In the context of increasingly transparent and ethically driven global supply chains, SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) has become one of the key standards enabling enterprises to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility. Developed by Sedex, SMETA is divided into two levels: SMETA 2 Pillar (2P) and SMETA 4 Pillar (4P)—each reflecting different levels of compliance and scope of assessment within a company’s governance system.

This article provides a detailed introduction to SMETA 2P, which focuses on two core pillars: Labour Standards and Health & Safety. These form the foundation for building a responsible workplace culture and sustainable development. In the next article, we will explore SMETA 4P—the extended version that includes two additional pillars: Environment and Business Ethics.

1. Labour Standards – Ensuring Fairness and Human Rights

The first pillar of SMETA 2P aims to protect workers’ rights and create a humane, respectful working environment:

• Freely chosen employment: Workers must not be subjected to forced or unlawful labor.

• Responsible recruitment: Transparent hiring processes that respect the right to work.

• Freedom of association and collective bargaining: Employees have the right to join trade unions and engage in fair dialogue.

• No child labor: Strict compliance with national laws and international standards.

• Legal and living wages: Payment of at least the minimum wage and sufficient to meet basic needs.

• Reasonable working hours: Within legal limits, with adequate rest and recovery time.

• Non-discrimination: Equal treatment in recruitment, compensation, and promotion opportunities.

• No harassment or abuse: A respectful and safe workplace culture.

• Regular employment: Commitment to stable, responsible employment relationships with workers and contractors.

These principles help enterprises not only comply with legal requirements but also reinforce ethical integrity and credibility in the global supply chain.

2. Health & Safety – Putting People First

SMETA 2P requires enterprises to establish an effective occupational health and safety management system to protect workers’ well-being:

• Establish clear occupational health and safety policies and responsible personnel.

• Provide regular training on workplace safety, fire prevention, first aid, and emergency response.

• Ensure safe working conditions with proper lighting, ventilation, noise control, and machine safety measures.

• Supply adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and proper usage guidance.

• Maintain hygienic facilities, including sanitation areas, canteens, accommodation (if applicable), and safe drinking water.

• Implement accident and occupational illness management systems with timely corrective actions.

• Maintain emergency preparedness plans, evacuation procedures, and operational fire-fighting equipment.

These elements clearly demonstrate a company’s commitment to prioritizing human safety above all.

3. Environment – Development with Sustainability

Although not one of the two main pillars, environmental responsibility remains an important component within SMETA 2P. Enterprises are expected to:

• Comply with national and international environmental protection regulations.

• Conduct Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) or establish internal environmental management policies.

• Obtain valid discharge permits and properly manage solid, liquid, and air emissions.

• Conserve energy, water, and fuel, and reduce emissions.

• Safely manage hazardous chemicals and materials, ensuring proper storage and handling.

• Monitor, measure, and continuously improve environmental performance to reduce negative impacts.
  Conclusion
  Implementing SMETA 2 Pillar not only helps enterprises meet the requirements of international customers but also strengthens governance capacity, improves working conditions, and protects the environment. It serves as a foundational standard for companies striving toward sustainable development and global responsibility—where profit goes hand in hand with ethics, and both people and the planet are respected.