SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit)

What is SMETA?
SMETA is one of the most commonly used formats for social audits in the world, designed to help companies assess their suppliers based on compliance with key ethical standards.
What is Sedex?
Sedex - Supplier Ethical Data Exchange is an online platform that enables manufacturers to maintain data on their social practices and share this information with their clients.
Types of SMETA Audit - 2 or 4 Pillars?
- SMETA 2-Pillar
Focuses on labor rights and health and safety at work. - SMETA 4-Pillar
Covers labor rights, health and safety at work, as well as environmental impact and business ethics for a more comprehensive assessment.
Why Sedex SMETA?
Many international companies expect their suppliers to confirm compliance with ethical and social standards through SMETA audits. By applying this standard, companies reduce risks associated with labor law violations, ensure safe working conditions, and promote fair business practices, thus protecting their reputation and meeting consumer expectations for responsible production. Additionally, an increasing number of companies are voluntarily opting for SMETA audits to demonstrate their adherence to ethical principles and improve their market position.
Advantages of Implementation:
- Improved relationships with suppliers;
- Greater transparency in the supply chain;
- Compliance with ethical standards.
What is the result of the audit - certificate or report?
After successful implementation and the audit, a detailed report is provided that shows compliance with SMETA requirements.
Evaluation System:
There are no formal grades, but the audit report reflects performance.
Registration on the Platform:
To conduct a SMETA audit, registration on the Sedex platform is required.
Key Elements:
0: Enabling accurate Assessment
1: Employment is Freely Chosen
1A: Responsible Recruitment and Entitlement to Work
2: Freedom of Association and Right to Collective Bargaining are Respected
3: Working Conditions are Safe and Hygienic
4: Child Labour Shall Not be Used
5: Legal Wages are Paid
5A: Living Wages are Paid
6: Working Hours are Not Excessive
7: No Discrimination is Practiced
8: Regular Employment is Provided
8A: Sub-contracting and Homeworkers are Used Responsibly
9: No Harsh or Inhumane Treatment is Allowed
10A: Environment 2-pillar
10B: Environment 4-pillar
10C: Business Ethics
Why choose CSR Experts Hub for consulting services according to Sedex SMETA requirements?
CSR Experts Hub is here to help you understand and implement SMETA requirements, providing tailored solutions for your company to meet your specific needs. Our experts will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring easy implementation and making the SMETA audit process smoother. We bring extensive experience in Sedex SMETA requirements, with hundreds of social audits conducted in over 30 countries worldwide.
Our experts are registered APSCA (Association of Professional Social Compliance Auditors) auditors with CSCA or ASCA status.
For detailed information about Sedex SMETA and our services, contact us today!
You may also be interested in these standards
BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative)
An initiative that helps companies ensure that their suppliers respect fair working conditions and human rights in production processes through the establishment of a common code of conduct.
SA8000 (Social Accountability International)
An international standard aimed at improving working conditions, focusing on workers' rights and promoting fair treatment.
RSCI (Responsible Supply Chain Initiative)
An initiative that provides a framework for companies in the automotive industry to adhere to social, ethical, and environmental standards in their supply chains.
RBA (Responsible Business Alliance)
Focuses on promoting sustainability and ethical practices in global supply chains, particularly in the electronics industry.

