SPECIFICATION AND CONTROL IN GARMENTS AND ACCESSORIES

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Transcript of SPECIFICATION AND CONTROL IN GARMENTS AND ACCESSORIES

SPECIFICATION AND CONTROLMANUAL OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES

IN GARMENTS AND ACCESSORIES

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CONTENTS

PAGE

1. DEFINITION 5

2. COVERAGE PERIOD 5

3. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION 5

4. AREA OF APPLICATION 5

5. PRODUCTION SYSTEMS 5

6. MONITORING AND CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES IN VARIOUS PRODUCTION SYSTEMS 6

7. REASON FOR USING TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS 7

8. NEW AIMS 7

9. LIST OF SUBSTANCES ON WHICH MONITORING AND CONTROL IS CARRIED OUT 9

10. AGREEMENT WITH THE GREENPEACE ORGANISATION 11

11. MONITORING AND CONTROL SYSTEMS 12

12. CONDITIONS AND ACCEPTANCE 12

13. FUTURE COMMITMENT 12

14. TECHNICAL SHEETS AND COMMENTS ON THE VARIOUS SUBSTANCES 13

15. VERIFICATION AND REVIEW 32

16. SUPPLIER COMMITMENT 32

17. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 32

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This manual implements and extends the policy carried out in recent years at the MANGO organisation in relation to the monitoring and control of hazardous substances in our garments and accessories, in accordance with the commitments established in our Ethical Code..

1. DEFINITION

2. COVERAGE PERIOD

In the section: implementation (page 8), no specifi c completion date is specifi ed for the different stages envisaged in this manual, since this depends on various factors. Notwithstanding the above, we have established a maximum period of application of three years (2007-2010) for the present manual, from which point we shall produce a new manual in accordance with the experience obtained and the situation achieved. Any amendments that may be made to the legislation of the different countries in which we operate, or to the internal policies of our organisation during this period shall be implemented as it becomes applicable.

3. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION

At the MANGO organisation we have always ensured compliance with all the legislation on hazardous substances that is applicable in the different countries in which we market our products.

However, beyond the legislation, protecting the environment and the health of individuals are commitments we identify with and are committed to; for this reason, since the commencement of this project, we have implemented other actions that go beyond strict compliance with the legislation.

As specifi ed in the group’s sustainability report, there are two different production systems involving different management and substance control and analysis procedures:

5. PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

4. AREA OF APPLICATION

This area includes all hazardous substances, identifi ed as being harmful above certain levels, on which the MANGO organisation carries out monitoring and control. It is worth noting that specifi cations in certain physical characteristics of fabrics (shrinking, decolorations, etc.) also exist, and are determined by and form part of other monitoring and control areas.

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6. MONITORING AND CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES IN THE VARIOUS PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

Manufacturers’ raw materials

All suppliers of fi nished products receive written instructions from MANGO on the legislation with regard to the use of products and substances in the manufacture of the raw materials that they acquire. Once production is underway, we monitor these substances by means of exhaustive control of the same in all our articles.

This verifi cation process is carried out through the selection, on the part of our organisation, of certain garments and/or accessories from each reference, in accordance with established statistical criteria, and sending these to the laboratory for comprehensive analysis. This laboratory issues a certifi cate for all our articles (1). In this system, the selection of references for analysis is always carried on fi nal production garments and accessories, since changes in the fabrics and their components and the materials acquired by the supplier can occur during the design process and initial production trials. The aforementioned instructions for suppliers include substances that are both regulated and unregulated by the laws of the various countries. The latter are included as recommendations, given that reports and specialised studies have classifi ed them as being potentially hazardous under certain conditions. Monitoring and control is also carried out on such substances, in the same way as with regulated substances, in accordance with specifi c statistical criteria.

In cases where the presence of any of the substances envisaged by our organisation is detected, the garment or accessory is withdrawn from the collection and its commercialisation is cancelled.

By contrast, if the manufacturers provide Oeko-Tex certifi cation for the textiles with which they are manufacturing the garments or accessories, the analysis described for this type of production is not carried out, as specifi ed in the following point.

Raw materials in production workshops

Unlike the previous system, since our organisation acquires the raw material directly, we ask our suppliers for OEKO-TEX certifi cation for all textiles. Said certifi cation is issued by laboratories in each country authorised by the Swiss organisation OEKO-TEX. Once said certifi cation has been obtained, we send the raw materials to suppliers for manufacture.

