SA 8000 Certification

What is SA 8000 Certification?

SA8000 certification is a social accountability standard developed by Social Accountability International (SAI) to promote and ensure ethical and socially responsible practices in the workplace. The standard is based on international human rights norms and covers areas such as labor practices, health and safety, and the environment.

What are the Benefits of SA8000 Certification?

SA8000 certification provides numerous benefits to organizations, including improved worker welfare, increased customer trust and loyalty, and reduced reputational risk. It also helps organizations comply with local and international regulations and standards related to social responsibility.

What are the Requirements for SA8000 Certification?

To obtain SA8000 certification, organizations must demonstrate compliance with the standard’s requirements through an audit conducted by an accredited third-party certification body. The requirements include areas such as child labor, forced labor, health and safety, freedom of association, and collective bargaining.

How Much Does SA8000 Certification Cost?

The cost of SA8000 certification varies depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the organization and the scope of the audit. However, the cost is generally offset by the benefits of certification and the improved social accountability of the organization.

How Smeta can help your organization obtain SA8000 Certification:

Smeta is a trusted SA8000 consultant in India that can help your organization meet the requirements for SA8000 certification. We provide a comprehensive range of services, including gap analysis, documentation support, and training and awareness programs.

Hassle-free SA 8000:2014 Certification with Smeta Compliance

The initial review of the existing practices being trailed at the organization is the starting point for the SA 8000 social audit process. Smeta is one of the leading SA 8000 certification consultants in Mumbai, India. Our team helps in the effortless understanding of the SA 8000 certification requirements and simple methods for effective compliance with corporate responsibility. 100% documentation support is offered to achieve successful certification in addition to enhanced operational controls.
The implementation process is described below:

I

Initial Review

  • Initial visits and review of the existing system.
  • Organization registration
  • Self Assessment of system
D

Documentation

  • Designing and developing forms, formats, and procedures
  • Training and Handholding/ support for implementation
  • 100% documentation support
E

Effective Verification

  • Routine system verification & Internal audits
  •  
  • Management review
A

Achieve Certification

  • Certification audit – Stage 1 & 2
  • Closure of non-conformities support if any
  • Rewarding the certificate to the organization

Smeta Compliance offers only Genuine SA 8000 Certification Options.

We ensure that SA 8000 Certification adds value to your brand rather than distracting from it by getting counterfeit/local certification. Your certificate’s international traceability helps in passing the Certificate Verification process conducted by your overseas customers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the Focus Points of SA 8000 Social Accountability?

   
  • No Child Labor
  • No Forced or Compulsory Labor
  • Provide Healthy and Safe Work Environment
  • Right to Freedom of Association & Collective Bargaining
  • No Discrimination
  • No Disciplinary Practices i.e. No corporal punishments, mental or physical coercion
  • Compliance to Working Hours & Public Holidays as per the defined Laws
  • Payment of Sufficient Remunerationmphasis of Social compliance audit (SA 8000)
  • An Executive system

What are the Document Requirements for SA 8000 Standard Certification Process?

   

    The organization shall demonstrate compliance related to the below-mentioned requirements: –

    • The Legal (Factory Act.)
    • Social (Policies, Procedures and related documents)
    • Health and Safety
    • Environmental
    • Social (Policies, Procedures and related documents)

    Which organizations are eligible for SA 8000 certification?

       
    • Manufacturing units
    • Service sector including Educational institutes, Hospitals and other service providing units
    • Any other business units irrespective of nature of business, size and location.

    How will Social Accountability SA 8000 Certification benefit your organization?

       
    • Recognition as a socially compliant organization
    • Opportunity for exports
    • Supplier Approval by overseas customers
    • Mandatory requirement for being an out-sourcing sub-contractor to parent company
    • Compliance with business, legal, contractual, and regulatory requirements
    • Improved structure and focus with respect to Business Ethics and Anti-bribery Management System.

    How did SA 8000 certification evolve throughout the years?

       
    • Year 1997 – Launched by Social Accountability International
    • Year 2008 – 1st Edition of SA 8000 Social Accountability published.

    Does the SA 8000 Standard also integrate with existing quality and occupational management systems?

       
    • Yes, the SA 8000 social standard can be fully integrated. For example, if you want to document your company’s social and environmental responsibilities, you may combine SA8000 with ISO 14001 or EMAS-certified environmental management.

    Does the SA 8000 Standard also cover sub-contractors?

       
    • Yes, SA 8000 covers subcontractors, suppliers, and any third parties involved with the certified company, as long as they fall within the scope and influence of the certified company.

    Are Sub-Contractors also audited?

       
    • Companies are in charge of auditing their subcontractors and suppliers. As a result, auditors do not conduct direct inspections of these subcontractors, instead confirming that the certified company has implemented effective monitoring practices.

    Are Internal Audits required?

       
    • Internal audits should be carried out. Companies must guarantee that SA8000 criteria are followed to the letter. Internal audits are required to be conducted at least once a year.