Sedex is an ethical data-sharing platform, while SMETA is its standardized auditing methodology. SMETA audits evaluate facilities across four key pillars: Labor Standards, Health and Safety, Environmental Management, and Business Ethics. The strategic logic of SMETA is audit harmonization—it provides a single, widely accepted report format that suppliers can share with multiple global buyers, eliminating the burden of redundant audits. Auditors inspect physical premises, interview employees, and audit financial records to detect bribery or non-compliance.
