or other intermediaries are part of the signatory’s business model, the signatory is responsible to
assure that these intermediaries support the signatory’s efforts to fulfill obligations of this
Agreement, independent of whether the intermediaries have signed this Agreement or not.

The report is concerned with the Administration division of the Expert group( FnF Accessories
Limited ) factory with the comparison of their building, electrical and workers safety
 Limitations:
It also becomes problematic when certain Bangladeshi labour rights organizers emphasize
violation of transnational corporate or private legal governance structures more than violation of
local labour laws. Some activists argue that highlighting violation of transnational corporate or
private legal governance structures attracts extensive coverage by the international press and
support of international human and labour rights organizations. While this strategy is important
for fostering transnational activist campaigns, it is imperative to remember that transnational
corporate or private governance can only disincentivize labour exploitation but cannot implement
strict legal actions at the state level for violating labour rights. The Accord shall be governed by
the law of the Netherlands.

The major part of the report is based on online survey as well as face to face interview of officials
spoke person of Export group. It also consists of view and opinions of the engineers of Export
group. In some case some of them were not able to provide concrete fact or figures. In this case
some assumption had to be made.

Historical Background
•FnF Trims Ltd. is one of the renowned garments label manufacturing companies in Bangladesh.
It is a locally owned Private Limited Company which was established in 2005 under the
Companies Act-1994. FnF Trims Ltd. is situated in Kamarpara,Uttara,Dhaka Bangladesh

•FnF Accessories is on the pinnacle ofGreen production with an impressive one-stop-shop

production facility serving apparel identification solution, print and packaging industry. A LEED
Gold Certified Green plant, constructed according to United States Green Building Council's
(USGBC) criteria, the beautiful facility utilins state Oftheart technologies to be at the forefront Of
Eco-friendly production.FnF focus on and the use Of cutting edge technologies ensure
competitiveness and enable us to meet or Often exceed the requirements Of an ever-evolving
global market. Customer Satisfaction is the matrix Of FnF success.FnF is the member Of
Bangladesh Garments Accessories & Packaging Manufacturers & Exporters Association
(BGAPMEA) and Bangladesh Label Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BLMEA) which
is the only recognized trade body that represents the export-oriented label manufacturers and
exporters of this country.

•FnF management team is highly qualified, with regard to professionalism, dynamism and
dedication towards achieving best quality in production by using latest technology and making
delivery in time.FnF is continuously updating technologies to improve quality and productivity Of
manufactures Of FnF.

•FnF products find application in the garments industry, leatherwear i.e. garments, bags, shoes,
soft toys. caps & gift articles, linen, sports industry, furnishings etc.FnF is capable Of creating
both new concepts and reproducing the customer's regular requirements to perfection.

•FnF Major Clients are Globaly Popular Brands Such As Jordache(USA),Best Seller(Denmark),
LPP(Poland),Charles Vogele(Swizerland),EMW(UK),Zolla(Russia),Gymnasium(Italy)
FnF Accessories Limited Organization Structure
A view Of Management system Of FnF Trims Ltd. is given below.
▪ Intercom Telephone (IP Phone)
▪ E-mail (Microsoft Outlook 365)
▪ Computer Operating System: Windows 10
▪ Written Letter
▪ Software: Microsoft Office 2016, Next ERP (built by Next IT), MÜCAD and Dr. Coach
textile CAD software, PrintSpecrM colour quality management software

A view Of Working Shift Of FnF Trims Ltd. is given below.

• General Shift:
• From: 09.00 AM To: 06.00 PM
• Provided for: Top Management to Junior Management
• Day-Night Shift:
• Shift A(Day Shift): From: 07.00 AM To: 04:00 PM
• Shift B (Night Shift): From: 0700 PM To: 04.00 AM
• Provided for: Staff-I , Staff-2 and Workers
 Human Resource Management

