Pakistan Accord: Supplier Briefing #9
Supplier Briefing #9
These briefings are designed for all factories and suppliers listed by Pakistan Accord signatory brands. They include updates on key developments under the Pakistan Accord, along with information on upcoming events, guidance materials, and resources for suppliers.
We encourage all suppliers and factories covered by the Pakistan Accord to read these briefings and to share suggestions on what they would like to see in them by contacting us via pakistan.factories@internationalaccord.org.
This briefing includes updates on:
- Pakistan Accord Renewal
- Coverage: Signatory Brands, Factories and Workers
- Program Rollout: Inspections & Remediation (Immediate findings, Technical Workshops), Workplace Programs (Safety Training and Complaints Mechanism), Government Capacity Building
- Events: Townhall Meetings, Visit of Sindh Minister Mr. Saeed Ghani
- Operations: Hiring Updates, Vacancies
Pakistan Accord Renewal
Global brand and trade union representatives have renewed the Pakistan Accord to continue the health and safety improvements at the sourcing facilities of signatory brands in Pakistan. The renewed agreement took effect on 1 January 2026.
Over 130 global brands and retailers have signed the renewed Pakistan Accord, reaffirming their commitment to factory improvements in collaboration with their sourcing partners. The agreement runs until 31 December 2026 and will automatically renew for a further three years, through 31 December 2029, to align with the timeline of the International Accord framework agreement. This means the Pakistan safety program will run for another 4 years.
With the renewal in place, suppliers will continue advancing life-saving factory improvements, strengthening business opportunities, and reinforcing brands’ confidence in responsible sourcing from Pakistan. The Pakistan Accord team remains available to guide factories on Corrective Action Plans (CAPs), remediation measures, and the rollout of the Safety Training and Complaints Mechanism.
The Pakistan Accord first took effect in January 2023 as a legally binding agreement between global brands and trade unions, UNI and IndustriALL, to ensure worker health and safety within Pakistan’s textile and garment industry.
Coverage: Signatory Brands, Covered Factories and Workers
At the time of writing this briefing, over 130 brands sourcing from Pakistan have signed the renewed Pakistan Accord. Pakistan Accord signatories include the world’s largest clothing brands and retailers and are headquartered in 18 countries across the United States of America, Europe, Australia, Hong Kong, Turkey, and Japan.
Collectively, Pakistan Accord brands are sourcing from 474 factories employing over 550,000 workers. Moreover, the export value of these brands increased from USD $3.5 billion in 2024 to over USD $4.4 billion at the start of 2026.
View the latest list of Pakistan Accord signatories.
View the list of factories participating in the Pakistan Accord programs.
Program Rollout
Inspections and Remediation
To date, Pakistan Accord engineers have conducted 351 Initial Inspections, 95 Follow-Up Inspections, and 34 Special Inspections to identify fire, electrical, and structural safety risks across factories in Karachi, Lahore, and Faisalabad.
156 boilers across 92 factories have received at least one boiler safety inspection. Boiler safety inspections identify risks such as safety valves deterioration, absence of steam pressure limiters and leakages in tube welding joints.
Immediate Findings
Recent factory fires in Pakistan, including the Gul Plaza shopping complex fire in Karachi which claimed at least 67 lives, highlight the urgent and ongoing need for robust fire prevention, building integrity, and life safety measures to prevent the loss of life.
There are several immediate actions factories can take to significantly increase worker safety and to ensure rapid evacuation in the event of a fire:
Lockable Exits/Collapsible Gates: Remove all locks and mechanisms including bolts and hasps, from exit doors. If locks are necessary for security, use specialised door locking features that comply with NFPA 101.
Left – Hazard: Locked fire exit; Right – Control: Unlocked, self-closing fire exit
Storage in Egress Paths, Exit Stairs & Dining Areas: Implement management systems to keep all egress routes, stairs, and dining areas clear of storage at all times. Stairs must always remain protected and unobstructed.
Left – Hazard: Blocked/narrowed evacuation route; Right – Control: Clear exit route
Stair & Occupant Load Signs: Provide stair designation signs and occupant load signs at the required locations. For stairs that do not lead outside the building, further modifications may be required to qualify as a means of egress. Guidance will be in your CAP or developed by your appointed engineering consultants.
