The ETI Base Code
The ETI Base Code is founded on the conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and is an internationally recognised code of labour practice. The ETI base code is shown below:
1. Employment is freely chosen
2. Freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining are respected
3 .Working conditions are safe and hygienic
4. Child labour shall not be used
5. Living wages are paid
6. Working hours are not excessive
7. No discrimination is practised
8. Regular employment is provided
9. No harsh or inhuman treatment is allowed
Asos is a member of the ETI (ethical trading inititive) and has regulations which comply with each of the 9 codes set by the ETI, which provides respect for workers worldwide. The code of conduct which Asos has set out requires all suppliers and manufacturers to agree to the standards set. These standards include factors such as:
•Business integrity
•Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
•Terms of employment
•Freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining
•Wages and working hours
•Employing young workers
•Working environment
•Health and safety
I find it hard when shopping online or in store to know anything about the garment I am buying. As the consumer we know nothing about where our products have been made and what standard of life the people, making them, have. This is why I think companies should have to include information such as the factory where the garment was made to the consumer so that if they are interested and do want to access it they can. This doesn’t have to be done it an obvious way it could just be something they included on their websites. I think doing this would prevent disasters such as the Rana Plaza disaster happening again, as I’m sure most people would be willing to pay more for their garments if they knew it would help prevent fatalities happening due to un safe working environments.