Human resource management (HRM or HR) is the strategic approach to the effective management Of
organization workers so that they help the business gain a competitive advantage,FnF HR Dcpartment is
designed 10 maximize employee performance in service of an employer's strategic objectives. HR is
primarily concerned with the management of people within organizations, focusing on policies and on
systems, HR departments are responsible for overseeing employee-benefits design, employee recruitment,
training and development, performance appraisal, and rewarding (e.g„ managing pay and benefit systems).
HR also concerns itsel[wiih organizational change and industrial relations, that is, the balancing Of
organizational practices with requirements arising from Workers Participatory Committee and from
governmental laws,
Human resources overall purpose is to ensure that the organization is able to achieve success through
people, Members Of HR Department manage the human capital Of an organization and focus on
implementing policies and processes, They can specialize in recruiting, training. employee-relations or
benefits. Recruiting specialists find and hire top Deduction Policy, Grievance Policy, Disciplinary Action
Policy, Discipline, Dismissal &
Termination Policy' Policy & Procedure on freedom Of Associalion. Increment &
Promotion policy, Festival Bonus policy. Sub-Conu•act Organization policy, Occupational Health & Safety
Policy, Loan Policy, TADA Poliey, Policy on Internship and they have been following these policies
strictly. HR Department of FnF are using own built ERP software to control HR rclatcd all functions
smoothly,FnF is kccping employccs' attendance record through Biometric Attendance System Machines.

Compliance and CSR

An integrated way Of guidance Compliance means eonforntity: in accordance with established rule,
regulations, general customs and practices, MRSL (Manufacturing

Restricted Stibstances List), Zero Discharge Of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) as well as

National and International Environmental Laws, So, in FnF perspective compliance means obeying,
obtaining and retaining ling of requirement as applicable under law, relevant and related rules and
regulations. customer COC (Code of Conducts)9 social custom and other practice conducive for the
organization.

Here we practice total compliance issues mainly in 3 phases, which are Procedural compliance, Physical
compliance and Personnel compliance, Compliance dept. ensures regular/periodieal documentation,
prompt communication with local legislation bodies, customer and other stakeholders on different demands,
Conducting periodical internal audit is the one of the prime job Of this dept., however it not only issue or
auditing or assessing but also regular monitoring. tracking and facil itating This dept. represents the
Organization during external audit, visit, and plant tour entertain Iliembers oldi fierent legitimate bodies
and stakeholders into the facility.

FnF has its own dedicated Internal Compliance and CSR teams with 16 Selection Policy, PPE Use Policy,
Safety policy, Internal Security Policy, Broken Needle Policy & Procedure, Sharp Tools Control Policy &
Procedure. Fire Safety Policy,Emergency Fire Safety pre Plan with Fire Service & Civil Defence,
Emergency Fire Management Plan, Fire Fighting Policy, Fire Fighting Plnnrredlll, policy on
ErnergcneyAction Plan, Emergency Response Team. Crisis Management Policy. Women's Right,Spccial
Program for rregnant WOrker, Maternity Benefit policy, Fcmalc Employcc &Expected Mother Facility
Policy, Policy on House Keeping, Pest Control Policy, WaterManagement Policy, Hot Work Policy,
Excessive Weight Control policy & Procedure,Lock Out/Tag Out Policy, Lock Out/' Tag Out Program,
Business Integrity Policy, Ethical Trading policy, Urgent Business Needs policy, Smoking Control poligy,
Environmental Policy, Environment Management Policy, Environmental Management
Programs,Environmental Accident Management Plan. Waste Management Policy. Procedure for Waste
Management. Waste Flow Chart* Waste Inventory, Emergency Response Plan. Chemical Safety
Management Policy & Procedure, Chemical Purchasing Policy & Procedure, Chemical Purchase and Use
Policy, Chemical Inventory Sheet. Chemical Spill Management Guidelines (Chemical Emergency Plan),
Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) The Compliance Team provides training and eonuuunieaiions to all
etuployees on general compliance and to specific employees on the responsibilities for compliance thal may
be associated with their positions.
 SWOT Analysis:
It is a strategic plånning technique used to help a person or organization identify strengths,

weaknesses, opportunities. and threats related to business competition or project

planning. It is intended to specify the objectives of the business venture or project and

identify the internal and external factors that arc favorable and unfavorable to achieving

those objectives.

SWOT Analysis for Textile Production Managemene

Though I have been working in FnF for the last 3 years and 8 months, have spent 18(Eightegn) days in Production

floors to Observe thoroughly the Management of production.

After my observation have made SWOT analysis which are mentioned below:

Strengths;

• World class machineries e Authentic sourcing of raw materials Weaknesses;

• Machinery Maintenance is not excellent due to semiskilled and insufficient manpow

• Produetiön wastage cannot he controlled properly due to lack of records in their currently using ERP

software

• Training Centre for Production people are not available

• Cannot get proper production projection from Buyers or customers due to proper communication ggp

bciween marketing people with customers

Opportunities;

▪ More orders and buyers will be come in future due to having USGBC LEED Gold certified factory,

100% compliance, world class machineries, Skilled manpower and high-quality products,

▪ Threats:

▪ Manufacturing cost will be higher due to higher inflation rate, lack of access to bank loan.

