SMETA Audits

SMETA Audits

SMETA AUDIT: What you need to know

What is a Smeta audit?

SMETA or Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit is the leading global ethical audit and assurance methodology that helps companies to assess their suppliers’ performance against a set of criteria.

It covers labor, health & safety, environmental and ethics standards which are all important for responsible business practices. SMETA audits provide companies with an objective evaluation of supplier operations and highlight any areas for improvement. This helps

What are the 4 pillars of Smeta audit?

  1. Labor Standards

  2. Health and Safety

  3. Business Ethics

  4. Environmental Assessment

The 4-pillar SMETA audit, developed by the Sedex organization, is a globally accepted audit system used to assess a company’s ethical and sustainability practices. It requires organizations to adopt business practices beyond traditional labor standards in order to ensure that their operations are socially responsible.

The two mandatory pillars of the audit are Labor Standards and Health & Safety. Two additional pillars – Business Ethics and Environment – were introduced to further strengthen the social responsibility aspect of the audit.

Business Ethics encompasses areas such as anti-corruption, bribery, data protection, human trafficking prevention, gifts & entertainment and whistleblowing policy. These measures protect companies against unethical practices which can have serious reputational consequences for an organization if left unchecked. Ethical trading initiative and responsible business practice for all company’s is a necessity.

The Environmental pillar focuses on environmental management, renewable energy, efficient use of resources and waste minimization. Companies must demonstrate that they are taking all possible steps to minimize their impact on the environment and meet the expectations of society such as implementing sustainable business practices.

The 4-pillar SMETA audit is an effective way for companies to review their current practices around labor standards, health & safety, business ethics and environment. It provides a comprehensive view into a company’s social responsibility policies ensuring that operations are ethical, responsible and sustainable in the long run.

By completing this audit successfully, organizations can ensure that their products or services adhere to high levels of quality while also meeting sustainability benchmarks. This helps them build trust with partners, customers and other stakeholders while demonstrating corporate social responsibility.

How long is a Smeta audit valid for?

The SMETA audit report is a valuable tool for businesses to assess their ethical practices and ensure that their performance meets the highest standards. However, the validity of the audit report can vary depending on what timeframe the client decides upon.

Most clients opt for an annual audit cycle and set one year as the period of validity for the SMETA audit report.

How do I get a SMETA audit?

If you’re looking to complete a SMETA audit, the first step is registering and having an active account on the Sedex platform. With the right membership, your business can easily access the resources needed to successfully complete a SMETA audit.

What is the difference between Smeta audits and Sedex?

  1. Sedex is the name of the organization

  2. SMETA is the name of an audit methodology

Sedex’s SMETA audit methodology is widely regarded as the gold standard in ethical supply chain auditing. It is used by Sedex members and their suppliers to help them identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with local laws, global standards, and corporate responsibility policies.

The audit consists of four sections (Labour Standards; Health & Safety; Environment; Business Ethics) that together provide a comprehensive view of supplier operations. Through SMETA audits, companies can identify and address potential risks in their supply chainsa as well as global supply chains quickly and efficiently.

By addressing any issues they find in their audits, companies can demonstrate commitment to responsible sourcing practices and mitigate business risk.

SMETA audits are conducted on-site by experienced auditors who assess the performance of suppliers in each of the four sections. During the audit, auditors review documents, interview staff, conduct physical inspections, and observe work practices to provide a comprehensive view of supplier operations. After the audit is complete, Sedex will provide a report that summarizes the findings and recommendations for improvement.

Who can conduct Smeta audit?

A SMETA audit will be conducted by an independent third-party auditor. The auditor will analyze the company’s management systems and practices, to ensure that they adhere to the ETI Base Code and local laws. The auditors will review internal policies, management processes, employee training records, and other documents related to labor rights and standards.

In addition, the auditor will observe activities in the workplace such as working hours, working conditions, fire safety regulations, payment of wages, etc., in order to identify any areas of potential non-compliance with ethical trading standards.

After the audit is complete, a report is generated which includes an assessment of compliance with ETI Base Code requirements. Companies who have passed an independent third-party audit typically can demonstrate that their workforce is protected under international labor rights and standards. This provides a degree of assurance to customers and other stakeholders that the company is committed to ethical trading practices.

