The document introduces Social Fingerprint, a methodology for SA8000 certified organizations to assess the maturity of their management systems for social performance. It consists of a self-assessment conducted by the organization and an independent evaluation by auditors. The methodology measures management systems across 10 key criteria corresponding to SA8000 requirements. Organizations are rated on a scale of 1-5 to indicate their level of maturity, with a level 4 generally corresponding to full SA8000 compliance. Social Fingerprint aims to standardize assessments and help organizations identify areas for continual improvement.
SOCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY INTERNATIONAL - Improving Labor Conditions Around the World
through a Voluntary Workplace Standard, Independent verification and Public Reporting.
I made this one, and it is good to show how to address the new requirements -- Context of organization, interesting parties, SWOT, PEST Analysis, Risk evaluation. just want to share with someone who need it ...
SOCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY INTERNATIONAL - Improving Labor Conditions Around the World
through a Voluntary Workplace Standard, Independent verification and Public Reporting.
I made this one, and it is good to show how to address the new requirements -- Context of organization, interesting parties, SWOT, PEST Analysis, Risk evaluation. just want to share with someone who need it ...
ISO 9001 is defined as the international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS). Organizations use the standard to demonstrate the ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. It is the most popular standard in the ISO 9000 series and the only standard in the series to which organizations can certify.
ISO 9001 was first published in 1987 by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), an international agency composed of the national standards bodies of more than 160 countries. The current version of ISO 9001 was released in September 2015.
The Checklist contains explanations and recommendations that:
- Facilitate the audit;
- May serve as a guide in the transition to the new version of ISO 9001: 2015 using 'fill the gap' methodology;
- Allow for QMS self-assessment for compliance with ISO 9001: 2015;
- Facilitate learning and understanding of the new version of ISO 9001:2015 requirements
- User-friendly format and professional layout - reviewed and approved by experienced ISO 9001 quality auditors.
- 72 pages
This Presentation provide the understanding about importance of following standards and comply with regulatory requirements. This PPT Prepared to provide Awareness Training on Quality Management System as per ISO 17025:2017 with case studies and Questionnaires
A brief Introduction to ISO 9001 2015-Quality Management SystemSARWAR SALAM
Introduction to Quality Management System ISO 9001-2015 as outlined in EDC Romfor's IMS. Preparation, role and resposibility allocation for Audit purposes.
In the context of globalisation and international competition, many companies source labour-intensive goods from developing and newly industrialised countries. However, working conditions in these countries often do not comply with basic labour standards, such as those established by the International Labour Organization (ILO). To address this issue, many companies and associations have created individual codes of conduct and monitoring systems.
SA8000 and BSCI are some of the monitoring systems. The audit process helps to identify the better suppliers who can take on more business as non-conforming suppliers drop out of the supply chain.
All the information have the reference of
DAP, Overview of the ISO 9001:2015 QMS, Module 1: Introduction, iso-9001-2015-mod1_intro_to_qms.pdf, date retrieved: September 21, 2019
42 pages editable MS Word document with detailed explanations, auditor tips and recommendations - our ISO 45001 Audit checklist can be utilized in a number of ways. The ISO 45001:2018 Audit checklist:
- provides a complete understanding of how to verify compliance with the requirements of all ISO 45001:2018 clauses;
- can be used as practice for internal auditors workshops.
- allows every employee to check his/her activity performance in compliance with the new requirements of ISO 45001:2018 and more.
ISO 9001 is defined as the international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS). Organizations use the standard to demonstrate the ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. It is the most popular standard in the ISO 9000 series and the only standard in the series to which organizations can certify.
ISO 9001 was first published in 1987 by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), an international agency composed of the national standards bodies of more than 160 countries. The current version of ISO 9001 was released in September 2015.
The Checklist contains explanations and recommendations that:
- Facilitate the audit;
- May serve as a guide in the transition to the new version of ISO 9001: 2015 using 'fill the gap' methodology;
- Allow for QMS self-assessment for compliance with ISO 9001: 2015;
- Facilitate learning and understanding of the new version of ISO 9001:2015 requirements
- User-friendly format and professional layout - reviewed and approved by experienced ISO 9001 quality auditors.
- 72 pages
This Presentation provide the understanding about importance of following standards and comply with regulatory requirements. This PPT Prepared to provide Awareness Training on Quality Management System as per ISO 17025:2017 with case studies and Questionnaires
A brief Introduction to ISO 9001 2015-Quality Management SystemSARWAR SALAM
Introduction to Quality Management System ISO 9001-2015 as outlined in EDC Romfor's IMS. Preparation, role and resposibility allocation for Audit purposes.