Inadequate Exit Capacity: Specify stair locations, discharge floors, arrangements for discharge to an open environment, and openings on discharge floors (e.g. free from storage, production, etc.)
Cracked Columns: Have your consultant engineers, witnessed by Pakistan Accord engineers, take concrete core samples to assess any cracked structural columns.
Left – Hazard: Crumbling columns/cracks; Right – Control: Building maintenance & structural safety assessment
Hot Spots: Inspect electrical load conditions, panel locations, and probable causes of high temperatures. If temperatures are excessive, circuit breakers must be immediately shut down.
Storage of Raw Materials and Finished Goods: Keep all materials away from work areas and heat sources. All items must be kept clear of ignition sources, particularly electrical equipment or heat-producing machinery.
Fire detection systems have important life-saving value as they alert occupants to the presence of a fire and allow them to evacuate safety. Factories without adequate detection systems should post security or other personnel as a temporary “fire watch” to ensure early detection. This in turn will facilitate prompt evacuation of the building before a fire develops.
Sprinkler systems provide a significant life-saving measure and are essential in multiple scenarios depending on the height of the building or in large open production floors with extended travel distances. Consult your CAP or the Pakistan Accord team for further guidance.
Both fire detection and sprinkler systems, including fire pumps, water reservoirs, and standpipe systems, are complex installations requiring detailed technical design, engineering calculations, professional expertise and investments. Factories should discuss these systems with their engineering consultants as soon as possible.
Technical Workshops
In January-February 2026, the Pakistan Accord conducted a series of eight technical workshops reaching over 120 suppliers and 600 participants in Karachi and Lahore.
These workshops focused on:
- Developing practical skills for identifying fire, electrical, and structural safety risks
- Exchanging effective approaches to remediation planning, prioritisation, and implementation
- Sharing technical insights and best practices to improve factory safety
- Strengthening collaboration between suppliers, factory management teams, and the Pakistan Accord
- Deepening understanding of the Pakistan Accord Building Standard and its application
The workshops featured technical expertise, with introductory sessions by Paul Rigby, Chief Safety Officer (Pakistan Accord), Robert Parkinson and Luke Cameron (Joule Group), Tim White (Herongate Consulting), and Colm Quinn, Head of Operations (International Accord). Pakistan Accord Engineering Leads Majid Khan Jadoon and Talha Akram Khan also shared valuable factory-level technical insights during the workshops.
The opening session welcomed industry support, with Aamir Chottani, Chairman of PRGMEA (South) and CEO of CHOTTANI INDUSTRIES, delivering opening remarks that reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to safe working conditions and welcomed the Pakistan Accord’s extension. Umair Memon, Director of Kings Apparel Industries, emphasised the workshops’ critical role in explaining the Pakistan Accord Building Standard and discussing effective remediation measures.
We thank all participants, speakers, and technical teams for their valuable contributions.
Workplace Programs
The Pakistan Accord is making continued progress in implementing its Workplace Programs across factories. To date, 301 initial meetings have been conducted, and All-Employee Meetings have taken place at 167 factories, totaling 715 sessions, with 173,236 booklets on workplace health an safety distributed to worker participants.
In addition, 85 Safety Committee meetings have been held with 1,096 participants; these joint labour-management committees support workplace health and safety at covered factories.
The Complaints Mechanism has received 328 complaints. The most common complaints relate to forced overtime, inadequate quality or quantity of food, verbal abuse, overtime without payment, workplace injuries or deaths, and heat stress. 50 complaints have been resolved via the Pakistan Accord’s independent Complaints Mechanism.
Government Capacity Building
Building Safety Training for Labour Department, Punjab
From 12-13 February, the Pakistan Accord organised a fire & building safety training for 31 officials from the Labour Department of the Punjab province, with notable participation from Syeda Kulsume Hai, Director General, Labour Welfare, Punjab. The workshop contributed to our government capacity building efforts and focused on:
- Fire safety measures such as means of egress, fire suppression systems, fire safety drawings;
- Structural safety measures such as structural documentation, structural and as-built drawings, Detailed Engineering Assessments (DEA); and
- Electrical safety measures such as electrical safety systems, hot spots, Single Line Diagrams (SLDs), Fire Alarm & Detection systems (FADS).
The workshops fostered engagement and knowledge sharing between relevant government departments. Participants took keen interest shared their experiences for building inspections and identified risks. We look forward to organising similar trainings to contribute to life-saving building improvements in Pakistan.
