Blue Angel - Leather – Siegelklarheit

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Blue Angel - Leather

Credibility

Environment

Socio-Economic

Good choice

Credibility

Environment

Socio-Economic

Aim/Focus
Standard organisation
Good to know

The label for leather is based on the award criteria DE-UZ 148. Leathers can be a significant source of indoor air pollution because of their large surfaces and their long service lives. Pollutants that may affect our health and environment usually originate from leather tanning and preservation processes. The Blue Angel eco-label for low-emission upholstery leather signals to the consumer that leathers bearing the Blue Angel have been manufactured with the aim of minimizing their impact on health and environment during manufacture, the entire useful life as well as during recycling and disposal. The Blue Angel eco-label enables the manufacturer of upholstery furniture as well as the upholstery craftsman to deliberately choose Blue Angel-ecolabelled low-emission upholstery leathers for their products and, thus, offer upholstery furniture to the consumer that does not pose a risk to their health.

The standard is issued by the Federal Ministry for the Environment. The Federal Environment Agency provides the Blue Angel office and develops the criteria. The independent Eco-label Jury decides on the criteria. RAL GmbH, a subsidiary of German Institute for Quality Assurance and Certification, awards the Blue Angel.

The Blue Angel for low-emission leather signals that the environmental and health impacts of the awarded leathers are minimised from production over the entire service life to recycling and disposal.

Credibility 80%

Availability of Scheme Structure
Independence of Scheme Owner from Certificate Holder
Availability of Standard
Public Consultation of Standard
Standard Review
Scheme Legal Status
Sources of Finance
Standard-Setting Process
Assessment Methodology
Sustainability Goals and Objectives of the Scheme
Key Issues
Stakeholder Feedback
Consistent Interpretation
Scheme Accessibility
Assurance Provider Complaints and Appeals Mechanism
Assessment Reports Availability
Scope and Duration of Certificate / License
Certified or Verified Enterprise / Labelled Product List

From March 2025, the required level of ambition for this minimum criterion will increase from 'basic' to 'advanced'.
Accredited/ Approved Assurance Providers
Independent Conformity Assessment
Consistent Decision-Making on Conformity
Procedure on Non-Conformities
Claims and Labelling Policy

Scheme Management

17/17
- Governance
  
  12/12
  - Does the scheme owner make its organisational structure publicly available, including composition of governance bodies?
    Answer: Yes publicly
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (on request) (0 points)
    
    Yes publicly (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
  - Is the scheme owner a legal entity, or an organization that is a partnership of legal entities, or a government or inter-governmental agency?
    Answer: yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)
  - Is there a mechanism for stakeholders to participate in scheme development and decision-making?
    Answer: Yes available publicly
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes available publicly (2 points)
    
    Yes available on request (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
  - Do the voting procedures of the top decision-making body ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests, where no single interest predominates?
    Answer: yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner make quantitative information on the income sources or financing structure of the scheme available?
    Answer: Yes publicly
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (on request) (1 point)
    
    Yes publicly (2 points)
    
    No (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner have an internal quality management system available?
    Answer: Yes (on request)
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (on request) (1 point)
    
    Yes publicly (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
  - Is the scheme owner economically independent from the certificate holder?
    Answer: yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner have sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
    Answer: yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner have a strategy for meeting its sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
    Answer: Yes publicly
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (on request) (1 point)
    
    Yes publicly (2 points)
- Impact
  
  3/3
  - Does the scheme owner have a system in place for measuring its impacts and progress towards its sustainability goals?
    Answer: Yes publicly
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (on request) (1 point)
    
    Yes publicly (2 points)
  - Does the scheme owner use the results of monitoring and evaluation for learning and improvements to its programme?
    Answer: yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner make sustainability results from M&E available?
    Answer: Not applicable
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (on request) (1 point)
    
    Yes publicly (2 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
- Complaints Mechanism
  
  1/1
  - Does the scheme owner have a publicly available and easily accessible complaints mechanism?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
- Supporting Strategies
  
  1/1
  - Does the scheme implement strategies or activities to support improved performance of participating enterprises, e.g. capacity building, access to finance?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not Applicable (0 points)
Standard-Setting

11/11
- Is the standard made publicly available free of charge?
  Answer: Yes publicly
  
  Score: 1/1
  Possible answers
  
  Yes (on request) (0 points)
  
  Yes publicly (1 point)
  
  No (0 points)
- Has a set of key sustainability issues in the sector where the scheme operates or product lifecycle been defined in the standard-setting process?
  Answer: yes
  
  Score: 1/1
  Possible answers
  
  No (0 points)
  
  yes (1 point)
- Is the standard-setting procedure or a summary of the process for how stakeholders can engage in standard-setting made publicly available?
  Answer: Yes publicly
  
  Score: 1/1
  Possible answers
  
  Yes (on request) (0 points)
  
  Yes publicly (1 point)
  
  No (0 points)
- Can stakeholders participate in the standard-setting process?
  Answer: All stakeholders
  
  Score: 2/2
  Possible answers
  
  Members only (1 point)
  
  Invitation only (1 point)
  
  All stakeholders (2 points)
- Are stakeholders who are directly affected by the standard provided opportunities to participate in standard setting?
  Answer: yes
  
  Score: 1/1
  Possible answers
  
  No (0 points)
  
  yes (1 point)
- Are draft standards field tested / piloted for relevance and auditability through the development and revision processes?
  Answer: Not applicable
  Possible answers
  
  Yes (1 point)
  
  No (0 points)
  
  Not applicable (0 points)
- Does the scheme owner provide information on how the input received from consultations has been included in the final version of the standard?
  Answer: Yes publicly
  
  Score: 2/2
  Possible answers
  
  Yes (on request) (1 point)
  
  Yes publicly (2 points)
  
  No (0 points)
- Do the voting procedures of the decision-making body responsible for standard setting ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests?
  Answer: yes
  
  Score: 1/1
  Possible answers
  
  No (0 points)
  
  yes (1 point)
- Is the standard reviewed and, if necessary, revised at least every 5 years?
  Answer: yes
  
  Score: 1/1
  Possible answers
  
  No (0 points)
  
  yes (1 point)
- Does the scheme ensure that guidance is in place to support consistent interpretation of the standard?
  Answer: yes
  
  Score: 1/1
  Possible answers
  
  No (0 points)
  
  yes (1 point)
- Are there procedures and guidance for application or interpretation of the standard to regional contexts?
  Answer: Not applicable
  Possible answers
  
  Yes (1 point)
  
  No (0 points)
  
  Not applicable (0 points)
Assurance

38/55
- Assurance System
  
  16/18
  - Is there a publicly available documented assessment methodology for assurance providers to assess conformity with the standard?
    Answer: Yes publicly available
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes available on request (0 points)
    
    Yes publicly available (1 point)
  - Is application (to get certified/verified) open to all potential applicants within the scope of the scheme?
    Answer: yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner provide information on assessment fees or require this of assurance providers?
    Answer: Yes publicly available
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes available on request (1 point)
    
    Yes publicly available (2 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to have an easily accessible complaints and appeals mechanism?
    Answer: Yes publicly available
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes available on request (1 point)
    
    Yes publicly available (2 points)
  - Does the scheme owner make, or require assurance providers to make a summary of certification/verification reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) available?
    Answer: Yes publicly
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (no reports) (0 points)
    
    No (confidential) (1 point)
    
    Yes (on request) (2 points)
    
