News Articles

For years, International Associates has held IRIS accreditation. This long-standing recognition highlights our commitment to promoting transparent, ethical, and fair recruitment practices across industries worldwide.

What is IRIS?

The International Recruitment Integrity System (IRIS), developed by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), sets rigorous standards to prevent forced labour, exploitation, and human trafficking in recruitment. Our IRIS accreditation reflects not just compliance, but our dedication to leading by example in ensuring ethical labour migration and fair recruitment practices globally.

Why IRIS Accreditation Matters to You

As the only IRIS-accredited audit firm for years, we deliver our expertise in promoting integrity across recruitment channels. Our commitment provides clients with:

• Long-Term Compliance:

  We ensure your recruitment practices align consistently with ethical standards, maintaining a fair and transparent labour supply chain.

• Reputation Building:

  Our IRIS accreditation elevates your brand, highlighting your dedication to human rights and ethical recruitment, which can boost trust and engagement among stakeholders.

• Proven Expertise:

  Our years of experience with IRIS provide a wealth of knowledge and insights, enabling us to deliver impactful strategies that foster sustainable compliance.

Our IRIS-Accredited Services

Our suite of services ensures that your recruitment processes meet the highest standards of ethical integrity, including:

• Ethical Recruitment Audits:

  Comprehensive evaluations that help identify and address risks in your recruitment channels.

• Certification Support:

  Step-by-step guidance for organizations seeking IRIS certification, ensuring compliance at every stage.

Partner with the Experts in Ethical Recruitment

• With years of IRIS-accredited excellence, we invite you to strengthen your recruitment strategies with an approach built on transparency, fairness, and compliance. Let’s continue leading the way in ethical recruitment together.

enquiry@ia-uk.com

Author: m-coles

Published Date: December 11, 2024

We are excited to introduce a new suite of digital gap analysis tools from Deep Fathom, crafted to simplify the complex journey to ISO compliance. These tools offer a clear, data-backed view of your organisation’s strengths, highlight areas needing attention, and provide the confidence to move forward on a successful certification path.

Why Choose Deep Fathom’s Digital Gap Analysis Tools?

• Precision at Every Step:

  With detailed insights into your current compliance status, you will see exactly where you are on track and where adjustments are needed.

• Actionable Guidance:

  These tools offer specific recommendations to help you address non-conformances effectively.

• Effortless Efficiency:

  Fully digital and user-friendly, the automated reports keep your certification process smooth and on schedule, reducing any potential delays.

Streamline your path to compliance with Deep Fathom’s digital gap analysis tools. These tools put control and clarity back in your hands, helping make ISO certification a straightforward and manageable process. If you are interested, reach out to learn more about how we can support your compliance journey with Deep Fathom’s digital gap analysis tools.

enquiry@ia-uk.com

Author: m-coles

Published Date: December 11, 2024

At International Associates Limited, our training and e-learning programs are crafted to equip professionals with essential skills in auditing, compliance, and industry standards. Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned professional, our courses offer the tools and knowledge to enhance your capabilities and advance your career.

APSCA-Approved Courses are Now Available!

We are happy to share that two of our e-learning modules have now been approved by APSCA, meeting CPD requirements under the APSCA Competency Framework. This means our courses not only expand your knowledge but also contribute to your professional growth and certification needs.

APSCA-Recognised Modules:

• IA-001 Child Labour

  Duration: 2 Hours

  This module offers a comprehensive overview of child labour issues and effective facility processes to address them. It includes SA8000 and auditor supplements for a more detailed learning experience.Learn More

• IA-001 Forced Labour

  Duration: 2 Hours

  Focused on identifying forced labour indicators, this course provides the insights needed for effective audits and record reviews. Includes targeted SA8000 and auditor supplements. Explore Course

What Makes Our APSCA-Approved Modules Stand Out?

By completing these courses, you will earn valuable CPD hours that support your APSCA certification requirements, keeping your skills current and relevant in today’s dynamic industry. Stay tuned, more APSCA-approved e-learning modules are coming soon!

Ready to advance your expertise?

Start your learning journey with us today and make each CPD hour count!

enquiry@ia-uk.com

Author: m-coles

Published Date: December 11, 2024

The UK’s House of Lords has released a significant report urging immediate reforms to the Modern Slavery Act 2015, aiming to align the country’s legislation with global standards for supply chain due diligence. These proposed changes target stronger enforcement, stricter penalties, and deeper compliance measures to effectively tackle exploitation risks within business operations and supply chains.

Key Recommendations from the Report:

• Stronger Enforcement:

  Establishing a Single Enforcement Body to centralise and strengthen oversight, ensuring compliance with labour rights and anti-exploitation measures.

• Stricter Penalties:

  Imposing proportionate sanctions on companies that fail to comply with reporting and due diligence requirements, driving accountability across all sectors.

• Enhanced Due Diligence:

  Shifting focus from transparency alone to proactive measures that require businesses to actively prevent exploitation in supply chains.