Events
Townhall Meetings
From 13-19 January, the Pakistan Accord organised a series of townhall meetings for covered suppliers, sourcing agencies, and Accord brand representatives across Lahore, Karachi, and Faisalabad.
With over 400 participants in attendance, the meetings focused on sharing updates on the Pakistan Accord and its renewal, progress on the inspections and remediation, as well as updates on the safety training and Complaints Mechanism.
The sessions also included discussions and participation on key Accord topics such as financing remediation, building safety measures, and technical guidance.
Visit of Sindh Minister Mr. Saeed Ghani
In February, the International Accord welcomed Sindh’s Minister for Labour, Human Resources, and Social Protection, Mr. Saeed Ghani, to our Secretariat in Amsterdam.
Minister Ghani was in Europe to participate in the OECD – OCDE Forum on Due Diligence in the Garment and Footwear Sector in Paris. At the forum, he presented Sindh’s legislative framework for home-based workers. He also met with International Accord Steering Committee members Michael Bride (PVH Corp.), as well as Atle Høie, and Christina Hajagos-Clausen (IndustriALL Global Union).
The discussions with Minister Ghani focused on the recently renewed Pakistan Accord and its role in advancing workplace safety across Pakistan’s textile and garment sector. Minister Ghani reaffirmed the Sindh Government’s commitment to strengthening labour standards and inspection systems, recognising these as critical steps toward safer workplaces across the province.
Operations
The Pakistan Accord continues to build and train local teams in Karachi and Lahore to ensure effective program implementation.
We are seeking a new, Karachi-based, Remediation Department Manager to ensure effective communication and coordination between Pakistan Accord signatories, covered suppliers, and staff on the non-technical aspects of remediation monitoring and Corrective Action Plan (CAP) implementation.
View the Remediation Department Manager job vacancy
Resources
Stay in Touch
Related updates
This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Follow us on social media
Brands and Trade Unions Extend Pakistan Accord for Continued Worker Safety Improvements
Accord
A negotiation team comprising brand and trade union representatives have reached an agreement to renew the Pakistan Accord.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
The renewed Pakistan Accord took effect on 1 January 2026. More than 100 global brands and retailers have re-signed, with additional brands completing internal approvals. The agreement has been extended until 31 December 2026 and shall be renewed automatically for a succeeding term of three years, until 31 December 2029, to align with the International Accord framework agreement.
The renewal reflects ongoing confidence in the Pakistan Accord’s approach to improving factory safety through independent inspections, remediation measures, safety training, and the worker Complaints Mechanism. These measures play a crucial role in identifying risks, preventing workplace accidents, and ensuring workers’ health and safety across Pakistan’s textile and garment industry.
With the extension in place, Pakistan Accord programs at sourcing suppliers for signatory brands will continue, supporting factories in achieving tangible safety improvements, expanding business opportunities, and giving brands confidence in sourcing responsibly from Pakistan.
We look forward to continuing to work alongside signatories, suppliers, and local government stakeholders to promote a safer and more sustainable textile and garment industry in Pakistan.
Resources
For more information, contact:
Related updates
This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Follow us on social media
Statement on Gul Plaza Fire in Karachi
Accord
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January, which has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 21 lives, with several dozen people still reported missing. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this horrific incident.
While the official cause of the fire has yet to be confirmed, media reports indicate that a short circuit and inadequate safety arrangements may have contributed to the scale of the disaster. This tragedy once again highlights the urgent and ongoing need for robust fire prevention, building integrity, and life safety measures to prevent the loss of life.
A delegation from the International Accord and the Pakistan Accord met with the Sindh Minister for Labour, Human Resources and Social Protection, Mr. Saeed Ghani, on Monday, 19 January. During the meeting, the delegation reaffirmed the Accord’s commitment to supporting government capacity-building efforts and offered its technical expertise and knowledge gained over more than 12 years of experience in improving workplace safety.
The International Accord is currently implementing a comprehensive fire and building safety program in Pakistan through the Pakistan Accord for Health and Safety in the Textile and Garment Industry. Supported by more than 140 global brands and retailers, the program has inspected over 340 garment and textile factories and continues to work closely with suppliers to address safety risks and ensure necessary remediation.