(1) AITEX (which is the only laboratory in Spain certifi ed by the prestigious Swiss organisation OEKO-TEX).

Manufacturers

The fi rst consists of designing the product, ordering its manufacture and purchasing it once fi nished. In this case it is the supplier itself which acquires all the raw materials for its process. Internally, we refer to these suppliers as manufacturers, which principally come from south east Asian countries such as the Indian region, as do the raw materials used for their manufacture (yarn, fabrics, etc.).

Production workshops

The second system also involves designing the garment, however, unlike the fi rst, all the raw materials used in it are acquired by our organisation and later sent to these suppliers for their manufacture. Internally, these suppliers are referred to as production workshops, which principally come from countries in North Africa and Eastern Europe. Unlike the previous system, the origin of the raw materials is not these countries, instead they are mainly of European origin since our organisation acquires them from markets close to the countries/regions of manufacture.

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8. NEW AIMS

Throughout this time we have gained more experience and improved our monitoring and control systems. However, the most important factor has been the collaboration and participation of our suppliers of both raw materials and fi nished goods, which in the end has been one of the driving forces behind this entire joint project.

We now have new European Union legislation with regard to the regulation of toxic substances: the REACH programme (registration, evaluation and authorisation of chemical substances); notwithstanding this and irrespective of any agreements of fi nal progress this may incorporate, the aim of the MANGO organisation is to achieve higher levels of protection in this area. For this reason we aim once again to extend the monitoring to a greater number of substances (which in our opinion, although not regulated, could under certain conditions have implications for the environment and for human health) and to reduce their limits..

7. REASON FOR USING TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS

The reason for applying different management systems, depending on the system of manufacture described above, is simply for operational purposes:

When we started our business activity, we only used one method of manufacture: the direct purchase of raw materials and their subsequent dispatch to workshops for their manufacture. When we asked ourselves which would be the best system of controlling such substances, we discovered that many of our suppliers already possessed these certifi cates, since the raw materials principally originated from Europe and this was a widely known and used system of certifi cation. Consequently we extended this requirement to all suppliers that did not possess them.

Subsequently, in parallel to the previous system, we began to purchase fi nished products, in which the supplier was directly responsible for the acquisition of raw materials. When we considered the system for controlling substances we found that the application of the OEKO-TEX certifi cation represented a major diffi culty, fundamentally for the following reasons:

• The system may be based on certifi cation of any of the different production stages (spinning, dyeing, etc.) prior to manufacture and without the need to certify the fi nal garment. The characteristics of the suppliers (basically garment manufacturers) and their geographical location makes this very diffi cult from an administrative and information gathering perspective.

• The above, together with the initial absence of laboratories in our production areas considerably increased the time period for obtaining the fi nal certifi cate (all monitoring had to be carried out at laboratories in Europe).

For such reasons, with this system of production, we opted for direct control on the fi nished garment, monitoring the substances contained in the legislation of the various countries and additional ones without obtaining, in this system, the aforementioned certifi cation. This process is much more operative, in this case, both for the fi nal supplier of the garment and for our organisation.

It is worth noting that OEKO-TEX involves a much more extensive control than the one envisaged in the legislation of the various countries, since monitoring is carried out on a greater number of substances identifi ed by this organisation and because of the application of lower tolerance limits than those envisaged in the legislation in certain substances. It should also be pointed out that OEKO-TEX is the most prestigious and demanding international reference in the research, identifi cation, evaluation of tolerances and control of hazardous substances in textiles (further information is available at www.oeko-tex.org).

Any fabric, whether for garments or accessories, that does not have said certifi cation will not be accepted.

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Extended number of substances

Many of these were already included in the instructions to our suppliers as recommendations, even though analytical control is carried out on them; with effect from this proposal the recommendation will become an obligation. Other substances will be included with immediate effect as a result of information and studies we have obtained throughout this period. OSPAR+ List

It is worth noting that extending the monitoring and control carried out on certain substances, as described above, together with the non-application of others owing to the technical characteristics of our products, has also, in part, been implemented in order to achieve the monitoring and control of all the substances included in the OSPAR+ list established by Greenpeace. However, our controls also include other substances in addition to the ones contained in this list.

Reduction of tolerance limits

Since the beginning of this project we have worked together, and have managed to control the presence the substances in our garments and accessories, with a Spanish laboratory of renowned international prestige: AITEX (Textile Technology Institute), which is also the only laboratory in Spain certifi ed by and which forms part of the prestigious Swiss organisation OEKO-TEX (more information at www.aitex.org).