The audit process helps companies identify areas for improvement, as well as provides an opportunity to address any malpractices that may exist in their supply chain as well as the global supply chain. It also ensures that companies are held accountable for their labor and work standards, helping them build trust with stakeholders and create a positive public image for the business. Furthermore, the successful completion of a audit can open up new opportunities for companies looking to do business abroad by demonstrating compliance with international labor rights and standards.

Conclusion:

SMETA audits, developed by Sedex Global, have become one of the most widely accepted ethical audit methods in the world. It is a comprehensive auditing system that provides an internationally recognized standard for assessing working practices within your supply chain. SMETA is based on four pillars: labor standards (including human rights), health and safety, environment, and business ethics.

The aim of this audit is to ensure compliance with any applicable laws and regulations as well as industry-accepted best practice standards including those related to CSR performance and sustainability initiatives. The audit helps you identify any potential risks or areas where improvement can be made in order to meet these standards and stay compliant with laws or regulations.

How Can We Help? Ask a Question or Request Info or Pricing

Do you need an idea of where you stand with EPA or OSHA regulations?  Do you need full-time or temporary personnel to manage the day-to-day compliance tasks?  Would your employees benefit from onsite environmental training?  Our team of environmental consultants, safety consultants and industrial hygienists would love to help. Call (316) 264-7050 today!

Need an Audit?

Are you thinking about getting an environmental audit? Let us help!

Questions?

Does this apply to your company?  Do you have questions?  Contact us!

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iSi Environmental – Vacuum Truck Services

iSi Environmental – Vacuum Truck Services

Vacuum Truck Pick-up and Disposal Services for Liquids, High Solids, Oily Water and Sludge

Vacuum truck services are the perfect solution for picking up and disposing of liquids, high solids, oily water and sludge. Our team of professionals will pick-up and dispose of your waste from virtually anywhere including oil/water separators, clarifiers, sumps, trenches, pits, floor drains and even underground waste tanks.

Hydro excavation for your vacuuming needs

Hydro excavation is a safe and efficient way to excavate around utilities and other underground infrastructure. Our hydro excavation services can help you avoid the costly damage that can be caused by traditional excavation methods.

 

The versatile vac truck for all your waste removal needs

The versatile vac truck can be used for a variety of applications, and in many facilities, including oil/water separator cleaning, tank cleaning, pit cleaning and much more.

Contact us today to learn more about our vacuum truck services and how we can help your company with your waste removal needs.

What are vac truck services?

Vacuum truck services are a type of waste removal service that uses vacuum trucks to pick up and dispose of liquids, sludge and solids. Vacuum trucks are versatile and can be used for a variety of applications including oil/water separator cleaning, tank cleaning, pit cleaning and much more. Vac services are often paired with remediation and environmental services, are part of the formula to help facilities stay compliant with federal regulations and make certain hazardous and non hazardous waste is disposed of correctly.

How can vacuum truck services help you?

iSi Environmental’s industrial services division, named iSi Industrial Services, can help you by picking up and disposing of liquids, sludge, and solids from your property. Our team of professionals are experienced in the proper disposal of waste and can help you avoid costly damage to your property.

The different types of vacuum services include:

  • Oil/water separators cleaning
  • Tank cleaning
  • Pit/Trenches cleaning
  • Sewage disposal
  • Grease trap cleaning
  • Pumping of slurries and sludges
  • Pump clean water
  • Pumping and liquid transfer within facility
  • Hazardous materials transport
  • Dispose of non hazardous materials
  • Tank transfer services

Why choose iSi Industrial Services?

  • We offer efficient solutions to safely remove waste from your site.
  • Our team of professionals are experienced and knowledgeable in the proper disposal of waste.
  • 30 years of experience with local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Committed to any emergency request
  • iSi Industrial Services can work with your current disposal facilities locations or provide additional disposal options.
  • We have the latest vacuuming technology to get the job done right. The right equipment to tackle any job (hazardous or non hazardous).
  • We offer competitive pricing, a flexible schedule, from a convenient location near you. We serve the state(s) of Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Nebraska.
  • Quick response time and ease of onboarding for your company
  • DOT certified operators
  • Fleet of well maintained transport equipment

Message us today to learn more about our vacuum truck services, request service and schedule your job today!

