SGS offers guidance on chemical management to apparel suppliers
27/10/2016
SGS says it developed the 4C model is response to the increasing concern about hazardous chemicals in the apparel industry. It believes that while large international brands have already implemented chemical management programmes, some small and medium-sized companies within the apparel supply chain lack “the awareness and ability to manage chemicals effectively.
The 4C model has four sections: commitment, competence, critical point control and comprehensive system.
In the commitment step, SGS says companies should investigate the best available chemical management techniques and practices within the industry before implementing a programme.
Establishing a special team, led by one person with overall responsibility for chemical management, satisfies the competence section of the model. This person should have a chemical or environmental background, as well as being familiar with the company’s raw materials and production process.
SGS says “critical point control is the priority” when launching a chemical management programme. This involves understanding the flow and use of each chemical in the manufacturing plant during all stages of production.
The top tier of the 4C model is the establishment of a comprehensive system, which SGS says must undergo continuous improvement after implementation.
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