As already mentioned in other sections, said organisation is the international reference in the identifi cation of substances and in the determination of their hazard limits, at all times applying the strictest demands and highest standards of rigour. For this reason, and based upon this experience, we have decided that the limits established by this organisation (more demanding for certain substances than those contained in various laws) shall be the ones we apply from now on. Thus, in the relevant aspects, we shall treat the two management and substance control systems described above in the same way.

In the event that any legislation, present or future, states a limit lower than the quoted standard, we will apply the latter.

Ultimate aim: the non-presence of certain substances

Until now our system has been based on instructions and controls focusing on not exceeding the limits that we have progressively established. In part, this has been an approach based on complying with the legislation.

However, with experience and observation of the results obtained over these years we have confi rmed that in virtually all the control analyses carried out that such substances were not detected in our garments and accessories. Only on very specifi c occasions have we observed the presence of some of these: in some cases within the tolerance limits envisaged in the legislation or our own standards for non-legislated substances, and in others above such limits, which has resulted in the non-commercialisation of the article in accordance with the specifi cations of this report.

Since it is our intention to advance progressively in such aspects, we have also decided to completely eliminate certain substances from our production processes, focusing our system more on elimination and substitution, and consequently on the principle of precaution. We will achieve this progressively, since we need to obtain all the historic information in this respect and to inform our suppliers in an appropriate manner.

Implementation

It should be borne in mind that for our organisation, there are 2 seasons per year : spring-summer and autumn-winter. At the date of this report, June 2007, we are completing production for the autumn-winter 2007 season and designing for the spring-summer 2008 season.

Implementation of the various stages described previously is set out below:

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9. LIST OF SUBSTANCES ON WHICH MONITORING AND CONTROL IS CARRIED OUT BY THE MANGO ORGANISATION

Raw materials in production workshops

As stated previously, for this system Oeko-Tex certifi cation will be requested. The verifi ed substances are the ones that are included in this system (more information available at www.oeko-tex.org). Internally, in MANGO, the coding for this system is MANGO STANDARD: RSC/2007/CONSUBSTAN/MP/01.

Manufacturers’ raw materials

For this system the verifi ed substances which are internally known as MANGO STANDARD: RSC/2007/CONSUBSTAN/PA/01, is set below:

STAGE AREA DATE OF APPLICATION

1 Current situation

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3

Non-presence of certain substances + other aspects envisaged and not envisaged

in the legislation (substances and levels)

With effect from the full implementa-tion of stage 2, and as we dispose of

more information and find technical and operative solutions for the various

substances with a possible presence.Said substances and dates will be

notified progressively in our reports.

Compliance with the legislation (limits) + other aspects not included in the legislation

(substances and limits)

Reduction in the limits envisaged in the legislation to Oeko-Tex levels + and additional

aspects to existing ones not included in the legislation (substances)

Approximately in two seasons: autumn-winter 2007 and spring-g-

summer 2008

Nº PARAMETERS APPLIED LIMIT VALUES

AREA OF APPLICATION

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TESTINGMETHOD

Antimony trioxideOeko-Tex Method:

30 ppm 30 ppm In polyester textiles

Arsenic No detection (1) In textiles/leather andmetal fittings/accessories

Oeko-Tex Method: 0.06 ppm

(quantification limit)

No detection (1) In textiles/leatherAzoic dyes

(arylamines)

Oeko-Tex Method:20 ppm

(quantification limit)

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(1) In all cases the detection limit envisaged in the Testing Method we currently apply (the one determined by the Oeko-Tex organisation) coincides with the limit and type of Testing Method envisaged in the laws of the various applicable countries. (2) According to list, includes: triclosan, BIT, Kathon, IPBC, DTTB.(3) These soaps cannot be used in the production process (washing) of the garments.(4) Despite the fact that this is not a substance in itself, and that it corresponds more to the characteristics of the fabric, its control was fi nally included in this category of chemicals. This requirement will also be included in the specifi cations of the technical sheet.(5) According to list, includes: 2,4,5-T, 2,4-D, Azinophosmethyl, Azinophosethyl, Aldrine, Bromophos-ethyl, Captafol, Carbaryl, Chlordane, Chlordimeform, Chlorfenvinphos, Coumaphos, Cyfl uthrin, Cyhalothrin, Cypermethrin, DEF, Deltamethrin, DDD, DDE, DDT, Diazinon, Dichlorprop, Dicrotophos, Dieldrine, Dimethoate, Dinoseb and salts, Endosulfan, Endosulfan, Endrine, Esfenvalerate, Fenvalerate, Heptachlor, Heptachloroepoxide, Hexachlorobenzene, Hexachlorcyclohexane, Lindane, Malathion, MCPA, MCPB, Mecoprop, Metamidophos, Methoxychlor, Mirex, Monocrotophos, Parathion, Parathion-methyl, Phosdrin/Mevinphos, Propethamphos, Profenophos, Quinalphos, Toxaphene, Trifl uralin.

