I. PURPOSE AND SCOPE

This standard specifies requirements for social accountability to enable a company to:

a) develop, maintain, and enforce policies and procedures in order to manage those issues which it can control or influence;
b) demonstrate to interested parties that policies, procedures and practices are in conformity with the requirements of this standard.

The requirements of this standard shall apply universally with regard to geographic location, industry sector and company size.

Note: Readers are advised to consult the SA8000 Guidance Document for interpretative guidance with respect to this standard.