The Smelter or Refiner (SOR) Master is an important component of the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI). It plays a significant role in ensuring the ethical sourcing of minerals by providing a verified list of smelters and refiners. This guide explains the SOR Master, who can use it, and how to obtain access to it, following ITIL principles.

What is the SOR Master?

The SOR Master is a comprehensive list maintained by the RMI that includes companies processing mineral ore, slag, recycled, or scrap materials into refined metal or metal-containing intermediate products. This list is essential for companies aiming to comply with conflict minerals regulations and ensure responsible sourcing practices.

Who Can Use the SOR Master?

The SOR Master is designed for various stakeholders within the supply chain, including:

• Manufacturers: Companies that use minerals in their products and need to ensure their suppliers are sourcing responsibly.
• Suppliers: Entities that provide raw materials to manufacturers and need to verify their sources.
• Auditors: Professionals who assess compliance with conflict minerals regulations.
• Regulatory Bodies: Organizations that oversee and enforce ethical sourcing practices.
• Consumers: Individuals interested in understanding the ethical sourcing of products they purchase.
   

How to Obtain Access to the SOR Master

Accessing the SOR Master involves several steps, ensuring that the information is used responsibly and effectively:

• Step 1: Visit the RMI Website
  The first step is to visit the Responsible Minerals Initiative's official website. The RMI provides resources and information about the SOR Master and other related initiatives.
• Step 2: Register for Access
  To access the SOR Master, stakeholders must register on the RMI website. Registration typically involves providing relevant information about your organization and agreeing to the terms of use.
• Step 3: Download the Conflict Minerals Reporting Template (CMRT)
  Once registered, users can download the CMRT, which includes the Smelter Reference List. The CMRT is a standardized reporting template that discloses information about mineral sourcing.
• Step 4: Utilize the SOR Master
  After obtaining the CMRT, stakeholders can use the SOR Master to verify their suppliers, ensure compliance with regulations, and promote responsible sourcing practices.

Benefits of Using the SOR Master

Using the SOR Master offers several benefits:

• Compliance: Ensures adherence to conflict minerals regulations.
• Transparency: Provides clear information about the sources of minerals.
• Ethical Sourcing: Promotes responsible and sustainable sourcing practices.
• Risk Mitigation: Helps identify and mitigate risks associated with unethical sourcing.