Commission Decision of 23 June 2014 establishing the ecological criteria for the award of the EU Ecolabel for bed mattresses (notified under document C(2014) 4083) (Text with EEA relevance) (2014/391/EU)

ANNEX

FRAMEWORK

Assessment and verification requirements

The specific assessment and verification requirements are indicated within each criterion.

Where the applicant is required to provide declarations, documentation, analyses, test reports, or other evidence to show compliance with the criteria, these may originate from the applicant and/or his supplier(s) and/or their suppliers, etc., as appropriate.

Competent bodies shall preferentially recognise tests which are accredited according to ISO 17025 and verifications performed by bodies which are accredited under the EN 45011 standard or an equivalent international standard.

Where appropriate, test methods other than those indicated for each criterion may be used if the competent body assessing the application accepts their equivalence.

Where appropriate, competent bodies may require supporting documentation and may carry out independent verifications.

As pre-requisite, the product must meet all respective legal requirements of the country (countries) in which the product is intended to be placed on the market. The applicant shall declare the product's compliance with this requirement.

EU ECOLABEL CRITERIA

Criteria for awarding the EU Ecolabel to bed mattresses:

1.

Latex foam

2.

Polyurethane (PUR) foam

3.

Wire and springs

4.

Coconut fibres

5.

Textiles (fabrics and fibres used as mattress cover and/or filling materials)

6.

Glues and adhesives

7.

Flame retardants

8.

Biocides

9.

Plasticizers

10.

Excluded or limited substances and mixtures

11.

Emission of specified volatile organic compounds (SVOCs, VOCs, VVOCs) from the mattress

12.

Technical performance

13.

Design for disassembly and recovery of materials

14.

Information appearing on the EU Ecolabel

15.

Additional information to consumers

The Ecolabel criteria reflect the best environmental performing products on the market of bed mattresses.

Whilst the use of chemical products and release of pollutants is part of the production process, the use of hazardous substances are excluded whenever possible or limited to the minimum necessary to provide an adequate function and at the same time strict quality and safety standards to the mattress. For this purpose, derogation conditions for specific substances/groups of substances are granted in exceptional circumstances, in order not to shift the environmental burden to other life cycle phases or impacts and only when there are no viable alternatives existing on the market.

Criterion 1. Latex foam

Note: The following requirements need to be met only if latex foam contributes to more than 5 % of the total weight of the mattress.

1.1. Restricted substances

The concentrations in the latex foam of the substances listed below shall not exceed the following values:

a

Only for foams composed of natural latex for at least 20 % by weight.

Group of substancesSubstanceLimit value (ppm)Assessment and verification conditions
Chlorophenolsmono- and di-chlorinated phenols (salts and esters)1A
Other chlorophenols0,1A
Heavy metalAs (Arsenic)0,5B
Cd (Cadmium)0,1B
Co (Cobalt)0,5B
Cr (Chromium), total1B
Cu (Copper)2B
Hg (Mercury)0,02B
Ni (Nickel)1B
Pb (Lead)0,5B
Sb (Antimony)0,5B
PesticidesaAldrin0,04C
o,p-DDE0,04C
p,p-DDE0,04C
o,p-DDD0,04C
p,p-DDD0,04C
o,p-DDT0,04C
p,p-DDT0,04C
Diazinone0,04C
Dichlorfenthion0,04C
Dichlorvos0,04C
Dieldrin0,04C
Endrin0,04C
Heptachlor0,04C
Heptachlorepoxide0,04C
Hexachlorobenzene0,04C
Hexachlorocyclohexane0,04C
α-Hexachlorocyclohexane0,04C
β-Hexachlorcyclohexane0,04C
γ-Hexachlorocyclohexane (Lindane)0,04C
δ-Hexachlorocyclohexane0,04C
Malathion0,04C
Methoxichlor0,04C
Mirex0,04C
Parathion-ethyl0,04C
Parathion-methyl0,04C
Other specific substances that are restrictedButadiene1D
Assessment and verification:
A.For clorophenols the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure. 5 g of sample shall be milled and clorophenols shall be extracted in the form of phenol (PCP), sodium salt (SPP) or esters. The extracts shall be analysed by means of gas chromatography (GC). Detection shall be made with mass spectrometer or electron capture detector (ECD).
B.For heavy metals the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure. Milled sample material is eluted in accordance with DIN 38414-S4 or equivalent in a ratio of 1:10. The resultant filtrate shall be passed through a 0,45 μm membrane filter (if necessary by pressure filtration). The solution obtained shall be examined for the content of heavy metals by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), also known as inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), or by atomic absorption spectrometry using a hydride or cold vapour process.
C.For pesticides the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure: 2 g of sample is extracted in an ultrasonic bath with a hexane/dichloromethane mixture (85/15). The extract is cleaned up by acetonitrile agitation or by adsorption chromatography over florisil. Measurement and quantification are determined by gas chromatography with detection on an electron capture detector or by coupled gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The testing on pesticides is requested for latex foams with a content of at least 20 % natural latex.
D.For butadiene the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure. Following milling and weighing of the latex foam, headspace sampling shall be performed. Butadiene content shall be determined by gas chromatography with detection by flame ionisation.
1.2. Emission of specified volatile organic compounds (SVOCs, VOCs, VVOCs)

The room concentrations of the substances reported below, calculated through the test chamber method, shall not exceed the following values after a period of 24 hours.

a

N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), N-nitrosomethylethylamine (NMEA), N-nitrosodi-i-propylamine (NDIPA), N-nitrosodi-n-propylamine (NDPA), N-nitrosodi-n-butylamine (NDBA), N-nitrosopyrrolidinone (NPYR), N-nitrosopiperidine (NPIP), N-nitrosomorpholine (NMOR).

SubstanceLimit value (mg/m3)
1,1,1 — trichloroethane0,2
4-Phenylcyclohexene0,02
Carbon Disulphide0,02
Formaldehyde0,005
Nitrosaminesa0,0005
Styrene0,01
Tetrachloroethylene0,15
Toluene0,1
Trichlorethylene0,05
Vinyl chloride0,0001
Vinyl cyclohexene0,002
Aromatic hydrocarbons (total)0,3
VOCs (total)0,5

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure. A test chamber analysis shall be performed in accordance with the standard ISO 16000-9. The wrapped sample shall be stored at room temperature at least for 24 hours. After this period the sample shall be unwrapped and immediately transferred into the test chamber. The sample shall be placed on a sample holder, which allows air access from all sides. The climatic factors shall be adjusted according to ISO 16000-9. For comparison of test results, the area specific ventilation rate (q = n/l) shall be 1. The ventilation rate shall be between 0,5 and 1. The air sampling shall be done 24 ± 1 h after loading of the chamber during 1 hour on DNPH cartridges for the analysis of formaldehyde and other aldehydes and on Tenax TA for the analysis of other volatile organic compounds. Sampling duration for other compounds may be longer but shall be completed before 30 hours.

