Social Accountability Certification (SA 8000/IS 16001)

Social Accountability Certification (SA 8000/IS 16001)

Social Accountability Certification (SA 8000/IS 16001)

Social Accountability Certification is a voluntary standard for auditable third-party verification that sets out requirements for organizations. This includes the establishment or improvement of workers’ rights, workplace conditions, Child Labor Prohibition, No Forced or Compulsory Labor, Health and Safety requirements, Freedom of Association, Right to Collective Bargaining, No Discrimination, Fair Remuneration, Reasonable Working Hours, Ethical Workplace Conduct. 

The foundational elements of this standard are based on the UN Declaration of Human Rights, conventions of the ILO, international human rights norms, and national labor laws.

Organizations that wish to demonstrate their commitment to social issues such as child labor, bonded labor, discrimination, and fair wages can implement this standard and obtain certification. Exporting organizations often require this certification as a necessity.

In today's world, customers are increasingly sensitive to social issues. Many consumers have boycotted products from organizations found to be engaging in child labor or other unethical labor practices. This certification serves as an effective tool to enhance a company’s brand image as a socially responsible organization.

SAMS is a transparent management system that upholds social accountability principles by continuously monitoring, assessing, and improving processes through employee feedback and external audits.

It encourages employees, suppliers, and stakeholders to confidentially report any social compliance concerns. This grievance mechanism ensures transparency, prompt action, and protection against retaliation.

SAMS is committed to sustainable partnerships, working with ethical suppliers, partners, and stakeholders who share its dedication to social responsibility. By adhering to SA 8000 principles, SAMS ensures responsible sourcing and fair labor practices throughout the supply chain.

Praditha Engineers Offers Comprehensive Social Accountability Certification Services (SAMS) and also:

1. Documentation
    We develop clear and practical documentation, including manuals, procedures, forms, and formats, to meet SAMS certification requirements.
2. Audit Preparedness
    To prepare for certification, we train your personnel to effectively understand and demonstrate SAMS competence during certification or compliance audits. Our team conducts mock audits to ensure staff are fully prepared for the certification audit.
3. Certification Support
    From the initial application to final certification approval, we provide complete guidance to help you secure third-party certification.
4. Training Programs
    Our training programs are designed to provide the knowledge and skills needed to implement SA8000 / IS 16001 standards. Our training includes:

• Employee Training: Tailored to enhance SAMS understanding, this training is delivered in English, with duration adjusted based on participants' needs.
• Management Training: Key personnel receive in-depth training to conduct SAMS internal audits, earning an internal auditor participation certificate.
• Awareness Training: We conduct training to raise awareness of SAMS related activities, tailored to those managing relevant operations within your organization.

Two-Day Training Course on SA8000/IS 16001

Designed for personnel in the Organizations desires to implement the system, our two-day course ensures participants can deliver effective and efficient public services. This course is based on SA 8000/IS 16001 Social Accountability at the Work place - Requirement.

Course Topics Include:

1. Purpose and relevance of the Service Quality Management System (SAMS) per SA 8000 /IS 16001 Overview of SA 8000/IS 16001, its structure, and its connections with IS 16010: 2012 Good governance – Guidance and ISO 19011:2018 (Auditing Guidelines).
2. Interpretation of SA8000/IS 16001requirements for Organizations.
3. Roles and responsibilities of a Nodal Officer according to SA8000/IS 16001.
4. Steps for implementing, certifying, and maintaining compliance with SA8000/IS 16001.