TESTING: PRODUCT ACCEPTABILITY

The WOOLSAFE test methods and performance requirements, details of which are available from The WOOLSAFE Organisation or CRi, are designed to ensure that the product performs the function for which it is sold and does not have a deleterious effect on wool carpets or rugs.

The following characteristics of the different types of product are evaluated:

(a) Cleaning Products

That no oxidising or reducing agents are present, which may cause bleaching or alteration of carpet colours.

That the alkalinity is low: a well-buffered, i.e. difficult to neutralize, slightly alkaline product may have a worse effect than an initially more alkaline, but easily neutralized chemical.

The pH.

The cleaning performance: this should meet an acceptable standard for the type of product.

The re-soiling characteristics: cleaned carpets should not re-soil more quickly than the carpet did before cleaning.

The effect on colour fastness: the product should not cause colour bleeding or a change in colour of dyed carpets.

Fire safety: aerosol foams or impregnated powder cleaners must not support burning.

(b) Spot removers

As for cleaning products, plus:

Spot removal performance: the product must reach an acceptable level of spot removal ability taking into account the type of spot remover - ie for water-based or greasy spots.

(c) Soil and stain resist treatments

Oil and water repellency: must be of an acceptable level.

Effect on soiling, before and after wear: if soil resistance is claimed this must be reflected in the tests.

Effect on staining, before and after wear: if stain resistance is claimed, this must be reflected in the tests.

Instruction for use of the product must be clear and unambiguous. Where there are hazards associated with the use of the product these must be explained on the label.

In addition, manufacturers are required to supply the appropriate Material Safety Data Sheets to CRi when submitting products for testing (without an MSDS testing is not permissible in the UK).