The analysis of formaldehyde and other aldehydes shall comply with the standard ISO 16000-3. Unless specified differently, the analysis of other volatile organic compounds shall comply with the standard ISO 16000-6.

Testing following the standard CEN/TS 16516 shall be considered equivalent to those of the ISO 16000 series of standards.

The analysis of nitrosamines shall be done by means of gas chromatography in combination with a thermal energy analysis detector (GC-TEA), in accordance with the BGI 505-23 method (formerly: ZH 1/120.23) or equivalent.

1.3. Dyes

Should dyes be used, criterion 5.5 shall be respected.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide either a declaration of non-use of dyes from the manufacturer of the foam or, in case of use, a declaration of compliance with this criterion, together with supporting documentation.

Criterion 2. Polyurethane (PUR) foam

Note: The following requirements need to be met only if PUR foam contributes to more than 5 % of the total weight of the mattress.

2.1. Restricted substances

The concentrations in the PUR foam of the substances listed below shall not exceed the following values:

Group of substancesSubstance (acronym, CAS number, element symbol)Limit valueAssessment and verification conditions
BiocidesSubstances restricted according to criterion 8.1Not added intentionallyA
Heavy MetalsAs (Arsenic)0,2 ppmB
Cd (Cadmium)0,1 ppmB
Co (Cobalt)0,5 ppmB
Cr (Chromium), total1,0 ppmB
Cr VI (Chromium VI)0,01 ppmB
Cu (Copper)2,0 ppmB
Hg (Mercury)0,02 ppmB
Ni (Nickel)1,0 ppmB
Pb (Lead)0,2 ppmB
Sb (Antimony)0,5 ppmB
Se (Selenium)0,5 ppmB
PlasticizersDi-iso-nonylphthalate (DINP, 28553-12-0)0,01 % w/w (sum)C
Di-n-octylphthalate (DNOP, 117-84-0)
Di (2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate (DEHP, 117-81-7)
Di-iso-decylphthalate (DIDP, 26761-40-0)
Butylbenzylphthalate (BBP, 85-68-7)
Dibutylphthalate (DBP, 84-74-2)
PhthalatesNot added intentionallyA
TDA and MDA2,4 Toluenediamine (2,4-TDA, 95-80-7)5,0 ppmD
4,4'-Diaminodiphenylmethane5,0 ppmD
(4,4'-MDA, 101-77-9)
Tinorganic substancesTributyltin (TBT)50 ppbE
Dibutyltin (DBT)100 ppbE
Monobutyltin (MBT)100 ppbE
Tetrabutyltin (TeBT)
Monooctyltin (MOT)
Dioctyltin (DOT)
Tricyclohexyltin (TcyT)
Triphenyltin (TPhT)
Sum500 ppbE
Other specific susbstances that are restrictedChlorinated or brominated dioxines or furansNot added intentionallyA
Chlorinated hydrocarbons (1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane, Pentachloroethane, 1,1,2-Trichloroethane, 1,1-Dichloroethylene)Not added intentionallyA
Chlorinated phenols (PCP, TeCP, 87-86-5)Not added intentionallyA
Hexachlorocyclohexane (58-89-9)Not added intentionallyA
Monomethyldibromo–Diphenylmethane (99688-47-8)Not added intentionallyA
Monomethyldichloro-Diphenylmethane (81161-70-8)Not added intentionallyA
NitritesNot added intentionallyA
Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB, 59536-65-1)Not added intentionallyA
Pentabromodiphenyl Ether (PeBDE, 32534-81-9)Not added intentionallyA
Octabromodiphenyl Ether (OBDE, 32536-52-0)Not added intentionallyA
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB, 1336-36-3)Not added intentionallyA
Polychlorinated Terphenyls (PCT, 61788-33-8)Not added intentionallyA
Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate (TRIS, 126-72-7)Not added intentionallyA
Trimethylphosphate (512-56-1)Not added intentionallyA
Tris-(aziridinyl)-phosphinoxide (TEPA, 545-55-1)Not added intentionallyA
Tris(2-chloroethyl)-phosphate (TCEP, 115-96-8)Not added intentionallyA
Dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP, 756-79-6)Not added intentionallyA
Assessment and verification:
A.For biocides, phthalates and other specific substances that are restricted the applicant shall provide a declaration supported by declarations from manufacturers of the foam confirming that the listed substances have not been added intentionally to the foam formulation.
B.For heavy metals the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure. Milled sample material is eluted in accordance with DIN 38414-S4 or equivalent in a ratio of 1:10. The resultant filtrate shall be passed through a 0,45 μm membrane filter (if necessary by pressure filtration). The solution obtained shall be examined for the content of heavy metals by atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-AES or ICP-OES) or by atomic absorption spectrometry using a hydride or cold vapour process.
C.For the total amount of plasticizers the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure. The sample shall be a composite of 6 pieces to be taken from beneath each samples face (to a maximum of 2 cm from the surface). Extraction shall be performed with dichloromethane using validated method and followed by analysis with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) or high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC/UV).
D.For TDA and MDA the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure. The sample shall be a composite of 6 pieces to be taken from beneath each samples face (to a maximum of 2 cm from the surface). Extraction shall be performed with 1 % aqueous acetic acid solution. Four repeat extractions of the same foam sample shall be performed maintaining the sample weight to volume ratio of 1:5 in each case. The extracts shall be combined, made up to a known volume, filtered and analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV) or HPLC-MS. If HPLC-UV is performed and interference is suspected, reanalysis with high performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) shall be performed.
E.For tinorganic substances the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure. The sample shall be a composite of 6 pieces to be taken from beneath each sample face (to a maximum of 2 cm from the surface). Extraction shall be performed for 1 hour in an ultrasonic bath at room temperature. The extracting agent shall be a mixture composed as it follows: 1 750 ml methanol + 300 ml acetic acid + 250 ml buffer (pH 4,5). The buffer shall be a solution of 164 g of sodium acetate in 1 200 ml of water and 165 ml acetic acid, to be diluted with water to a volume of 2 000 ml. After extraction the alkyl tin species shall be derivatized by adding sodium tetraethylborate solution in tetrahydrofuran (THF). The derivative shall be extracted with n-hexane and the sample shall be submitted to a second extraction procedure. Both hexane extracts shall be combined and further used to determine the organotin compounds by gas chromatography with mass selective detection in SIM modus.
2.2. Emission of specified volatile organic compounds (SVOCs, VOCs, VVOCs)

The room concentrations of the substances reported below, calculated through the test chamber method, shall not exceed the following values after a period of 72 hours.

a

Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures, amending and repealing Directives 67/548/EEC and 1999/45/EC, and amending Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (OJ L 353, 31.12.2008, p. 1).

