TISAX
Automotive framework for standardized information security assessments and exchange
BRC
Global standard for food safety in manufacturing
Quick Verdict
TISAX ensures information security for automotive suppliers via standardized assessments, while BRC mandates food safety management for manufacturers through HACCP and audits. Companies adopt TISAX for OEM contracts; BRC for retailer access and GFSI compliance.
TISAX
Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX)
Key Features
- Enables sharing one assessment across multiple OEMs via ENX portal
- Tailored prototype protection controls for automotive IP and assets
- Three risk-based assessment levels matching protection needs
- Maturity evaluation of 70+ VDA ISA controls on 0-5 scale
- Three-year labels without annual surveillance audits
BRC
BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety Issue 9
Key Features
- Codex HACCP-based food safety plan
- Senior management commitment and culture
- Fundamental requirements for certification
- Environmental monitoring and risk zoning
- Unannounced audits with grading system
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
TISAX Details
What It Is
TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) is a certification framework by ENX Association, based on VDA ISA catalog. It standardizes security assessments for automotive supply chains, protecting IP, prototypes, and data via CIA triad extensions. Uses risk-based methodology with three levels: AL1 (self), AL2 (remote), AL3 (on-site).
Key Components
- 70+ controls in 7 groups: Policy, Access, Operations, etc.
- Modules: Information Security, Prototype Protection, Data Protection
- Maturity scale 0-5 (level 3+ required)
- Builds on ISO 27001; ENX portal exchanges results
- 3-year labels post-audit
Why Organizations Use It
- OEM contractual mandates (e.g., BMW, VW)
- Cuts duplicate audits 70-90%, saves costs
- Mitigates breaches, enables market access
- Builds supply chain trust, boosts revenue
- ESG/resilience advantages
Implementation Overview
Phased: scope/gap analysis, control remediation/tabletops, accredited audit (DQS/TÜV), monitoring. Suits OEMs/suppliers/services globally; scalable for SMEs/enterprises via self-assess to full audits.
BRC Details
What It Is
BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety (Issue 9) is a GFSI-benchmarked certification framework for food manufacturers, processors, and packers. It assures product safety, legality, authenticity, and quality via a structured system integrating senior management commitment, Codex HACCP-based plans, and GMP prerequisites. Scope includes processed foods, ingredients, primary products, and pet foods under site control.
Key Components
- Seven core clauses: senior management, food safety plan, FSQMS, site standards, product control, process control, personnel.
- Fundamental requirements (e.g., HACCP, traceability, allergens, internal audits).
- Risk-based hazard analysis including fraud, defence.
- Graded certification (AA/A/B/C/D) via annual audits, announced/unannounced.
Why Organizations Use It
- Retailer mandates for supply chain access.
- Reduces recalls, contamination risks.
- Demonstrates due diligence, builds trust.
- Drives efficiencies, continuous improvement.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, documentation, training, mock audits.
- 6-12 months typical for mid-maturity sites.
- Global applicability for food manufacturers.
- Accredited body certification required.
Key Differences
| Aspect | TISAX | BRC |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Information security, prototype protection | Food safety, quality, HACCP plans |
| Industry | Automotive supply chain, global | Food manufacturing, packaging, global |
| Nature | Voluntary certification, industry-driven | Voluntary GFSI-benchmarked certification |
| Testing | AL1-3 assessments, 3-year validity | Annual on-site audits, grading system |
| Penalties | Contract loss, no legal fines | Certification withdrawal, market exclusion |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about TISAX and BRC
TISAX FAQ
BRC FAQ
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