Sedex Expands SMETA Audits Into Service-Based Supply Chains

In a recent feature on Sustainability Magazine, Sedex outlined how it is adapting its SMETA audit methodology specifically for service providers. Traditionally, due diligence has focused on manufacturing and agriculture, but Sedex emphasizes that sectors such as cleaning, logistics, catering, and security often carry serious labor risks that go unexamined.

Sedex estimates that 15.5 percent of service suppliers could be high-risk and notes that these roles typically involve mobile workforces, distributed sites, and subcontracting, making them harder to monitor and more prone to labor violations.

That is why Sedex piloted a tailored version of the SMETA audit for service operations, building on last year’s Service Provider Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ). The updated methodology covers both headquarters and service delivery locations and includes extra requirements for subcontracting, helping fill blind spots in risk management. With under 3 percent of Sedex-registered suppliers operating in these service industries, this initiative is a meaningful step toward more comprehensive supply chain oversight.

How Intertek Can Help
As a trusted Sedex audit partner, Intertek delivers independent SMETA audits that help organizations assess labor practices, health and safety standards, environmental performance, and business ethics across their supply chains. For companies expanding into service-sector due diligence, Intertek provides the expertise and global reach to ensure suppliers meet Sedex standards while supporting transparency and responsible sourcing.

Learn More - https://www.intertek.com/assurance/smeta/