Substance (CAS number)Limit value (mg/m3)
Formaldehyde (50-00-0)0,005
Toluene (108-88-3)0,1
Styrene (100-42-5)0,005
Each detectable compound classified as categories C1A or C1B according to the Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Councila0,005
Sum of all detectable compound classified as categories C1A or C1B according to Regulation (EC) No 1272/20080,04
Aromatic hydrocarbons0,5
VOCs (total)0,5

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the following test procedure. The foam sample is placed on the bottom of an emission test chamber and is conditioned for 3 days at 23 °C and 50 % relative humidity, applying an air exchange rate n of 0,5 per hour and a chamber loading L of 0,4 m2/m3 (= total exposed surface of sample in relation to chamber dimensions without sealing edges and back) in accordance with ISO 16000-9 and ISO 16000-11. Sampling shall be done 72 ± 2 h after loading of the chamber during 1 hour on Tenax TA and DNPH cartridges for respectively VOC and formaldehyde analysis. The emissions of VOC are being trapped on Tenax TA sorbent tubes and subsequently analysed by means of thermo-desorption-GC-MS in accordance to ISO 16000-6. Results are semi-quantitatively expressed as toluene equivalents. All specified individual components are reported from a concentration limit ≥ 1 μg/m3. Total VOC value is the sum of all components with a concentration ≥ 1 μg/m3 and eluting within the retention time window from n-hexane (C6) to n-hexadecane (C16), both included. The sum of all detectable compounds classified as categories C1A or C1B according to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 is the sum of all these substances with a concentration ≥ 1 μg/m3. In case the test results exceed the standard limits, substance specific quantification needs to be performed. Formaldehyde can be determined by collection of the sampled air onto DNPH cartridge and subsequent analysis by HPLC/UV in accordance to ISO 16000-3.

Testing following the standard CEN/TS 16516 shall be considered equivalent to those of the ISO 16000 series of standards.

Note:
  • Chamber volume shall be 0,5 or 1 m3.

  • 1 sample (25 cm × 20 cm × 15 cm) shall be used in a test chamber of 0,5 m3 standing vertically on one 20 cm × 15 cm side.

  • 2 samples (25 cm × 20 cm × 15 cm) shall be used in a 1 m3 test chamber standing vertically on one 20 cm × 15 cm side; in this case both samples shall be placed in the test chamber with 15 cm distance in between.

2.3. Dyes

Should dyes be used, criterion 5.5 shall be respected.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide either a declaration of non-use of dyes from the manufacturer of the foam or, in case of use, a declaration of compliance with this criterion, together with supporting documentation.

2.4. Total chlorine content of isocyanates

Should mixed isomers of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) be used in the production of the PUR foam, the total chlorine content of these isocyanates shall not exceed 0,07 % by weight.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide either a declaration of non-use from the manufacturer of the foam or the results of the test methods carried-out in accordance with ASTM D4661-93 or equivalent.

2.5. Blowing agents

Halogenated organic compounds shall not be used as blowing agents or as auxiliary blowing agents.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a declaration of non-use from the manufacturer of the foam.

Criterion 3. Wire and springs

Note: The following requirements need to be met only if wire and springs contribute to more than 5 % of the total weight of the mattress.

3.1. Degreasing

If degreasing and/or cleaning of wire and/or springs is carried out with organic solvents, use shall be made of a closed cleaning/degreasing system.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a corresponding declaration from the manufacturer of wire and/or springs.

3.2. Galvanisation

The surface of springs shall not be covered with a galvanic metallic layer.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a corresponding declaration from the manufacturer of wire and/or springs.

Criterion 4. Coconut fibres

Note: The following requirement needs to be met only if coconut fibre contribute to more than 5 % of the total weight of the mattress.

Criteria for latex foam shall be considered if coconut fibre material is rubberised using latex.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall either provide a declaration of non-use of rubberised coconut fibres, or the test reports required in criterion 1 for latex foam.

Criterion 5. Textiles (fabrics and fibres used as mattress cover and/or filling materials)

Notes:
(1)All the requirements (5.1 to 5.11) shall be respected for the mattress cover (i.e. ticking).
(2)Filling materials (i.e. padding) shall respect requirement 5.1. Where wool is used as filling material, requirements 5.1, 5.2 and 5.8 shall be respected.
(3)All textiles which have been awarded the EU Ecolabel, as established in Commission Decision 2014/350/EU(1), are considered being automatically compliant with requirements 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.10 and 5.11. Nevertheless, in order to allow mattresses to be awarded the EU Ecolabel, it shall be demonstrated that also criterion 5.9 is satisfied for the mattress cover.
5.1. General requirements on hazardous substances (including flame retardants, biocides and plasticizers) (Applicability: all textiles)

All textiles: criteria 7 (flame retardants), 8 (biocides), 9 (plasticizers) and 10 (hazardous substances) shall be respected by all textiles.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a declaration of compliance with this criterion, together with the supporting documentation required in the respective criterion (7, 8, 9 and 10).

5.2. Auxiliaries used in preparations and formulations (Applicability: covers made of any fibres and filling materials made of wool)

All covers: The following substances shall not be used in any preparations or formulations used for the production of all mattress covers. Limit values for the presence of Alkylophenols and APEOs on the cover shall be respected.

Filling materials made of wool: Alkylophenols and APEOs shall not be used in any preparations or formulations used for the production of filling materials made of wool and limit values for their presence in the filling material shall be respected.

Substance (CAS number/Acronym)Limit value (mg/kg)Assessment and verification conditions
Alkylphenols:25 (sum)A
Nonylphenol, mixed isomers (25154-52-3)
4-Nonylphenol (104-40-5)
4-Nonylphenol, branched (84852-15-3)
Octylphenol (27193-28-8)
4-Octylphenol (1806-26-4)
4-tert-Octylphenol (140-66-9)
Alkylphenolethoxylates (APEOs) and their derivatives
Polyoxyethylated octyl phenol (9002-93-1)
Polyoxyethylated nonyl phenol (9016-45-9)
Polyoxyethylated p-nonyl phenol (26027-38-3)
bis(hydrogenated tallow alkyl) dimethyl ammonium chloride (DTDMAC)Not usedB
distearyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DSDMAC)
di(hardened tallow) dimethyl ammonium chloride (DHTDMAC)
ethylene diamine tetra acetate (EDTA)
diethylene triamine penta acetate (DTPA)
4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenol
1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone
Nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA)
Assessment and verification:
A.The applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the final product testing which shall be performed through solvent extraction followed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS).
B.The applicant shall provide a declaration of non-use from the supplier supported by safety data sheets for all production stages.
5.3. Surfactants, fabric softeners and complexing agents in wet processes (Applicability: covers made of any fibres)

All surfactants, softeners and complexing agents: At least 95 % by weight of surfactants, softeners and complexing agents shall comply with one of the following conditions:

(a)

they shall be readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions;

(b)

they shall be inherently biodegradable or eliminable in wastewater treatment plants.

