What are the common safety standards for textiles in the EU?

 

1. REACH: REACH stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals. It is a regulation of the European Union that aims to ensure the safe use of chemicals in the production of textiles and other products. The regulation requires textile manufacturers to register the chemicals they use and provide information on their potential health and safety hazards.
 

 

2. EN ISO 13688: This standard specifies general performance requirements for protective clothing, including requirements for mechanical, thermal, and chemical hazards. It covers protective clothing for a wide range of applications, including industrial, medical, and emergency services.

 

3. EN ISO 11611: This standard specifies requirements for protective clothing used in welding and similar processes. It covers clothing that protects against various hazards, such as flames, heat, and molten metal.

 

4. EN ISO 11612: This standard specifies requirements for protective clothing used in heat and flame exposure, including clothing for firefighters and other emergency services.

 

5. EN ISO 14116: This standard specifies requirements for protective clothing used in environments where there is a risk of exposure to heat and flame, but the risk is not as high as in EN ISO 11612.

 

6. Oeko-Tex Standard 100: This is a voluntary certification system for textile products that ensures they meet certain safety and environmental standards. It tests for harmful substances in the finished product, such as heavy metals and formaldehyde, and requires that the product be made in an environmentally responsible manner.

 

These safety standards help ensure that textiles sold in the EU are safe for consumers to use. Compliance with these standards can also help protect manufacturers from liability claims and improve their reputation for producing safe and high-quality products.