Core Principles and Standards of BSCI

Prohibits hiring workers below the local legal age or 15 (ILO Convention 138), with exceptions for light work (age 13-15) if legally permitted. Education rights are safeguarded, and remediation is required if violations are found.

Bans all forms of coerced work, including bonded labor, human trafficking, or prison labor unless voluntary (ILO Conventions 29 and 105). Workers must have freedom to leave employment with reasonable notice.

Mandates wages at least at the legal minimum or industry benchmark, whichever is higher, aiming for a living wage. Payments must be timely, with clear records (ILO Conventions 26 and 95).

Limits work to 48 hours per week, with overtime capped at 12 hours (ILO Convention 1), voluntary, and compensated at a premium rate. Workers get at least one day off per week.

Requires safe, clean workplaces with fire exits, equipment maintenance, and hazard training (ILO Convention 155). Risks like chemical exposure or noise must be mitigated.

Ensures equal opportunities and treatment, barring bias based on gender, race, religion, disability, or union membership (ILO Conventions 100 and 111).

Protects workers’ rights to join or form trade unions and negotiate collectively (ILO Conventions 87 and 98). Where restricted by law, alternative dialogue mechanisms are encouraged.

Prohibits bribery, corruption, and extortion, demanding transparency in all dealings.

Promotes waste reduction, pollution control, and resource efficiency, aligning with sustainable practices beyond just labor.

Safeguards workers aged 18-20 from night shifts, hazardous tasks, or conditions harming their development (ILO Convention 182).

Discourages unstable contracts or subcontracting that undermines job security, pushing for fair, documented employment terms.