In the context of globalisation and international competition, many companies source labour-intensive goods from developing and newly industrialised countries. However, working conditions in these countries often do not comply with basic labour standards, such as those established by the International Labour Organization (ILO). To address this issue, many companies and associations have created individual codes of conduct and monitoring systems.
SA8000 and BSCI are some of the monitoring systems. The audit process helps to identify the better suppliers who can take on more business as non-conforming suppliers drop out of the supply chain.
All the information have the reference of
DAP, Overview of the ISO 9001:2015 QMS, Module 1: Introduction, iso-9001-2015-mod1_intro_to_qms.pdf, date retrieved: September 21, 2019
42 pages editable MS Word document with detailed explanations, auditor tips and recommendations - our ISO 45001 Audit checklist can be utilized in a number of ways. The ISO 45001:2018 Audit checklist:
- provides a complete understanding of how to verify compliance with the requirements of all ISO 45001:2018 clauses;
- can be used as practice for internal auditors workshops.
- allows every employee to check his/her activity performance in compliance with the new requirements of ISO 45001:2018 and more.
BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative) Code of Conduct & it’s practical...Amatun Noor
A guide-line is prepared according to BSCI Code of Conduct & Check list, update amendment, 2014 which may be needful for RMG factories to implement BSCI standard.
The ultimate goal of BSCI is to improve the working conditions in the global supply chain worldwide. This goal can only be achieved through a strong commitment from participants to implement the system.
Visit blog: http://www.merchandisingbangla.com/
Tercera Sesion del tercer modulo de la especializacion en Sistemas integrados de Gestion, dictado por la Ing.Irma Anco en el Instituto de Gestion de la Calidad en la FIIS - UNI.
Employees Legal & Ethical Rights in RMG sector based on Bangladesh Labor Code...Amatun Noor
All relevant laws of Bangladesh Labor Code - 2006 which are most essential to maintain compliance standard in RMG Industry, complied in this presentation with section number.
2015 Ends With Exploding Hoverboards And Growing Ethical ConcernsQIMA
China again in the spotlight for product safety problems. Ethical violations remain a top concern as factory audit scores show no improvement. Vietnam predicted to have explosive export growth in 2016. The environmental situation in China remains grave.
• Why do Organizations Outsource Business Process
• The Hidden Costs of Outsourcing
• Core Competencies
• Outsourcing Trends
• Element Strategic Outsourcing
How to Become a Thought Leader in Your NicheLeslie Samuel
Are bloggers thought leaders? Here are some tips on how you can become one. Provide great value, put awesome content out there on a regular basis, and help others.
What are the steps for SA 8000 Certificationhimalya sharma
Step by step approach defined to for attaining SA 8000 Certification. You can achieve SA 8000 Certification for your Organization by following these steps and learning support from the Specialist Industry Experts Principal Auditors
Performance audit has a long story in many countries to oversee the programme or activity carried out by the public agencies to manage the resource in an efficient and economical manner and the programme are carried out effectively and managed to give a positive impact to the target group. In Malaysia, performance audit has started way back since the 1990’s but the approach at that time whereby certain criteria and aspects are not complicated as compared to this day. Performance audit from time to time are also affected by the government policy and the development of the ICT.
This one-day workshop will introduce the pathway that financial service providers can take to enhance their social performance management (SPM) practices, using the Universal Standards for Social Performance Management (“Universal Standards”) as a framework for improving practice. Case studies and activities will make the day as interactive as possible. The target audience for this workshop is associations and direct service providers.
The day will start by quickly defining SPM and exploring its importance to an institution’s clients and business. Participants will take a deeper look at the Universal Standards and learn how to use the SPI4 Audit Tool to assess their current level of implementation of the Universal Standards. We will also discuss key resources available to help financial service providers institute changes after they assess themselves.
The most comprehensive definition of internal audit is given by the IIA, USA. It is,
"Internal auditing is an independent, objective assurance and consulting activity designed to add value and improve an organization’s operations. It helps an organization accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, control and governance processes."
The purpose of the presentation is to provide clarification for a better understanding of what internal audit definition, objectives, functions, stages and reporting are all about? What difference does it make in the presence of an external audit? How different is its scope from that of the external audit? How internal audit standards contribute to better performance of internal audit work and its reporting to the Board or Audit Committee?
XLRI Transactional Analysis for managerial EffectivenessVenkat Subbu
Eric Berne developed TA and suggested we can think of all of our communication as coming from one of three ‘ego states’. When we speak, we speak as a parent does, as an adult does, or as a child does. We all encompass all three, but address others from one at a time, depending on the relationship, how we feel, and how the other person is acting.