Non-ionic and cationic surfactants: All non-ionic and cationic surfactants shall also be readily biodegradable under anaerobic conditions.

The latest revision of the Detergents Ingredients Database should be used as a reference point for biodegradability:

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ecolabel/documents/did_list/didlist_part_a_en.pdf

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide appropriate documentation through safety data sheets and declarations from suppliers.

For all surfactants, softeners and complexing agents, this shall be supported by results of appropriate OECD or ISO tests for:

  • Readily biodegradability (OECD 301 A, ISO 7827, OECD 301 B, ISO 9439, OECD 301 C, OECD 301 D, ISO 10708, OECD 301 E, OECD 301 F, ISO 9408)

  • Inherently biodegradability (ISO 14593, OECD 302 A, ISO 9887, OECD 302 B, ISO 9888, OECD 302 C)

  • Eliminability (OECD 303A/B, ISO 11733)

For non-ionic and cationic surfactants, this shall be supported by results of appropriate OECD or ISO tests (ISO 11734, ECETOC No 28 (June 1988), OECD 311).

5.4. Bleaching of pulp, yarns, fabrics and end products (Applicability: covers made of any fibres)

Chlorine agents shall not be used for the bleaching of any yarns, fabrics or end-products with the exception of man-made cellulose fibres.

Pulp used to manufacture man-made cellulose fibres (e.g. viscose) shall be bleached without the use of elemental chlorine. The resulting total amount of chlorine and organically bound chlorine in the finished fibres (OX) shall not exceed 150 ppm or in the wastewater from pulp manufacturing (AOX) shall not exceed 0,170 kg/ADt pulp.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a declaration of non-use of chlorinated bleaching agents from the supplier.

For man-made cellulose fibres, the applicant shall provide a test report showing compliance with either the OX or the AOX requirement, using the appropriate test method:

  • OX: ISO 11480 (controlled combustion and microcoulometry)

  • AOX: ISO 9562

5.5. Dyes (Applicability: covers made of any fibres)

The following restrictions apply to dyes.

The use of dyes in textiles shall be also compliant with criterion 10 on hazardous substances and thus the related derogation conditions shall apply. Derogation conditions relate to the handling of dyes in the dye house, the dyeing process and colour removal from wastewater from dye houses.

Group of substancesCriterionAssessment and verification
(i)Halogenated carriers
Where disperse dyes are used, halogenated dyeing accelerants (carriers) shall not be used to dye polyester, acrylic or polyamide fibres and fabrics made of these fibres or polyester-wool blends (Examples of carriers include: 1,2-dichlorobenzene, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, chlorophenoxyethanol).A
(ii)Azo dyes
Azo dyes that may cleave to aromatic amines that are known to be carcinogenic shall not be used in acrylic, cotton, polyamide and wool fibres and fabrics made of these fibres. The limit value for the content of each arylamine in the final product shall be 30 mg/kg.B
ArylamineCAS number
4-aminodiphenyl92-67-1
Benzidine92-87-5
4-chloro-o-toluidine95-69-2
2-naphtylamine91-59-8
o-amino-azotoluene97-56-3
2-amino-4-nitrotoluene99-55-8
p-chloroaniline106-47-8
2,4-diaminoanisol615-05-4
4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane101-77-9
3,3′-dichlorobenzidine91-94-1
3,3′-dimethoxybenzidine119-90-4
3,3′-dimethylbenzidine119-93-7
3,3′-dimethyl-4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane838-88-0
p-cresidine120-71-8
4,4′-methylene-bis-(2-chloroaniline)101-14-4
4,4′-oxydianiline101-80-4
4,4′-thiodianiline139-65-1
o-toluidine95-53-4
2,4-diaminotoluene95-80-7
2,4,5-trimethylaniline137-17-7
o-anisidine (2-Methoxyanilin)90-04-0
2,4-Xylidine95-68-1
2,6-Xylidine87-62-7
4-aminoazobenzene60-09-3
An indicative list of azodyes that may cleave to arylamines is provided in the following.
Disperse dyes that may cleave to aromatic amines
Disperse Orange 60Disperse Yellow 7
Disperse Orange 149Disperse Yellow 23
Disperse Red 151Disperse Yellow 56
Disperse Red 221Disperse Yellow 218
Basic dyes that may cleave to aromatic amines
Basic Brown 4Basic Red 114
Basic Red 42Basic Yellow 82
Basic Red 76Basic Yellow 103
Basic Red 111
Acid dyes that may cleave to aromatic amines
CI Acid Black 29CI Acid Red 24CI Acid Red 128
CI Acid Black 94CI Acid Red 26CI Acid Red 115
CI Acid Black 131CI Acid Red 26:1CI Acid Red 128
CI Acid Black 132CI Acid Red 26:2CI Acid Red 135
CI Acid Black 209CI Acid Red 35CI Acid Red 148
CI Acid Black 232CI Acid Red 48CI Acid Red 150
CI Acid Brown 415CI Acid Red 73CI Acid Red 158
CI Acid Orange 17CI Acid Red 85CI Acid Red 167
CI Acid Orange 24CI Acid Red 104CI Acid Red 170
CI Acid Orange 45CI Acid Red 114CI Acid Red 264
CI Acid Red 4CI Acid Red 115CI Acid Red 265
CI Acid Red 5CI Acid Red 116CI Acid Red 420
CI Acid Red 8CI Acid Red 119:1CI Acid Violet 12
Direct dyes that may cleave to aromatic amines
Direct Black 4Basic Brown 4Direct Red 13
Direct Black 29Direct Brown 6Direct Red 17
Direct Black 38Direct Brown 25Direct Red 21
Direct Black 154Direct Brown 27Direct Red 24
Direct Blue 1Direct Brown 31Direct Red 26
Direct Blue 2Direct Brown 33Direct Red 22
Direct Blue 3Direct Brown 51Direct Red 28
Direct Blue 6Direct Brown 59Direct Red 37
Direct Blue 8Direct Brown 74Direct Red 39
Direct Blue 9Direct Brown 79Direct Red 44
Direct Blue 10Direct Brown 95Direct Red 46
Direct Blue 14Direct Brown 101Direct Red 62
Direct Blue 15Direct Brown 154Direct Red 67
Direct Blue 21Direct Brown 222Direct Red 72
Direct Blue 22Direct Brown 223Direct Red 126
Direct Blue 25Direct Green 1Direct Red 168
Direct Blue 35Direct Green 6Direct Red 216
Direct Blue 76Direct Green 8Direct Red 264
Direct Blue 116Direct Green 8.1Direct Violet 1
Direct Blue 151Direct Green 85Direct Violet 4
Direct Blue 160Direct Orange 1Direct Violet 12
Direct Blue 173Direct Orange 6Direct Violet 13
Direct Blue 192Direct Orange 7Direct Violet 14
Direct Blue 201Direct Orange 8Direct Violet 21
Direct Blue 215Direct Orange 10Direct Violet 22
Direct Blue 295Direct Orange 108Direct Yellow 1
Direct Blue 306Direct Red 1Direct Yellow 24
Direct Brown 1Direct Red 2Direct Yellow 48
Direct Brown 1:2Direct Red 7
Direct Brown 2Direct Red 10
(iii)CMR dyes
Dyes that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction shall not be used in all fibres and fabrics.A
Dyes that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproductionCAS number
C.I. Acid Red 263761-53-3
C.I. Basic Red 9569-61-9
C.I. Basic Violet 14632-99-5
C.I. Direct Black 381937-37-7
C.I. Direct Blue 62602-46-2
C.I. Direct Red 28573-58-0
C.I. Disperse Blue 12475-45-8
C.I. Disperse Orange 1182-28-0
C.I. Disperse Yellow 32832-40-8
(iv)Potentially sensitising dyes
Dyes that are potentially sensitising shall not be used in acrylic, polyamide and polyester fibres and fabrics made of these fibres.A
Disperse dyes that are potentially sensitisingCAS number
C.I. Disperse Blue 12475-45-8
C.I. Disperse Blue 32475-46-9
C.I. Disperse Blue 73179-90-6
C.I. Disperse Blue 263860-63-7
C.I. Disperse Blue 3512222-75-2
C.I. Disperse Blue 10212222-97-8
C.I. Disperse Blue 10612223-01-7
C.I. Disperse Blue 12461951-51-7
C.I. Disperse Brown 123355-64-8
C.I. Disperse Orange 12581-69-3
C.I. Disperse Orange 3730-40-5
C.I. Disperse Orange 3712223-33-5
C.I. Disperse Orange 7613301-61-6
C.I. Disperse Red 12872-52-8
C.I. Disperse Red 112872-48-2
C.I. Disperse Red 173179-89-3
C.I. Disperse Yellow 1119-15-3
C.I. Disperse Yellow 32832-40-8
C.I. Disperse Yellow 96373-73-5
C.I. Disperse Yellow 3912236-29-2
C.I. Disperse Yellow 4954824-37-2
(v)Chrome mordant dyes
Chrome mordant dyes shall not be used in polyamide and wool fibres and fabrics made of these fibres.A
(vi)Metal complex dyes
Metal complex dyes based on copper, chromium and nickel shall only be permitted for dyeing wool, polyamide or blends of these fibres with man-made cellulose fibres (e.g. viscose).A
Assessment and verification:
A.The applicant shall provide a declaration of non-use from the supplier supported by safety data sheets.
B.The applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the final product testing. Content of azo dyes in the final product shall be tested according to EN 14362-1 and 14362-3. Limit value is 30 mg/kg for each arylamine. (Note: false positives may be possible with respect to the presence of 4-aminoazobenzene, and confirmation is therefore recommended).
5.6. Extractable metals (Applicability: covers made of any fibres)