Organochlorinated carriers

Biocides (2)

Mercury

Nickel

1.0 ppm

No detection (1)

1,0 ppm

No detection (1)

In textiles/leather

In textiles/leather

In textiles/leatherOeko-Tex Method: 0,006 ppm (quantification limit)

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Oeko-Tex Method:1.0 ppm

Phenolic compoundsOeko-Tex Method:

0.02 ppm(quantification limit)

In polyester textiles, silk and wool

In metal trimmings/accessories

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In textiles/leather

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10.000 ppm

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Pesticides (5)No detection (1)

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pH (4) Between 4 - 7,5

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Nonylphenolethoxylates (3) No detection

In textiles/leather

In textiles/leather

Own method (Chromatograph)

Own method (Chromatograph)

Short chain chlorinated paraffins

In natural fibre textilesOeko-Tex Method:

0.05 ppm (quantification limit)

Oeko-Tex Method:between 4–7.5 ppm

Cadmium 0,1 ppm In textiles/leather and

plastic fittings/accessoriesOeko-Tex Method:

0.1 ppm

Cr (VI) 3 ppm In textiles/leatherOeko-Tex Method:

3 ppm

50 ppm Oeko-Tex Method: 50 ppm

Disperse dye allergens

In polyester, acetateand triacetate textiles

Formaldehyde In textiles/leather75 ppmOeko-Tex: Method

75 ppm

LeadIn textiles/leather

and metaltrimmings/accessories

Oeko-Tex Method:

1,0 ppm

1,0 ppm

1.0 ppm In textiles/leather Oeko-Tex Method:1.0 ppm

Organic tin compounds

Oeko-Tex Method:1.0 ppm

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10. AGREEMENT WITH THE GREENPEACE ORGANISATION

Furthermore, in order to make progress in all these aspects, and also in the principle of precaution, we have collaborated with the Greenpeace organisation and reached an agreement to support and publicise all these aspects. This agreement was reached in July 2006 by means of a public presentation. Said agreement sets out the commitments of MANGO in this respect and will create a platform to monitor and spread these practices and systems in order to inform other interested organisations and encourage advances in legislation until the highest levels of protection for persons and the environment are obtained.

We also gave our support to the aforementioned organisation in defence of stricter demands in the future European REACH regulations. This support took the form, among some other actions, of the design and manufacture of a silk handkerchief, which was offered as a gift by Greenpeace to all members of the European Parliament.

It should be noted that the list and systems described above may be modifi ed in the future, owing to amendments to legislation or the inclusion of new countries, or changes to the internal policy of the organisation.

Various substances exist in the Ospar+ list which, because of their characteristics and the characteristics of MANGO production are not included in our garments or accessories. These unused substances, together with those specifi ed in the above table make up the total of the aforementioned list.

PVC

All our fabrics are PVC free. However a percentage of accessories (certain bags, purses and belts) that are still manufactured in this material, owing to fashion trends. Furthermore, certain garment prints, for technical reasons, are also manufactured in this material.

In spite of the fact that this material is not currently legislated for in textiles, we believe it appropriate to continue reducing its use and replacing it with other materials or other types of plastic with production processes that are less harmful to the environment.

The process will be implemented by product families progressively over the coming seasons, as we encounter technical solutions that adapt to the characteristics of our designs.. PVC in stores and general materials

Although its present use is negligible it will also be replaced in all interior design and window display materials in stores and in purchases of general materials for the organisation (stationery, etc.).

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13. FUTURE COMMITMENT

The MANGO organisation will continue to operate with the aforementioned policy within the ambit of controlling and monitoring hazardous substances, improving safety conditions and environmental impact, making progress on all aspects wherever this is possible and at all times providing information on the results obtained and the actions taken.

12. CONDITIONS AND ACCEPTANCE

Compliance with this regulation is an essential condition in order to work with the MANGO group as a supplier. All our suppliers sign a document in this respect setting out the entire regulation and the process to be followed.