 

About iSi

iSi Industrial Services and iSi Environmental have teamed to provide environmental remediation, industrial cleaning and EHS consulting services for over 30 years. Our staff of 20+ in house consultants, combined with teams of experienced remediation crews, gives us the capability to handle unique issues that arise at any facility. Headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, our 140 employees services offices in Kansas City, Tulsa, and Atlanta. Contact us now via phone (888-264-7050) or through the website and we will put your project on the schedule.

Need Assistance?

Need vacuum truck services in Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri or Nebraska?  Contact us!

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The Ultimate Guide To Asbestos Abatement

The Ultimate Guide To Asbestos Abatement

The Ultimate Guide To Asbestos Abatement: Everything You Need To Know

This guide will take you step by step through the process of asbestos abatement, from finding asbestos to safely removing it and disposing of it. You’ll also learn about industrial hygiene and health physics, which are essential to keeping workers safe.

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was once used in approximately 3,000 different products. Asbestos has been linked to various diseases. The most common of these are lung cancer and mesothelioma. Asbestos cannot be smelled or seen.

How do you know if you have asbestos in your building?

A common place where asbestos is found is insulation. Asbestos was used as an insulator in older homes and buildings because of its effectiveness in keeping heat inside.  It’s also found in many types of floor tile, linoleum, transite siding, window glazing, fire doors, fireproofing materials, popcorn ceiling coatings and other materials.

There are a number of signs that indicate that you have asbestos present in your building. You should be aware of these warning signs to prevent any potential problems. One of the main problems with asbestos is that it gets airborne easily, so it can end up on any surface of your home or business. If you see signs that your building has asbestos, it is important to contact a professional. The first and easiest thing you should do is test the area for asbestos fibers to ensure that proper precautions are taken to keep you and those around you safe.

Is it safe to remove asbestos yourself?

Asbestos is a dangerous material, and for good reason. It’s responsible for thousands of deaths each year and is a leading cause of lung cancer. Asbestos can be found in homes, schools and businesses all over the country. Even though it’s a dangerous substance, there are instances when it’s safe to remove asbestos yourself provided you have the proper training and/or licensing to do so.   Businesses are required to follow OSHA and EPA guidelines for working with asbestos.  Homeowners have no regulations that govern removal.

How do you remove asbestos safely and effectively?

There are two popular methods of removing asbestos: encapsulation and removal. When done correctly, both methods are completely safe. However, removing asbestos incorrectly can result in serious health problems.  Asbestos is a known carcinogen and toxin. It was used extensively before its harmful effects were widely known, so there is still a lot of the stuff hidden away in old buildings.

If you find asbestos in your home or building, you need to have it safely removed. Here’s how. The first step is to determine whether or not there is asbestos present.   Licensed asbestos inspectors and other specifically trained maintenance personnel can conduct inspections and sampling, sending the samples to a special lab for analysis. Homeowners can collect their own samples and have them analyzed by a laboratory provided special health precautions are followed when handling asbestos.   If asbestos is found, any professional removal will require you to evacuate the building and seal off a perimeter around the area where the work will be performed.  Workers wear asbestos-specific PPE and respirators while working and use other safety equipment to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers.

What are the different types of asbestos removal methods?

1. Physical removal
2. Encapsulation
3. Enclosure
4. Repair

Where can I find a professional who removes asbestos safely and effectively?

The asbestos removal process requires the utmost care and diligence. It is a complex process that requires specialized training, equipment, and materials. To ensure safety and effectiveness, it is best to hire a professional who has ample experience in removing asbestos from any structure. When working with an asbestos removal professional, be sure to check their credentials and licensing information. The EPA recommends avoiding unlicensed contractors at all costs, as they may not carry proper insurance or take the necessary precautions to keep you and your family safe.

Asbestos abatement is not a DIY project, and it’s important to hire an asbestos contractor that has all the proper licensing and certification. If you are looking for professional asbestos abatement services but aren’t sure where to begin, please contact us today! We’ll be happy to assist you and help make your next asbestos abatement project a success.

 

Asbestos Assistance

Let iSi’s asbestos team help you take care of the asbestos issues in your building are. Contact us today!