    Yes publicly (2 points)
  - Does the certificate or license define the scope of assurance and duration for which it is valid?
    Answer: yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner maintain or require assurance providers to maintain a publicly accessible list of certified or verified enterprises, or a list of verified products/product groups, or a list of members (in case of membership-based initiatives)?
    Answer: Yes incl. scope of certificate or license
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes incl. scope of certificate or license (2 points)
  - Does the scheme owner maintain a current and publicly available list of all accredit-ed/approved/suspended assurance providers?
    Answer: Yes (publicly)
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (on request) (0 points)
    
    Yes (publicly) (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner review the effectiveness of their assurance system on a periodic basis?
    Answer: Annual
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Annual (1 point)
    
    Every 3 years (1 point)
    
    Every 5 years (1 point)
    
    Ad hoc (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require that clients and other affected stakeholders are notified of changes to the assurance requirements?
    Answer: yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme require performance improvements over time to maintain certification?
    Answer: No
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner have a documented assessment methodology for assurance providers that are assessing chain of custody?
    Answer: Not applicable
    
    Possible answers
    
    yes publicly available (2 points)
    
    yes available on request (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to report to them on complaints received and, on the actions, taken to resolve the issue?
    Answer: No
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner maintain an information management system?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
  - Has the scheme specified equivalence requirements for any other scheme assurance results it recognises?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
- Conformity Assessment
  
  14/16
  - Conformity Assessment Process
    
    4/4
    - Does the scheme require a third-party conformity assessment of all clients for compliance with its standard?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 2/2
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (2 points)
      
      Not Applicable (0 points)
    - Does the scheme owner define requirements for decision-making to ensure that assurance providers use consistent procedures for determining the conformity of clients or laboratory testing results with the standard?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      No (0 points)
    - Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to have a procedure in place for how clients are required to address non-conformities, including when a certificate or license is suspended or revoked?
      Answer: yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      yes (1 point)
  - Sustainability Audits
    
    7/9
    - Does the scheme owner have a documented oversight approach that requires assurance providers to be accredited or compliant with ISO/IEC 17065, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17025 (for laboratories) requirements, or alternatively to be compliant with the relevant ISEAL Assurance Code requirements?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      Not Applicable (0 points)
    - Does the scheme owner require that clients are audited on a regular, recurring basis?
      Answer: 4-5 years
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      1 year or less (1 point)
      
      1-2 years (1 point)
      
      2-3 years (1 point)
      
      4-5 years (1 point)
      
      5 years or more (1 point)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
    - Is the frequency or intensity of an audit or oversight assessment based on a risk assessment of the client or assurance provider?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
    - Does the scheme owner specify the required intensity for each type of audit and the activities that must be carried out by assurance providers for each of its standards?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      Not Applicable (0 points)
    - Does the scheme owner allow or require assurance providers to do unannounced audits?
      Answer: Not allowed
      
      Score: 0/2
      
      Possible answers
      
      Allowed (1 point)
      
      Required (2 points)
      
      Not allowed (0 points)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
    - Are auditors and assessors required to seek external stakeholder input during the audit and oversight assessment process?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      Not Applicable (0 points)
    - Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to follow a consistent report format?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
    - Does the scheme owner require that assurance providers and oversight bodies use competent and impartial personnel (other than auditor/assessor/ team) to make decisions on compliance?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
  - Group Certification
    
    0/0
    - Is the group required to have a shared management system with clear responsibilities for implementation of the system?
      Answer: Not applicable
      
      Possible answers
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
    - Does the scheme owner have a mechanism that prescribes and justifies how all sites within a group certification will be audited over time?
      Answer: Not applicable
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
    - Is there a sample size formula and sampling approach to determine the number of group members that is externally verified and how the sample is chosen?
      Answer: Not applicable
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      Yes based on risk assessment (2 points)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
    - Do the requirements on group certification/verification define the conditions under which a group member shall be suspended or removed from a group?
      Answer: Not applicable
      
      Possible answers
      
      Member suspended from certification (1 point)
      
      Member removed from a group (1 point)
      
      Group suspension (1 point)
      
      No repercussion (0 points)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
  - Chain of Custody
    
    0/0
    - Does the scheme owner require all enterprises that are physically handling the certified product to undergo a CoC audit if the product can be destined for retail sale as a certified, labelled product?
      Answer: Not applicable
      
      Possible answers
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
  - Laboratory Testing
    
    3/3
    - In the documented assessment methodology, are test methods either referred to or included?
      Answer: Yes publicly
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (on request) (1 point)
      
      Yes publicly (1 point)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
    - Are there rules on random sampling and testing for the conformity monitoring?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
    - Is there a procedure to deal with non-conforming products manufactured by a client / licensee?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Not applicable (0 points)
- Assessor/ Auditor Competencies
  
  1/8
  - Does the scheme owner define the qualifications, competency, the required minimum industry audit experience and training requirements for assurance / oversight assessors?
    Answer: No
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not Applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner define the qualifications, competency, the required minimum industry audit experience and training requirements for assurance / oversight assessors?
    Answer: No
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
  - Does the scheme owner require that assurance provider auditors successfully complete auditor training on a standard that is relevant to the scheme and that is based on ISO 19011, or equivalent?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require that assurance and oversight providers implement a programme to monitor and ensure the continued competence and good performance of assessors and auditors?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner carry out or require assurance providers to carry out calibration activities to ensure that assessors /auditors are aligned?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Score: 0/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Annually (2 points)
    
    Ad Hoc (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require that assurance providers have a Code of Conduct, or equivalent, and supporting procedures to guide behaviour and actions of assurance providers' personnel and to address misconduct
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner assess potential risks to auditor / assessor impartiality and where warranted, do they require assurance providers and oversight bodies to implement practices to mitigate these risks?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
- Accreditation / Oversight
  
  7/13
  - Does the scheme require an oversight mechanism and is it documented?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not Applicable (0 points)
  - Is oversight conducted by a third party independent of the scheme owner and assurance providers?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme define the nature and intensity of oversight activities on assurance providers?
    Answer: <1 year
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    <1 year (2 points)
    
    1 year (2 points)
    
    2-3 years (2 points)
    
    4-5 years (1 point)
    
    >5 years (1 point)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
    
    None (0 points)
  - Does the intensity of oversight activities take account of risk factors associated with the assurance providers and their personnel?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner clearly define the application and selection process for assurance providers?
    Answer: No
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner assess scheme-specific competence when accepting assurance providers that are accredited to other relevant standards (proxy accreditation)?
    Answer: No
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Yes assess scheme-specific competence (1 point)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme have or require oversight providers to have documented and accessible complaints and appeals mechanisms?
    Answer: No
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner define or request that oversight providers define how assurance providers have to address non-conformities raised through oversight?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require that summaries of oversight reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) are made publicly available?
    Answer: Yes (on request)
    
    Score: 1/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (on request) (1 point)
    
    Yes publicly (2 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require that on-site assessments of assurance providers are included in the oversight cycle?
    Answer: No
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require that oversight includes reviews of assurance provider performance in the field?
    Answer: No
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
Claims & Traceability

4/4
- Traceability
  
  0/0
  - Does the scheme owner have a documented Chain of Custody standard or other traceability requirements that apply to the full supply chain?
    Answer: Not applicable
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes available on request (1 point)
    
    Yes publicly available (2 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Are there any CoC requirements for non-certified material, in case mixing of certified with uncertified inputs is allowed?
    Answer: Not applicable
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to verify that all enterprises within the chain maintain accurate and accessible records that allow any certified product or batch of products to be traceable from the point of sale to the buyer?
    Answer: Not applicable
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Are companies required to keep CoC records for at least the term of certificate validity?
    Answer: Not applicable
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme have a traceability system that enables checking of product flow between links of the supply chain?
    Answer: Not applicable
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
- Claims & Labelling
  
