SA8000 Advanced Lead Auditor Training

This course provides an in-depth overview of social auditing and the SA8000:2026 certification scheme. It is required for all SA8000 audit team leaders based on the requirements set by Social Accountability Accreditation Services. Participants may only take the course after the successful completion of the SA8000 Introduction and Basic Auditor Training.  

Curriculum

Designed for experienced social auditors, this advanced classroom course equips participants with in-depth knowledge and skills necessary for conducting successful audits in the field, building on the collective experiences of the participants. Participants will gain insight into fundamental issues that arise in field assessments through a focus on: 

• Conformance issues in different industry sectors and regions. 
• Tools for assessing social performance in different areas, such as living wage, working hours and overtime, freedom of association, outsourcing, subcontracting, and supplier considerations.  
• Interview techniques for gathering accurate information from workers, worker representatives, management, and external stakeholders. 
• Case studies and practical exercises that allow participants to practice document review, worker interviews, writing and classifying nonconformities, and conducting opening and closing meetings. 

The course concludes with a three-hour online exam, and students who successfully pass after attending the online prerequisite and the classroom training course are awarded the SA8000 Advanced Auditor Training Course Completion Certificate. 

This course is currently offered in English, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese.

Course Prerequisites

1. Participants must have completed the SA8000 Introduction & Basic Auditor Training course and passed the exam at least 6 months prior to beginning the SA8000 Advanced Auditor Training course.
2. After completing the SA8000 Basic Training and passing the exam, participants must conduct at least two SA8000 audits as a team member under a qualified audit team leader before taking the Advanced course.

To check your eligibility to apply for the Advanced course and to register, please email: training@sa-intl.org

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