SMETA 4P (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit – 4 Pillar) is one of the most comprehensive ethical audit frameworks currently available, developed by Sedex. It is a social responsibility audit methodology based on four main pillars: Labour Standards, Health & Safety, Environment, and Business Ethics.

SMETA 4P enables enterprises to demonstrate their commitment to complying with international labor standards, protecting workers, ensuring a safe and healthy working environment, and maintaining transparency in business operations. At the same time, the framework supports importers, global brands, and supply chain partners in evaluating suppliers’ ethical compliance.

1. Labour Standards

The first pillar of SMETA 4P focuses on safeguarding workers’ rights. Enterprises must demonstrate that they maintain a fair workplace, respect human dignity, and comply with applicable laws.

Key requirements include:

• Freely chosen employment, with no forced or bonded labor

• No child labor and compliance with minimum legal working age

• Respect for freedom of association and collective bargaining

• No discrimination in recruitment, compensation, training, or promotion

• Payment of wages in accordance with the law, moving toward a living wage

• Reasonable working hours in line with labor regulations

• A stable working environment that respects dignity and prohibits harsh or inhumane treatment

This pillar forms the foundation for sustainable labor relations and strengthens credibility with international partners.

2. Health & Safety

The second pillar emphasizes the company’s responsibility to protect the physical and mental well-being of workers.

Key requirements include:

• Maintaining safe and hygienic working conditions, with adequate lighting, ventilation, and noise control

• Establishing an occupational health and safety function with clear policies

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

• Supplying appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and ensuring proper usage

• Providing compliant sanitation facilities, canteens, and worker accommodation (if applicable)

• Implementing accident and occupational disease management systems, along with emergency preparedness and evacuation equipment

Compliance with this pillar helps reduce accident risks and demonstrates genuine care for employees.

3. Environment

SMETA 4P requires enterprises to comply with national environmental protection laws and relevant international regulations. This pillar reflects corporate responsibility in resource management and minimizing environmental impact.

Enterprises are expected to:

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

• Maintain valid discharge permits and manage solid, liquid, and air emissions in compliance with regulations

• Implement energy efficiency measures and reduce electricity, water, and fuel consumption

• Control hazardous chemicals and materials with safe storage and handling procedures

• Apply environmental management systems such as ISO 14001 to ensure continual improvement

Through this pillar, SMETA 4P encourages businesses to pursue sustainable development and reduce their carbon footprint within the supply chain.

4. Business Ethics

The fourth pillar focuses on building a transparent, ethical, and accountable corporate culture.

Key elements include:

• Anti-bribery and anti-corruption policies across the supply chain

• Financial transparency in procurement, tendering, and accounting

• Protection of confidential data and information of customers and partners

• Prohibition of fraud and deceptive business practices

• Establishment of grievance mechanisms or whistleblowing channels

Strong compliance in this pillar enhances brand reputation and meets the audit expectations of major international partners.

Conclusion

SMETA 4P is not merely an audit standard; it serves as a comprehensive framework guiding enterprises toward sustainable development, protection of human rights, environmental stewardship, and ethical business conduct.

By adopting SMETA 4P, Vietnamese enterprises can strengthen their position in the global supply chain and reaffirm their commitment to transparency, responsibility, and sustainable values.