  4/4
  - Does the scheme owner have documented requirements for the use of its symbols, logos and/or claims related to its scheme and make them publicly available?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not Applicable (0 points)
  - Do claims requirements specify the types of claims that can be made for different types of CoC models, where the scheme owner allows for more than one model?
    Answer: Not applicable
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Are claims and label users required to use unique license numbers or other tracking mechanisms?
    Answer: Not applicable
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme owner require surveillance of the accurate use of claims and labels in the market, including a complaints mechanism to report misuse?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Is the label accompanied by an explanatory text claim or a link to further information?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Not applicable (0 points)
  - Does the scheme have a procedure that defines specific consequences of misuse of claims and do they also require this of their assurance providers?
    Answer: yes
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    yes (1 point)

Environment 52%

Use of Biocides
Hazardous Chemicals - substances of very high concern under REACH
Chemicals harmful to the Environment
Chemicals harmful to Human Health
Criteria on the origins of raw hides
Testing for Chemical Residues
Wastewater Parameters

Chemicals

13/18
- Chemical Use
  
  13/14
  - Does the standard include criteria on chemical use?
    Answer: Advanced: Increase efficiency/reduce chemical use
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Document use of all chemicals (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Increase efficiency/reduce chemical use (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances Compliance Verification The applicant and the suppliers of semi-finished leather products (e.g. wet-blue) shall declare compliance with the requirements in Annex 1 or Annex 2, respectively, and submit a list of all process chemicals and their manufacturers according to Annex 3. Current Material Safety Data Sheets according to Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 shall be presented in English and German for all process chemicals. Changes in the process chemicals (elimination/addition/modification of composition) shall be reported to RAL gGmbH immediately by submission of the Material Safety Data Sheets. Checklist and Notes Re: Application for the Blue Angel Eco-Label pursuant to RAL-UZ 148 for "Leather" Dear Sir or Madam, to make sure your application for Award of the Environmental Label is processed without delay you are kindly requested to submit the following documents to RAL gGmbH: Product-related informal application on the applicant's letter-head paper Annex 3a: List of the process chemicals used at the beamhouse and in tanning which are classified by Hazard (H) Statements according to Appendix 2. Substances are to be listed in Annex 3a only if they are listed in the Material Safety Data Sheets of process chemicals classified by a hazard statement according to Appendix 2. All other process chemicals need not be entered. If semi-finished products from suppliers (tanneries) are used the supplier shall complete Annex 3a. Annex 3b: List of all process chemicals used after the tanning process. All process chemicals used are to be listed in Annex 3b. Annexes 4: Declaration of the Manufacturers/Suppliers of Chemicals To be submitted for all process chemicals used in tanning (if remaining in the finished leather) as well as for all process chemicals used in the subsequent processes. Annexes: Material Safety Data Sheets according to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 for the chemicals listed in Annex 3a and Annex 3b.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements ........................................................................... 9 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances ..................................................................................... 9
  - Does the standard include criteria on chemicals listed on the REACH Candidate List as substances of very high concern?
    Answer: Basic: Restrict use
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Restrict use (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Prohibit use except for defined derogations. (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances (...) Also, the leather product must not contain, as constituent components, any substances with the following characteristics: [1]Substances that have been identified as substances of very high concern according to Regulation (EC) No 1906/2006 (REACH) and have been included in the list (so-called Candidate List) set up in accordance with REACH, Article 59(1).
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements ........................................................................... 9 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances ..................................................................................... 9
  - Does the standard include criteria on the use of biocides?
    Answer: Advanced: Goes beyond regulation
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Compliance with regulation (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Goes beyond regulation (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances Compliance with the relevant substance restrictions of the European and German chemicals law as well as with the trade-specific regulations is a prerequisite. With regard to leather these rules are, above all, the following: (...) Biocidal Products Regulation ( Regulation (EU) No 528/2012 concerning the making available on the market and use of biocidal products) 3.5 Leather 3.5.1 Preservatives Notwithstanding paragraph 3.4 (General Substance Requirements) preservatives shall fall under Appendix A to DE-UZ 148 (edition of March 2015). Chemical preservation for the transportation and storage of raw hides as well as tanned semi-finished products (wet blue, wet white) shall be avoided to the greatest extent possible. A chemical preservation of the finished leather, including the coatings, shall not be permitted13. Testing shall be performed on the finished leather with a moisture content of about 10 percent. It shall be repeated at least every six months and the results shall be presented to RAL gGmbH upon request. If testing reveals preservatives at levels exceeding the maximum values set RAL gGmbH shall be informed immediately. Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare in Annex 1 that the leather is manufactured without the use of preservatives (complete survey from slaughter to the finished leather) or name the preservatives used. Also, the applicant shall submit to RAL gGmbH first upon filing the application a test report according to DIN EN ISO 13365 listing the preservatives listed in Appendix A along with the test methods described therein. Sampling shall be done in accordance with DIN EN ISO 2418. Appendix A Biocidal conservatives for Leather 1 Preservation 1.1 Admissible Biocidal Active Substances The following biocidal active substances may be used in accordance with the DE-UZ 148 Basic Criteria to protect raw hides and tanned semi-finished products (wet blue, wet white) during storage and transportation. In doing so, the limit values listed in the table below shall be observed in the final product “leather” (...) 1.2 2-(Thiocyanato-methylthio)benzothiazole (TCMTB) The cumulative parameter with benzothiazole-2-thiol (MBT) as decomposition product of TCMTB shall be determined as limit value. This cumulative parameter shall not exceed the following limit value in the final product “leather”: 1.3 Non-Approved Biocidal Active Substances” According to DE-UZ 148, all other biocidal active substances of PT 9 may not be used to protect raw hides and tanned semi-finished products (wet blue, wet white) during storage and transportation. Analytical verifications shall be provided for the active substances listed in Table 3. Starting out from the analysis method and from the detection limit of these substances the criterion shall be considered met if the following limit values are not exceeded in the final product “leather”: (...) 3 Amendments to Appendix A to the DE-UZ148 Basic Criteria for Leather Provided that preservatives are permitted as preservatives for leather (product group 9) within the scope of the evaluation and approval process under the Biocidal Products Regulation (EU) 528/2012 their inclusion in Table 1 of Appendix A to DE-UZ 148 will be checked by the German Umweltbundesamt (UBA) in consultation with Landesgewerbeanstalt (LGA) Bayern (Regional Trade Institute - Bavaria) and Lederfachinstitut FILK (Research Institute of Leather and Plastic Sheeting), Freiberg. Inclusion in Table 1 is limited to those preservatives of product type 9 for which a determination method for leather exists and which are not classified as a strong contact allergen (Car: A) in the BgVV List – (BgVV - Bundesinstitut für Gesundheitlichen Verbraucherschutz und Veterinärmedizin - German institute for consumer health protection and veterinary medicine). In a similar manner, additional limit values may be included or the conditions of use may be adapted to the state of the art. If a biocidal active substance listed in Table 1 is not included in accordance with the Biocidal Products Regulation (EU) 528/2012 for product type 9 it will be deleted from Table 1 of Appendix A to DE-UZ 148.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements ........................................................................... 9 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances ..................................................................................... 9 3.5 Leather ............................................................................................................. 10 3.5.1 Preservatives .................................................................................................. 10 Appendix A Biocidal conservatives for Leather ............................................................... 17
  - Does the standard include criteria on the use of flame retardants?
    Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: Prohibit use (1 point)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.5.10 Flame Retardants Flame retardants shall not be used. Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare compliance with this requirement in Annex 1
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.5.10 Flame Retardants ............................................................................................ 14 "
  - Does the standard include criteria on H statements H400, H410, H411?
    Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use (with only exception usage of sulfide in the liming process)
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Prohibit use (with exceptions of usage of sulfide in the liming process and usage of biocides in the production phase) (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Prohibit use (with only exception usage of sulfide in the liming process) (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances (...) Also, the leather product must not contain, as constituent components, any substances with the following characteristics: (...) [2]Substances that have been classified according to the CLP Regulation in the following hazard categories or meet the criteria for such classification: (...)  hazardous to the aquatic environment of category Aquatic Chronic 1, Aquatic chronic 2 or Aquatic Acute 1  hazardous to the ozone layer of category Ozone 1 The H-Statements corresponding to the hazard categories can be seen from Appendix B. Compliance Verification The applicant and the suppliers of semi-finished leather products (e.g. wet-blue) shall declare compliance with the requirements in Annex 1 or Annex 2, respectively, and submit a list of all process chemicals and their manufacturers according to Annex 3. Current Material Safety Data Sheets according to Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 shall be presented in English and German for all process chemicals. Changes in the process chemicals (elimination/addition/modification of composition) shall be reported to RAL gGmbH immediately by submission of the Material Safety Data Sheets. Appendix B Assignment of Hazard Categories and Hazard Statements The following table assigns the respective hazard statements (H statements) referred to in these Basic Criteria to the hazard categories of the substances that are generally excluded according to para. 3.4.1. Substances classified for Environmental Hazards Aquatic Acute 1 H400 Very toxic to aquatic life. Aquatic Chronic. 1 H410 Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects. Aquatic Chronic. 2 H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects. Ozone 1 H420 Hazardous to the ozone layer. New: Harms public health and the environment by destroying ozone in the upper atmosphere Appendix A Biocidal conservatives for Leather 1 Preservation 1.1 Admissible Biocidal Active Substances The following biocidal active substances may be used in accordance with the DE-UZ 148 Basic Criteria to protect raw hides and tanned semi-finished products (wet blue, wet white) during storage and transportation. In doing so, the limit values listed in the table below shall be observed in the final product “leather”.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements ........................................................................... 9 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances ..................................................................................... 9
