A new version of the workplace social compliance standard, SA8000, has been issued by Social Accountability International (SAI). They state that the compliance requirements of SA8000:2008 are broadly the same and that the majority of changes are clarifications in response to frequently asked questions. However, there are some interesting and significant new developments.

First issued in 1997, this is the third version of the SA8000 standard. Key changes include:

- several additional definitions providing guidance on the meaning of terms such as personnel, worker, compulsory labour, human trafficking, management representative, worker organisation and collective bargaining. The definition of a child now goes beyond the strict requirements of ILO Conventions in excluding the allowance of work by 14 year olds in developing countries

- new requirements for companies to meet 'all prevailing relevant national legislation', as well as 'prevailing industry standards';

- employers' duties with regard to trade union rights now include the need to effectively inform workers of their rights;

- the need to pay a living wage is clearly stated;

- the company has a new duty to provide a confidential means for all personnel to complain to management or worker's representatives.

SAI will be issuing guidance notes later in the year.

www.sa-intl.org