The Accord remains committed to supporting workers, communities, and industries across Pakistan, and to collaborating with stakeholders to advance meaningful and lasting improvements in safety standards.
For more information, contact:
Related updates
This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Follow us on social media
Factory Inspections to Assess Structural Damage from Bangladesh Earthquake
Accord
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Our engineering colleagues from the RMG Sustainability Council (RSC) are conducting post-incident inspections at Accord and RSC covered factories where cracks, structural damage, or injuries have been reported and will support the necessary remediation efforts. Ensuring workplace safety remains our highest priority.
We reaffirm every worker’s right to refuse unsafe work and will continue supporting signatory brands in fulfilling their commitments to uphold it. We are closely monitoring the situation and conducting detailed assessments to implement effective safety measures as the situation evolves.
For more information, contact:
Related updates
This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Follow us on social media
Statement: Expansion of the Worker Complaints Mechanism in Bangladesh
Accord
Statement
Amsterdam, 9 November 2025 (Updated on 4 February 2026):
The International Accord is pleased to announce that, from mid-November 2025, the Worker Complaints Mechanism in Bangladesh will be expanded to cover issues beyond Occupational Safety and Health (OSH).
Originally established under the 2013 Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh, the Complaints Mechanism has been implemented by the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) Sustainability Council (RSC) since June 2020. It is implemented in accordance with the principles enshrined in the International Accord Framework Agreement and its country program, the Bangladesh Safety Agreement.
The Complaints Mechanism has become a trusted and effective channel for workers to raise safety and health concerns confidentially or anonymously. Over 4,000 OSH complaints have been filed to date, reflecting the strong trust workers and their representatives place in it.
Workers have raised various safety and health issues in their complaints including denial of maternity benefits, workplace violence and harassment, denial of sick leave, forced overtime, work-related injuries and fatalities. The Complaints Mechanism has provided a range of remedy including reinstatement, maternity payments and leave, disciplinary action, training, sick leave, measures to help prevent forced overtime and compensation payments for occupational injuries and deaths.
While the Complaints Mechanism has successfully delivered remedy for complaints related to safety and health, Accord signatories and stakeholders recognise that many complaints concern other work-related matters that could not be processed under the existing Complaints Mechanism. They have therefore agreed on the value of a unified Complaints Mechanism that addresses all workplace-related complaints and operates in line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights’ criteria for effective non-judicial grievance mechanisms.
In addition to OSH issues, the expanded Complaints Mechanism will cover the ILO Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, as well as the most common types of complaints including wage payments, overtime, inequitable employment contracts, and severance benefits.
“The expanded scope of the Complaints Mechanism allows the RSC to address a wider range of workers’ concerns on behalf of Accord signatories. We are encouraged by the trust that workers, factories, signatories, and other stakeholders have placed in the Complaints Mechanism over the years and remain committed, alongside our RSC colleagues, to continue to operate with independence, impartiality, integrity and respect for confidentiality,” said Joris Oldenziel, Executive Director, International Accord.
Implementation will be carried out in phases, starting from 16 November with over 50 signatory brands and 1,000 factories, to ensure a smooth and effective rollout, and subsequently extended to include all covered factories from May 2026. (Update: As of 4 February 2026, the expansion of the Complaints Mechanism is on hold and will follow a phased rollout plan approved by the RSC Board of Directors. The rollout will start with selected factories and brands to ensure readiness and prevent duplication).
The International Accord, together with the RSC team, signatory brands, and trade unions, will continue to ensure that the Complaints Mechanism remains an accessible and trusted complaints channel for workers.We extend our appreciation to the RSC Complaints Team for their tireless dedication in operating the Complaints Mechanism, investigating complaints, and delivering timely remedy to workers across covered factories.
We are also grateful to all parties involved, including Accord signatories, trade unions, industry partners, and civil society organisations, for their ongoing collaboration and commitment, which helps to ensure that the Complaints Mechanism continues to operate independently and effectively.
END
Resources
For more information, contact:
Related updates
This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Follow us on social media
Pakistan Accord Brand-Supplier Roundtable Highlights Progress and Collaboration
Accord
On 23 October 2025, the Pakistan Accord hosted a Brand-Supplier Roundtable at the Avari Hotel in Lahore, bringing together over 50 brand representatives and 30 key suppliers. The event provided a platform for open dialogue on strengthening cooperation, sharing learnings, and identifying opportunities to enhance occupational safety and health across Pakistan’s textile and garment sector.
