The Switzerland-based Oeko-Tex® Association has released revised and expanded test criteria, limits and by-laws for its Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 product certification process. Changes were effective January 1 following a joint resolution adopted by the association's 14 member institutes. After a three-month transition period, the changes will be enforced. 

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon substances in such items as man-made fibers, yarns and plastic parts will be limited to 10 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) for the 16 defined substances. A limit of 1 mg/kg will apply to benzo[a]pyrene. These limits apply across all four Oeko-Tex product classes.

Diisobutylphthalate (DIBP) softener will be excluded from use as part of the Oeko-Tex certification process. This change was made because DIBP likely will be added to Europe's list of REACH substances (substances of very high concern). REACH is a European Community regulation on chemicals and their safe use.

Dioctyltin has been added to Oeko-Tex's list of prohibited tin-organic substances, with a limit of 1 mg/kg for baby articles (Product class I) and a limit of 2 mg/kg for all other product classes.

Oeko-Tex also will extend the transition provision for total lead content in metallic materials.

In addition, effective December 2009, each Oeko-Tex certificate contains information stating that "certified articles meet the requirement 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)."

Beginning in April, the association will supply its licensees with a quality assurance package to help support and streamline the certification process, with the aim of helping Oeko-Tex auditors better coordinate existing product ranges with local companies.

January 12, 2010