Bluesign
Bluesign is an international system for managing chemicals, resources, safety, and related factors in the manufacturing processes of textiles and apparel.
Contents5 sections
Definition and Overview
bluesign is a system that focuses on the chemicals used and manufacturing control in processes such as raw materials, production, and processing for textile products. Rather than testing only the finished product, it emphasizes reducing risk from the start of the process.
The scope may include not only textile, but also yarn, dyes and auxiliaries, prints, coatings, and accessories. However, the scope covered depends on the type of certification or approval and the terms of the transaction with the trading partner.
Scope and How the Standard is Considered
bluesign takes an approach that comprehensively manages impacts on the human body, environmental emissions, worker safety, and resource use. The basic principle is to prevent chemicals with a concern for specific hazards from being brought into the manufacturing process, or to control them.
For that reason, bluesign is not a standard that indicates the type of textile or the fabric construction. It is a different matter from material names such as polyester or cotton, functional descriptions such as water-repellent finishing, or product quality test results.
- Which approvals or certifications the textile or component is covered by
- The scope of the color, processing, product number, and lot
- How non-textile items such as lining, interlining, zippers, and buttons are handled
- Control of prints, washing, and secondary processing added after the product is made
Points to Check in Textile Procurement and Product Development
When purchasing, do not judge only by whether it says “bluesign compliant”; confirm whether the scope applies to the textile itself, the raw material stage, or the factory management system. It is important to match the product number, blend ratio, color, and processing details with the order specifications.
When making claims for a product, also check the prints, water-repellent agents, adhesives, labels, and accessories added after sewing. Even if a certified or approved textile is used, the entire product will not necessarily be treated the same because of additional processes or other components.
Handling of Labels and Certificates
Logos, wording, and product markings related to bluesign should be handled after confirming the scope and usage conditions. For textile certificates and transaction documents, confirm the applicable product number, issuer, issue date, and validity, and keep them together with the specification sheet and inspection records.
OEKO-TEX is mainly a testing and certification system for harmful substances in products, GOTS is a certification that includes organic fibers as well as processing and social requirements, and GRS is a certification related to recycled content and traceability. Because each has a different purpose and scope, they are not interchangeable.
Frequently Asked Questions
If the textile is bluesign certified, does the finished product also become bluesign certified?
Not necessarily. The scope for the textile and the scope for the finished product must be confirmed separately. If there are additional processes or components such as sewing, printing, washing, coating, or accessories, confirm the conditions and whether labeling is possible with those included.
Are bluesign and OEKO-TEX the same?
No, they are not the same. bluesign is a system that emphasizes chemical management in manufacturing processes, the environment, and worker safety. OEKO-TEX is mainly used as a testing and certification system for harmful substances in products, and the purpose and scope of the check are different.
