SA8000 certification steps

Congratulations on taking the first step toward becoming an SA8000-certified organization. The required steps that you must take to begin a certification process are described here. Step 2 asks you to contact a SAAS-accredited Certification Body to schedule your first audit (more information below). Your SA8000 Certification Body will be your main contact for questions about the certification process.

If you are not yet familiar with the details of the SA8000 Standard and certification program, we recommend that you start by reviewing the SA8000 Resources available here.

Step 1: SA8000 Self-Assessment

The first step in the SA8000 certification process is to take the SA8000® Self-Assessment—an online management system self-assessment. The SA8000 Self-Assessment helps interested organizations understand SA8000’s management system requirements and whether they are ready to apply for certification.

Fee: US$300

Duration: 60-90 minutes

Step 2: Contact an Accredited Certification Body

Finding an Accredited Certification Body

Following your organization’s successful completion of the SA8000 Self-Assessment, please contact an accredited certification body to start the full evaluation process. Each accredited certification body is independently managed, and SAI encourages applicant organizations to contact various certification bodies to receive quotes for fees.

SA8000 Certification Audit

The certification body will conduct an initial Stage 1 Audit (typically taking 1 to 2 days) to assess the organization’s readiness for SA8000. Organizations that move on to Stage 2 will go through a full certification audit, which can take from 2 to 10 days, depending on the size and scope of the organization.

As part of both stages, the certification body will conduct an SA8000 Independent Evaluation that will help the organization identify strengths and weaknesses in its management system. The evaluation includes reviews of documentation, working practices, employee interview responses, and operational records.

Achieving SA8000 Certification

Once the certification body has determined that the organization has implemented the necessary actions and improvements to become compliant with the SA8000 Standard, it grants an SA8000 certificate, which the organization may use to publicize its achievement.

Step 3: On-site Surveillance Monitoring

SA8000 certification is valid for three years, subject to on-site surveillance monitoring. Surveillance monitoring includes a combination of announced and unannounced visits, typically twice per year, and Independent Evaluations to track improvements over time. After the three-year cycle concludes, you may choose to re-certify.