In his opening remarks, Michael Bride, Senior VP Corporate Responsibility, Global Affairs at PVH Corp, highlighted brand commitment to Pakistan:
“With over 140 brands now part of the Pakistan Accord, our message to our supplying partners is clear: we believe in Pakistan’s potential and remain committed to investing in the country’s textile and garment industry.”
Brands reaffirmed their trust in the Pakistan Accord to ensure lifesaving safety measures and transparency in monitoring risks — key contributing factors to sustaining and expanding sourcing from Pakistan.
Farhan Nazeer, Manager, Ethical Trade at Marks & Spencer, noted that the presence of the Pakistan Accord has contributed to exploring increased sourcing in the country.
Suppliers echoed this sentiment. Aamir Chottani, CEO of Chottani Industries and Chairman of the Pakistan Readymade Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) South Zone, stated:
“The Accord is a door opener for business to suppliers; it builds confidence for the top management of brands that inspections are conducted independently and transparently.”
A dedicated panel explored how to further strengthen brand-supplier collaboration, featuring:
- Felicity Tapsell, BESTSELLER
- Farhan Nazeer, Marks & Spencer
- Aamir Chottani, Chottani Industries
- Raffay Bin Rauf, Sapphire Finishing Mills
- Farrukh Zaman, Klash Pvt. Ltd
Suppliers commended the Pakistan Accord Secretariat’s work while underscoring the need for greater technical engineering capacity and a clearer return on investment for safety measures. They also called for sustained brand support through stable, long-term business relationships.
Raffay Bin Rauf of Sapphire Finishing Mills emphasised:
“Brands should consider factories as business partners, not just suppliers.”
The Accord extends its gratitude for International Accord Steering Committee members Felicity Tapsell (BESTSELLER) and Michael Bride (PVH), who reaffirmed their commitment to extend the Pakistan Accord into 2026, working together to ensure a safe and sustainable garment and textile industry in Pakistan.
The Roundtable was followed by an internal brand meeting focused on operations and collective efforts to ensure the successful and continued rollout of the Pakistan Accord.
For more information, contact:
- media@internationalaccord.org
- Mini Dixit, Communications Advisor: mini.dixit@internationalaccord.org
Related updates
This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Follow us on social media
Pakistan Accord: Supplier Briefing #8
Supplier Briefing #8
These briefings are designed for all factories and suppliers listed by Pakistan Accord signatory brands. They include updates on key developments under the Pakistan Accord, along with information on upcoming events, guidance materials, and resources for suppliers.
We encourage all suppliers and factories covered by the Pakistan Accord to read these briefings and to share suggestions on what they would like to see in them by contacting us via pakistan.factories@internationalaccord.org.
This briefing includes updates on:
- Coverage: Signatory Brands, Factories and Workers
- Pakistan Accord Renewal & Role of Suppliers
- Program Rollout: Inspections & Remediation (Immediate Findings & Actions), Workplace Programs (Safety Training and Complaints Mechanism)
- Operations
Coverage: Signatory Brands, Covered Factories and Workers
At the time of writing this briefing, 142 global brands and retailers sourcing from Pakistan have signed the Pakistan Accord and have committed to ensuring workplace health and safety in collaboration with their sourcing partners. Since the last Supplier Briefing, Cotton On Australia, Essenza Home, Wolly & Co, and Genuine Collective have become signatories.
Signatory brands are headquartered in 18 countries across Europe, the USA, Australia, Hong Kong, Turkey and Japan, and include the world’s largest clothing brands and retailers. Collectively, these brands source over USD $3.5 billion worth of goods from 659 suppliers in Pakistan employing 706,408 workers.
View the latest list of Pakistan Accord signatories.
View the list of factories participating in the Pakistan Accord programs.
Pakistan Accord Renewal & Role of Suppliers
Negotiations are underway to extend the Pakistan Accord. As Accord representatives work toward renewal, factories are encouraged to continue advancing safety improvements at their facilities in collaboration with their appointed engineering consultants, signatory brands and the Pakistan Accord teams in Karachi and Lahore.
These efforts contribute to overall safety enhancements across Pakistan’s textile and garment industry and strengthen long-term business relationships with global brands and retailers.