Tami Hadley
Tami Hadley

Contributing:

Tami Hadley

Marketing Director | Project Manager, E-Training Solutions

Tami has been with iSi for over 24 years.  During this time, she has enjoyed helping promote regulations compliance awareness and education through her involvement with iSi Training and through leadership roles with industry conferences and professional organizations.

Email  |  LinkedIn

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Paint Booth Cleaning: It’s the Law, but Can Save You Money

Paint Booth Cleaning: It’s the Law, but Can Save You Money

iSi paint booth cleaning example

In this week’s blog, we’ll explore the case for paint booth cleaning.  Not only is it the law, but it can save your company a lot of money.

Cleaning is the Law

There are a number of regulations and standards which include paint booth cleaning and maintenance as part of their directives. Most of these are to protect the workers inside the booth, workers outside of the booth and the environment. Some of these include:

  • OSHA 1910.107 and 1910.94
  • EPA NESHAP, 40 CFR Part 63 Subparts HHHHHH and XXXXXX
  • NFPA 33

Cleaning SAVES Money

iSi has been providing paint booth cleaning personnel for a number of years to industrial facilities. One of the biggest comments we get from our clients in favor of routine cleaning is how much a clean booth will affect the quality of the painted part. A clean booth significantly reduces the amount of dirt and impurities in the air, leading to a dramatic reduction in the number of re-paints. This in turn saves painter time and resources, increases productivity, and improves the quality of the finished product.

Dirty booths can make a big difference on booth effectiveness. Built-up coatings on floors and walls become harder and harder to remove as time goes on. Filters which are dirty, not changed on a regular basis, paint-coated, missing, or not sized for the type of booth they’re in all contribute to poor booth performance. Coated sprinkler heads and fire devices are a fire safety hazard. Not addressed on a routine basis, these issues can end up costing your company in additional labor costs, equipment replacement costs and product painting redos.

What Should be Cleaned?

Booths walls and floors, paint grates, sprinkler heads, filters, gauges, ventilation ductwork and fan blades should all get routine attention. For safety reasons, gauges should shut down if there’s not enough flow through the filters. Paint scraps should never be left in piles on the floor, and drums of rags and wastes should be removed each day.  OSHA says that in some cases, daily cleaning may be needed.

Who Should Clean the Booth?

What are the hazards involved in the paint that you’re using? If the paint is hazardous, this puts you in a totally different level of effort and compliance responsibility than a traditional janitorial or maintenance company may be able to provide. For example, iSi conducts cleaning of booths contaminated by hexavalent chromium paints. This requires our workers to wear special PPE and respirators and follow strict protocols. As a company, iSi is required to have a respirator program, a hexavalent chromium program, and routine medical monitoring.  Other hazardous paints may have similar requirements, so if you’re using your own personnel to clean the booths, make sure you’re compliant with all OSHA and medical requirements for this work.  It may look like it’s just a cleaning job, but the materials your workers will be exposed to make it much more complicated.

Some companies will have their painters do the cleaning either before or after a shift. This takes extra time away from their regular duties, and sometimes lack of time and shifting priorities can create shortcuts. Thus, companies end up paying for maintenance duties at skilled painter labor rates.  It’s fine for you to use your own personnel, but you may want to consider what’s best use of their time and what you’re spending in the long run.

If you have questions or comments about paint booth maintenance, contact us today, and we’d love to help you!

How can iSi help your company with paint booth cleaning and compliance? Check us out!

Frequently Asked Asbestos Questions – A Free Webinar

Frequently Asked Asbestos Questions – A Free Webinar

asbestos frequently asked questions

As a long-time asbestos abatement, survey, inspection, sampling and training firm, we get a lot of questions about asbestos.

In this webinar we will be covering the questions we are asked the most, from who regulates asbestos to where it can be found, to training and licensing requirements, how the NESHAP regulations affects rules and more!

What questions do you have? Join us on Tuesday, December 11 at 1:30 pm CST.  There is no charge to attend, but space is limited!  Register Here

Register Today!

Register here for our free asbestos webinar on December 11!

iSi’s Industrial Services team can help you with your asbestos questions and issues — Contact us today!

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