  - Does the standard include criteria on H statements?
    Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use with one exception (see guidance)
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Prohibit use with two exceptions (see guidance) (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Prohibit use with one exception (see guidance) (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances (...) Also, the leather product must not contain, as constituent components, any substances with the following characteristics: (...) [2]Substances that have been classified according to the CLP Regulation in the following hazard categories or meet the criteria for such classification:  carcinogenic of category Carc. 1A, Carc. 1B  mutagenic of category Muta. 1A, Muta. 1B  reprotoxic of category Repr. 1A, Repr. 1B  acutely toxic of category Acute Tox. 1, Acute Tox. 2  toxic to specific target organs of category STOT SE1, STOT SE 2, STOT RE 1 or STOT RE 2  sensitizing to the respiratory tract of category Resp. Sens. 1, Resp. Sens. 1 A or Resp. Sens. 1B (...) [3]Substances classified in TRGS 90512 as:  carcinogenic (K1, K2),  mutagenic (M1, M2)  reprotoxic (RF1, RF2, RE 1, RE2) Compliance Verification The applicant and the suppliers of semi-finished leather products (e.g. wet-blue) shall declare compliance with the requirements in Annex 1 or Annex 2, respectively, and submit a list of all process chemicals and their manufacturers according to Annex 3. Current Material Safety Data Sheets according to Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 shall be presented in English and German for all process chemicals. Changes in the process chemicals (elimination/addition/modification of composition) shall be reported to RAL gGmbH immediately by submission of the Material Safety Data Sheets. Appendix B Assignment of Hazard Categories and Hazard Statements The following table assigns the respective hazard statements (H statements) referred to in these Basic Criteria to the hazard categories of the substances that are generally excluded according to para. 3.4.1. CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 Hazard category H Statement Wording Carcinogenic Substances Carc. 1A H350 May cause cancer. Carc. 1B H350 May cause cancer. Carc. 1A, 1B H350i May cause cancer by inhalation. Mutagenic Substances Muta. 1A H340 May cause genetic defects. Muta. 1B H340 May cause genetic defects. Reprotoxic Substances Repr. 1A, 1B H360D May damage the unborn child. Repr. 1A, 1B H360F May damage fertility. Repr. 1A, 1B H360FD May damage fertility. May damage the unborn child. Repr. 1A, 1B H360Df May damage the unborn child. Suspected of damaging fertility. Repr. 1A, 1B H360Fd May damage fertility. Suspected of damaging the unborn child. Acutely toxic substances Acute Tox. 1, Acute Tox. 2 H300 Fatal if swallowed. Acute Tox. 3 H301 Toxic if swallowed. Acute Tox. 1 Acute Tox. 2 H310 Fatal in contact with skin. Acute Tox. 3 H311 Toxic in contact with skin. Acute Tox. 1, Acute Tox. 2 H330 Fatal if inhaled. Acute Tox. 3 H331 Toxic if inhaled. Substances classified for Specific Target Organ Toxicity STOT SE 1 H370 Causes damage to organs. STOT SE 2 H371 May cause damage to organs. STOT RE 1 H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. STOT RE 2 H373 May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements ........................................................................... 9 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances ..................................................................................... 9
  - Does the standard include criteria on testing the final product regarding residues of chemicals?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.5.2 Hexavalent Chromium Leather requires a determination of hexavalent chromium - with and without a stress test - where hexavalent chromium may not be detectable (detection limit: 3 mg/kg). The test shall be repeated at least every six months and the results shall be submitted to RAL gGmbH upon request. If the test shows that hexavalent chromium is present in concentrations above the detection limit of 3 mg/kg RAL gGmbH shall be informed immediately. Compliance Verification The applicant shall submit to RAL gGmbH - upon filing the application and, also, each time the composition is changed, a test report according to DIN EN ISO 17075 (February 2008) showing that hexavalent chromium has not been detected (detection limit: 3 mg/kg). Sampling shall be done in accordance with EN ISO 2418. The ground/cut leather sample shall be examined with and without the aid of a stress test (aging test). To perform a stress test, the ground/cut leather sample (single piece approx. 0.5 x 0.5 cm) shall be first stored for 24 hours at a temperature of 80°C in a drying chamber without convection at a humidity of < 5%. After 24 hours the sample shall be taken out of the drying chamber, cooled in an exsiccator for at least 30 minutes and examined in accordance with DIN EN ISO 17075 within 2 hours after taking it out of the drying chamber. If there are variations in the test condition the general conditions shall be specified. 3.5.3 Indoor Air Quality The products under paragraph 2 shall not exceed the below-listed emission values in the test chamber following the „health risk assessment process for emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from building products” developed by the Ausschuss zur gesundheitlichen Bewertung von Bauprodukten (Committee for Health-Related Evaluation of Building Products)14: Substance 3rd day Final value (28th day) Formaldehyde 60 μg/m3 (0,05 ppm) Other aldehydes 15 (total) 60 μg/m3 Total organic compounds within the retention range C6 – C16 (TVOC) - ≤ 450 μg/m3 Total organic compounds within the retention range C16 – C22 (TSVOC) - ≤ 80 μg/m3 C-substances ≤ 10 μg/m3 total ≤ 1 μg/m3 per single value Total VOC without LCI ≤ 60 μg/m3 R-value ≤ 1 The test may be stopped 7 days after charging the test chamber at the earliest if the values determined are less than half the values required in the 28-day test and no significant increases in the concentration of individual substances are observed – in comparison to the levels observed on day 3. The indoor-air quality tests shall be repeated at two-year intervals in conjunction with the odour test under para. 3.6. The results of such repeat testing shall be reported to RAL gGmbH without further demand. 3.5.4 Extractable Heavy Metals The concentrations of the heavy metals listed in the table below shall not exceed the respective detection limits. Extractable Heavy Metal Limit Value Chromium in chromium-tanned leather 200 mg/kg Cobalt 4 mg/kg Copper 50 mg/kg Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirements in Annex 1 and submit a test report according to DIN EN ISO 17072-1. Test samples shall be prepared in accordance with EN ISO 4044, the samples shall be fully ground up. 3.5.5 Organotin Compounds Tin in organic form (tin bonded to a carbon atom) shall not be used. Compliance Verification The applicant shall submit the declarations from all chemicals suppliers confirming compliance with this requirement (Annex 4). 3.5.6 Dyes and Pigments The dyes and pigments listed in Appendix C shall not be used. Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare in Annex 1 that the substances listed in Appendix C are not used or present compliance verifications in accordance with DIN EN 17234-1. Also, the applicant shall submit the test results obtained – with respect to leather – using the test method described in DIN EN ISO 17234-1 and - with respect to 4-aminobenzene – those obtained using the test method described in DIN EN ISO 17234-2: 2011. The maximum concentration shall be 20 mg/kg each. 3.5.7 Chloroparaffins/Chloralkanes Chloroalkanes shall not be used. 3.5.8 Perfluorinated and Polyfluorinated Chemicals Neither perfluorinated nor polyfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), as for example, fluorocarbon resins and fluorocarbon emulsions, perfluorinated sulfonic and carboxylic acids nor substances that might be broken down into these chemicals shall be used. 3.5.9 Alkylphenol Ethoxylates and Alkylphenols Alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs) and their derivatives shall not be used. Compliance Verification The applicant shall submit the declarations from all chemicals suppliers confirming compliance with this requirement (Annex 4). Alternatively, testing may be performed by means of solvent extraction and GC-MS determination or LC-MS determination according to DIN EN ISO 18218, Parts 1 und 2. The content of alkylphenols and alkylphenol ethoxylates shall not exceed 100 mg/kg each.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.5 Leather ............................................................................................................. 10 3.5.2 Hexavalent Chromium ..................................................................................... 11 3.5.3 Indoor Air Quality ............................................................................................ 11 3.5.4 Extractable Heavy Metals ................................................................................. 13 3.5.5 Organotin Compounds ..................................................................................... 13 3.5.7 Chloroparaffins/Chloralkanes ............................................................................ 13 3.5.8 Perfluorinated and Polyfluorinated Chemicals ...................................................... 14 3.5.9 Alkylphenol Ethoxylates and Alkylphenols ........................................................... 14
  - Does the standard include criteria on the use of dyes or pigments based on lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, cobalt and aluminium in the production phase?
    Answer: Advanced: prohibit some dyes or pigments based on lead copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, cobalt and aluminium
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: prohibit some dyes or pigments based on lead copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, cobalt and aluminium (1 point)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances (...) Also, the leather product must not contain, as constituent components, any substances with the following characteristics: (...) [2]Substances that have been classified according to the CLP Regulation in the following hazard categories or meet the criteria for such classification: (...)  sensitizing to the respiratory tract of category Resp. Sens. 1, Resp. Sens. 1 A or Resp. Sens. 1B 3.5.4 Extractable Heavy Metals The concentrations of the heavy metals listed in the table below shall not exceed the respective detection limits. Extractable Heavy Metal Limit Value Chromium in chromium-tanned leather 200 mg/kg Cobalt 4 mg/kg Copper 50 mg/kg 3.5.6 Dyes and Pigments The dyes and pigments listed in Appendix C shall not be used. Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare in Annex 1 that the substances listed in Appendix C are not used or present compliance verifications in accordance with DIN EN 17234-1. Also, the applicant shall submit the test results obtained – with respect to leather – using the test method described in DIN EN ISO 17234-1 and - with respect to 4-aminobenzene – those obtained using the test method described in DIN EN ISO 17234-2: 2011. The maximum concentration shall be 20 mg/kg each. Appendix C Dyes and Pigments the use of which is not permitted under para. 3.5.6: (according to Commission Decision 2014/350/EC (EU ecolabel for textile products): a) Carcinogenic aromatic amines (...) b) Indicative list of dyes that may cleave to carcinogenic aromatic amines (...) c) Dyes that are CMR or which potentially be sensitizing (...)
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.4 General Substance Requirements ........................................................................... 9 3.4.1 Exclusion of Substances ..................................................................................... 9 3.5.6 Dyes and Pigments .......................................................................................... 13
  - Does the standard include criteria on the prohibition of azo dyes that may cleave aromatic amines which are harmful to human health in the production phase?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.5.6 Dyes and Pigments The dyes and pigments listed in Appendix C shall not be used. Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare in Annex 1 that the substances listed in Appendix C are not used or present compliance verifications in accordance with DIN EN 17234-1. Also, the applicant shall submit the test results obtained – with respect to leather – using the test method described in DIN EN ISO 17234-1 and - with respect to 4-aminobenzene – those obtained using the test method described in DIN EN ISO 17234-2: 2011. The maximum concentration shall be 20 mg/kg each. Appendix C Dyes and Pigments the use of which is not permitted under para. 3.5.6: (according to Commission Decision 2014/350/EC (EU ecolabel for textile products): a) Carcinogenic aromatic amines
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.5.6 Dyes and Pigments .......................................................................................... 13 Appendix C Dyes and Pigments the use of which is not permitted under para. 3.5.6: .......... 22
- Handling of Chemicals
  
