We are pleased to announce the official launch of the SA8000:2026 Standard for Decent work and the release of the initial materials for users of the certification system to prepare for SA8000:2026 audits and certification.
The SA8000:2026 Standard strengthens our commitment to ethical conduct, respect for human rights, and responsible business practices across all operations and relationships. The updated documentation reflects the latest requirements and best practices for protecting workers’ rights, ensuring safe and fair working conditions, and operating with integrity and transparency.
As of January 1, 2026, the following resources are publicly available:
- SA8000:2026 Standard – The final public version of the Standard. A comparison to the previously published Working Draft is also available.
- SA8000:2026 Indicator Library – The initial list of indicators for use in implementation or assessment against the Standard.
- Getting Started with SA8000:2026 Training + Self-Assessment – Training for companies to understand the SA8000 Standard and a downloadable version of the 2026 Self-Assessment. (See note below for organizations with SA8000 audits scheduled in the first months of 2026).
- SA8000:2026 Auditor Upgrade Training – Baseline training necessary for individuals who have previously taken the SA8000 Basic Auditor Training to update their credential.
Certification Timeline
In the coming weeks, we will be working to release the SA8000:2026 Audit Tool and related SAI Database Processes, as well as the 2026 Self-Assessment within the SAI Database. Audits to SA8000:2026 cannot take place until these Database processes are launched. We will share more information on this soon.
Important Note: Organizations with Stage 1 or Recertification audits scheduled prior to the launch of the 2026 Self-Assessment in the SAI Database must perform the 2014 Self-Assessment in the SAI Database using the same process as before.
The requirement that every organization complete the Getting Started with SA8000:2026 Training + Self-Assessment by the end of 2026 is still in place (see our Certification Transition Timeline). We will waive the cost of the Getting Started with SA8000:2026 Training for organizations that completed the 2014 Self-Assessment within one year from the 2026 Self-Assessment launching in the Database.
Let us know if you have any questions or concerns. Once the processes are ready in the SAI Database we will reach back out with information on a related webinar, guidance, and any additional requirements.