When it’s used correctly, you get a description of all the types – not just your own; You get confirmation that you aren’t alone in how you act and react; You get an objective framework for viewing people in your life; You begin to understand why some activities drain you and some energize you; You can use your personality preferences as a guide to finding your strengths
Digital analytics fundamentals October 2013Venkat Subbu
Google, eBay and LinkedIn were among the first to experiment with big data. They developed proof of concept and small-scale projects to learn if their analytical models could be improved with new data sources.
Digital Marketing strategy workshop student docVenkat Subbu
How to traditional Marketers differ to Digital Marketing, basics of Digital Marketing; Basics of Strategic digital marketing; how do plan campaigns in Social media
Unlocking Insights: AI-powered Enhanced Due Diligence Strategies for Increase...RNayak3
Explore how a risk-based approach to Enhanced Due Diligence can deliver effective Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance and monitoring in banking and financial services.
Comprehensive Water Damage Restoration Serviceskleenupdisaster
Find out how Disaster Kleenup's professional water damage restoration services can quickly and efficiently restore your property. Find more about our advanced techniques and quick action plans. Visit here: https://iddk.com/disaster-cleanup-services/flood-damage/
SECUREX UK FOR SECURITY SERVICES AND MOBILE PATROLsecurexukweb
At Securex UK Ltd we are dedicated to providing top-rated security solutions tailored to your specific needs. With a team of highly trained professionals and cutting-edge technology, we prioritize your safety and peace of mind.
Our commitment to excellence extends beyond traditional security measures. We understand the dynamic nature of security challenges, and our personalized approach ensures that every client receives a bespoke protection plan.
Forex Copy trading is the mode of trading offering great opportunities to the traders lacking time or in-depth market knowledge, yet willing to use currency trading as a form of investment and to increase their initial funds.
Maximizing Efficiency with Integrated Water Management SystemsIrri Design Studio
Integrated water management systems are essential for improving irrigation design sustainability and efficiency. Irri Design Studio helps customers maximize water consumption, reduce waste, and encourage responsible stewardship of water resources by utilizing cutting-edge technology like drone-based construction updates and BIM modeling. The increasing issues of water shortage and environmental protection require an all-encompassing strategy to water management. Irrigation systems may be planned to optimize water consumption efficiency while guaranteeing the safety of people and the environment by putting new ideas and concepts into practice. Visit our website https://www.irridesignstudio.com/ for more information.
The Jamstack Revolution: Building Dynamic Websites with Static Site Generator...Softradix Technologies
In this infographic, the Jamstack architecture emphasizes pre-rendered content and decoupling the frontend from the backend. It leverages static site generators (SSGs) to create fast-loading HTML files and APIs for dynamic functionality. Benefits include improved performance, enhanced security, scalability, and ease of deployment. Real-world examples include Netlify, Gatsby, and Contentful. https://softradix.com/web-development/
Office Business Furnishings | Office EquipmentOFWD
OFWD is Edmonton’s Newest and most cost-effective source for Office Furnishings. Conveniently located on 170 street and 114 Avenue in Edmonton’s West End. We take pride in servicing a client base of over 500 corporations throughout the Edmonton and Alberta area. OFWD is in the business of satisfying the home or corporate office environment needs of our clients, from individual pieces of furniture for the home user to the implementation of complete turn-key projects on much larger scales. We supply only quality products from reputable manufacturers. It is our intention to continue to earn the trust of our clients by dealing with honesty and integrity and by providing service and after sales follow-up second to none.
Best steel industrial company LLC in UAEalafnanmetals
AL Afnan Steel Industrial Company LLC is a distinguished steel manufacturer and supplier, celebrated for its high-quality products and outstanding customer service. With a diverse portfolio that includes structural steel, and custom fabrications, AL Afnan meets a wide array of industrial demands. We are dedicated to using advanced technologies and sustainable methods to ensure excellence and reliability in every product, serving both local and international markets with efficiency.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of a Waikiki sunset aboard the MAITAI Catamaran. Sail along the stunning coastline as the sun dips below the horizon, casting vibrant hues across the sky. Enjoy the gentle ocean breeze, refreshing drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere. This unforgettable voyage offers panoramic views of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline, making it the perfect way to end your day in paradise. Join us for a memorable sunset cruise you won't forget. Please visit our website: https://www.maitaicatamaran.net/ and call us at 808-922-5665 for additional information.
Earth moving equipment refers to heavy-duty machines used in construction, mining, agriculture, and other industries to move large amounts of earth, soil, and other materials. These machines include excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and backhoes, which are essential for tasks such as digging, grading, and leveling land.