Depending on their current stage in the remediation journey, the Pakistan Accord encourages factories to implement the following actions:
Pre-Inspection
- Onboarding Form: Submit administrative details and participation in the Pakistan Accord.
- Initial inspection Scheduling: Confirm time and date with the Pakistan Accord team.
- Pre-inspection Form: Submit all required documentation prior to the initial inspection.
- Pre-inspection Meeting: Understand the inspection and remediation process.
Remediation
- Engage a Qualified Engineering Consultant: Engage a consultant as soon as possible to begin remediation work following your Corrective Action Plan (CAP).
- Confirm Start and End Timings in your CAP:Work with your engineering consultant to review and agree on start and finish dates for each CAP finding. Any request for timeline adjustments must be justified by the consultant.
- Provide Regular Remediation Updates: Submit progress updates at least every four weeks. Your assigned Factory Remediation Coordinator (FRC) will also contact you every 28 days to request updates.
- Support Workplace Programs: Facilitate the rollout of Safety Training and the Complaints Mechanism within your factory.
Finance Planning
- Develop a Remediation Finance Plan: The Pakistan Accord team will assist you in preparing a phased Remediation Finance Plan covering the course of your remediation journey. This plan will provide your factory with financial visibility and prevent remediation delays.
- CAP Tool: A dedicated tool will be made available to assess the investments required to complete remediation measures outlined in your CAP.
The Pakistan Accord team is available to provide general guidance and support on CAP development. Factories are encouraged to work closely with their consulting engineers to ensure the effective implementation of remediation measures and Workplace Programs. Without the involvement of a qualified engineer, a factory will be unable to carry out its CAP.
The Pakistan Accord will organise workshops in the near future for factories and engineers to strengthen technical knowledge and build deeper engineering capacity.
Program Rollout
Inspections and Remediation
To date, over 300 factories across Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, Multan, and Faisalabad have been inspected for fire, electrical and structural safety.
Immediate Findings
Recent factory fires in Pakistan and Bangladesh, including the tragic incident in Mirpur, Dhaka, which claimed at least 16 workers’ lives, underscore the devastating human cost of inadequate safety measures.
There are several immediate actions factories can take to significantly ensure worker safety, particularly to ensure rapid evacuation in the event of a fire:
Lockable Exits/Collapsible Gates: Remove all locks and mechanisms including bolts and hasps, from exit doors. If locks are necessary for security, use specialised door locking features that comply with NFPA 101.
Left – Hazard: Locked fire exit; Right – Control: Unlocked, self-closing fire exit
Storage in Egress Paths, Exit Stairs & Dining Areas: Implement management systems to keep all egress routes, stairs, and dining areas clear of storage at all times. Stairs must always remain protected and unobstructed.
Left – Hazard: Blocked/narrowed evacuation route; Right – Control: Clear exit route
Stair & Occupant Load Signs: Provide stair designation signs and occupant load signs at the required locations. For stairs that do not lead outside the building, further modifications may be required to qualify as a means of egress. Guidance will be in your CAP or developed by your appointed engineering consultants.
Inadequate Exit Capacity: Specify stair locations, discharge floors, arrangements for discharge to grade, and openings on discharge floors (storage, production, etc.)
Cracked Columns: Have your consulting engineers, witnessed by Pakistan Accord engineers, assess any cracked structural columns.
Left – Hazard: Crumbling columns/cracks; Right – Control: Building maintenance & structural safety assessment
Hot Spots: Inspect electrical load conditions, panel locations, and probable causes of high temperatures. If temperatures are excessive, circuit breakers must be immediately shut down.
Storage of Raw Materials and Finished Goods: Keep all materials away from work areas and heat sources. Order raw materials only as necessary and expedite delivery of finished goods to customers. All items must be kept clear of ignition sources, particularly electrical equipment or heat-producing machinery.
In addition to these measures, fire detection systems have important life-saving value as they alert occupants to the presence of a fire and allow them to evacuate safety. Factories without adequate detection systems should post security or other personnel as a temporary “fire watch” to ensure early detection. This in turn will facilitate prompt evacuation of the building before a fire develops.
Sprinkler systems provide a significant life-saving measure and are essential in multiple scenarios depending on the height of the building or large open production floors with extended travel distances. Sprinklers are also a cost-effective remediation measure. Consult your CAP or the Pakistan Accord team for further guidance.
