OEKO-TEX response re- use of certification scheme at factory linked to labour rights violations
... In the following, we would like to present you with information regarding our certification scheme and hope to clarify these allegations:
OEKO-TEX® operates various standards (conformity assessment schemes, CAS) in the textile and leather sector. We work together with 17 independent institutes with offices in more than 70 countries which act as our conformity assessment bodies (CABs) for our CAS.
Our institutes conduct both laboratory tests and company audits in accordance with our CAS. Our comprehensive product and process tests allow manufacturers to manage risk, meet legal requirements and protect both people and the planet…
To provide you with a more detailed response and possible measures taken, we would need to have access to more information in respect to the facilities alleged of the above stated misconduct as well as the OEKO-TEX® certifications they have…
…As stated above, if the company would be certified with OEKO-TEX® STeP, such allegations would be a grave violation, and we would immediately conduct an unannounced audit to confirm the allegations and to remedy the situation or withdraw the certificate as an ultima ratio…
If it turns out that a facility that is certified by any of our OEKO-TEX® standards gravely violates our OEKO-TEX® Code of Conduct, we reserve the rightto also withdraw the certificate…