Earthmovers is a leading brand in the industry, known for providing reliable and high-performance earth moving equipment. Their machines are designed to handle the toughest jobs with efficiency and precision, ensuring optimal productivity on any project.
Solar power panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, convert sunlight into electricity, offering a renewable and sustainable energy solution. Composed of semiconductor materials, typically silicon, these panels absorb photons from sunlight, generating an electric current through the photovoltaic effect. This clean energy source reduces dependence on fossil fuels, mitigates greenhouse gas emissions, and contributes to environmental sustainability.
Colors of Wall Paint and Their Mentally Properties.pptxBrendon Jonathan
Discover how different wall paint colors can influence your mood and mental well-being. Learn the psychological effects of colors and find the perfect hue for every room in your home.
All Trophies at Trophy-World Malaysia | Custom Trophies & Plaques Supplier. Come to our Trophy Shop today and check out all our variety of Trophies available. We have the widest range of Trophies in Malaysia. Our team is always ready to greet your needs and discuss with you on your custom Trophy for your event. Rest assured, you will be with the best Trophy Supplier in Malaysia. The official Trophy Malaysia. Thank you for your support.
Unlocking Business Potential: Democratizing AI and Navigating Generative AI i...RNayak3
Discover the profound impact of democratizing Generation AI on business transformation. Gain valuable insights into the reality check of AI implementation, strategic planning, and industry disruption. Explore how AI adoption, technology trends, and digital transformation reshape business strategies. Download the Report Now.
Emmanuel Katto Uganda - A PhilanthropistMarina Costa
Emmanuel Katto is a well-known businessman from Uganda who is improving his town via his charitable work and commercial endeavors. The Emka Foundation is a non-profit organization that focuses on empowering adolescents through education, business, and skill development. He is the founder and CEO of this organization. His philanthropic journey is deeply personal, driven by a calling to make a positive difference in his home country. Check out the slides to more about his social work.
Social Accountability 8000 2014-auditor-guidance-for-social-fingerprint
1. 1 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
Introduction:
SA8000: 2014 requires certified organisations to build, maintain and continually improve a functional
management system to ensure full and sustained compliance with the Standard. As this management
systems matures, it must be regularly assessed to identify improvement opportunities, set priorities, and
establish action plans to achieve sustained, successful implementation of SA8000. The methodology of
this assessment under SA8000: 2014 is called “Social Fingerprint.” Social Fingerprint is a set of tools that
helps organisations measure and improve their management systems for social performance. Social
Fingerprint includes a self-assessment taken by the organisation and an independent evaluation
conducted by the auditor. By incorporating Social Fingerprint into SA8000: 2014, SAI aims to increase the
integrity, credibility and effectiveness of SA8000 certification and build the capacity of SA8000 certified
organisations to develop mature management systems.
Social Fingerprint provides organisations and auditors with a clear, consistent methodology for assessing
management system maturity and compliance with the SA8000 management system requirements. This
enables organisations to identify weak areas within their own management systems so that they can make
specific, targeted improvements. It also enables auditors to consistently evaluate the organisation’s
management system to determine their readiness for certification and assess their implementation of
improvements. By using one, consistent methodology, all organisations and auditors will now have the
same understanding of SA8000 management system requirements, which will improve the
standardization and implementation of SA8000 compliance across sectors and countries.
The Social Fingerprint Tools:
Social Fingerprint measures management systems maturity across 10 key categories that correspond to
the 10 criteria of SA8000: 2014 Element 9: Management System.
Organisations are scored on a maturity scale of 1-5 (1=lowest, 5 = highest) in each of the 10 categories.
Social Fingerprint includes three key tools:
1. Management system self-assessment conducted by the organisation.
2. Independent evaluation of the management system conducted by the certification body (CB) Lead
Auditor.
3. Rating Chart that explains the maturity levels for each of the 10 categories.
Organisations and auditors can use this as guidance while completing the self-assessment and
independent evaluation, respectively.
Additional reference tools:
1. Glossary of Relevant Terms
2. Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors on Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
3. SA8000:2014 Guidance Document
2. 2 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
The 10 Criteria of an SA8000
Management System:
1. Policies, Procedures and Records: How the organisation defines its principles, objectives, and
commitment to SA8000, and instructs its personnel to implement those principles on a day-to-day
basis.
2. Social Performance Team: The group of trained people who lead and facilitate the organisation’s
SA8000 implementation.
3. Identification and Assessment of Risks: How the organisation determines its risks and prioritizes its
actions to address them.
