Every five years SAI revises the SA8000 standard in order to ensure its continued relevance and adoptability. This process is conducted in accordance with the ISEAL Code of Good Practice for Setting Social and Environmental Standards (the Code). Social Accountability International recently discussed this process and offered a side-by-side comparison (2008-2014) for general review. Aside from general and minor verbiage changes, other observations include: The term “company” and “employer” has been replaced by “organization” in many areas. The Guidance Document is now available for download rather than previously requiring a “small fee.” An “Introduction” referencing “Management System” and “Intent/Scope” replaces “Purpose and Scope” as the first item listed in the Contents. Night hours are no longer excluded in regards to hiring young workers. “Health & Safety” are expanded to include a Safety Committee requirement and more detailed explanation of workplace environment and responsibilities therein. Forced or Compulsory Labor expands on and adds that with certain requirements, “recruitment or employment fees or costs shall be charged directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, to workers.” “Control” now becomes “Management” of Suppliers and Contractors. Management Systems is expanded and incorporates Social Performance Teams. Additional resources from SAI are available here. As a 3rd party engineering & quality consulting firm, Pro QC offers SA8000 and ISO26000 audits as part of our core service offerings. We have also written several other articles related to the topic of corporate social responsibility. Social Accountability Audits – Benefits & Features ISO 26000 – Introducing the new social standard Sustainability Audits – An Evolving Process Celebrating working contributions & realizing the benefits of social audits
