SEDEX / SMETA — Ethical Trade Audits
Sedex Audit — Step by Step. An approved auditing company authorized to conduct Sedex audits, delivering high-quality reports that are easily understood by both buyers and suppliers.
Audit Overview
What is Sedex?
Sedex (Supplier Ethical Data Exchange) is a global platform that enables businesses to share and manage ethical data related to their supply chains. It is a non-profit organization that operates through a secure online database, helping organizations improve ethical and responsible business practices.
Sedex is widely used by suppliers, manufacturers, and brands to share data on labour standards, improve working conditions, and ensure transparency in supply chains. Sedex uses the Ethical Trade Initiative (ETI) Base Code as the foundation for its audits.
There is no practical difference between Sedex and SMETA from a user's perspective—Sedex is the platform, while SMETA is the audit methodology.
Important Note
- • Sedex is NOT a certification
- • SMETA audits result in an audit report, not a certificate
- • The Sedex logo cannot be used on products or marketing materials
- • Only registered members can state their Sedex membership status
What is SMETA Audit?
SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) is the audit methodology developed by Sedex members. It provides a standardized approach to evaluate labour conditions, health & safety, environmental practices, and business ethics.
SMETA is based on the ETI Base Code, local laws & regulations, and ILO (International Labour Organization) conventions.
SMETA Version Upgrade – What's New?
SMETA 7.0 is the latest version of the Sedex audit methodology. This update reflects a significant evolution in ethical auditing practices.
Stronger Human Rights Focus
Emphasis on modern slavery, worker welfare, and ethical treatment
Responsible Sourcing
Better evaluation of ethical sourcing across supply chains
Improved Audit Quality
Enhanced consistency, transparency, and reliability
Updated Reporting & CAPR
More structured reports and corrective action tracking
Previous Version: SMETA 6.1
SMETA 6.1 included three main components:
- Best Practice Guidance
- Report Format
- CAPR Format
SMETA 7.0 builds on these with improved clarity and stronger compliance checks.
Audit Methodology
What Does a Sedex Auditor Check?
SMETA audits are conducted under two options: 2-Pillar and 4-Pillar
2PSMETA Two-Pillar Audit
Labour Standards
Health & Safety
Additional Elements:
4PSMETA Four-Pillar Audit (Additionally Covers)
Environment (Extended)
Comprehensive environmental assessment.
Business Ethics
Anti-bribery and corruption controls.
Eurocert is particularly equipped to add value in these pillars because of our experience with sustainability initiatives and vendor audits.
Audit Scope
Audit Scope – Areas Covered
Labour Standards
Health & Safety
Environment
Business Ethics
Management Systems
Code Implementation
Entitlement to Work
Subcontracting
Home Working
Reports & Compliance
SMETA Audit Reports & CAPR
What Does a SMETA Report Look Like?
A SMETA report typically exceeds 80 pages, but key areas include:
- Version Number
- Audit Team (APSCA membership check)
- Audit Findings & Non-conformities
Report Validity
There is no official validity period, but generally accepted for 1 year, depending on buyer requirements.
Unable to See SMETA Report?
After audit upload, suppliers must publish the report on the Sedex platform. Without publishing, buyers cannot access it and CAPR tracking cannot begin.
Where to Find SMETA Reports?
Buyers should always access reports directly via the Sedex platform. Avoid using shared PDFs, as they may be altered.
SMETA CAPR
Root Cause & Corrective Action
Every audit identifies non-conformities, which require root cause analysis. A strong focus should be on system-based solutions to prevent recurrence.
Training Issues
Lack of adequate training for workers or management.
System Gaps
Placing a system-based solution can prevent recurrence.
Cost Constraints
Financial constraints preventing proper implementation.
Workforce Shortage
Insufficient workforce to meet compliance requirements.
Other Operational Issues
Additional root causes specific to the non-conformity.
Common root causes include training issues, system gaps, cost constraints, workforce shortage, and other operational issues.
A strong focus should be on system-based solutions to prevent recurrence. A system combines process and communication—placing robust monitoring and reporting can help avoid future non-conformities.
Watch: SMETA CAPR Guide
SMETA Audit Checklist
The best way to prepare: start with SAQ (Self-Assessment Questionnaire), add local legal requirements, and customize the checklist based on your operations.
Sedex Advance Platform
Sedex Advance is the official platform used to manage profiles, upload audit reports, track corrective actions, and share compliance data.
Sedex Member Directory
Available at an additional cost, the Sedex Member Directory offers:
How to Become a Sedex Auditor?
To become an auditor: must be a member of APSCA (Association of Professional Social Compliance Auditors), work with an approved audit firm, and pass required certification exams.
Membership Renewal
Sedex membership is annual and renewed through the Sedex Advance platform.
New Factory Steps
1. Register on Sedex platform → 2. Complete SAQ → 3. Pay membership fee → 4. Prepare for audit → 5. Review ETI Code & legal requirements
Approved Auditing Company
Why Use Eurocert for Sedex Audits?
Dedicated Expertise
Experienced social audit professionals with expertise in both 2-Pillar & 4-Pillar audits. Anonymous worker surveys for deeper insights.
Supply Chain Excellence
Strong background in sustainability initiatives. Expertise in vendor & social audits. Custom dashboards and reporting solutions.
We are an approved auditing company authorized to conduct Sedex audits, providing clear, reliable, and high-quality reports.
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