4. Monitoring: How the organisation tracks its SA8000 implementation and performance to achieve its
objectives and targets.
5. Internal Involvement and Communication: The organisation’s methods and channels for
communicating with workers and getting their input for SA8000 implementation.
6. Complaint Management and Resolution: How the organisation receives and addresses grievances or
other suggestions from workers or interested parties.
7. External Verification and Stakeholder Engagement: How the organisation cooperates with external
auditors or involves interested parties to get comprehensive input to its SA8000 implementation.
8. Corrective and Preventive Actions: How the organisation addresses risks and gaps in its SA8000
implementation and makes system changes to prevent recurrence and drive continual improvement.
9. Training and Capacity Building: How the organisation trains its personnel and develops their
attitudes, skills and knowledge to effectively implement SA8000.
10. Management of Suppliers and Contractors: How the organisation conducts due diligence on its
business partners and encourages them to implement SA8000 and improve.
The Social Fingerprint Rating System:
SAI has not selected a minimum mandatory Social Fingerprint score for SA8000:2014 certification.
However, the program has been built so that Level 4 generally corresponds to compliance with SA8000:
2014.
Social Fingerprint Level 1: Organisation has no awareness of SA8000 or any system in place to manage its
social performance.
Organisations at a level 1 may have some very basic processes to comply with local laws or their
customers’ requirements for labour practices, but have no systems in place to monitor the workplace.
Social Fingerprint Level 2: Organisation has a partially developed management system but its
implementation is reactive, inconsistent and mostly ineffective.
Organisations at a level 2 have the beginnings of a management system in place, but the system is mostly
intended to ensure that it is in compliance with local laws or customers’ requirements. They may have
3. 3 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
developed specific policies and procedures, but are not implementing them regularly or effectively. Such
companies are primarily focused on risk management and mitigation for business reasons.
Social Fingerprint Level 3: Organisation has developed a management system, but has not fully
implemented it.
Organisations at a level 3 have developed a management system, but are not fully implementing it
regularly or consistently. Such organisations may have written policies and procedures addressing all
aspects of SA8000 in place with some personnel implementing some of the procedures, but
implementation is not consistent throughout the organisation and is not a part of the organisation’s
operations on a daily basis. Such organisations may be implementing certain aspects of the management
system well, such as its OHS policies and procedures, but may not be addressing issues in a holistic way.
Their social performance may still be more reactive than proactive, and they may make changes only when
require by external bodies. They have set their plan for improvement, with goals and targets, but are not
consistently meeting those goals or targets.
Social Fingerprint Level 4: Organisation has developed a management system and implements it
consistently and regularly.
Organisations at a level 4 have developed and implemented a fully functioning SA8000 management
system. The management system is proactive and preventive, and it is being implemented regularly and
effectively. Such organisations have written policies and procedures for their SA8000 implementation and
have trained personnel appropriately to ensure that the procedures are being followed. They have
improvement plans in place with goals and targets and are making changes to meet those goals.
Compliance with SA8000 is a dynamic, not static process, so organisations in compliance need to
continually improve their performance in order to remain compliant.
Social Fingerprint Level 5: Organisation has developed and implemented a mature management system,
and is continually improving that system.
Organisations at a level 5 have mature management systems that are proactive and preventive, and are
implemented regularly and consistently by well-trained personnel. They regularly review the system itself
to ensure that it is as effective as possible, and are continuously striving to improve. Such organisations
meet their improvement plan goals and targets, and then change those goals and targets to push
themselves to improve even more. They integrate their social performance with business strategy and
planning, so that business decisions are made with consideration for the potential social impact – both on
workers and interested parties. In order to achieve this level, an organisation must provide evidence of
continual improvement, so organisations may need to sustain certification over a period of time.
4. 4 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
The Social Fingerprint Process:
Generally, Social Fingerprint is a three-step cycle:
Please see pg. 7 for more information about how Social Fingerprint fits into the SA8000:2014 certification
process.
THE SOCIAL FINGERPRINT SELF-ASSESSMENT:
Many Management System standards, such as ISO9001, include a self-assessment that allows
organisations to measure the maturity of their management systems. The self-assessment provides an
overall understanding of how the organisation views its own performance and enables an organisation to
identify its strengths and weaknesses to promote continual improvement over time. Due to the centrality
of the management system to SA8000: 2014, SAI has incorporated the Social Fingerprint self-assessment
into the audit process.
Thus, organisations interested in pursuing SA8000: 2014 certification must take a Social Fingerprint self-
assessment as part of the application process.