The following limit values shall apply:

MetalLimit values (mg/kg)
Covers for cot mattressesAll other products
Antimony (Sb)30,030,0
Arsenic (As)0,21,0
Cadmium (Cd)0,10,1
Chromium (Cr):
Textiles dyed with metal complex dyes
1,02,0
All other textiles
0,51,0
Cobalt (Co)
Textiles dyed with metal complex dyes
1,04,0
All other textiles
1,01,0
Copper (Cu)25,050,0
Lead (Pb)0,21,0
Nickel (Ni):
Textiles dyed with metal complex dyes
1,01,0
All other textiles
0,51,0
Mercury (Hg)0,020,02

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a report presenting the results of the final product testing as verification for the limit values. The tests shall be extraction according to ISO 105-E04 (acid sweat solution) and detection with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) or inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES, also referred to as ICP-AES).

5.7. Water, stain and oil repellents (Applicability: covers made of any fibres)

Fluorinated water, stain and oil repellent treatment shall not be used. This shall include perfluorinated and polyfluorinated carbon treatments.

Non-fluorinated treatments shall be readily biodegradable and non-bioaccumulative in the aquatic environment including aquatic sediment. They shall additionally comply with criterion 10 on hazardous substances.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a declaration of non-use from the supplier supported by safety data sheets and compliance with criterion 10 shall be demonstrated accordingly.

5.8. Wastewater discharges from wet processing (Applicability: covers made of any fibres and filling materials made of wool)

Wastewater discharges to the environment shall not exceed 20 g COD/kg textile processing. This requirement shall apply to weaving, dyeing, printing and finishing processes used to manufacture the product(s). The requirement shall be measured downstream of on-site wastewater treatment plant or off-site wastewater treatment plant receiving wastewater from those processing sites.

If the effluent is treated on site and discharged directly to surface waters, it shall also meet the following requirements:

(i)

pH between 6 and 9 (unless the pH of the receiving water is outside this range)

(ii)

Temperature of less than 35 °C (unless the temperature of the receiving water is above this value)

If colour removal is required by a derogation condition in criterion 10(a) then the following spectral absorption coefficients shall be met:

(i)

7 m–1 at 436 nm (yellow sector)

(ii)

5 m–1 at 525 nm (red sector)

(iii)

3 m–1 at 620 nm (blue sector).

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide detailed documentation and test reports, using ISO 6060 for determination of COD and ISO 7887 for determination of colour, and showing compliance with this criterion on the basis of monthly averages for the six months preceding the application, together with a declaration of compliance. The data shall demonstrate compliance by the production site or, if the effluent is treated off-site, by the wastewater treatment operator.

5.9. Mechanical resistance (Applicability: covers made of any fibre)

Mattress cover shall achieve satisfactory mechanical properties, which are defined by the following testing standards:

PropertyRequirementTest method
Tear strength

Woven fabrics ≥ 15 N

Nonwoven fabrics ≥ 20 N

Knitted fabrics: not applicable

ISO 13937-2 (woven fabrics)

ISO 9073-4 (nonwoven)

Seam slippage

Woven fabrics ≥ 16 picks: maximum 6 mm

Woven fabrics < 16 picks: maximum 10 mm

Knitted fabrics and nonwovens: not applicable

ISO 13936-2 (under a load of 60 N for all woven fabrics)
Tensile strength

Woven fabrics ≥ 350 N

Knitted fabrics and nonwovens: not applicable

ISO 13934-1

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide reports describing the results of the tests performed according to ISO 13937-2 or ISO 9073-4 for tear strength, ISO 13936-2 (under a load of 60 N) for seam slippage and ISO 13934-1 for tensile strength.