  0/4
  - Does the standard include criteria on storage and labelling of chemicals?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
  - Does the standard include criteria on selective and targeted application of chemicals?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
  - Does the standard include criteria on training on chemicals handling and exposure?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
  - Does the standard include criteria on training on chemicals handling and exposure?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
Water

9/9
- Water Use
  
  3/3
  - Does the standard include criteria on water consumption in the production phase?
    Answer: Advanced: Monitor water volumes & increase efficiency
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Monitor volumes of water consumption over time (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Monitor water volumes & increase efficiency (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.3 Requirements for the Leather Manufacturing Process 3.3.1 Water Consumption The following water consumption limits shall not be exceeded: • ≤ 25m³/t altogether for raw hides of cattle - with the following limits for the different sub- processes:  ≤ 18 m3/t for raw hides of cattle to the processing stage “wet blue/wet white”  ≤ 10 m³/t for raw hides of cattle from the wet blue/wet white processing state to the finished leather • ≤ 45 m3/t for calf and goat skins • ≤ 80 m³/t for pigs skins and • ≤ 120 m³/t altogether for sheep skins, with the following limits for the different sub- processes:  ≤ 80 m³/t for sheep skins from raw skin to pickling  ≤ 55 m³/t for sheep skins from pickling to wet blue  ≤ 45 m³/t for sheep skins from wet blue to finished leather. Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirements in Annex 1. The application documents shall include a documentation of the annual production and water consumption figures. (Upon filing the application, the applicant shall present the annual production and water consumption figures for the previous year). These data shall cover the entire leather process. If semi-finished products are processed (wet blue, among others) the pre-supplier shall additionally submit a declaration documenting the annual production and water consumption figures (Annex 2).
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.3 Requirements for the Leather Manufacturing Process ................................................ 7 3.3.1 Water Consumption ........................................................................................... 7
  - Does the standard include criteria on reusing/recycling or harvesting water?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.2.2. waste water discharge requirements
- Wastewater
  
