Definition of Terms
Contract means a purchase order, lease, rental or other agreement between a government entity and a vendor to acquire or use goods or services.
Factory means a facility that manufactures or otherwise contributes significantly to a product. For apparel, the factory is the facility that manufactures the product by cutting and assembling through sewing, weaving, knitting, or felting. It may also include the facility that finishes, applies marks, warehouses, or launders the product. Factories typically make products for one or several manufacturers.
Government entity means a state, city, county, local government agency, public school district, or federal government agency. Government buyers evaluate bids or proposals from vendors, and award contracts to those that best meet standards established by law, including sweatfree standards.
Independent monitor means an organization with expertise in monitoring factory working conditions that is not owned or controlled in whole or in part by, nor obtains any revenue from, any contractor or other entity that derives income from the sale of any product or service covered by a sweatfree purchasing policy.
Manufacturer means a person or business that owns an apparel brand. Manufacturers sell branded clothing to vendors, or distributors, that, in turn, compete for government contracts.
Union means an association of workers formed for the purpose of advancing its members' interests in respect to wages, benefits, and working conditions. Unions are recognized by law and have the power to negotiate contracts with management and file formal complaints alleging contract violations.
Vendor means a person or business entity that provides goods or services to a public entity.