SMETA 4 Pillar Audit Checklist - Free PDF

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SMETA 4 pillar audit checklist template

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Use this template with Lumiform

The Lumiform application helps frontline teams uphold internal standards effortlessly.

Customize this template or build your own
Fill out templates via mobile app
Assign and track corrective actions
Get reports and analyse your data

Prices start from ░░░ per month

Book a demo

Learn more

Need to demonstrate your commitment to ethical business practices? The SMETA 4 Pillar Audit Checklist provides a comprehensive framework for assessing compliance across labor standards, health and safety, environmental performance, and business ethics. Unlike the basic 2-pillar version, this template includes the extended environmental assessment and business ethics components required by many major retailers and brands.

You’ll systematically evaluate everything from fair wages and working conditions to waste management and anti-corruption measures. With ethical sourcing becoming increasingly important to European consumers, this template helps you identify improvement areas while building trust with stakeholders and opening doors to partnerships with major companies.

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Preview of the template

Page 1

Labor Standards

1. Employment is Freely Chosen

2. Freedom of Association and the Right to Collective Bargaining are Respected

3. Working Conditions are Safe and Hygienic

4. Child Labor Shall Not Be Used

5. Living Wages are Paid

6. Working Hours are not Excessive

7. No Discrimination is Practiced

8. Regular Employment is Provided

Health & Safety

1. A safe and hygienic working environment shall be provided, bearing in mind the prevailing knowledge of the industry and of any specific hazards.

2. Access to clean toilet facilities and to potable water, and, if appropriate, sanitary facilities for food storage shall be provided.

3. Accommodation, where provided, shall be clean, safe, and meet the basic needs of the workers.

4. The company observing the code shall assign responsibility for health and safety to a senior management representative.

Environment

1. Procedures and systems shall be in place to monitor, control and mitigate negative impacts to the environment.

2. Waste disposal shall be carried out under controlled conditions and in compliance with relevant environmental laws.

3. Noise levels, waste water discharges, air emissions and waste in general are monitored, controlled and treated as required prior to discharge or disposal.

Business Ethics

1. The provider shall not engage in corruption, extortion, embezzlement or bribery to obtain an unfair advantage.

2. The provider shall abide by all applicable laws and regulations of the countries in which it operates, including but not limited to those related to labor, environment, safety, health, tax and customs laws.

3. The provider shall disclose all information regarding its business activities, structure, financial situation and performance in accordance with applicable regulations and prevailing industry practices.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a SMETA 2-pillar and 4-pillar audit checklist?

A SMETA 4-pillar audit checklist extends beyond the basic labor and health & safety pillars to include comprehensive environmental assessment and business ethics components. While the 2-pillar version contains a simplified environmental section, the 4-pillar template provides in-depth evaluation of resource management, emissions control, anti-corruption measures, and ethical business practices.

How often should I conduct a SMETA 4-pillar audit?

Most organizations conduct SMETA 4-pillar audits annually or biennially, depending on your specific needs and stakeholder expectations. However, if you identify significant compliance issues or undergo major operational changes, you might need more frequent audits. Consider your industry requirements and customer expectations when establishing your audit schedule.

What documentation should I prepare before using the SMETA 4-pillar audit checklist?

Prepare employment agreements, employee handbooks, company policies, chemical usage lists, training records, permits, licenses, emergency procedures, and 12 months of time and payroll records. Having these documents organized before starting the audit will significantly streamline the process and ensure you can thoroughly assess compliance across all four pillars.

Who should conduct a SMETA 4-pillar audit in my organization?

The SMETA 4-pillar audit should be conducted by qualified personnel with knowledge of ethical trade practices and audit methodologies. This could be your compliance manager, sustainability officer, or an external consultant. For official certification, you’ll need an approved third-party auditor, but you can use this checklist for internal assessments and preparation.

This template, developed by Lumiform employees, serves as a starting point for businesses using the Lumiform platform and is intended as a hypothetical example only. It does not replace professional advice. Companies should consult qualified professionals to assess the suitability and legality of using this template in their specific workplace or jurisdiction. Lumiform is not liable for any errors or omissions in this template or for any actions taken based on its content.