Intertek Launches its New Sandblasting Assessment & Management Programme to Safeguard Workers and Manage Sandblasting Risk in the Denim Manufacturing Industry
17 May 2011
Paris, France – Intertek is pleased to
announce the launch of its new Sandblasting Assessment & Management programme. This is in response to this increasing consumer and brand concerns over
the health implications to employees involved in the sandblasting process,
which involves applying crystalline silica or sand particles to garments under
high pressure. If performed without the appropriate protective ventilation and
safety equipment and in suitable working conditions, the inhalation of dust
containing crystalline silica can lead to silicosis, a serious pulmonary
disease.
Intertek’s new programme enables brands
and retailers to assess the impact of sandblasting in their production
facilities located throughout their global supply chain. The aim of the
assessment is to look at:
- Sandblasting alternatives
- Preventive measures in place to reduce health risks for workers
- Clear instructions and training given to employees on handling machinery and hazardous materials
- Management systems in place to ensure employees’ safety
- Hazardous materials management process
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ensured and enforced
This new Sandblasting Assessment & Management programme complements Intertek’s existing supply chain sustainability programmes to address the major reputational risk and compliance themes, including the following:
- Supplier Identity & Profile – Import Safety Intelligence (ISI)
- Social Compliance – Workplace Conditions Assessment (WCA)
- Environmental Sustainability – Think Green Initiative (TGI)
- Quality Assurance – Supplier Qualification Program (SQP)
- Security Compliance – Global Security Verification (GSV)
- Fabric Quality – Mill Qualification Program (MQP)
About Intertek
Intertek (www.intertek.com) is a leading provider of quality and safety
solutions serving a wide range of industries around the world. From auditing and
inspection, to testing, quality assurance and certification, Intertek people
are dedicated to adding value to customers’ products and processes, supporting
their success in the global marketplace. Intertek has the expertise, resources
and global reach to support
its customers through its network of more than 1,000
laboratories and offices and over 30,000 people in more than 100 countries
around the world.
Contact:
Charlotte Leleu, Intertek Consumer Goods Europe
Phone: +33 2 32 09 36 51
Email: charlotte.leleu@intertek.com