Currently certified organisations must take the Social Fingerprint self-assessment in advance of their
transition audit from SA8000: 2008 to SA8000: 2014 or recertification audit to SA8000: 2014. Please see
Advisory 4Afor more information.
Practical Information about the Self-Assessment:
The self-assessment primarily serves as a capacity-building tool for the organisation; it teaches the
organisation about the components of the management system through the questions and answers, and
highlights the aspects of the system and the documentation that the organisation should have in place
and available for the audit.
Once the organisation has completed the self-assessment, its answers become available to the CB auditor
in the Question and Answer Report (Q&A Report) in the SAI Training Center. (Please see the Technical
Instructions for information on how to access the Q&A Report online).
The CB identifies areas of improvement and the organisation makes the necessary process
changes to improve its compliance.
CB auditors conduct the SA8000 audit and then the Lead Auditor completes the independent
evaluation online.
The organisation takes the self-assessment online.
5. 5 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
Auditors should review the Q&A Report as part of their audit preparation but should not plan to verify the
accuracy of the self-assessment scores during the audit. Rather, auditors use the self-assessment results
to gauge the maturity and level of understanding about management systems within the organisation.
Low scores in certain areas indicate that the auditor should concentrate in those areas, whereas high
scores in certain areas indicate that the organisation may be more mature in those areas and the auditor
would expect to see evidence of this during the audit. Furthermore, inconsistent maturity levels (a high
score in one section and a low section in another section) across related areas may point to important
management system gaps that should be explored during the audit. Overall, the self-assessment score
does not represent the absolute maturity level of the organisation; the auditor must complete the
management system audit to accurately assess the organisation’s management system maturity and
complete the independent evaluation.
THE SOCIAL FINGERPRINT INDEPENDENT EVALUATION:
The SA8000 Lead Auditor completes the Social Fingerprint Independent Evaluation online (or using the
offline tool in the case of poor internet access at the audit site) after conducting the audit and collecting
evidence about the maturity of the organisation’s management system. The Independent Evaluation
should be completed at the same time as the writing of the audit report – it can be conducted onsite, but
does not have to be. (Please see the Technical Instructions for information on how complete the
independent evaluation online.) This independent evaluation produces an externally validated Social
Fingerprint score for the organisation.
Social Fingerprint judges the maturity of an organisation’s SA8000 management system from both the
organisation and the CB’s perspective; it is not a checklist to evaluate an organisation’s compliance.
Auditors must still conduct a comprehensive audit of the company and its management systems, and
input information into the independent evaluation as data points. The Social Fingerprint score provides
another perspective of an organisations management system maturity and feeds into the overall audit
findings and into the certification decision-making process. The scores do not replace the submission of
findings or non-conformances and auditors cannot write non-conformances against a Social Fingerprint
score. Auditors should still identify and write non-conformances as required by Procedure: 2015.
Practical Information about the Independent Evaluation:
The Social Fingerprint self-assessment and independent evaluation use the same set of questions. There
are 3 to 7 questions for each of the 10 management system categories. Each question has 5 answers, each
representing one of the 5 levels of maturity. (Please see the Technical instructions for information on how
to view the Independent Evaluation results).
The questions and answers generally assess an organisation’s compliance with the criteria of the SA8000;
however, they do not necessarily match the language of the Standard or the order of the requirements in
the Standard. Some criteria within each category may be addressed by more than one question, and some
questions may address more than one criteria within each category. Furthermore, there is some overlap
between questions in different categories. (For example, there are questions about senior management
commitment in both Category 1: Policies, Procedures and Records, and Category 2: Social Performance
Team).
The independent evaluation utilizes the same questions and answers as the self-assessment for the
organisation. Therefore, all of the questions are written using personal plural pronouns: “we” or “our.”
6. 6 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
The CB Auditor should read the questionnaire by replacing “we” and “our” with “they” or “the
organisation.”
Example:
Social Fingerprint Question: The following best describes our operating procedures for our labour policies.
Answer Options:
1. We don’t have such procedures because the people at our organisation know that they are
expected to follow the rules.
2. We have some written procedures that tell people how to follow our rules regarding labour
practices.
3. We have specific written procedures that tell people how to follow our labour policies.
4. We have written procedures that tell people how to follow our policies in order to implement
SA8000. We have updated them in response to specific issues.
5. We have written procedures that tell people how to implement SA8000. We regularly check
to make sure that our procedures are working and revise them accordingly.
The auditor should read the question and answers above as follows:
Question: The following best describes the organisation’s operating procedures for its labour policies.
Answer Options:
1. The organisation doesn’t have such procedures because the people at the organisation know
that they are expected to follow the rules.