  6/6
  - Does the standard include criteria on wastewater quality and wastewater treatment?
    Answer: Advanced: Treat wastewater with parameters defined to ensure appropriate quality of wastewater
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Treat wastewater (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Treat wastewater with parameters defined to ensure appropriate quality of wastewater (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.3.2 Requirements for Wastewater Treatment Wastewater from leather production processes shall not exceed the following limits for direct discharge into a water body: • COD of 200 mg/l or at least a 95% reduction compared with the monthly average inflow • 10 mg/l of ammonia nitrogen • 0.5 mg/l of AOX • value of 2 for toxicity to fish eggs (GEi) • BOD < 25 mg/l • 2 mg/l of sulfide in the sulfide-containing sub-stream (wastewater from soaking, liming and deliming processes, each including rinsing) and • 1 mg/l of total chromium in the chromium-containing sub-stream (wastewater from tanning, including samming, as well as from post-tanning operations. Wastewater from leather production processes shall not exceed the following limits for indirect discharge (prior to the discharge into a municipal or central wastewater treatment plant): • 2 mg/l of sulfide in the sulfide-containing sub-stream (wastewater from soaking, liming and deliming processes, each including rinsing) and • 1 mg/l of chromium altogether in the chromium-containing sub-stream (wastewater from tanning, including samming, as well as from post-tanning operations). Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirements and submit a confirmation by the supervising authority to verify compliance with the requirements in Annex 1. Also, the applicant shall present test reports in accordance with Appendix B5 to the German Wastewater Ordinance or equivalent international test reports. The concentration measurement of sulfide and chromium can be made in the full stream before discharge into a body of water (direct discharge) or into a municipal or central wastewater treatment plant (indirect discharge). If so, the applicant shall report the mixing ratio of the sub-streams in order to allow a back calculation. A retrograde calculation taking into account the degradation rate of the sewage treatment plant in accordance with Appendix D shall also be admissible. The following test methods shall be used: • Chemical oxygen demand (COD): ISO 6060 or DIN 38409-41 or DIN-ISO 15705 • AOX (chloride content < 5 g/l): DIN EN ISO 9562 or • AOX (chloride content > 5 g/l): DIN 38409-22 • Biological oxygen demand (BOD): DIN EN 1899 • Sulfide: DIN 38405-27 or ISO 10530 • Chromium: ISO 9174 or DIN EN 1233 or EN ISO 11885 • Ammonia nitrogen: DIN EN ISO 11732 • Toxicity to fish eggs: DIN EN ISO 15088. In addition, the applicant shall submit a declaration stating that the discharge values of the wastewater treatment plant are checked at least every six months (Annex 1). If the wastewater is discharged into municipal or central wastewater treatment plants (indirect discharge) the applicant shall additionally submit the permit (if discharged to municipal wastewater treatment plants) or the contract terms (if discharged to central wastewater treatment plants) verifying that discharge is permitted and the municipal wastewater treatment plant meets at least the requirements of Directive 91/271/EEC. If semi-finished products are processed (e.g. wet blue) all compliance verifications shall be additionally submitted by the pre-supplier too (Annex 2).
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.3 Requirements for the Leather Manufacturing Process ................................................ 7 3.3.2 Requirements for Wastewater Treatment ............................................................. 8
  - Does the standard include criteria on wastewater volumes (per unit of production)?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.3.2 Requirements for Wastewater Treatment (...) In addition, the applicant shall submit a declaration stating that the discharge values of the wastewater treatment plant are checked at least every six months (Annex 1). If the wastewater is discharged into municipal or central wastewater treatment plants (indirect discharge) the applicant shall additionally submit the permit (if discharged to municipal wastewater treatment plants) or the contract terms (if discharged to central wastewater treatment plants) verifying that discharge is permitted and the municipal wastewater treatment plant meets at least the requirements of Directive 91/271/EEC. If semi-finished products are processed (e.g. wet blue) all compliance verifications shall be additionally submitted by the pre-supplier too (Annex 2). (from annex 2) 2. Use of Water Declaration: The water consumption for the above-mentioned processing was: m ³/t The information is to be supported by appropriate documents to be attached to the declaration.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.3.2 Requirements for Wastewater Treatment ............................................................. 8
  - Does the standard include threshold values on basic wastewater parameters?
    Answer: Advanced: The schemes requires threshold values on basic wastewater parametersfor different production steps
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: The scheme requires threshold values on basic wastewater parameters at least for one production step (1 point)
    