▪ Competition will be increased more due to global Accessories companies like China based 347.2. SWOT
Analysis for Ilurnan Resource Management:
 ▪ have spent 13(Thirteen) days in Human Resource Department to observe thoroughly the

▪ Management Of Human Resource,

After my observation I have made SWOT analysis which are mentioned below:

Strengths:

Ali employccs of Department have HR related educational background

Departmental Combination
Prompt response to arising issue

Problem solving capacity is very good

Providing Motivational benefits like Festival bonuses, Performance Appraisal to all employees

Weaknesses:

There is no committee for Recruitment and Selection There is no proper Performance Appraisal

system There is no Training Evaluation system

Threats:

Our competitors may goin an edge in the market share, it affects profitability and may result ili layoffs. business

slowdown or closure. Other types Of external threats include businesses — not necessarily in the same industry

— that offer bctter working conditions, wages or benefits to their employees and, therefore, recruit the best-

qualified workers. HR departments can't always insulate themselves frotll all external factors because some are

ltnminent.
 SWOT Analysis CSR:

Though I have been working partly in this sector as a Manager (Environmental and Chemical Compliane€) for
the last 3 years and S months. I have spent 6 (Six) days in Compliance and CSR Department to observe thoroughly
the functions Of Compliance and

After my observation I have made SWOT analysis which arc mentioned below:

Strengths;
Sustainable development

Contribution towards society

Safety and quality

Weaknesses;

Involves lot money to be spent

Customer going straight to regulator making us unaware ofany issue and 10 fix

CSR initiatives can't he taken as there is no proper report of profitability, exact information, audit issues and

of funds.

The people in Bangladesh take CSR as narrower term but in reality. it is a broader team if taken into action,

Lack of visibility factor between the company and the general public.

Opportunities:

Ensure complaints are handled properly to avoid penalties

Relationships — more information action to improve

New Systems will be developed

Threats:

Complaints can mean penalties and set backs

There is lack of public policies to promote CSR

There is lack Of consistent legislative framework

SWOT Analysis for Quality Management:

Though I have bccn working in this sector as a Lab Manager for the last 3 years and * months, I have spent 7

Seven) days with Quality MOnagement Team to observe thoroughly the functions or Quality Management.
After my Observation I have madc SWOT analysis which arc mentioned belou",
Strength

Standard Inline process maintaining

All equipment are duly calibrated by Party Accredited lah

• Ski lied manpower

Internal Lab area is isolated and well organized

Opportunities:

Our Internal lab will be accredited by our Buyers since we have very well-organized lab, maintaining controlled

documents, very strict in lab testing, equipment are duly calibrated which will help us to earn more revenue as

well as image for our company, It will also help the company to give more facilities to our quality personnel as

well as keeping them in our company 10 get long tenure service.

Threats:

Demand of Quality personnel is increasing gradually in Textile Sectors, Competitors are offering hetter working

conditions, higher wages, more desirable benefits to the quality personnel which will make iougll 10 keep

employees beyond the company's budget, May cause difficulty recruiting best-qualified people due to scarcity Of

Quality related working experienced people.

SWOT Analysis for Supply Chain Management;

I have spent 13(Thirteen) days in Supply Chain Department to Observe thoroughly the Effective initial blanning

Good company-vendor relationship Jntegrated re-order point

Effective forecast against demand

Credit terms

Response time
 Support; hotli tcchnical & service Weaknesses:

Not always using purchasing power Late credil payments Poor reputation of managing vendors poor use

of technology Late deliveries Quality issues High Pricing

347.6. SWOT Analysis for Finunce and Accounting;

I have spent 6(Six) days with Finance and Accounting Team to observe thoroughly the

Management Of Finance and Accounting.

