RBA & RBA VAP Training – Validated Assessment Program for the RBA Code of Conduct Ver. 8.0
During a two-day intensive training program, the expert team from VINTECOM International delivered professional training on the requirements and principles for implementing the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) Code of Conduct, along with practical exercises on RBA VAP (Validated Assessment Program) auditing for managers and key personnel at Inoue Rubber Vietnam Co., Ltd. (IRC Tire Vietnam).
IRC Tire – A Japanese Tire Brand with a Global Network
IRC Tire is a tire brand of Inoue Rubber Co., Ltd., a Japanese manufacturer of two-wheel vehicle tires founded in 1926 with more than 90 years of experience in developing tires for bicycles, motorcycles, and other two-wheel vehicles.
Today, IRC Tire operates multiple manufacturing facilities worldwide and supplies tire products to international markets, including major motorcycle manufacturers.
In Vietnam, IRC Tire Vietnam (Inoue Rubber Vietnam Co., Ltd.) is one of the key suppliers of motorcycle and bicycle tires, tubes, and technical rubber products for the market as well as for leading motorcycle manufacturers.
The company is also actively involved in community and sports activities in Vietnam and has become an official partner of the Hanoi Police FC (CAHN FC) for the 2025–2026 season.
Furthermore, IRC Tire Vietnam is a supplier within the global supply chains of major motorcycle manufacturers such as Yamaha and Honda, and has been evaluated by customers through the RBA VAP (Validated Assessment Program) within the global supply chain.
VINTECOM International Delivers RBA Code of Conduct Training and RBA VAP Audit Practice at IRC Tire Vietnam
The training program conducted by VINTECOM International focused on providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the RBA Code of Conduct Version 8.0, including its key requirements covering:
- Labor
- Health & Safety
- Environment
- Ethics
- Management Systems
In addition to theoretical knowledge, the program also included practical exercises on RBA VAP auditing, enabling participants to practice:
- Identifying compliance risks in labor, safety, and environmental management
- Understanding RBA VAP assessment methodology
- Identifying applicable RBA clauses
- Collecting objective evidence during an audit
- Evaluating compliance with RBA requirements
Through this program, the management and staff of IRC Tire Vietnam strengthened their capability to implement and maintain responsible business practices in alignment with international supply chain requirements.
The training also supports the company’s commitment to maintaining responsible manufacturing practices and sustainable development, while meeting the increasingly stringent requirements of global customers.
Figure 1: RBA VAP Training Program Conducted by VINTECOM International Experts at IRC Tire Vietnam, a Tire Brand of Inoue Rubber Co., Ltd.
The training program delivered by VINTECOM International focused on the following key topics:
Overview of the RBA Standard
Introduction to the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) Code of Conduct
Key requirements of the RBA include:
- Labor
- Health & Safety
- Environment
- Ethics
- Management System
Application of RBA in the Global Supply Chain
- RBA compliance requirements within global supply chains
- Key elements in supplier assessments
- The role of management systems in ensuring RBA compliance
RBA VAP Assessment Methodology
- Structure of the RBA Validated Assessment Program (VAP)
- Steps involved in conducting an assessment
- Classification of findings (Priority / Major / Minor)
- Methods for collecting Objective Evidence
Practical Exercises on RBA Auditing
Participants engaged in practical exercises including:
- Identifying risks related to labor, health & safety, and environmental management
- Analyzing real audit scenarios
- Identifying relevant RBA clauses
- Collecting objective evidence and evaluating compliance levels