    Advanced: The schemes requires threshold values on basic wastewater parametersfor different production steps (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.3.2 Requirements for Wastewater Treatment Wastewater from leather production processes shall not exceed the following limits for direct discharge into a water body: • COD of 200 mg/l or at least a 95% reduction compared with the monthly average inflow • 10 mg/l of ammonia nitrogen • 0.5 mg/l of AOX • value of 2 for toxicity to fish eggs (GEi) • BOD < 25 mg/l • 2 mg/l of sulfide in the sulfide-containing sub-stream (wastewater from soaking, liming and deliming processes, each including rinsing) and • 1 mg/l of total chromium in the chromium-containing sub-stream (wastewater from tanning, including samming, as well as from post-tanning operations. Wastewater from leather production processes shall not exceed the following limits for indirect discharge (prior to the discharge into a municipal or central wastewater treatment plant): • 2 mg/l of sulfide in the sulfide-containing sub-stream (wastewater from soaking, liming and deliming processes, each including rinsing) and • 1 mg/l of chromium altogether in the chromium-containing sub-stream (wastewater from tanning, including samming, as well as from post-tanning operations). Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirements and submit a confirmation by the supervising authority to verify compliance with the requirements in Annex 1. Also, the applicant shall present test reports in accordance with Appendix B5 to the German Wastewater Ordinance or equivalent international test reports. The concentration measurement of sulfide and chromium can be made in the full stream before discharge into a body of water (direct discharge) or into a municipal or central wastewater treatment plant (indirect discharge). If so, the applicant shall report the mixing ratio of the sub-streams in order to allow a back calculation. A retrograde calculation taking into account the degradation rate of the sewage treatment plant in accordance with Appendix D shall also be admissible. The following test methods shall be used: • Chemical oxygen demand (COD): ISO 6060 or DIN 38409-41 or DIN-ISO 15705 • AOX (chloride content < 5 g/l): DIN EN ISO 9562 or • AOX (chloride content > 5 g/l): DIN 38409-22 • Biological oxygen demand (BOD): DIN EN 1899 • Sulfide: DIN 38405-27 or ISO 10530 • Chromium: ISO 9174 or DIN EN 1233 or EN ISO 11885 • Ammonia nitrogen: DIN EN ISO 11732 • Toxicity to fish eggs: DIN EN ISO 15088. In addition, the applicant shall submit a declaration stating that the discharge values of the wastewater treatment plant are checked at least every six months (Annex 1). If the wastewater is discharged into municipal or central wastewater treatment plants (indirect discharge) the applicant shall additionally submit the permit (if discharged to municipal wastewater treatment plants) or the contract terms (if discharged to central wastewater treatment plants) verifying that discharge is permitted and the municipal wastewater treatment plant meets at least the requirements of Directive 91/271/EEC. If semi-finished products are processed (e.g. wet blue) all compliance verifications shall be additionally submitted by the pre-supplier too (Annex 2).
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.3 Requirements for the Leather Manufacturing Process ................................................ 7 3.3.2 Requirements for Wastewater Treatment ............................................................. 8
  - Does the standard include threshold values on advanced wastewater parameters?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.3.2 Requirements for Wastewater Treatment Wastewater from leather production processes shall not exceed the following limits for direct discharge into a water body: • COD of 200 mg/l or at least a 95% reduction compared with the monthly average inflow • 10 mg/l of ammonia nitrogen • 0.5 mg/l of AOX • value of 2 for toxicity to fish eggs (GEi) • BOD < 25 mg/l • 2 mg/l of sulfide in the sulfide-containing sub-stream (wastewater from soaking, liming and deliming processes, each including rinsing) and • 1 mg/l of total chromium in the chromium-containing sub-stream (wastewater from tanning, including samming, as well as from post-tanning operations. Wastewater from leather production processes shall not exceed the following limits for indirect discharge (prior to the discharge into a municipal or central wastewater treatment plant): • 2 mg/l of sulfide in the sulfide-containing sub-stream (wastewater from soaking, liming and deliming processes, each including rinsing) and • 1 mg/l of chromium altogether in the chromium-containing sub-stream (wastewater from tanning, including samming, as well as from post-tanning operations). Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirements and submit a confirmation by the supervising authority to verify compliance with the requirements in Annex 1. Also, the applicant shall present test reports in accordance with Appendix B5 to the German Wastewater Ordinance or equivalent international test reports. The concentration measurement of sulfide and chromium can be made in the full stream before discharge into a body of water (direct discharge) or into a municipal or central wastewater treatment plant (indirect discharge). If so, the applicant shall report the mixing ratio of the sub-streams in order to allow a back calculation. A retrograde calculation taking into account the degradation rate of the sewage treatment plant in accordance with Appendix D shall also be admissible. The following test methods shall be used: • Chemical oxygen demand (COD): ISO 6060 or DIN 38409-41 or DIN-ISO 15705 • AOX (chloride content < 5 g/l): DIN EN ISO 9562 or • AOX (chloride content > 5 g/l): DIN 38409-22 • Biological oxygen demand (BOD): DIN EN 1899 • Sulfide: DIN 38405-27 or ISO 10530 • Chromium: ISO 9174 or DIN EN 1233 or EN ISO 11885 • Ammonia nitrogen: DIN EN ISO 11732 • Toxicity to fish eggs: DIN EN ISO 15088. In addition, the applicant shall submit a declaration stating that the discharge values of the wastewater treatment plant are checked at least every six months (Annex 1). If the wastewater is discharged into municipal or central wastewater treatment plants (indirect discharge) the applicant shall additionally submit the permit (if discharged to municipal wastewater treatment plants) or the contract terms (if discharged to central wastewater treatment plants) verifying that discharge is permitted and the municipal wastewater treatment plant meets at least the requirements of Directive 91/271/EEC. If semi-finished products are processed (e.g. wet blue) all compliance verifications shall be additionally submitted by the pre-supplier too (Annex 2).
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.3 Requirements for the Leather Manufacturing Process ................................................ 7 3.3.2 Requirements for Wastewater Treatment ............................................................. 8
Inputs

3/5
- Fibres
  
  1/2
  - Does the standard include criteria on the usage of recycled material?
    Answer: Basic: Use of recycled material in packaging
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Use of recycled material in packaging (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Use of recycled material in product (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.9 Packaging Plastics used in packaging shall not contain any halogenated polymers. If the leather is packed in paperboard these cardboard containers shall be made of 80 percent recycled materials. The goods shall be packed so as to allow the outgassing of volatile substances. Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare compliance with this requirement in Annex 1 and, where applicable, present a sample of the product packaging (photo) to RAL gGmbH.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.9 Packaging .......................................................................................................... 15
- Raw hides and other materials
  
  2/3
  - Does the standard include criteria on the origin of raw hides?
    Answer: Advanced: The scheme requires the traceability of raw hides to the slaughterhouse of origin.
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 2/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: The scheme includes criteria on the origin of raw hides for the milk and/or meat production. (1 point)
    
    Advanced: The scheme requires the traceability of raw hides to the slaughterhouse of origin. (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.2 Origin of raw hides Protocol of the Leather Working Group and EC Regulation 853 / 2004. "Abweichend von Ziffer 3.4 (allgemeine stoffliche Anforderungen) gilt für Konservierungsstoffe der Anhang 1 zur RAL-UZ148 (Ausgabe März 2015). Eine chemische Konservierung für den Transport und die Lagerung der Rohhäute sowie der gegerbten Zwischenprodukte (wet blue, wet white) ist soweit wie möglich zu vermeiden. Anhang 1 zur Vergabegrundlage RAL-UZ148 für Leder 1. Konservierung 1.1.Zulässige biozide Wirkstoffe Folgende biozide Wirkstoffe sind als Lagerungs- und Transportschutz der Rohhäute sowie der gegerbten Zwischenprodukte (wet blue, wet white) nach der RAL-UZ148 erlaubt. Die in der Tabelle genannten Höchstwerte sind dabei im Endprodukt Leder einzuhalten."
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.2 Origin of raw hides Protocol of the Leather Working Group and EC Regulation 853 / 2004. 3.5 Leder 3.5.1 Konservierungsmittel Anhang 1"
  - Does the standard include criteria on animal species?
    Answer: Basic
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: Exclusion of threatened and endangered species (1 point)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.2 Origin of Raw Hides and Skins Raw hides and skins shall be obtained from farm animals (i.e. cattle, calve, goat, sheep, pig)1 which are primarily kept for milk and/or meat production. Endangered species shall be explicitly excluded. In addition, attention shall be paid to an ethical origin and aspects of animal protection in accordance with Protocol 6.0 of the Leather Working Group2. Compliance Verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirement in Annex 1 and submit a corresponding declaration stating that no hides and skins of wildlife and endangered species are used and that a verification procedure with respect to the raw material used is performed following Regulation (EC) No 853/2004.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.2 Origin of Raw Hides and Skins ............................................................................... 7
Energy and Climate

0/2
- Climate Change Mitigation
  
  0/2
  - Does the standard include criteria on energy consumption in the production phase?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Monitor energy consumption over time (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Increase efficiency OR increase use of renewables (2 points)
Waste & Air Pollution

0/11
- Waste Management
  
  0/8
  - Does the standard include criteria on volumes of waste?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: Reduction of volumes of waste (1 point)
  - Does the standard include criteria on re-using or recycling waste on-site?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
  - Does the standard include criteria on waste management in the production phase?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
  - Does the standard include criteria on waste segregation?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
  - Does the standard include criteria on safe disposal of hazardous waste?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: Reduce and/or treat toxic waste (1 point)
  - Does the standard include criteria on uncontrolled on-site waste burning?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: Prohibit waste burning (1 point)
  - Does the standard include criteria on uncontrolled waste landfilling?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: Prohibit waste landfilling (1 point)
  - Does the standard include criteria on handling or disposal of waste by third parties?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: Keep records on third party contractors (1 point)
- Air pollution (excl. GHG) & Emission
  
  0/3
  - Does the standard include criteria on air pollution?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Monitor emissions over time (1 point)
    