After my observation I have made SWOT analysis which are mentioned below:

Strengths:

Due to Company Market Goodwill, it is less pressure to working caöital

High Market Demand of Product Sales

Skilled, dedicated manpower Weaknesses:

Absence Of ERP software

High financial expanses

Lack Of confidentiality for documentation properly

Credit Recovery systems are not satisfactory Opportunities;

ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION

In my 3(Three) months long Internship, I have studied on six areas which are l. Textile Production Management,

2. Human Resource Management, Compliance and CSR, 4. Quality Management, 5. Supply Chain ManagemenL

and 6. Finance and Accounting of FnF Accessories Ltd. along with SWOT analysis for each area, After SWOT

analysis Of six important areas, I have figured out below mentioned Strengths. Weaknesses,

Opportunities and Threats of FnF Accessories Ltd

Strengths of FnF Accessories Ltd.:

High quality products with reasonable cost

Highly sophisticated machines with Ski Iled operators

As a prime label manufacturing company, it has a large number of qualified and experienced professionals

Structural set-up (USGBC LEED Gold certified 100% Fire safety

complied, and business location is strategic

100% Social and Environmental Compliant factory

Opportunities Accessories Ltd.:

More orders and buyers wil I be come in filture due to having USGBC LEED Gold certified factory, 100%

compliance, world class machineries. skilled manpower and high-quality products

Threats or FnF Accessories Ltd.:

Future potential competition from an already established market participant

A slump in the economy that could have a negative impact on the company

Credit Recovery systemsare not satisfhetory

Introduction of certain related harder companies

Many new companies are corning with new product and new technology

There are some problems involved in the business dealings of FnF Accessories Ltd. Some of them relate to FnF

Accessories Ltd's own institutional weaknesses and some of them relate to ihe From the above discussion I have

obtained the following findings:

Operations Management is not eomputerined except numan Resource Management

Market and Financial Know-How is not sophisticated
 ACCORD CERTIFICATES VALIDATION OF Expert GROUP

Export Group(FnF Trims Ltd). occupies only two floors of a seven storied building. The building,
reportedly, was constructed in 2003.

The Factory was surveyed for construction safety during the internship procedure. The purpose of
the survey was to identify significant building safety issues and to provide recommendations for
remediation based on applicable standards specified by the Accord. The scope of this initial
building construction safety inspection was limited to the review and identification of major issues.
Below summarize the major building safety issues identified during the inspection. An
implementation schedule shall be developed by the factory to remediate each of the findings. The
specific timing of improvements, including any requested extensions due to design / installation
constraints, shall be submitted to the Accord for approval.

Observation of the Construction level of Expert Group’s Factory

Flat Slab Design: Cursory Calculations indicate high shear stress at column heads. Shear
reinforcement not indicated on the drawings presented for inspection. Building Engineer to check
punching shear for the slab at all level
Storage Loading Area: Limit density of loading in Storage Areas. Storage height restrictions
(red line marking) to be checked by building engineer to ensure storage does not exceed the
maximum design loading. Material stacked to approx. 2m in height in mezzanine area.

Future Extension – Column Strength: The Building is currently 8 stores. Stub column
reinforcement at roof level and continuity reinforcement in stair cores indicate that there is
potential for future vertical extension of the building. Further extension of the building should not
be carried out without a detailed engineering assessment and testing of the concrete in the vertical
load bearing elements.

Slender Columns under Stair Core: The columns supporting the stair core to the south
east corner of the building appear to be very slender. Column size: 1000 x 240 mm Span:
Approximately6 m (gr. floor to level 2) Column unrestrained by shed building at ground level.
Risk of accidental damage from potential vehicle impact.

Heavy Water Tanks on Roof Slab: Heavy Water tanks on Roof Slab Building Engineer to
check that beam and slab have been designed to accommodate loads. Those are 3000-liter Fire
water tanks.

Temporary Construction Level 8 above Stair cores: Reinforcement for new stair core
beam and stairs for future extension exposed. Inadequate edge protection to stairs Lightweight
temporary roof subject to uplift under heavy wind loading Area to be made safe and cordoned off
for access with handrails installed for safety. Temporary roof to be assessed by Building Engineer
and adequate tie downs installed.

Observation of the Electrical Safety of Export Group’s Factory

#Table below summarizes the major electrical safety issues identified during the inspection.