5.10. Durability of flame retardant function (Applicability: covers made of any fibre)

Removable and washable covers shall retain their functionality after 50 wash and tumble dry cycles at a minimum of 75 °C. Covers that are not intended to be removed and washed shall retain their functionality after a soak test.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide reports from tests carried out according to the following standards, as appropriate:

  • ISO 6330 in combination with ISO 12138 for domestic wash cycles and ISO 10528 for industrial laundry cycles in case of removable and washable covers.

  • BS 5651 or equivalent in case the cover is not intended to be removed and washed.

5.11. Dimensional change (Applicability: removable covers made of any fibres)

For mattress covers that are removable and washable, the dimensional changes after washing and drying at either domestic or industrial washing temperatures and conditions shall not exceed:

  • Woven fabrics: ± 3 %

  • Nonwoven fabrics: ± 5 %

This criterion does not apply to fabrics that are not promoted as ‘washable’.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide test reports referring to appropriate standards. ISO 6330 in combination with EN 25077 shall be used as test method. Unless the cover states otherwise, the default conditions shall be washing 3A (60 °C), drying C (flat drying) and ironing according to the composition of the fabric.

Criterion 6. Glues and adhesives

Glues containing organic solvents shall not be used. Glues and adhesives used for assembling the product shall be also compliant with criterion 10 on hazardous substances.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a declaration of non-use or a declaration from suppliers together with supporting documentation and compliance with criterion 10 shall be demonstrated accordingly.

Criterion 7. Flame retardants

The following flame retardants shall not be added intentionally to the product, any article of it and any homogeneous part of it:

NameCAS numberAcronym
Decabromodiphenlyether1163-19-5decaBDE
Hexabromocyclododecane25637-99-4HBCD/HBCDD
Octabromodiphenylether32536-52-0octaBDE
Pentabromodiphenylether32534-81-9pentaBDE
Polybrominated biphenyls59536-65-1PBBs
Short chain chlorinated paraffins (C10-C13)85535-84-8SCCP
Tris-(2,3-dibromopropyl)-phosphate126-72-7TRIS
Tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate115-96-8TCEP
Tris-(aziridinyl)-phosphinoxide545-55-1TEPA

The use of any flame retardant shall be compliant with criterion 10 on hazardous substances.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide and shall make suppliers to provide a declaration of non-use confirming that the listed flame retardants have not been included in the product, any article of it and any homogeneous part of it. A list of substances added to enhance the flame retarding properties shall be also provided, including concentrations and related H statements/R phrases, and compliance with criterion 10 shall be demonstrated accordingly.

Criterion 8. Biocides

8.1. Production

The use of any biocidal active substance in the product shall have to be authorised under Regulation (EU) No 528/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council(2) (list available at: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/biocides/annexi_and_ia.htm) and shall be compliant with criterion 10 on hazardous substances.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide either declarations of non-use or evidence that the use of biocides is authorised under Regulation (EU) No 528/2012. A list of biocidal products added to the product shall be also provided, including concentrations and related H statements/R phrases, and compliance with criterion 10 shall be demonstrated accordingly.

8.2. Transportation

Chlorophenols (their salts and esters), polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), organo-tin compounds (including TBT, TPhT, DBT and DOT) and diemthyl fumarate (DMFu) shall not be used during the transportation or storage of the product, any article of it and any homogeneous part of it.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide and shall make suppliers to provide a declaration of non-use, as appropriate, confirming that the listed substances have not been used during the transportation or storage of the product, any article and any homogeneous part of it. A list of biocidal products added to the product shall be also provided, including concentrations and related H statements/R phrases, and compliance with criterion 10 shall be demonstrated accordingly.

Criterion 9. Plasticizers

The following plasticizers shall not be added intentionally to the product, any article of it and to any homogeneous part of it:

a

only for cot mattresses.

NameCAS numberAcronym
Di-iso-nonylphtalatea28553-12-0; 68515-48-0DINP
Di-n-octylphthalate117-84-0DNOP
Di(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate117-81-7DEHP
Diisodecylphthalatea26761-40-0; 68515-49-1DIDP
Butylbenzylphthalate85-68-7BBP
Dibutylphthalate84-74-2DBP
Di-iso-butylphthalate84-69-5DIBP
Di-C6-8-branched alkylphthalates71888-89-6DIHP
Di-C7-11-branched alkylphthalates68515-42-4DHNUP
Di-n-hexylphthalate84-75-3DHP
Di-(2-methoxyethyl)-phthalate117-82-8DMEP

The sum of the prohibited plasticizers shall be lower than 0,10 % by weight. The use of any plasticizer shall be compliant with criterion 10 on hazardous substances.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide and shall make suppliers to provide a declaration of non-use confirming that the listed substances have not been used in the product, any article of it and any homogeneous part of it. Safety data sheets for the formulation of polymers may be requested to confirm that the listed substances have not been included in the product. A list of plasticizers added to the product shall be provided, including concentrations and related H statements/R phrases, and compliance with criterion 10 shall be demonstrated accordingly. Additional verification for the total content of phthalates may be required in accordance with ISO 14389 when quality of information is considered insufficient.

Criterion 10. Excluded or limited substances and mixtures

(a)Hazardous substances and mixtures

The EU Ecolabel may not be awarded if the product or any article of it, as defined in Article 3(3) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council(3), or any homogenous part of it contains a substance or mixture meeting the criteria for classification with the hazard statements or risk phrases specified in the table below, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 or Council Directive 67/548/EEC(4), or contains a substance or mixture referred to in Article 57 of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, unless specific derogation has been granted.

The most recent classification rules adopted by the Union shall take precedence over the listed hazard classifications and risk phrases. Applicants shall therefore ensure that any classifications are based on the most recent classification rules.

The hazard statements and the risk phrases in the table below generally refer to substances. However, if information on substances cannot be obtained, the classification rules for mixtures apply.

The use of substances or mixtures which change their properties upon processing (e.g. become no longer bioavailable or undergo chemical modification) so that the identified hazards no longer apply are exempted from the above requirements. This shall include for instance modified polymers and monomers or additives which become covalently bonded within plastic coatings.

a

According to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008.

b

According to Directive 67/548/EEC and Directives 2006/121/EC and 1999/45/EC.

c

According to Commission Regulation (EU) No 286/2011 of 10 March 2011 amending, for the purposes of its adaptation to technical and scientific progress, Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (OJ L 83, 30.3.2011, p. 1).

