SMETA support
Social accountability
SMETA is one of the world’s most widely used ethical audit formats, designed to assess working conditions, health and safety, labour rights, and environmental management in global supply chains. For manufacturers and exporters, especially in sectors such as textiles, apparel, footwear, and electronics, SMETA compliance is increasingly a passport to doing business with global brands and buyers.
At SAGE, we help you prepare thoroughly for SMETA audits by reviewing your policies, practices, documentation, and physical conditions on site. Our support covers the four audit pillars: abour standards, health and safety, environment, and business ethics, with detailed checklists, gap assessments, evidence trails, training, and mock audits. We also assist with post-audit corrective actions and continuous improvement strategies. The goal is not just to clear the audit, but to build a responsible workplace culture that meets international expectations and enhances your credibility across the value chain.
FAQ's
What is SMETA and who conducts the audit?
SMETA is an ethical audit methodology developed by Sedex. It is conducted by approved third-party auditors using a 2-pillar or 4-pillar approach.
What areas does SMETA cover?
It includes labour rights, health and safety, environment, and business ethics. The 4-pillar version also includes extended environmental and human rights criteria.
Is SMETA mandatory?
It is not legally required, but many global buyers make it a prerequisite for sourcing or vendor qualification.
What is the difference between a 2-pillar and a 4-pillar SMETA audit?
The 2-pillar covers core labour and health & safety topics. The 4-pillar adds more on environmental performance and business ethics, often required by European buyers.
How long does it take to prepare?
Initial assessments and corrective actions can take 4–8 weeks, depending on current systems and gaps.
What we offer
SMETA readiness assessment and mock audit support
Policy and SOP development for labour, ethics, health and safety
Worker interviews and training to prepare for audit context
Corrective Action Plan (CAP) design and closure support
Internal capacity-building workshops
Documentation system setup and HR file reviews
Liaison support with auditors and follow-up actions
Our collaborative process:
Gap assessment and documentation review
Audit your current practices, identify non-conformities, and build a SMETA-ready documentation system.
Policy strengthening and process fixes
Draft or revise policies related to working hours, wages, grievance redressal, and safety measures.
Worker voice and internal training
Build awareness among workers and managers, and ensure consent-based, transparent practices.
CAP implementation and evidence structuring
Help close audit findings through meaningful, traceable changes, not just paper fixes.
Audit preparation and liaison support
Support your team during the audit process, and provide guidance for future audits and buyer engagement.
Outcomes you can expect:
Audit readiness evaluation
Assess existing HR, safety, and environmental systems for SMETA four-pillar compliance.
Policy and practice strengthening
Improve employment terms, grievance redressal, ethical conduct, and environmental controls.
Worker engagement and safety systems
Establish practices that reflect global labour rights and safe working conditions.
Support for audit and post-audit phases
Assist with mock audits, evidence collection, and closure of corrective actions.
Credibility in global supply chains
Strengthen your position as a trusted supplier for international buyers using the Sedex platform.
Where are you on our SMETA journey?
We don’t just help you pass audits, we build ethical systems that stand up to scrutiny and support worker wellbeing and business resilience.
Our approach
We don’t just help you pass audits, we build ethical systems that stand up to scrutiny and support worker wellbeing and business resilience.
Why Choose SAGE for your SMETA support?
Our team blends expertise in ethical trade, labour law, and supply chain governance. We have supported dozens of factories and suppliers in preparing for and excelling at SMETA audits through policy, people, and process.