Category Finding
CABLE & CABLE SUPPORT No cable tray in power shaft for cables.
SERVICE LINE Wires lay on floor unprotected.
GENERATOR ROOM Combustible material is used for battery
in Generator room.
LIGHTNING PROTECTION & EARTH Earth conductor passing through the
 window.
CABLE & CABLE SUPPORTS Cable trenches are not protected.
SERVICE LINE HT cable dropping from 11kV pole not
supported to the pole.
CABLE & CABLE SUPPORTS Cable is supported in an improper way.
SWITCH BOARD & PANELS Wires connected to bus bar without using
cable lug.
SWITCH BOARD & PANELS Multiple cables connected at a terminal of
the busbar.
LIGHTNING PROTECTION & EARTH Panel doors not connected with earth
bond.
TRANSFORMER ROOM Excessive dust and lint deposit in
transformer room.
CABLE & CABLE SUPPORTS Flexible conduit used for cable protection.
TRANSFORMER ROOM Silica gel in transformer breather,
discolored.
LIGHTING FIXTURES Lighting fixture’s location is not proper.
FIRE RATED CONSTRUCTION Areas used for combustible storage are
not separated by fire rated construction.
Locations: Ground Floor Mezzanine Floor
FIRE RATED CONSTRUCTION The exit stairs are not separated from
work areas and other spaces on each floor
by fire rated construction.
FIRE RATED CONSTRUCTION Unsealed penetrations and openings are
located in the fire-rated floor/ceiling
assemblies.
FIRE RATED CONSTRUCTION The boiler and generator rooms are not
separated by fire-rated construction
(openings, non-rated doors, penetrations).
They are open to egress paths.
FIRE RATED CONSTRUCTION The exit discharge path serving NW exit
is less than 10 ft wide and is not separated
from the building interior. Along this path
are the generator rooms and electrical
rooms.
EGRESS Egress doors / gates with locking features
are provided at building exits, exit stairs,
along egress routes, and exit discharge.
EGRESS Storage was located in the North West exit
stair.
EGRESS Exit capacity is not adequate for the
occupant load on the 6th floor. Occupant
load - 890 Capacity - 676
EGRESS Collapsible gates / sliding doors are
provided at building exits, exit stairs,
along egress routes, exit discharge.
 FIRE PROTECTION The fire alarm system is antiquated, not a
listed system, and does not provide alarm
and notification features consistent with
acceptable standards.
FIRE PROTECTION Inspection, testing, and maintenance for
the fire alarm system it was not in
accordance with NFPA 72.
FIRE PROTECTION The building is equipped with single-
station smoke alarms. Smoke alarm
activation sounds only a local alarm and
does not provide automatic fire alarm
notification of occupants.
EGRESS LIGHTNING Manual on-off switch is provided for exit
signage units.
EGRESS LIGHTNING Based on the number and location of
emergency lights observed, adequate
illumination levels are not anticipated
along egress routes. Location: 6th Floor
EGRESS LIGHTNING Exit sign not provided at exit. Location:
6th Floor
EGRESS LIGHTNING Inspection, testing, and maintenance for
the emergency lighting system was not in
accordance with The ACCORD standard.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Building Safety

Item Observation Recommended Action Recommende

No Plan d Timeline
Based on
ACCORD
1 Flat slab design Engineer to carry out 6-weeks
punching shear calculation
check on the building floor
slabs.
2 Flat slab design Floor Loading plans to be 6-weeks

3 Storage loading
4 Storage loading
5 Verify concrete strengths in
internal columns at Ground Floor
6 Verify concrete strengths in
internal columns at Ground Floor
7 Verify concrete strengths in
internal columns at Ground Floor
8 Slender columns under Stair core
9 Slender columns under Stair core
10 Water tank on roof
11 Water tank on roof
created to indicate safe
storage and building live
load based on calculations
(See item 4 below)
Storage height restrictions 6-weeks
(red line marking) to be
checked by building
engineer, with
consideration to the
density of material being
stored, to ensure storage
does not exceed the
maximum design loading
Building Engineer to create 6-months
controlled loading plans for
all floors.
Factory Engineer to review 6-months
design, loads and columns
stresses in area identified
above.
Verify concrete stresses 6-months
either by cores (min of 4
no. 100mm dia. Cores) or
existing cylinder strength
data
Produce and actively 6-months
manage a loading plan for
all floor plates within the
factory giving consideration
to floor capacity and
column capacity.
Design check of 2 external 6-months
columns supporting stair
core to be carried out by
the building engineer.
Additional protection 6-months
measures such as a barrier
to be installed to reduce
accidental impact risk
Building Engineer to check 6-weeks
that slab has sufficient
capacity to support fully
filled water tanks. Punching
shear at column heads to be
checked (refer item 1
above)
Relocate tanks if necessary 6-weeks
 12 Construction of top of stair core Area to be made safe and 6-weeks
–incomplete & unsafe cordoned off for access
with handrails installed for
safety.
13 Construction of top of stair core Temporary roof to be 6-months
–incomplete & unsafe assessed by Building
Engineer and adequate tie
downs installed.