Hazard StatementaRisk Phraseb
H300 Fatal if swallowedR28
H301 Toxic if swallowedR25
H304 May be fatal if swallowed and enters airwaysR65
H310 Fatal in contact with skinR27
H311 Toxic in contact with skinR24
H330 Fatal if inhaledR23/26
H331 Toxic if inhaledR23
H340 May cause genetic defectsR46
H341 Suspected of causing genetic defectsR68
H350 May cause cancerR45
H350i May cause cancer by inhalationR49
H351 Suspected of causing cancerR40
H360F May damage fertilityR60
H360D May damage the unborn childR61
H360FD May damage fertility. May damage the unborn childR60/61/60-61
H360Fd May damage fertility. Suspected of damaging the unborn childR60/63
H360Df May damage the unborn child. Suspected of damaging fertilityR61/62
H361f Suspected of damaging fertilityR62
H361d Suspected of damaging the unborn childR63
H361fd Suspected of damaging fertility. Suspected of damaging the unborn child.R62-63
H362 May cause harm to breast fed childrenR64
H370 Causes damage to organsR39/23/24/25/26/27/28
H371 May cause damage to organsR68/20/21/22
H372 Causes damage to organsR48/25/24/23
H373 May cause damage to organsR48/20/21/22
H400 Very toxic to aquatic lifeR50
H410 Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effectsR50-53
H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effectsR51-53
H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effectsR52-53
H413 May cause long-lasting effects to aquatic lifeR53
EUH059 Hazardous to the ozone layerR59
EUH029 Contact with water liberates toxic gasR29
EUH031 Contact with acids liberates toxic gasR31
EUH032 Contact with acids liberates very toxic gasR32
EUH070 Toxic by eye contactR39-41
H317 (Sub-category 1A): May cause allergic skin reaction (trigger concentration ≥ 0,1 % w/w)cR43
H317 (Sub-category 1B): May cause allergic skin reaction (trigger concentration ≥ 1,0 % w/w)c
H334: May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaledR42

In accordance with Article 6(7) of Regulation (EC) No 66/2010 the following substances are specifically derogated from the requirements set out in criterion 10(a) and in accordance with the derogation conditions set out below. For each substance all derogation conditions shall be met for the specified hazard classifications.

Substances/Groups of substancesDerogated classificationDerogation conditions
Antimony Trioxide — ATOH351

ATO shall be used as catalyst in polyester or as flame retardant synergist in textiles for backcoatings.

Emissions to air in the workplace where ATO is applied shall meet an eight hour occupational exposure limit value of 0,5 mg/m3.

NickelH317, H351, H372Nickel shall be contained in stainless steel.
Dyestuff for dyeing and non-pigment printing in textilesH301, H311, H331, H317, H334Dust free dye formulations or automatic dosing and dispensing of dyes shall be used by dye houses and printers to minimise worker exposure.
H411, H412, H413

The use of reactive, direct, vat, sulphur dyes with these classifications shall meet at least one of the following conditions:

  • High affinity dyes are used;

  • Colour matching instrumentation is used;

  • Standard Operating Procedures for the dyeing process are used;

  • Colour removal is used in wastewater treatment (see criterion 5.8).

  • Solution dyeing processes are used;

  • Digital inkjet printing processes are used;

The use of solution dyeing and/or digital printing are exempted from these conditions.

Flame retardants used in textilesH317 (1B), H373, H411, H412, H413

The product shall be designed in order to meet fire protection requirements in ISO, EN, Member State or public sector procurement standards and regulations.

The product shall meet the requirements for durability of function (see criterion 5.10)

Optical brightenersH411, H412, H413Optical brighteners shall only be applied as additives during the production of acrylic, polyamide and polyester fibres.
Water, dirt and stain repellentsH413The repellent and its degradation products shall be readily biodegradable and non-bioaccumulative in the aquatic environment, including aquatic sediment.
Auxiliaries used in textiles (comprising: Carriers, Levelling agents, Dispersing agents, Surfactants, Thickeners, Binders)H301, H371, H373, H334, H411, H412, H413, EUH070Recipes shall be formulated using automatic dosing systems and processes shall follow Standard Operating Procedures.
H311, H331, H317 (1B)Residual auxiliaries classified accordingly shall not be present at concentrations of greater than 1,0 % w/w on the final product.
Glues and adhesivesH304, H341, H362, H371, H373, H400, H410, H411, H412, H413, EUH059, EUH029, EUH031, EUH032, EUH070, H317, H334Glue and adhesives shall respect conditions set in criterion 6.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide the bill of materials of the product, including a list with all articles and homogeneous part of it.

The applicant shall screen the presence of substances and mixtures that may be classified with the hazard statements or risk phrases reported above in the criterion. The applicant shall provide a declaration of compliance with requirement 10(a) for the product, any article of it or any homogenous part of it.

Applicants shall select the appropriate forms of verification. The main forms of verification are foreseen as follows:

  • Articles manufactured according to a specific chemical formulation (e.g. latex and PUR foams): Safety Data Sheets shall be provided for the final article or for the substances and mixtures composing the final article above a cut-off limit of 0,10 % w/w.

  • Homogenous parts and any associated treatments or impurities (e.g. plastic and metal parts): Safety Data Sheets shall be provided for the materials composing that part of the product and for substances and mixtures used in the formulation and treatment of the materials remaining in the final part above a cut-off limit of 0,10 % w/w.

  • Chemical recipes used to impart a specific function to the product or to textile components of the product (e.g. glues and adhesives, flame retardants, biocides, plasticizers, dyes): Safety Data Sheets shall be provided for substances and mixtures used in the assembly of the final product or substances and mixtures applied to textile components during production, dyeing, printing and finishing processes and remaining in the textile components.

The declaration shall include related documentation, such as declarations of compliance signed by the suppliers, on the non-classification of the substances, mixtures or materials with any of the hazard classes associated to the hazard statements or risk phrases referred in the list above in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, as far as this can be determined, as a minimum, from the information meeting the requirements listed in Annex VII to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006.

The information provided shall relate to the forms or physical states of the substances or mixtures as used in the final product.

The following technical information shall be provided to support the declaration of classification or non-classification for each substance and mixture:

(i)

For substances that have not been registered under Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 or which do not yet have a harmonised CLP classification: information meeting the requirements listed in Annex VII to that Regulation;

(ii)

For substances that have been registered under Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 and which do not meet the requirements for CLP classification: information based on the REACH registration dossier confirming the non-classified status of the substance;

(iii)

For substances that have a harmonised classification or are self-classified: Safety Data Sheets where available. If these are not available or the substance is self-classified then information shall be provided relevant to the substances hazard classification according to Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006;

(iv)

In the case of mixtures: Safety Data Sheets where available. If these are not available then calculation of the mixture classification shall be provided according to the rules under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 together with information relevant to the mixtures hazard classification according to Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) shall be completed in accordance with the guidance in Section 10, 11 and 12 of Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (Requirements for the Compilation of Safety Data Sheets). Incomplete SDS shall require supplementing with information from declarations by chemical suppliers.

