Global Protocol
International standards define the analytical methods for determining the presence of organotin compounds in footwear materials. The ISO 16189 protocol utilizes gas chromatography with mass spectrometry to identify substances such as dibutyltin and tributyltin in various components. This standard applies to both textiles and leathers used in the assembly of shoes.
Detection Scope
Accurate measurement of these chemicals is necessary to comply with safety regulations that protect the wearer and the environment. Under the ISO 16189 guidelines, the laboratory extracts the compounds from the sample using a specific solvent under controlled temperature and time. The resulting extract is then processed to create volatile derivatives that can be analyzed by the equipment.
This method provides a high level of sensitivity, allowing the detection of restricted substances at very low concentrations. It is a necessary tool for brands that must certify their products are free from harmful additives.
Laboratory Requirement
Facilities performing these tests must maintain strict calibration of their instruments to ensure the results are defensible. The ISO 16189 standard specifies the use of internal standards to account for any loss of the target chemicals during the extraction and preparation steps.
Supply Compliance
Manufacturers use the reports generated from this testing to audit their chemical suppliers and ensure no contamination occurs during production. If a material fails the ISO 16189 test, the source of the organotin must be identified, which often involves testing individual dyes, pigments, additives or catalysts. This rigorous approach prevents contaminated products from reaching the retail market and reduces the risk of costly product recalls.
Implementing these checks at the component level is more cost-effective than testing the finished shoe.
