The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) market surveillance activities have prompted recalls of four pairs of jeans and one pillowcase for having unacceptable concentrations of certain azodyes containing unacceptable concentration of aromatic amines.
“The ACCC regularly checks products sold in Australia for chemicals that may be of concern. Recently, the ACCC conducted testing for hazardous aromatic amines following the referral of specific benzidine-based dyes identified through a National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) risk assessment process,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said.
“In checking common clothing and textile goods for specific dyes used in the manufacturing process, the ACCC found a 97% rate of compliance.”
Following testing, the ACCC contacted suppliers of dyed clothing and bedding found to contain the problem dyes above the acceptable limit. In all cases, the suppliers acted responsibly and promptly ceased supply of the affected stock and initiated voluntary recalls of the articles.
While azodyes are not banned for textiles use in Australia, if the ACCC identifies safety concerns it can recommend suppliers recall unsafe goods.
ACCC's press release encourages suppliers to ensure that the total maximum level of hazardous aromatic amines in direct and prolonged contact with the skin be no more than 30 ppm.
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