Electrical Safety

Item No Issue Found Recommendation Remediation

Timeframe
1 No cable tray in power Install a ladder to support the cables. Ensure Within 3
shaft for cables. the cables are tightly latched inside the ladder months
and provide covers made of noncombustible
material preferably metallic sheet to protect
the cables’ insulation from physical damage as
well as prevent the ingress of debris, dust and
lint.
2 Wires lay on floor Install a ladder (on floor at safe location) to Within 3
unprotected support the cables. Ensure the cables are months
tightly latched inside the ladder and provide
covers made of noncombustible material
preferably metallic sheet to protect the
cables’ insulation from any physical damage
as well as prevent the ingress of debris, dust
and lint.
3 Combustible material is Remove all the combustible materials from Within 1
used for battery in electrical equipment. Generator Battery must month
Generator room be placed on the battery stand made of
noncombustible material (steel fabricated)
4 Earth conductor passing Earth conductor should be passed through Within 3
through the window. PVC or steel pipe (through wall) and it months
should
be supported by suitable means.
5 Cable trenches are not Provide cover made of non-combustible Within 3
protected. material preferably metallic sheet (checkered months
plates) to protect the cables’ insulation from
physical damage as well as prevent the ingress
of debris, dust and lint.
6 HT cable dropping from Install a ladder/pipe made properly supported Within 3
11kV pole not supported with pole for supporting the service cables in months
to the pole. order to protect the cables’ insulation from
any physical damage.
7 Cable is supported in an Use PVC or steel pipes (preferably on floor), Within 3
improper way. clamped with saddle, for carrying cables. Wire months
shall not be used for tying the cables.
8 Wires connected to bus Cables shall be connected to terminals only by Within 1
bar without using cable soldered/welded lugs according to the size of month
lug. the respective cables. Proper crimping tools
must be used to punch the socket.
9 Multiple cables Terminate single cable (lugs/sockets) on a Within 1
connected at a terminal single point of busbar to get better electrical month
of the busbar. continuity and avoiding loose connection.
10 Panel doors not Provide earth connection for body and doors Within 3
connected with earth of metallic distribution boards using green months
bond. cables preferably braid so that the metallic
door and body remain at zero potential all the
time.
11 Excessive dust and lint Establish a routine cleaning program to keep Within 1
deposit in transformer neat and clean the transformer room. Shut month
room. the power of the transformer and clean the
exterior of the transformer at scheduled
period.
12 Flexible conduit used for Install cable duct or tray to support the cables Within 3
cable protection. and provide covers made of non-combustible months
material preferably metal to protect the
cables’ insulation from any physical damage
as well as prevent ingress of debris, dust and
lint.
13 Silica gel in transformer Replace the silica gel or perform the Within 1
breather, discolored. maintenance to remove the moisture from month
the silica gel.
14 Lighting fixture’s location Use PVC pipe for carrying wiring used for the Within 1
is not proper. noted lighting with proper support. month
15 Areas used for Provide dedicated storage rooms separated by Within 3
combustible storage are minimum 1-hr fire-rated construction. months
not separated by fire
rated construction.
 Locations: Ground Floor
Mezzanine Floor
16 The exit stairs are not Provide minimum 1.5-hr fire rated doors and Within 3
separated from work seal all unprotected openings to separate the months
areas and other spaces exit stairs from work areas and other building
on each floor by fire spaces on all floor levels. Ensure that the fire
rated construction. doors are self-closing and positive latching
and that they are provided with fire exit
(panic) hardware where serving production
floors. If fire doors are required to be held
open for functional reasons, provide
automatic closing devices tied to the fire
alarm system.
17 Unsealed penetrations and Provide a minimum 2-hr fire rated shaft to Within 3
openings are located in separate the utility risers from each floor months
the fire-rated level.
floor/ceiling assemblies.
18 The boiler and generator Separate the boiler and generator rooms by a Within 3
rooms are not separated minimum 2-hr fire-rated construction. Seal months
by fire-rated construction and/or protected all openings to maintain the
(openings, non-rated required fire separations
doors, penetrations).
They are open to egress
paths.
19 The exit discharge path Seal all penetrations and openings to the Within 6
serving NW exit is less interior of the building along the discharge months
than 10 ft wide and is not path, up to a height of 10 ft., to provide a
