The Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) offers globally recognized assessment programs to help companies and facilities demonstrate responsible sourcing practices for minerals such as tin, tantalum, tungsten, gold, cobalt, and others. If you're considering undergoing an RMI assessment, this guide will walk you through who is eligible, what types of assessments exist, and how to get started.

Who Is Eligible for an RMI Assessment?

Eligibility depends on your role in the mineral supply chain:

1. Smelters and Refiners (Upstream Facilities)

These facilities are eligible for the Responsible Minerals Assurance Process (RMAP) if they:

• Are actively processing or refining minerals.
• Submit a Company Information Questionnaire (CIQ).
• Agree to RMAP terms and complete required documentation.
• Are listed as Eligible Facilities on the RMI website.

2. Downstream Companies

Companies that do not refine or smelt minerals but are involved in sourcing and using them may undergo a Downstream Assessment Program (DAP). This includes:

• Manufacturers
• Recyclers
• Other entities in the supply chain seeking validation of responsible sourcing practices aligned with the OECD Due Diligence Guidance.

3. Cross-Recognized Facilities

Facilities that have completed assessments under other recognized standards (e.g., LBMA, RJC) may be cross-recognized by RMI if those standards meet RMI’s criteria.

Types of RMI Assessments

 RMAP (Responsible Minerals Assurance Process)

• Focuses on smelters and refiners.
• Evaluates due diligence practices against OECD guidelines.
• Results in a status of Conformant, Active, or Non-Conformant.

 DAP (Downstream Assessment Program)

• Designed for non-smelter entities.
• Assesses sourcing practices and supply chain due diligence.
• Helps companies demonstrate responsible sourcing to customers and stakeholders.

How to Get Started

Register Your Facility
Begin by submitting a Company Information Questionnaire (CIQ) via the RMI portal.

Contact the RMI Assessment Team
Email rmiassessment@responsiblebusiness.org to initiate the process and receive guidance.

Prepare Documentation
Gather relevant policies, sourcing records, and due diligence procedures to support your assessment.

Undergo the Assessment
RMI will coordinate with approved audit firms to conduct the assessment and issue a report.

Review and Status Update
Once the audit is complete, the facility’s status will be updated in the RMI database.

Benefits of RMI Assessment

• Global recognition of responsible sourcing practices.
• Improved transparency and trust with customers.
• Alignment with regulatory and industry standards (e.g., OECD, EU Conflict Minerals Regulation).
• Access to RMI tools and resources, including risk data and smelter databases.