The Apparel and Footwear International Restricted Substances List Management Group (AFIRM) has released the third edition of its Restricted Substances List (RSL). AFIRM established in 2004. AFIRM RSL can provide a tool for vendors to establish chemical management knowledge and processes, build base compliance with AFIRM member chemical restrictions and provide a common base for testing products, which may be accepted by multiple AFIRM brands.

New for 2018 AFIRM RSL

1. Add chemical Information Sheets

The plus symbol next to a chemical or class of chemicals in the AFIRM RSL indicates that a information sheet is available; simply click on the chemical name, and your web browser will load a PDF of the information sheet for that substance. Each chemical information sheet covers a chemical or class of chemicals, giving an overview of the substance(s), where they are likely to be found in the material manufacturing process, and how to maintain compliance with the AFIRM RSL.

2. Add reporting Limits for Data Capture and Harmonization

The 2018 AFIRM RSL includes a new column on the far right of the table stating a reporting limit for each chemical or class of chemicals. Reporting limits also enable the harmonization of data between various testing labs. 

Updates to Test Methods and Limits