TÜV SÜD unveils certification mark dedicated to the global footwear industry

TÜV SÜD unveils certification mark dedicated to the global footwear industry

TÜV SÜD designed a certification program exclusively for the global footwear industry. The “TÜV SÜD Footwear Mark” addresses the industry’s concern for safeguarding the chemical safety of footwear. The Mark demonstrates a retailer’s or manufacturer’s compliance to international chemical regulations as well as RSL (Restricted Substance List) requirements. TÜV SÜD will be participating at the GDS International Event for Shoes & Accessories 2010, Düsseldorf, from 12–14 March 2010 to present the “TÜV SÜD Footwear Mark” and its comprehensive range of quality and safety solutions for the footwear and accessories industry (Hall 07, Stand 70C27).

One of the biggest challenges in the footwear industry is navigating through the various stringent chemical regulations applicable in different countries or regions, for example the REACH regulation in the European Union and the CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) in the US. “Growing concern over the potential risk to human health and the environment caused by hazardous chemicals has sparked more legislation to be enacted,” says Kapil Bansal, Global Sales Director-Softlines, TÜV SÜD Product Service. “Compliance to these legislations is made more complicated with the complexities of a global supply chain.” With the Mark, TÜV SÜD aims to provide the much needed support retailers and manufacturers require to demonstrate their compliance to these requirements as well as provide the assurance to the end consumers that the product has been manufactured with critical consideration to chemical safety.

TÜV SÜD Footwear Mark is awarded upon completion of a comprehensive chemical testing and factory inspection program. The hazardous substances tested include those regulated by EU directives, REACH and the CPSIA of US, as well as most substances commonly found on the RSL (Restricted Substance List) of major retailers. Validity of the TÜV SÜD Mark is subject to annual factory inspections and random product sampling from the production line for spot testing, further adding another dimension to the safety net. The scheme is suitable for all footwear retailers and manufactures producing different footwear types, ranging from plastic sandals to leather boots.

For more information about "TÜV SÜD Footwear Mark" and TÜV SÜD services for the footwear industry, visit www.tuev-sued.com/softlines or contact a TUV SÜD expert at softlines@tuev-sued.com.

Contact: Dr. Thomas Oberst