In today's world, where consumers, investors, and clients are increasingly focused on companies' social, ethical, and environmental responsibility, having recognized audits is key. One of the most widely used methodologies globally is SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) and has recently been updated to its version 7.0, introducing new challenges and opportunities for organizations.
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WHAT IS SMETA?
SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) is a social audit methodology created by SEDEX to evaluate labor practices, health and safety conditions, ethical and environmental aspects at a production plant or supplier. It is based on international standards such as the ETI Base Code (Ethical Trading Initiative), the conventions of the ILO (International Labour Organization) and applicable local legislation.
Furthermore, you should know that it is not a "certification" — there is no "pass" or "fail" as such — but an evaluation with findings, recommendations and opportunities for improvement.
The scope of an audit SMETA It can be from 2 pillars (labor + health and safety) or 4 pillars (the two previous ones plus environment and business ethics).
SMETA 2 PILLARS VS SMETA 4 PILLARS
Mandatory pillars (Labor and Health and Safety)
- Labor standards / human rights
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Forced labor, child labor, discrimination, freedom of association and collective bargaining, responsible recruitment, legal hiring, contracts, etc.
- Wages, working hours, overtime, breaks, fair pay.
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- Working conditions, health and safety
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- Physical infrastructure, building conditions, occupational hazards, protective equipment, hygiene, emergencies, employee training, inspections, etc.
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Additional pillars (only in 4-pillar audits)
- Environment
- Use of resources (water, energy), waste and emissions management, recycling, hazardous waste management, environmental controls, monitoring, compliance with environmental regulations.
- Business ethics/integrity
- Policies against corruption, bribery, conflicts of interest, whistleblowing, supply chain transparency, ethical contractual practices.
In addition, version 7 introduces an important new component: the Management Systems Assessment (MSA), This review examines the company's internal management system to ensure that processes, policies, monitoring, and continuous improvement are in place. It also establishes that more complex findings that cannot be resolved immediately are treated as "Collaborative Action Required," encouraging the organization to work with stakeholder groups.
Differences between SMETA 6.1 vs SMETA 7.0
The transition from version 6 to 7 introduces substantial changes to make audits more thorough, useful, and aligned with current requirements. Here are the most notable differences:
These changes imply that companies must prepare more thoroughly: it is not enough to "meet requirements", but they must have controlled systems, a mature organizational culture and continuous improvement processes.
BENEFITS OF A SMETA AUDIT
✔️ Visibility and transparency in the supply chain
✔️ Improved risk and reputation management
✔️ Efficiency and cost savings
✔️ Continuous improvement of suppliers/operations
✔️ Regulatory compliance and market demand
✔️ Trust and competitive differentiation
STEPS TO PERFORM A SMETA AUDIT
WHY INCYMA?
Our team has extensive experience in social responsibility and sustainability consulting. We know that every company is unique, so we design tailored solutions that guarantee effective results. Our commitment is to help you become more efficient and care for the planet while saving costs.
- We help you do a good initial diagnosis and create a correct planning of the project phases.
- We offer you support and advice during the entire process.
- We work since 2007 helping companies improve their sustainable commitment.
- Are qualified auditors for certification bodies as:
If you are looking for an effective solution to comply with SMETA, INCYMA It's your best ally. We have everything you need to analyze your situation and design an efficient and sustainable strategy.
📩 info@incyma.es
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