Information on intrinsic properties of substances may be generated by means other than tests, for instance through the use of alternative methods such as in vitro methods, by quantitative structure activity models or by the use of grouping or read-across in accordance with Annex XI to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. The sharing of relevant data across the supply chain is strongly encouraged.

Where substances used are derogated, then the declaration shall specifically identify those derogated substances and provide supporting evidence showing how the derogation conditions are met.

(b)Substances listed in accordance with Article 59(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006

No derogation from the exclusion in Article 6(6) of Regulation (EC) No 66/2010 shall be given concerning substances identified as substances of very high concern and included in the list provided for in Article 59(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, present in mixtures, in an article or in any homogeneous part of the product in concentrations > 0,10 % by weight.

Assessment and verification: reference to the latest list of substances of very high concern shall be made on the date of application. The applicant shall provide a declaration of compliance with requirement 10(b), together with related documentation, including declarations of compliance signed by the material suppliers and copies of relevant Safety Data Sheets for substances or mixtures in accordance with Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. Concentration limits shall be specified in the safety data sheets in accordance with Article 31 of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 for substances and mixtures.

Criterion 11. Emission of specified volatile organic compounds (SVOCs, VOCs, VVOCs) from the mattress

The contribution of mattresses to the VOC content of the indoor air shall not exceed the final values reported below, for a period of 7 days or, alternatively, 28 days.

Values are calculated with the emission test chamber method and with reference to the European Reference Room, by analogy with the procedure specified in the ‘Health-related Evaluation Procedure for Volatile Organic Compounds Emissions from Building Products’ developed by the AgBB (2012 version available at http://www.umweltbundesamt.de/sites/default/files/medien/377/dokumente/agbb_evaluation_scheme_2012.pdf)

SubstanceFinal value7th dayFinal value28th day
Formaldehyde< 0,06 mg/m3< 0,06 mg/m3
Other aldehydes< 0,06 mg/m3< 0,06 mg/m3
VOCs (total)< 0,5 mg/m3< 0,2 mg/m3
SVOCs (total)< 0,1 mg/m3< 0,04 mg/m3
Each detectable compound classified as categories C1A or C1B according to the Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008< 0,001 mg/m3< 0,001 mg/m3

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall perform a test chamber analysis in accordance with the standard EN ISO 16000-9. The analysis of formaldehyde and other aldehydes shall comply with the standard ISO 16000-3; the analysis of VOCs and SVOCs shall comply with the standard ISO 16000-6. Testing following the standard CEN/TS 16516 shall be considered equivalent to those of the ISO 16000 series of standards.

Test results shall be calculated for an area specific ventilation rate ‘q’ = 0,5 m3/m2h, corresponding to a loading factor ‘L’ of 1 m2/m3 and an air change rate ‘n’ of 0,5 per hour. In all these cases, the total surface of all surfaces (upside, downside and edges) of the mattress determine the area used for calculation of the loading factor. The test shall be performed on an entire mattress. Should this not be possible for any reason, any of the following alternative procedures of testing may be applied:

1.

Performing the test on a representative sample of the mattress (i.e. one half, one quarter or one eighth); cut edges shall be closed airtight by appropriate means. In order to provide a conservative estimation of the concentration values expected from the entire mattress, concentrations registered with the sample shall be scaled-up by volume (i.e. emissions shall be multiplied by a factor 2, 4 or 8);

2.

Performing the test for each separate element forming part of the mattress. In order to provide a conservative estimation of the concentration values expected from the entire mattress, contributions registered with single components shall be combined using this formula CM = Σ ωi·Ci; where:

  • ‘CM’ (μg·m–3) is the overall contribution from the entire mattress;

  • ‘Ci’ (μg·m–3·kgi –1) is the contribution per unit of mass given by each element ‘i’ forming part of the mattress;

  • ‘ωi’ (kgi) is the weight of the element ‘i’ in the entire mattress.

The emissions of all elements of the mattress shall be summed up without taking into account any adsorption or barrier effects (worst-case approach).

Criterion 12. Technical performance

12.1. Quality

The mattress shall be designed in a way that a quality product meeting the needs of the consumer is placed on the market.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a report describing the approach followed and the actions taken in order to ensure the quality of the product, the fulfilment of specific functional characteristics and the respect of thermo-hygrometric wellness requirements. The following aspects should be taken into consideration: research and development, selection of materials, internal testing and verification procedures for demonstrating the fulfilment of functional characteristics and the respect of thermo-hygrometric wellness requirements.

12.2. Durability

Mattresses shall present the following functional characteristics:

  • Loss of height < 15 %

  • Loss of firmness < 20 %

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a test report describing the results obtained following the test method EN 1957. The losses of height and firmness refer to the difference between the measurements made initially (at 100 cycles) and after the completion (30 000 cycles) of the durability test.

12.3. Warranty

A list of recommendations on how to use, maintain and dispose the mattress shall be reported in the warranty documentation. The warranty for the mattress shall be valid for a period of at least 10 years. This prescription shall not be required for cot mattresses.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide documentation attesting the implementation of the warranty scheme.

Criterion 13. Design for disassembly and recovery of materials

The manufacturer shall demonstrate that the mattress can be dismantled for the following purposes:

  • undertaking repairs and replacements of worn-out parts,

  • upgrading older or obsolete parts,

  • separating parts and materials for the potential recycle of them.

Assessment and verification: a report shall be submitted with the application detailing the dismantling of the mattress and the possible disposal of each part. For instance, the following actions could facilitate the dismantling of the mattress: preferring sewing to the application of glue; using removable covers; using single and recyclable materials for each homogeneous part.

Criterion 14. Information appearing on the EU Ecolabel

The EU Ecolabel can be applied both on the packaging and on the product. If the optional label with text box is used, it shall contain the following text:

  • ‘High-quality long-lasting product’

  • ‘Hazardous substances restricted’

  • ‘Indoor air pollution reduced’

The following text shall moreover appear:

‘For more information on why this product has been awarded the EU Ecolabel, please visit http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ecolabel/’

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a declaration of compliance and visual evidence.

Criterion 15. Additional information to consumers

The applicant shall provide consumers in written or audiovisual form with a list of recommendations on how to use, maintain and dispose the mattress.

Assessment and verification: the applicant shall provide a declaration of compliance and visual evidence.

(1)

Commission Decision 2014/350/EU of 5 June 2014 establishing the ecological criteria for the award of the EU Ecolabel for textile products (OJ L 174, 13.6.2014, p. 45).

(2)

Regulation (EU) No 528/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 May 2012 concerning the making available on the market and use of biocidal products (OJ L 167, 27.6.2012, p. 1).

(3)

Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/67/EEC, 93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC (OJ L 396, 30.12.2006, p. 1).

(4)

Council Directive 67/548/EEC of 27 June 1967 on the approximation of laws, regulations and administrative provisions relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances (OJ 196, 16.8.1967, p. 1).