
July 19, 2024
SA8000® is the most influential social management and accountability certification-based standard in the field of human rights and labor. It offers a recognized system of verification for ethical performance and a comprehensive framework to enhance workplace conditions. It is considered the world’s leading social certification program and is internationally applicable in any product sector. SA8000® standard traces its roots to the International Labor Organization’s (ILO) treaty, the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Is a voluntary standard for social compliance which applies a management-systems approach to social performance and emphasizes continual improvement.
Short History
The Standard was established by Social Accountability International (SAI) in 1997 as a multi-stakeholder initiative. Founded in 1997, Social Accountability International (SAI) is a global non-governmental organization advancing human rights at work. SAI is the leader in social policy and implementation, working together with a diverse group of stakeholders, including brands, suppliers, governments, trade unions, non-profits, and academia. SAI’s vision is of decent work everywhere sustained by an understanding that socially responsible workplaces benefit business while securing fundamental human rights.
Description
The SA8000® Standard and Certification System, through its Pillars, defines the comprehensive management system of best practices that an organization must implement to achieve “SA8000®” certification, in compliance with the philosophy of Social Accountability, as defined within this Standard and aligned to national legal labor regulations and international agreements. The Social Accountability certification of any interested Organization is also directly related to its suppliers and partners, who are part of the service chain and contribute to ensuring ethical working conditions and labor practices. The 9 Pillars of the Standard are:
The above pillars include several set Criteria that comprise the SA8000® certification. Once achieved, the certification lasts for three years. Companies are subject to regular audits during the certification period to ensure continued compliance with the SA8000® standard requirements. The implementation of the SA8000® Standard and its certification does not eliminate the risk of social inequality in the workplace, but it certainly constitutes a significant step forward in combating it. This certification serves as a third-party verification of an organization’s commitment to ethical labor practices and social responsibility.
What are the benefits of obtaining certification?
The Certification with the “SA8000®” logo will assist every Organization to gain:
Complying with SA8000® requirements also means contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in Agenda (2030) of the United Nations. Through the implementation of corporate policies that are essential to acquiring SA8000 certification, companies are actively progressing towards achieving several SDGs, such as those associated with promoting decent working conditions and economic growth (SDG 8), responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), gender equality (SDG 5) and providing fair wages to combat poverty (SDG 1). Therefore, it represents a valuable tool for companies since its framework facilitates a harmonious alignment of corporate social responsibility practices with the broader objectives of sustainable development.
Choosing the SA8000® Standard and Certification System and TÜV AUSTRIA Hellas adds value to every organization through the reliability and strength reflected by both the TÜV AUSTRIA Hellas and SAI brand names, highlighting the Organization’s commitment to providing products and services with practices that reflect its Social Accountability.
Who Is it Addressed To?
The certification is addressed to all businesses regardless of their size or field of activity, for organizations of all types, in any industry, and in any country to conduct business in a way that is fair and decent for workers and to demonstrate their adherence to the highest social standards.
Contact Us
Contact us by phone at +355 4 45 00 523 or via e-mail at infoalbania@tuv.at and our expert personnel will be at your disposal to provide you with further information.