The first assessment, the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals Manufactured Restricted Substances List (ZDHC MRSL), screens for hazardous chemicals used in the processing and manufacturing of textiles. These chemical applications range from mould prevention used in storing leather, to emulsifier and dispersing agents for dyes and prints, to the phthalates used to make plastic buttons more flexible and durable.

Through the programme, NSF International screens chemical-formulation information supplied by the manufacturer and determines if it meets the requirements of ZHDC MRSL Conformance Level 1 certification. MRSL is a list of chemical substances banned from international use in facilities that process textile materials and trim parts in apparel, leather and footwear.

ToxFMD Screened Chemistry Program

The second assessment, the ToxFMD Screened Chemistry Program, includes the ZDHC MRSL screen but also incorporates additional chemical reviews. In addition to screening chemicals against a restricted substances list, ToxFMD assesses the human and environmental hazards associated with each chemical within formulations used in the textile industry.

As consumers demand safer products, manufacturing processes and transparency, brands and suppliers are looking more closely at the chemicals they use. A major benefit of ToxFMD is that companies can comply with supplier requirements and promote green chemistry without divulging proprietary formulations to outside parties.

“Third-party evaluation, completed by our toxicologists through a robust and comprehensive vetting process using state-of-the-art resources, promotes transparency and allows manufacturers to demonstrate compliance with supplier and consumer demands,” said Jenny Oorbeck, General Manager of NSF International’s Sustainability Services.

Teaming up with ToxServices

NSF International will serve as a third-party assessor for ToxFMD along with ToxServices, the developer of the chemical assessment programьу. “Teaming up with NSF International to deliver cost-effective and high-quality evaluations is a win-win for clients, brands and the environment,” said Margaret Whittaker, ToxServices Managing Director.

As part of ToxFMD, companies are required to disclose all intentionally added ingredients at any concentration and all residuals or impurities greater than 100 parts per million (ppm) in the final textile treatment formulation. These findings are kept confidential, so manufacturers can meet supplier demands and programьу requirements without divulging proprietary information.

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