11. MONITORING AND CONTROL SYSTEMS

The monitoring and control of compliance of these requirements will be implemented in different stages:

• Awareness and written declaration, on the part of suppliers, of compliance with the specifi ed standards in all

fabrics and materials that are supplied to us directly or form part of garments and accessories.

• Selection of a sample of each production and verifi cation of the standard by the TEXTILE TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE (AITEX) + issue of the certifi cate for the garment or accessory once it has been analysed and approved. Such samples will be taken in a managed and random manner in accordance with the following criteria:

a) Substances covered by the legislation: one sample per composition type and per colour type.

b) Substances not covered by the legislation but included in the MANGO standards: one random sample in accordance with pre-established selection criteria.

• However, this sampling system aims to defend the suitability of the system, because within the same fabric production other production batches with slightly different characteristics may exist.

• Furthermore, with effect from 2007, our external auditors will certify both the analysis of samples and the validity of the established system.

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14. TECHNICAL SHEETS AND COMMENTS ON THE VARIOUS SUBSTANCES

Aim

The aim of these sheets is to provide greater clarity and technical information on the different substances included in the standards established by the MANGO organisation:

The substances verifi ed for this system are the ones specifi ed in the Oeko-Tex certifi cation. A list is not provided in this manual since these substances virtually coincide with the ones contained in the MANGO standard described below. Technical information on each substance analysed and verifi ed in this certifi cation is available at www.oeko-tex.org.

Manufacturers’ raw materials

For this system the substances verifi ed are the ones included in the MANGO standard RSC/2007/CONSUBSTAN/PA/01 described in the section “List of substances on which monitoring and control is carried out by the MANGO organisation”.

For each of these substances, in accordance with the aims set out above, we highlight their most signifi cant characteristics according to the following criteria:

• DEFINITION: contains a brief description of each substance in addition to its most signifi cant characteristics.

• APPLICATION: this section explains the possible general applications and in the textile industry of each substance.

• TOXICOLOGY: contains the principal harmful or toxic effects of each substance.

• LEGISLATION: this section lists the principal legislation and regulations in force in the various countries in which we market our products. It is worth noting that said legislation and regulations contains its date of application, in addition to its requirements, details and testing methods.

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1. ARSENIC

Defi nition

Heavy metal, metaloid, grey in colour with metallic sheen, which, combined with oxygen constitutes a violent poison.

Application

Can be applied as a pesticide action on textiles.

Toxicology

Acute exposure to arsenic may cause fever, anorexia, liver enlargement or even death. Chronic exposure may cause poisoning of the nervous system, liver failure and peripheral vascular illness, which may cause gangrene in the lower limbs.

Legislation

COUNTRY LEGISLATION Spain

Poland

Royal Decree 106/85. BOE nº 27 (31/01/85)

ROZPORZ_DZENIE RADY MINISTRÓW z dnia 19 pa_dziernika 2001 r. w sprawie bezpiecze_stwa i znakowania produktów w_ókienniczych. (Dz. U. z dnia 17 grudnia 2001 r.) (Regulation on safety and textile marking).

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2. BIOCIDES

Defi nition

These are chemical substances characterised by their anti-bacterial and anti-fungicidal properties.

Application

A list of the main families of these types of products follows:

• Anti-bacterians (bactericides/bacteristatics).

• Antifungicides (fungicides/fungistatics).

• Insecticides.

They may be used in:

• Oral hygiene: toothpastes and mouthwashes.

• Cosmetics: preservative in cosmetic formulations given that it inhibits bacterial growth.

• Personal hygiene: beauty soaps, stick and aerosol deodorants, talcum powders, face washes, germicidal liquid soaps, medicinal soaps, cleansing creams and anti-acne creams.

• Institutional hygiene: disinfectant and sterilising agent in hospitals and for surgical equipment.

• Household hygiene: bactericide in household cleaning products, detergents, washing-up liquid, soaps for clothing items, in cleaning towels, etc.

They are mainly found in textiles manufactured with natural fi bres.

Nowadays, a wide range of antimicrobial products exist for textile products, among other things to prevent body odour.

Toxicology

Its adverse effects include corrosivity, acute toxicity, etc. in addition to its impact on the environment.

Legislation

Polonia ROZPORZ_DZENIE RADY MINISTRÓW z dnia 19 pa_dziernika 2001 r. w sprawie bezpiecze_stwa i znakowania produktów w_ókiennic(Dz. U. z dnia 17 grudnia 2001 r.) (Regulation on safety and textile marking).

