Recent changes to the Safety Schemes in Procurement reflect a growing emphasis on social value and Legal, Compliance, Risk, and Management issues. SSIP accreditation, traditionally focused on health and safety standards within the supply chain, is now evolving to incorporate broader social value considerations. This shift underscores the importance of ethical practices, environmental sustainability, and community impact in procurement processes.

Social value in SSIP accreditation involves evaluating how organizations contribute positively to society. This includes commitments to environmental sustainability, promoting diversity and inclusion, and supporting local communities. Organizations seeking SSIP accreditation will need to demonstrate their initiatives in these areas, showcasing how their operations generate social benefits beyond mere compliance with safety standards.

Legal, Compliance, Risk, and Management issues are also receiving enhanced attention. Companies must ensure they meet legal requirements, adhere to compliance standards, and effectively manage risks. This includes thorough documentation, regular audits, and proactive risk management strategies. Integrating Legal, Compliance, Risk, and Management into SSIP accreditation ensures that organizations maintain high ethical standards, minimize legal risks, and foster a culture of transparency and accountability.

These changes in SSIP accreditation reflect a holistic approach to procurement, recognizing that organizational success and social responsibility are intertwined. By addressing social value and Legal, Compliance, Risk, and Management issues, SSIP accreditation aims to promote a sustainable, ethical, and legally compliant supply chain.

AGS members, particularly SME companies that may not have taken Legal, Compliance, Risk, and Management or social values issues into account before, should be aware of these changes before they are required to produce evidence for accreditation purposes.

Article provided by Murray Bateman, Director, Geo-Integrity Ltd