Both fire detection and sprinkler systems, including fire pumps, water reservoirs, and standpipe systems, are complex installations requiring detailed technical design, engineering calculations, professional expertise and investments. Factories should discuss these systems with their engineering consultants as soon as possible.
Guidance for Factory Engineering Consultants
At the request of covered suppliers, the Pakistan Accord has developed guidance to support factories engage qualified engineering professionals for assessments and remediation under their CAPs. View the guidance document here.
The guidance supports factories in meeting the Pakistan Accord Building Standard, ensuring consultants have the qualifications, expertise, and integrity to deliver safe, code-compliant, high-quality engineering services aligned with the safety improvements at factories.
Workplace Programs
The Pakistan Accord has made substantial progress in implementing its Workplace Programs across covered factories, directly reaching 108,358 workers. As of 30 September 2025, 234 initial meetings had been completed, and All Employee Meetings were conducted at 98 factories across a total of 454 sessions.
In addition, 26 Safety Committee meetings have been organised with 310 participants. These joint labour-management committees play a vital role in strengthening workplace health and safety systems for workers across covered factories.
The Pakistan Accord’s Workplace Programs will continue rolling out across all covered factories
The Pakistan Accord Complaints Mechanism has received 167 complaints, with the most common issues including heat stress (drinking water quality and temperature), workplace injuries or deaths and lack of provision of personal protective equipment (PPE).
The Workplace Programs will continue to roll out the Safety Committee Training Program and schedule additional initial and All-Employee Meetings in the coming months.
Operations
The Pakistan Accord is building and training local teams in Karachi and Lahore to ensure effective program implementation. Recruitment is ongoing for:
- Fire, structural, electrical, and boiler safety experts
- Training and complaints specialists
- Additional support staff
Resources
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This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
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Condolences for the Mirpur Factory Fire Victims
Accord
The International Accord is deeply saddened by the tragic fire at a garment factory and chemical warehouse in the Shialbari area of Mirpur, Dhaka, which has claimed at least 16 lives and injured many others. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the victims, their families, and all those affected.
This tragedy is a stark reminder of the devastating human cost of inadequate safety measures. Safe exits, unlocked gates, functioning alarms, effective fire separation, and strong emergency preparedness are essential for the safety of every worker, within and beyond the garment industry.
To our knowledge, the affected establishments are not listed by company signatories of the Bangladesh Safety Agreement and not covered by the inspections and remediation program implemented by the RMG Sustainability Council (RSC) in Bangladesh. Nonetheless, this incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive health and safety measures across all industries.
For over a decade, the collective efforts of brands, trade unions, factories, and civil society partners under the Accord have contributed to workplace health and safety improvements at covered garment and textile factories in Bangladesh. While this includes over 2000 factories employing 2.5 million workers, it represents only part of the Bangladesh’s RMG sector.
Ensuring that every worker has access to a safe working environment must remain a shared priority and responsibility. The Accord and the RSC reaffirm their dedication to working with global brands, industry partners, worker representatives and government authorities to build and maintain a culture of health and safety that prevents such tragedies within the RMG sector in Bangladesh.
The Accord will, together with our colleagues from the RSC, continue to monitor the situation at the affected area and any potential impact on surrounding factories.
END
For more information, contact:
- media@internationalaccord.org
- Mini Dixit, Communications Advisor: mini.dixit@internationalaccord.org
Related updates
This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Follow us on social media
Bangladesh Safety Agreement - Origins
Bangladesh Safety Agreement - Origins
2013 Bangladesh Accord
In 2013, the Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh started as a 5-year agreement to pursue workplace safety in the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector in Bangladesh.
The agreement was initially signed by 40 brands and retailers, 2 global trade unions, IndustriALL Global Union & UNI Global Union, and 8 Bangladesh trade unions in the immediate aftermath of the April 2013 Rana Plaza building collapse that killed more than 1,000 workers and critically injured thousands more.
2018 Transition Accord
By July 2015, the number of brand signatories had risen to 220 and by May 2018, the joint efforts of Accord stakeholders had significantly contributed to safer workplaces for over 2 million garment factory workers in Bangladesh.