separated from the minimum 1-hr fire separation. Alternatively,
building interior. Along provide a second remote discharge path to
this path are the the public way (only include this if feasible).
generator rooms and
electrical rooms.
20 Egress doors / gates with Remove locking features from all egress Immediate
locking features are doors / gates. If locks are required for security
provided at building reasons, utilize special door locking features
exits, exit stairs, along complying with NFPA 101.
egress routes, and exit
discharge.
21 Storage was located in Remove all storage from exit stairs and egress Immediate
the North West exit stair. paths.
22 Exit capacity is not Reduce occupant load to not more than Immediate
adequate for the occupant available exit capacity (676).
load on the 6th floor.
Occupant load - 890
Capacity – 676
23 Collapsible gates / sliding Replace all gates / sliding doors along the Within 1
doors are provided at means of egress with side-hinged, swinging month
 building exits, exit stairs,
along egress routes, exit
discharge.
24 The fire alarm system is
antiquated, not a listed
system, and does not
provide alarm and
notification features
consistent with
acceptable standards.
25 Inspection, testing, and
maintenance for the fire
alarm system it was not
in accordance with
NFPA
72.
26 The building is equipped
with single-station smoke
alarms. Smoke alarm
activation sounds only a
local alarm and does not
provide automatic fire
alarm notification of
occupants.
27 Manual on-off switch is
provided for exit signage
units.
28 Based on the number
and location of
emergency lights
observed, adequate
illumination levels are
not anticipated along
egress routes. Location:
6th Floor
29 Exit sign not provided at
exit. Location: 6th Floor
30 Inspection, testing, and
maintenance for the
emergency lighting
system was not in
accordance with The
ACCORD standard.
egress doors. If locks are required for security
reasons, utilize special door locking features
complying with NFPA 101.
Replace the fire alarm system with a new, Design
listed addressable fire alarm system in within 4
accordance with NFPA 72. months,
install within
9 months
Inspect, test and maintain the fire alarm Within 3
system, and keep written records on-site, in months
accordance with NFPA 72.
Remove single-station smoke alarms. Provide Within 6
automatic smoke detection throughout the months
building in accordance with NFPA 72.
Remove manual on/off switches from exit Within 1
signage units to prevent them from being month
switched off.
Test the emergency lighting system on each Within 3
floor and provide additional emergency months
fixtures to provide adequate illumination
along the means of egress. Provide a
minimum illumination of 10 lux at the floor
level within exit stairs and exit discharge paths
and minimum 2.5 lux along exit access aisles.
Provide exit signs above all exits to the Within 3
exterior and all doors to the exit stairs. months
Inspect, test and maintain the emergency Within 3
lighting system in accordance with The months
ACCORD standard. Keep written records
on- site.
 CONCLUSION
After long term research and finding about ACCORD certification of Expert Group, my study
shows that Export group did managed to implement 100% of the requirements. Based on
ACCORD standard however, my research also shows that Export group did extend their factory’s
building construction and some other part of the factory too and some of the steps they took is out
of the ACCORD standard. In order to remain under ACCORD rules and regulation Export group
must re-evaluate their ACCORD standard and keep up with the all the requirements and based on
all the findings and recommendation of this study they can re-design and relocates space and fix
all the problem my research have found.

This report is only limited by the shortage of recent data. Otherwise all the data used in this report
are based on last 5 years data.

In terms of future research program, I’m 100% sure that in near future I can have access to the all-
digital data sources and local support from the Export Group. All the data I’ve managed to gather
will help my future research as well as it will help the Export group for their future expansion of
the factory with new buildings and other construction according to the ACCORD
 REFERENCES

https://laborrights.org/releases/5-years-after-rana-plaza-what-has-changed#:~:text=In%20the
%20aftermath%20of%20the,and%20Building%20Safety%20in%20Bangladesh.&text=%E2%80%9CThe
%20difference%20with%20the%20Bangladesh%20Accord%20is%20that%20it's%20binding.

https://bangladeshaccord.org/

https://expertgroup.com.bd/

https://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/news_ext_content/ifc_external_corporate_site/news+and+even
ts/news/insights/bangladesh-garment-industry

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Accord_on_Fire_and_Building_Safety_in_Bangladesh

https://www.thedailystar.net/lifestyle/perspective/news/the-debate-extending-accord-alliance-1662787