COUNTRY LEGISLATION Japan Law for the Control of Household Products Containing Harmful

Substances (1973)” y “The Guide to Law for the Control of Household Products Containing Harmful Substances (3/1999)”. DTTB is forbidden.

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3. CADMIUM

Defi nition

Bluish-white ductile and malleable heavy metal.

Application

It can be used as:

• Pigment for plastic materials.

• Stabilising agent for ultra-violet rays in order to prevent PVC deterioration.

• Paints.

• Brightener and anti-oxidant for metal components.

Can be found in plastic materials (PVC, polyurethane, polyethylene, etc) and in the cadmium plating of metal accessories and painted metals. Toxicology

Poisonous if ingested, inhaled or injected. Can be carcinogenic and may cause tumours. May have a harmful effect on reproduction. At high temperatures may give off toxic gases.

Accumulates in the bones with pathological effects such as osteoporosis and rickets, among others.

Finally, it is linked to hypertension and heart disease.

Legislation

COUNTRY LEGISLATION

Switzerland

European Union

“Ordinance relating to Environmentally Hazardous Substances: SR 814.013 (9/6/86), Amendment of 11/11/98. ”

Directive 91/338/EEC which amends European Directive 76/769/CE

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4. AZOIC DYES (ARYLAMINES)

Defi nition

These are chemical substances which may form part of the structure of certain dyes –azoic dyes- and which, under certain conditions, may be released and absorbed by the human body through perspiration and saliva.

The chemical structure of azoic dyes is characterised by the presence of the chromophore group azo (-N=N-), bonded to aromatic rings.

Application

Can be found in the dyeing and printing process of textiles and leather goods.

Toxicology

The azo group is susceptible to reducing, giving rise to the formation of aromatic rings (arylamines), some of which are proven to be potentially carcinogenic.

Legislation

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5. DISPERSE DYE ALLERGENS

Defi nition

These are a type of non-ionic dyes that are insoluble in water.

Application

They can be used in dyeing and printing processes, basically in textile items made of polyester, polyamide, polyurethane, acetate, triacetate and/or acrylic.

Toxicology

When they come into direct contact with the skin, these dyes may produce allergic reactions.

Legislation

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6. PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS:

Defi nition

These are substances derived from phenol in which various hydrogen atoms of the molecule have been substituted for chlorine atoms (PCP and TeCP).

Application

These are chemical substances which are used as pesticides, in industrial and domestic applications.

It can be used as a preservative in textiles and leather goods.

Toxicology

Various scientifi c studies have been carried out showing that both PCP and TeCP may be carcinogenic, since they may be linked to leukaemia, malignant lynphomas and sarcoma in soft tissue in humans.

They are highly toxic if ingested or inhaled and highly irritant. They are absorbed thermically.

Legislation

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7. ORGANIC TIN COMPOUNDS

Defi nition

Organic tin compounds are classifi ed according to the number of carbonated substitutes bonded to the tin atom: mono and disubstituted tin compounds and trisubstituted compounds.

Application

They are used as catalysers in the production of polyurethane foam and silicones and as general and agricultural biocides.

They can be used as anti-foam agents, fungicides and in PVC as stabilisers and plasticisers.

Toxicology

The toxicology derived from the effects of organic tin compounds can be classifi ed into two large families:

• Local effects: certain disubstituted tin compounds may cause skin irritation (often periods of skin contact of 1-8 hours) and eye irritation. Tin triphenyl acetate causes irritation to the skin and the mucous membranes in the respiratory system.

• Systematic effects: these have only been observed for cases of skin exposure or inhalation of tin triphenyl acetate, in which symptoms such as general sickness, nausea, gastric pains, buccal dryness and sight problems have been detected. Transitory liver failure has also been detected in certain cases.

Legislation

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8. ORGANOCHLORINATED COMPOUNDS

Defi nition

These are chemical substances formed by chlorine atoms and are generally of low environmental biodegradability.

Application

These compounds may be used to dissolve and dilute fats, oils and adhesives.

They may also be used in the dyeing processes of fi bres as a transporter vehicles in order to ensure good penetration of the dye molecules in the fi bre interior. They are basically found in certain polyester, wool and/or silk items.

Toxicology

Some of these compounds are potentially carcinogenic.

Legislation

There is no legislation that regulates organochlorinated compounds.

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9. CHROME (VI)

Defi nition

Heavy metal which may, under certain conditions, appear due to the oxidisation of chrome (III).

