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Social Accountability

Demonstrate respect for labour and human rights.

SA 8000 is an international social accountability standard that certifies ethical labour practices across the value chain.

Benefits for your organisation

Who it is for

Manufacturing & export businesses with international customers.

Frequently asked questions — SA 8000

What exactly does it certify?+

Ethical labour practices: prohibition of child/forced labour, health & safety, working hours, pay and the right to unionise.

Do customers really ask for it?+

Yes, especially international retail chains and large buyers require it as a condition of joining their supply chain.

Is it different from SMETA/Sedex?+

SMETA is an audit, whereas SA 8000 is a certifiable standard. We guide you to whichever is most suitable for your customers’ requirements.

How long does implementing SA 8000 take?+

Typically 2–4 months, depending on your size, complexity and maturity. We give you a clear timeline from the start.

How much does SA 8000 certification cost?+

The cost depends on the size of your business and the scope of the project. The initial assessment is free and you receive a transparent quote with no hidden charges. The consultant fee and the certification body fee are clearly separated.

How many years is the certificate valid?+

The certificate is valid for 3 years, with annual surveillance audits by the body. We support you throughout so you maintain compliance with no stress.

Are you the certification body?+

No — we are independent consultants. We prepare you impartially and stand by you at the audit by any accredited body of your choice.

Is it suitable for a small business?+

Absolutely. We tailor the system to be practical and lightweight, with no unnecessary bureaucracy — it works equally well for small and large companies.

Can I get ΕΣΠΑ funding for SA 8000 certification?+

Yes. The cost of ISO certification is an eligible expense in many ΕΣΠΑ programmes for SMEs, so a significant part can be covered by a grant. We inform you of active programmes and the funding rate.

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Ready to get started?

Book a free initial assessment. We will analyse your needs and recommend the optimal standard and timeline.