At Truejute we believe social & environmental responsibility is a key objective of our business. We think this should indeed be a key objective for all businesses.
Transparency and accountability is crucial when accounting for the ethical traceability of your supply chain. Thus we work only with manufacturers who pass our high quality standards with regards to social responsibility.
One of the pillars and most important certification we require from manufacturers is they be SMETA audited, which is a test for social and environmental responsibility conducted by SEDEX (suppler ethical data exchange).
WHAT IS SMETA?
SMETA is a commonly used audit method which is used to drive compliance by focusing on best practices and methods to achieve those practices. It usually consists of
- Best practices guidance
- Common audit report format
- Corrective action plan
Each SMETA has a unique reference code known to the manufacturer which can then be shared with buyers who are thus able to check compliance of the unit in question.
What does it mean that my manufactuer is Sedex compliant ?
The Best Practice Guide is strictly followed by SEDEX members to contribute to a common methodology as well as to improve standards for all members worldwide.
The SMETA pillar 2 audit ensures that
- Employment is freely chosen
- Freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining are respected
- Working conditions are safe and hygienic
- Child labour shall not be used
- Living wages are paid
- Working hours are not excessive
- No discrimination is practiced
- Regular employment is provided
- No harsh or inhumane treatment is allowed
In addition to these, SMETA pillar 4 also ensures
- Environmental assessment (complex)
- Business Ethics
How to read SEDEX report?
Sedex does not give a score, or ‘pass/fail’ verdict to any of their members. Instead, SEDEX
Provides an audit report that can be freely shared with buyers and customers. The report
Confirms that the firm in question has been audited and meets the basic requirements.
Any deviations or complaints from best practises are noted on the report and corrective action plan developed to correct the discrepancies.
Sedex also makes the same available on their platform for buyers to verify the authenticity directly