Application

May appear as a consequence of using Chrome (III) in leather tanning processes.

Toxicology

Inhaling high levels of chrome (VI) may cause irritation to the nose, runny nose, nasal haemorrhage, ulcers and perforations in the nasal bone.

Ingesting large quantities of chrome (VI) may produce stomach upsets and ulcers, convulsions, liver and kidney failure and even death.

Skin contact with certain chrome (VI) compounds may cause skin ulceration. Some people are extremely sensitive to chrome (VI) and chrome (III). Allergic reactions consistent with reddening or serious swelling of the skin have been described.

Legislation

GermanyCOUNTRY LEGISLATION

There is no specific legislation, however in Germany use of this type of substance is not recommended: German legislation “§30 of the Food and Commodities Law (LMBG) (1/1/96)”.

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10. FORMALDEHYDE

Defi nition

Formaldehyde is a highly volatile gas with a strong and pungent odour which is normally used in aqueous solutions.

Application

It is a chemical substance which acts as:

• Biocide for the preservation of textile materials.

• Colour fi xer and printer.

• Component in urea, melamine and phenolic resins (anti-crease and anti-shrinkage).

• Cross-linking agent in printing pastes for the fi xing of certain dyes.

Can be found in leather goods and textiles in general.

Toxicology

This substance is strongly allergenic through contact (skin, eyes), inhalation and digestion. Furthermore, it is potentially a human carcinogenic agent and is also associated with allergic asthma.

Legislation

Japan

Norway

Popular Republicof China

Finland

Russia

South Korea South Korea, “Korea-ATS, MOCIE (1/1/90)”

COUNTRY LEGISLATION Chinese Nacional Safety Technical Code for Textile Products, “GB 18401-1-2003 Textile Products - Limits on Formaldehyde Content)”

Japanese Law 112, “Law for the Control of Household Products Containing Harmful Substances (1973)” and “The Guide to Law for the Control of Household Products Containing Harmful Substances (3/1999)”.

Norwegian Regulation, “Regulations relating to restr ictions on the manufacture , impor t, expor t, sale and use of chemicals and other products hazardous to health and the environment” (Product Regulations, 17/11/04).

Finnish Decree, “Decree on maximum amounts of formaldehyde in certain textile products: 210/1988 (1/4/88)”

Mandatory standard in the Russian Federation: “Textile-Maximum allowable concentrations of free formaldehyde (18/1/93)”

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11. MERCURY

Defi nition

It is a silver heavy metal which at room temperature becomes an odourless liquid.

Application

Mercury is used in the manufacture of batteries (electric lamps and components), pesticides, in addition to barometers and thermometers.

It can be used as a pesticide agent in textiles.

Toxicology

The immediate effects that may occur on inhalation are: stinging throat pain, headache, nausea, loss of appetite and muscle weakness. Through eye and skin contact: reddening and irritation. Through ingestion: vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and muscle weakness. Prolonged or repeated exposure may cause damage to the kidneys, brain and nervous system.

Legislation

25

12. NICKEL

Defi nition

Nickel is a silver metallic element which is malleable and has excellent resistance to corrosion and which, among other things, possesses properties that allow it to be used frequently in combination with other metals, in particular iron, copper, chrome and zinc, in order to produce mixtures known as “alloys”.

Application

It can be used in the manufacture of coins, jewellery and numerous industrial products, such as stainless steel.

It can also be found in the plating of clothing accessories such as buckles, snap fasteners, automatic buttons, zips and jean buttons, among others.

Toxicology

Allergic reactions are one of the most common and principal toxic effects of nickel on human health. The most common reaction is skin reddening in the area of contact with the metal, although in some people dermatitis occurs in areas away from the area of contact, often producing eczema on the hands.

The most serious toxic effects caused by exposure to nickel are chronic bronchitis, reduced lung functions, cancer of the lung and nasal cavities. Such complaints have only been detected among workers of the nickel refi ning industry and metal processing plants who are exposed to higher levels than in any other type of environment.

Although less commonplace, it can also cause asthma attacks.

Legislation

26

13. NONYLPHENOL ETHOXYLATES (ALKYL PHENOLS)

Defi nition

These are substances which contain surfactants and emulsifi ers and are not of an ionic nature. The most used compounds of this type are nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPE) and, to a lesser degree, octylphenol ethoxylates (OPE).

Application

The most frequent application of these substances can be found in:

• Non-ionic surfactants (soaps).