To maintain and expand the achievements of the 2013 Accord, over 190 brands and retailers renewed their commitments by signing the 2018 Transition Accord with the global trade unions. The 2018 Accord ran for 3 years and included a commitment to transition the implementation of Accord programs to a national tripartite organisation now known as the RMG Sustainability Council (RSC).
2021 International Accord
In 2021 the Accord signatories renewed their partnership and established the International Accord for Health and Safety in the Textile and Garment Industry. This agreement confirms the continued commitment of signatories to support workplace safety programs in Bangladesh through cooperation with the RSC and further commits to establishing workplace safety programs in other countries based on the outcome of feasibility studies.
Over 175 company signatories signed the International Accord in the first year of this agreement with an additional commitment to exploring the scope of the agreement to address Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) issues in the textile and garment industry.
2023 International Accord and Bangladesh Safety Agreement
In November 2023, brands and trade unions negotiated a new country agreement named the The Bangladesh Agreement on Health and Safety in the Textile and Garment Industry (Bangladesh Safety Agreement) .
The Bangladesh Safety Agreement is a legally binding agreement between garment brands and trade unions to ensure worker health and safety in the Bangladeshi textile and garment industry. The Inspections and Remediation program, Safety Training, the Complaints Mechanism, and reporting and disclosure requirements of the Accord will continue to be implemented in Bangladesh by the RMG Sustainability Council (RSC), which was established in June 2020.
The Bangladesh Safety Agreement is implemented as a country program under the International Accord for Health and Safety in the Garment and Textile Industry (International Accord) framework agreement.
Brands and trade unions renewed their commitments for an extended three-year term, with an automatic renewal of another three years making it the longest Accord commitment to date. This new iteration of the International Accord took effect on 1 November 2023.
The 2023 International Accord serves as a framework for implementing the Accord’s country programs currently in Bangladesh and Pakistan, and future programs in other garment producing countries.
Related updates
This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Follow us on social media
Pakistan Accord - Origins
Pakistan Accord - Origins
Feasibility Assessment for New Country Programs
Following a decision by the Steering Committee under the 2021 International Accord, the Accord Secretariat conducted a feasibility assessment to identify potential new country programs, guided by a defined set of criteria.
The assessment considered factors such as:
- The level of interest among brands;
- The presence and production volume of signatory brands in the country;
- Support from local stakeholders;
- The capacity of existing mechanisms to regulate workplace safety; and
- The potential to enhance health and safety standards in the garment sector.
Between October 2021 and January 2022, the Secretariat conducted brand surveys, desktop research, and in-depth interviews to evaluate brand presence and production trends in key garment-producing countries.
Pakistan as a Priority Country
Pakistan emerged as one of four priority countries identified by signatories for potential Accord expansion. Between March and November 2022, the Accord Secretariat held in-depth consultations with key stakeholders across the prioritised countries, including representatives from industry, government, trade unions, brands, and civil society.
In response to the strong interest expressed by stakeholders in Pakistan, the Accord Steering Committee agreed to move forward with drafting a framework for a potential program in the country. This framework served as a foundation for continued stakeholder engagement and for conducting pilot safety assessments aimed at informing the possible establishment of an inspection and remediation program within the industry.
Establishment of the Pakistan Accord
In December 2022, signatories agreed to establish a new workplace safety program in Pakistan for an initial three-year term, beginning in January 2023. The resulting agreement, the Pakistan Accord on Health & Safety in the Textile & Garment Industry, defines the program’s scope and key provisions to which signatories are committed.
The Pakistan Accord operates as a Country-Specific Safety Program (CSSP) Addendum under the International Accord, renewed in 2023. Initially signed for a three-year period, the agreement includes the prospect of renewal based on program outcomes and continued stakeholder support.
The program will be implemented in close collaboration with Pakistan’s government authorities and the country’s manufacturing industry, ensuring local engagement and shared responsibility for improving workplace safety.
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Stay in Touch
Related updates
This briefing provides updates on the number of signatory brands, factories and workers. Additionally, it includes guidance on the actions suppliers should take to address immediate safety findings.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The parties have agreed to re-sign the Pakistan Accord in its current form, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting worker health and safety across the supply chains of signatory brands in Pakistan.
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January.
The International Accord is saddened by the earthquake in Bangladesh and concerned about the reported injuries and loss of life. Our thoughts are with all affected individuals and families.
Follow us on social media