2. The organisation has some written procedures that tell people how to follow its rules
regarding labour practices.
3. The organisation has specific written procedures that tell people how to follow its labour
policies.
4. The organisation has written procedures that tell people how to follow its policies in order
to implement SA8000. They have updated the procedures in response to specific issues.
5. The organisation has written procedures that tell people how to implement
SA8000. They regularly check to make sure that the procedures are working and revise them
accordingly.
The Social Fingerprint Scores:
Each organisation that completes the Social Fingerprint process, including the self-assessment and the
independent evaluation, will receive a Social Fingerprint Scorecard. This Scorecard contains two sets of
scores (from 1 to 5): 1) the self-assessment scores and 2) the independent evaluation scores. Each set of
scores contains an average score for each of the 10 categories, and an average overall score.
7. 7 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
Social Fingerprint and the SA8000: 2014
Certification Process:
ORGANISATIONS PURSUING SA8000:2014 CERTIFICATION:
1. Organisation completes the Self- Assessment through the SAI online training center before the
Stage 1 Audit.
2. During the initial certification cycle, auditors conduct a Social Fingerprint Independent
Evaluation at the following audits:
a. Stage 1
b. Stage 2 (Certification to SA8000:2014)
c. Surveillance 1
d. Surveillance 3
e. Recertification
3. After the initial certification cycle, the Social Fingerprint process (self-assessment and
independent evaluation) occurs at the recertification audit (every 3 years).
SA8000:2008 CERTIFIED ORGANISATIONS UP FOR RECERTIFICATION FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2015 TO DECEMBER 31,
2016:
1. Organisation completes the Self-Assessment through the SAI online training center before the
Recertification Audit.
2. Auditors conduct a Social Fingerprint Independent Evaluation at the following audits:
a. Recertification Audit to SA8000:2014
b. Surveillance 1
c. Surveillance 3
d. Recertification
3. After a full recertification cycle that includes Social Fingerprint, the Social Fingerprint process
(self-assessment and independent evaluation) occurs during the recertification audit (every 3
years).
SA8000:2008 CERTIFIED ORGANISATIONS THAT TRANSITION TO SA8000:2014 FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2015 TO
DECEMBER 31, 2016:
1. Organisation completes the Self-Assessment through the SAI online training center before the
Transition Audit.
2. Auditors conduct a Social Fingerprint Independent Evaluation at the following audits:
a. Transition Audit to SA8000:2014.
b. After the Transition Audit, auditors follow the schedule below:
i. If transition audit occurs during a Surveillance 1 or 2 Audit: Auditors conduct a
Social Fingerprint Independent Evaluation at the Surveillance 3 and
Recertification Audit.
ii. If transition audit occurs during a Surveillance 3, 4 or 5 Audit: Auditors conduct a
Social Fingerprint Independent Evaluation at the Recertification Audit.
3. After completing the certification cycle with the transition, the Social Fingerprint process (self-
assessment and independent evaluation) occurs during the recertification audit every 3 years.
8. 8 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
BEFORE THE STAGE 1 AUDIT:
Organisations interested in Social Fingerprint and SA8000 have two avenues for entering the system:
1. The organisation can take the Social Fingerprint self-assessment directly from the SAI website and,
depending on the results, decide to pursue certification or not. If the organisation decides to pursue
certification, it will then contract with a CB.
2. The organisation can sign a certification contract with a certification body as an applicant for SA8000:
2014. The CB will then direct the organisation to the SAI website to complete the Social Fingerprint
self-assessment.
After the organisation completes the self-assessment, it can decide to continue to pursue certification or
not. At this point, some organisations may realize that their management system is not ready for SA8000
and decide to pursue further capacity building to improve their systems before advancing further. SAI
encourages organisations to fully consider the maturity of their management system before moving
forward in the process.
If the self-assessment score is less than 3: As part of its due diligence, the CB should take this information
into account when planning the Stage 1 Audit. The CB may caution the organisation about proceeding to
the Stage 1 Audit because its management system may not be mature enough to achieve SA8000
certification based on this score. The organisation should seek to improve its system in areas identified as
weak by the self-assessment. If the organisation decides to proceed anyway, the CB should inform it that
it needs to create a plan to improve upon the weak areas. During the Stage 1 audit, the auditor will
evaluate the management system and investigate the organisation’s implementation of this plan.
STAGE 1 AUDIT:
The CB Lead Auditor creates a Stage 1 Audit Plan that includes enough time to perform an onsite
management system documentation review and the Social Fingerprint independent evaluation. The Lead
Auditor sends the audit plan to the applicant organisation prior to the Stage 1 audit.