• Emulsifi ers, dispersants and moistening agents.

• The preparation of detergents (cleaning products).

• Components of pesticides and other agricultural products.

They can also be found in fi nishing products in textiles and in leather tanning.

Toxicology

These compounds degrade in the environment in order to produce alkyl phenols, which are persistent and bioaccumulative toxic substances that can have harmful effects on estrogenic activity, and represent a risk factor to lymphocytes, complications in the placenta and in the umbilical cord. Furthermore, they may be toxic in aquatic organisms and upset the sexual development in other types of organisms.

Legislation

27

14. SHORT CHAIN CHLORINATED PARRAFINS

Defi nition

These are chemical compounds based on chloroalkanes.

Application

They are used as components of products employed to treat metals and greased leather and hides.

Toxicology

Chlorinated paraffi ns are considered hazardous to the environment because they are very harmful to aquatic organisms and may cause harmful effects to the environment in the long term.

Chlorinated paraffi ns may penetrate the organism by inhalation, ingestion or through contact with the skin, although these substances are not easily absorbed by the human body. No chronic short-term effects have been detected from exposure to such substances, although they may have serious long-term effects on the health.

Studies carried out suggest that these substances could be carcinogenic, although no fi rm information on humans is available.

Legislation

28

15. PESTICIDES

Defi nition

Pesticides are defi ned as substances used to combat plagues (insecticides)

Application

They can be found in natural fi bres of vegetable origin (cotton, linen and ramie) and natural fi bres of animal origin (wool and silk).

Toxicology

Among the effects of pesticides, it is worth noting that they promote various carcinogenic pathologies, alteration agents of the hormone system and generate the risk of infertility, in addition to active agents in the development of human malformation during pregnancy.

Furthermore, there is medical evidence that these pesticides contribute to the development of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and also increase the risk of suffering other neuro-degenerative illnesses like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

They may also have a negative impact on neurological development and child behaviour.

Legislation

29

16. pH

Defi nition

pH is the value that determines whether a substance is acid, neutral or basic, calculated by the number of hydrogen ions it contains. The measurement is a scale from 0 to 14, in which 7 indicates that the substance is neutral. pH below 7 indicates that the substance is acidic and values above 7 indicates that the substance is basic.

Application

It is applied as a quantifying index of the acidity/basicity of a substance in all types of textiles and leather goods.

Toxicology

Textiles in direct contact with the skin that contain strong acids or alkalis with a pH value that is excessively high or low may cause skin irritation, given that the human skin is slightly acidifi ed in order to inhibit the growth of bacteria.

Legislation

30

17. LEAD

Defi nition

Heavy metal that can be found in certain pigments.

Application

Its principal applications include:

• Metallic lead: for the manufacture of certain types of batteries and munitions.

• Organic compounds of lead are used as additives in some petrol products.

• Inorganic lead salts: these are mainly used in the ceramics and paint industries.

It can be found in metal and plastic complements and accessories.

Toxicology

Lead compounds can be absorbed by inhalation and ingestion. Metallic lead can also be absorbed through the skin although in very small quantities.

The health effects of lead are irrespective of the means of entry, inhalation or ingestion. The main target of lead toxicity is the nervous system, and it can also produce weakness in the fi ngers and wrists, anaemia and, with high levels of exposure, damage to the brain, kidneys and sperm producing organs.

Legislation

31

18. ANTIMONY TRIOXIDE

Defi nition

This is a chemical substance that acts as a fi re retardant.

Application

It is normally used as:

• Catalyser in the polymerisation of polyester fi bres.

• White pigment and as a catalyser of plastic fi bres.

It can be used as a fi re resistant element in household textiles.

Toxicology

The use of fi re retardant preparations may have a negative impact of a hormonal nature and is considered to be a potentially carcinogenic agent in humans. On the other hand, it is worth highlighting its persistence and bioaccumulability.

Legislation

There is currently no legislation that prohibits the use of antimony trioxide.

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MANUAL

This manual has undergone a technical review by the Textile Technology Institute (AITEX).

SYSTEM

See the Monitoring and Control Systems section.

We would like to thank all our suppliers for their collaboration and commitment in the all the aspects described in this manual. This has undoubtedly contributed to improving the safety and environment of our employees and their employees and that of their suppliers, as well as that of our customers throughout the world.

15. VERIFICATION AND REVIEW

16. SUPPLIER COMMITMENT

For more information on our sustainability policies, visit our webpage: www.mango.com

17. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

June 2007, Mango Group