New Oeko-Tex test criteria

Based on a joint resolution adopted by its 14 member institutes, the Oeko-Tex® Association has revised and expanded applicable test criteria, limits and by-laws of the product certification process for Oeko-Tex Standard 100, effective January 1, 2010. As of December 2009, the Oeko-Tex certificate contains a note advising that the “certified articles meet the requirements of Annex XVII of the REACh regulation (including the use of prohibited azo dyes, nickel, etc.) and also fulfill U.S. specifications regarding the total content of lead in children’s products (CPSIA; not applicable to glass materials).”

The following new provisions will go into effect after a three-month transition period:

• > Synthetic fibers, yarns and plastic parts will be tested for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon substances (PAH) in all four Oeko-Tex product classes.
• > Because diisobutylphtalate (DIBP) is likely to be added to the list of REACh substances “of very high concern,” the softener will also be excluded from use as part of the Oeko-Tex certification process.
• > Based on explicit mention in EU Directive 2009/425/EC in connection with products such as printed textiles, gloves and textile floor coverings, the Oeko-Tex Association has also added dioctyltin (DOT) to the list of prohibited tin-organic substances. A limit of 1.0 mg/kg applies to baby articles (product class 1), and 2.0 mg/kg for articles in other product classes.
• > The transition process for total lead content in metallic materials will be extended.

To support and optimize operational quality assurance for participating companies on a worldwide basis, Oeko-Tex will provide its licensees with a quality assurance package, starting in April 2010. In line with company audits, as they are already being conducted in some countries, Oeko-Tex auditors will be better able to coordinate existing product ranges with local firms on the certification process. Production methods, auxiliaries, input materials and ingredients, as well as future developments, will be included. Company visits will also provide the opportunity to provide individual advice to respective businesses.

For new certifications, company audits will be conducted promptly. For long-time participants, audits will be conducted within the next four years, unless the participants request earlier visits.

A complete overview of current Oeko-Tex Standard 100 test criteria is available at www.oeko-tex.com/limitvalues. Detailed information about individual test parameters and Oeko-Tex by-laws is also available at the member institutes: www.oeko-tex.com/institutes.