Note: All document reviews must now be performed onsite.
The auditor will conduct the Stage 1 audit, in accordance with SAAS Procedure 200, and then complete
the Social Fingerprint independent evaluation.
If the independent evaluation score is less than 3: The CB should caution the applicant organisation about
proceeding to the Stage 2 audit because its management system does not appear to be mature enough
to achieve SA8000 certification based on this score. If the CB allows the organisation to proceed to the
Stage 2 audit, the CB must record this in the Stage 1 Audit Report.
STAGE 2 AUDIT:
The CB Lead Auditor creates a Stage 2 Audit Plan that includes enough time to perform an onsite
management system documentation review and the Social Fingerprint independent evaluation. The Lead
Auditor sends the audit plan to the applicant organisation prior to the Stage 2 audit.
If the independent evaluation score is 1: Organisations with a score of 1 likely have significant major non-
conformances and are not ready for certification.
9. 9 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
If the independent evaluation score is 2: Organisations with a score of 2 will likely have a small number
of major non-conformances and numerous minor non-conformances. Organisations at this level are likely
not ready for certification, but may be able to make some improvements to become ready over time.
If the independent evaluation is 3: Organisations with a score of 3 will likely have several minor non-
conformances and areas of improvement, and may have one or two major non-conformances.
Organisations at this level may be ready for certification if they make specific improvements to their
system. The auditor should provide justification for providing certification to organisations at this level.
If the independent evaluation score is 4: Organisations with a score of 4 may have a small number of
minor non-conformances but should be ready for certification, provided they meet the other
requirements of the Standard.
If the independent evaluation score is 5: It is unlikely, although possible, for an organisation to achieve a
score of 5 after the Stage 2 Audit because it must demonstrate evidence of continual improvement against
their targets and objectives.
The auditors will review any management system gaps identified by the independent evaluation during
the next surveillance audit. The organisation can use the self-assessment as input into its management
review process.
SOCIAL FINGERPRINT DURING SURVEILLANCE AUDITS:
Surveillance audits only assess specific sections of the organisation’s management system. SAAS
Procedure 200 Section 15 outlines the mandatory items to be reviewed during surveillance audits.
Practically, the review of those items will enable the auditor to evaluate the organisation’s performance
for 7 of the 10 management system criteria and answer the independent evaluation questions for those
items. If the other three criteria (Social Performance Team, External Verification and Stakeholder
Engagement and Management of Suppliers and Contractors) are not covered during the specific
surveillance audit (i.e. if they are not related to a non-conformance), then the auditor should use the
evidence from a prior audit to complete the independent evaluation for those criteria.
SOCIAL FINGERPRINT DURING TRANSFER AUDITS:
Transfer audits should be considered the same as Stage 2 Audits for the use of Social Fingerprint. The
transferee client must complete a self-assessment before the transfer audit.
10. 10 | P a g e
v1: 6/30/15
Social Fingerprint for SA8000: 2014
Guidance for SA8000 Certification Auditors
Frequently Asked Questions for
Auditors:
1. How much time should it take to complete the Social Fingerprint Independent Evaluation online (or
offline if need be)?
It should take approximately 60-90 minutes to complete the Independent Evaluation online or offline.
2. Do I have to show the time allocated to the Independent Evaluation in the Audit Plan?
Yes, the audit plan should show all elements of the audit, including the Independent Evaluation.
3. I’m having trouble deciding between two answer choices for the independent evaluation, how do I
decide which one to select?
Generally, auditors should be able to collect sufficient evidence to support the selection of an answer
choice. However, if there is ambiguity, the auditor should generally select the lower answer choice to
avoid inflating the scoring.
4. None of the answer choices are appropriate for the organisation, what do I do?
Auditors should make a judgement call on the correct answer for the organisation, based on their
management system auditing expertise. If the answer choices specifically do not seem relevant, the
auditors should use the rating chart to determine the appropriate level for the organisation and select
the answer choice that reflects that level of maturity.
5. The organisation is new to the SA8000 system and doesn’t have evidence of its management system
implementation, how should I answer the questions?
The questionnaire has been designed to assess both management
system development and implementation. If the organisation has developed a management system
and has the documentation (e.g. policies and procedures), but it does not have evidence
of implementation, it should receive a lower score.
6. What do I do if there is no internet connection at the facility during the audit?
You can use the offline independent evaluation tool.
7. How can I give SAI feedback about Social Fingerprint?
SAI will be reviewing the use and effectiveness of Social Fingerprint over the course of the next year in
order to improve the system in 2016. If you have specific feedback to provide, please contact SAI at
SA8000@sa-intl.org.