Why is Reform Necessary?

While the Modern Slavery Act was initially praised for setting a benchmark in transparency, other countries have since adopted more comprehensive legislation. Global regulations, such as Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act and the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Directive, demand proactive steps to identify, mitigate, and prevent exploitation within supply chains. Without similar updates, the UK risks falling behind in addressing modern slavery and maintaining ethical business practices.

What Does This Mean for Your Business?

The potential changes could lead to stricter reporting requirements and enforcement measures. Businesses must start preparing by reviewing and enhancing their current due diligence processes. Key areas of focus should include:

• Identifying High-Risk Sectors:

  Prioritising sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics, where risks of exploitation are highest.

• Stricter Penalties:

  Integrating human rights due diligence into procurement and supply chain management to ensure compliance with emerging standards.

• Preparing for Increased Scrutiny:

  Anticipating more rigorous audits and evaluations of supply chain practices to ensure full compliance with evolving regulations.

The Benefits of Proactive Compliance

Taking proactive steps not only helps businesses meet potential new requirements but also ensures ethical and responsible operations. Ethical compliance builds trust with stakeholders, reduces reputational risks, and aligns with broader goals of sustainable business practices.

Act Now to Secure Compliance

As reforms may be introduced soon, businesses should start strengthening due diligence processes and consider consulting experts to navigate these changes effectively. Contact us today to ensure your compliance processes are proactive, ethical, and in line with the latest global standards!

enquiry@ia-uk.com

Author: M-Cloes

Published Date: October 31, 2024

We are delighted to announce the official opening of our new office in Malaysia, further expanding our global reach and reinforcing our commitment to delivering excellent audit and certification services. This new branch will serve as a strategic hub for our growing client base in Southeast Asia, providing localised support tailored to the specific needs of industries in the region.

Why Malaysia?

With its growing economy and strong industrial base, Malaysia plays a crucial role in international trade and manufacturing. Businesses are focusing on compliance, social responsibility, and sustainability, and we are here to support them with a full suite of auditing and certification services.

Our Services:

Our Malaysia branch will offer a comprehensive range of services designed to help businesses meet international standards and thrive in today’s competitive market. These services include:

• Authorised Representative Services
• Social Accountability Audits
• Management System Certification
• Energy and Security Audits
• Training and Development
• Software Solutions

Key Benefits for Our Clients:

• Localised Expertise –

  Our team consist of professionals with deep knowledge of both global standards and the local regulatory environment, ensuring that audits are not only thorough but also aligned with the unique challenges faced by businesses in the region.

• Cutting-Edge Tools –

  Our advanced auditing tools and digital platforms enable faster, more accurate, and highly transparent audit results, ensuring efficiency and precision across all offices.

• Customised Solutions –

  We understand that no two businesses are alike, and our team will work closely with each client to deliver tailored solutions that meet specific industry and regulatory needs.

Driving Global Standards Across Southeast Asia

With the opening of our Malaysia office, we aim to work closely with businesses in the region, helping them enhance their operational efficiency, meet compliance standards, and build stronger reputations in global markets. From certification to comprehensive audits and beyond, we are committed to supporting our clients in their pursuit of excellence.

Connect with Us in Malaysia

We invite businesses across Malaysia and Southeast Asia to reach out and explore how our services can add value to their operations. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please feel free to contact us.

enquiry@ia-uk.com

Author: m-coles

Published Date: October 31, 2024

Our 4th International Conference, hosted in the lively city of Manila, Philippines, has been an incredible success! The conference brought together brilliant minds from across the globe, sparking new conversations and generating ideas that will shape the future of our company.

Day 1: Sharing Insights, Sparking Innovation

Our first day set the stage with energetic discussions on the latest developments in our operations. From expanding our global footprint to innovative cutting-edge software tools such as iNet, BRAND, and blended audits, the enthusiasm in the room was contagious. Every session offered something valuable, with thought-provoking insights into our future goals and innovations. We are off to a fantastic start!

Day 2: Turning Potential into Progress

The second day of the conference dived into how we are turning potential into tangible results. With a strong focus on the latest auditing tools, blended audit approaches, and updates on social compliance and ISO standards, we explored what’s next for the industry. The team was inspired by the future possibilities and determined to continue leading the way in auditing and compliance excellence.

Day 3: Transforming Ideas into Action

As the conference wrapped up on the final day, we were inspired by an impactful series of training sessions, covering everything from SEDEX updates to Adidas audit practices and WRAP compliance. Our team embraced the challenge of transforming innovative concepts into real, impactful changes across our global operations. This is where the real work begins!

A Look Ahead

As we move forward, our focus remains on translating these brilliant ideas into progress. With renewed energy, our global team is ready to tackle the challenges ahead and continue leading with innovation and integrity. Contact us today to learn more!

enquiry@ia-uk.com

Author: m-coles

Published Date: October 31, 2024