The SA8000 program offers two separate routes for companies that want to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility.
The first, membership, is designed for businesses that are involved in retailing. It involves making a commitment to do business only with socially responsible suppliers.
SA8000 members are offered a self-assessment package and other tools to help them implement a policy on social responsibility. They are expected to notify their suppliers of their intention to adopt SA8000 standards, and to set a timetable for phasing out dealings with companies that fail to meet those criteria.
Member companies are also required to produce an annual report detailing their SA8000 objectives, and outlining progress that has been made towards those goals. These reports are verified .
The SA8000 certification consultancy is which helped organization to get certified through independent organizations accredited by Social Accountability Accreditation Services. A facility wishing to seek certification to SA8000 must apply to a SAAS - accredited auditing firm, known as a Certification Body. SA8000 certification documents is issued by Certifying body, which is accredited to provide certificate under the SA 8000 standard. The SA 8000 certificate is issued for the period of 3 years after successful completion of pre–assessment and registration assessment. Surveillance audits are conducted by the Certifying body within the period of 3 years at the interval of 6 Months, 9 Months or 12 Months depending upon the nature and size of the Organization
The second route, certification, is intended for manufacturers and suppliers themselves. The process is a rigorous one which begins with the company contacting an accredited auditor. Having demonstrated compliance with existing regulations and assessed how current practice compares with the provisions of SA8000, the company is given the status of 'SA8000 applicant'.
The business then puts in place an SA8000 program, which is scrutinized by a 'per-assessment audit'. Any improvements that are recommended can be put into practice before the formal audit takes place.
Following the formal assessment, the company is again given the opportunity to put right any shortcomings, before being checked again. If at the end of this process the auditors are satisfied that the company is fully compliant, they will issue an SA8000 certificate, valid for three years.
Training
Improving global working conditions is important for workers, and it’s important for businesses and consumers. As the field of social performance expands from auditing to actual capacity building, the professional requirements for auditors and consultants evolve daily. Now, more than ever, having the tools to help companies and individuals measure and improve in these areas is critical.
SA8000 training courses are designed to encourage proficiency in social compliance and emphasize the implementation of management systems in combination with performance elements. These courses are required for all SA8000 and BSCI auditors, and are just as valuable to internal auditors, buyers, managers and workers for auditing to any labor code or standard. The courses are open to all.
Complimentary places are available for NGO and trade union participants. As class sizes vary based on venue capacity, we limit these complimentary seats to one representative per class.