What is SA 8000?
SA 8000, developed by Social Accountability International (SAI), is a pioneering international standard that supports companies worldwide in ensuring fair working conditions. This standard is based on the fundamental principles of international human rights standards and sets out strict requirements for working conditions, health and safety and labour rights.
It promotes ethical working practices in accordance with the conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and other recognised human rights bodies.
Why is social responsibility important for companies?
Social responsibility, known as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), is essential for companies. It strengthens the brand image and the trust of customers in the long term, which directly improves competitiveness. CSR promotes customer loyalty and attracts conscious consumers.
It also minimises social risks and increases the company’s attractiveness for talented employees. In short, CSR is not only an ethical imperative, but also a strategic advantage in the modern business environment. It is a step towards promoting innovation.
All the advantages of SA8000 at a glance
Our service:
PPP offers comprehensive consulting and implementation services to guide your organisation on the path to SA 8000 certification. Our services include
- As-is assessment
- Gap analysis
- Development of guidelines and policies on social responsibility
- Social Risk Assessment
- Preparation of required documents
- Internal audits and audit support (inspections)
- Documentation and follow-up
- Implementation of procedures and control mechanisms for standard compliance
- Training on SA 8000 principles and practices
- Internal audits (inspections)
- Preparation of required documents
- Monitoring and measuring performance
- Support with reporting and communication
- Implementation of corrective actions and continuous improvement
Unique advantages with PPP:
Working with us brings unique benefits. These support you not only to comply with SA800 standards, but also to further implement more sustainable business practices. Ongoing support and training for employees are unique services that enable greater implementation success.
- Fast and efficient processing: State-of-the-art software and an experienced team guarantee rapid implementation.
- International team: Our global team is on hand to help you with all your social responsibility questions and projects.
- Industry expertise: Our team has in-depth knowledge of sustainability and can draw on extensive experience in various industries.
- Customised solutions: Every company is unique. We therefore offer customised advice and services.
- Efficiency and time savings: We use standardised templates to help you speed up the creation process and use your resources more efficiently.
- International expertise: Our global network enables us to provide a comprehensive service, regardless of your location.
- Ongoing support: Even after the initial consultation and service, we are there for you to further promote your sustainable development.
- Improved sustainability practices and a strengthened image: Improved sustainability practices can strengthen the image of the brand and the company. We help you to utilise the findings for your marketing strategy.
Free initial consultation
Want to learn how SA 8000 can transform your organisation? Contact us for a no-obligation initial consultation to find out more about the process, the benefits and our services.
Patrick Wortner
CEO | MBA and Eng., Dipl.-Ing. (FH)
How do you achieve SA8000 certification?
The EcoVadis assessment is a structured process that evaluates a company’s sustainability performance in various categories. Here we provide a step-by-step explanation of the assessment process, from data collection to evaluation:
Obtaining SA8000 certification is a systematic process that helps companies systematically improve and document their social responsibility. The main steps include:
- Conducting a gap analysis: identifying the discrepancies between current company practices and the requirements of the SA8000 standard.
- Preparation and training: training employees and managers on the principles and requirements of SA8000.
- Policy and procedure development: Formulation of policies that reflect SA8000 standards and development of procedures to implement these policies.
- Implementation: Implementation of the developed policies and procedures in the day-to-day running of the organisation.
- Documentation: Recording the implemented measures and processes in a form that can be reviewed by auditors.
- Carrying out internal audits: Verification of conformity with SA8000 standards through internal audits.
- External review (certification): Final audit by an external auditor accredited by SAI who confirms compliance with the standards.
- Corrective actions: Implementation of required corrective actions based on audit results.
SA 8000 certification costs
The costs for SA8000 certification vary depending on the size of the company, the complexity of the processes to be assessed and the location. In general, a financial framework is to be expected depending on the size of the company. It is advisable to seek individual advice for a detailed cost estimate.
Outlook: SA 8000
The trend towards social responsibility is steadily increasing. More and more consumers, investors and employees expect companies not only to be economically successful, but also to fulfil sustainable and ethical standards. SA8000 certification emphasises a company’s commitment to fair working conditions and strengthens its image as a responsible player on the global market.
Free initial consultation
Want to learn how SA 8000 can transform your organisation? Contact us for a no-obligation initial consultation to find out more about the process, the benefits and our services.
Patrick Wortner
CEO | MBA and Eng., Dipl.-Ing. (FH)
Frequently asked questions
What does the SA8000 standard cover?
The SA8000 standard includes criteria for fair working conditions, occupational safety, health protection and social justice, based on international human rights standards.
What criteria are included in the SA8000?
The criteria include a ban on child labour and forced labour, the right to freedom of association, reasonable working hours, occupational safety and a ban on discrimination.
Who is the standard suitable for?
SA8000 is suitable for all companies that want to demonstrate their social responsibility and promote fair working conditions worldwide.
What are the advantages of certification to the SA8000 standard?
The benefits include improved working conditions, a stronger corporate image, risk management, attractiveness as an employer and competitive advantages.
How does certification according to the SA8000 standard work?
The certification includes a gap analysis, training, development and implementation of guidelines, internal audits and a final external audit.
Do internal audits have to be carried out?
Yes, internal audits are an essential part of the certification process to ensure compliance with SA8000 standards.