    Advanced: End-of-pipe technology (2 points)
  - For which production phase does the standard include criteria on air pollution?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: Restrictions on air pollution for some of the production steps (1 point)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    1.2 Background Leather production is a complex and complicated finishing process. A skin or hide must pass through roughly 40 processing stages until the organic raw material has been processed into the natural product leather (VDL#). Processing of leather involves the use of numerous chemicals that might have an impact on environment and health. The production of leather entails emissions of substances to air, water or land.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    1.2 Background ......................................................................................................... 5
Environmental Management

0/3
- Environmental Management
  
  0/3
  - Does the standard include a general criterion on compliance with all relevant local, regional and national environmental laws and regulations?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
  - Does the standard include criteria to ensure that relevant and up-to-date permits are held (such as water use rights or land use titles)?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    No (0 points)
    
    Yes (1 point)
    
    Not Applicable (0 points)
  - Does the standard include criteria on environmental policy or management instruments (like EMAS or ISO 14001)?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic (0 points)
    
    Advanced: Environmental Policies are required (1 point)

Socio-Economic 17%

Core Labour Standards along the Supply Chain
Freedom of Association (ILO 87)
Collective Bargaining (ILO 98)
Prohibition of Forced Labor (ILO 29)
Equal Remuneration (ILO 100)
Non-Discrimination (ILO 111)
Legal Minimum Wages (ILO 131)
Provision of Social Benefits
Labour Contracts
Minimum Age (ILO 138)
Prohibition of the Worst Forms of Child Labour (ILO 182)
Regulated Working Hours (ILO 1)
Rights for Sub-Contractors
Occupational health and safety / ILO 155

Social & Cultural Rights and Community Engagement

0/6
- Social and Cultural Rights
  
  0/6
  - Local Economic Development
    
    0/3
    - Does the standard include criteria relating to a preference to purchase local materials, goods, products and services?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard include criteria relating to hiring workers from local communities?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard include criteria on not adversely affecting local communities and neigboring small producers access to livelihoods (especially land and water)?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
  - Community Rights
    
    0/2
    - Does the standard include criteria on dispute resolution mechanisms for affected communities?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/2
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic: The standard has to require a grievance mechanism for affected communities (1 point)
      
      Advanced: The standard provides fair compensation for negative impacts of operations on local communities and individuals (2 points)
  - Minority and Indigenous Rights
    
    0/1
    - Does the standard include criteria on the protection of minority rights and marginalized groups?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
Labour Rights and Working Conditions

10/41
- ILO Core Conventions
  
  7/11
  - Does the standard require compliance with (at least) all ILO core labour standards for different suppliers along the supply chain?
    Answer: Basic: Main tier 1 suppliers
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Main tier 1 suppliers (1 point)
    
    Advanced: All tier 1 suppliers (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 2 – Circulation, promotion and implementation The implementation refers to the activities necessary to the application of the Code at all levels. (...) 2.4 COTANCE and the ETUF:TCL will call on their member organisations to integrate the code as a pre-requisite in all contracts with their sub-contractors and their suppliers. COTANCE and the ETUF:TCL will thus encourage the companies to make sure that the code is understood by their sub-contractors/suppliers and their respective workers.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
  - Does the standard include criteria on freedom of association and the right to organize as described in ILO 87?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct COTANCE and ETUF:TCL call on their members to actively encourage companies and workers of the European leather and tanning sector to respect and to include, directly or indirectly (including sub-contracting) in their possible codes of conduct in all countries, world-wide, in which they operate the following ILO conventions: 1.3 Freedom of association & right to collective bargaining (Conventions 87 & 98) Workers and employees have the right to form or join a trade union of their choosing. Workers' rights to form trade unions, to join them and to negotiate collectively is recognised. Workers’ representatives will not be subject to discrimination and will have access to all work places if such access is necessary for allowing them to perform their functions of representation (Convention 135 & Immediate 143 of ILO).
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
  - Does the standard include criteria on the right to collective bargaining, as laid down by ILO 98?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct COTANCE and ETUF:TCL call on their members to actively encourage companies and workers of the European leather and tanning sector to respect and to include, directly or indirectly (including sub-contracting) in their possible codes of conduct in all countries, world-wide, in which they operate the following ILO conventions: 1.3 Freedom of association & right to collective bargaining (Conventions 87 & 98) Workers and employees have the right to form or join a trade union of their choosing. Workers' rights to form trade unions, to join them and to negotiate collectively is recognised. Workers’ representatives will not be subject to discrimination and will have access to all work places if such access is necessary for allowing them to perform their functions of representation (Convention 135 & Immediate 143 of ILO).
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
  - Does the standard prohibit forced and compulsory labour as defined in ILO 29 and ILO 105?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct COTANCE and ETUF:TCL call on their members to actively encourage companies and workers of the European leather and tanning sector to respect and to include, directly or indirectly (including sub-contracting) in their possible codes of conduct in all countries, world-wide, in which they operate the following ILO conventions: 1.1 Ban on Forced Labour (Convention 29 & 105) Forced Labour, slave labour or obligatory labour are banned. The workers will not have to give their employers a financial guarantee or their identity papers.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
  - Does the standard include criteria on the prohibition of child labour as defined under ILO 138?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct COTANCE and ETUF:TCL call on their members to actively encourage companies and workers of the European leather and tanning sector to respect and to include, directly or indirectly (including sub-contracting) in their possible codes of conduct in all countries, world-wide, in which they operate the following ILO conventions: (...) 1.2 Ban on Child Labour (Convention 138 & 182) Child labour is forbidden. Only workers aged 15 or more or older than the compulsory school age in the countries concerned are permitted to work. It should be guaranteed to provide measures with a view to help the concerned children by offering schooling possibilities and transitional financial help.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
  - Does the standard cover requirements on the prohibition of worst forms of child labour as defined under ILO 182?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct COTANCE and ETUF:TCL call on their members to actively encourage companies and workers of the European leather and tanning sector to respect and to include, directly or indirectly (including sub-contracting) in their possible codes of conduct in all countries, world-wide, in which they operate the following ILO conventions: (...) 1.2 Ban on Child Labour (Convention 138 & 182) Child labour is forbidden. Only workers aged 15 or more or older than the compulsory school age in the countries concerned are permitted to work. It should be guaranteed to provide measures with a view to help the concerned children by offering schooling possibilities and transitional financial help.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
  - Does the standard address the payment of equal wages as defined in ILO 100?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
  - Does the standard include criteria on the non-discrimination in the workplace, as defined in ILO 111?
    Answer: Yes
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 1/1
    
    Possible answers
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct COTANCE and ETUF:TCL call on their members to actively encourage companies and workers of the European leather and tanning sector to respect and to include, directly or indirectly (including sub-contracting) in their possible codes of conduct in all countries, world-wide, in which they operate the following ILO conventions: (...) 1.4 Non-discrimination of employment (Convention 100 & 111) The equality of opportunities and treatment will be applied to workers whatever their race, their colour, their sex, their religion, their political opinion, their nationality, their social origin or any other distinctive characteristic.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
  - Does the standard include criteria on occupational health and safety, as defined in ILO 155?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Immediately
    
    Score: 0/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Partial compliance with ILO 155 (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Full compliance with ILO 155 (2 points)
    Excerpt from standard:
    
    3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct (…) The signatories of the present code call on their members to also respect and include in their possible codes of conduct, the following clauses. 1.6 Decent working conditions The workers will benefit from a safe and clean working environment and the best professional practices will be applied with regard to health and safety, having regard to the operating knowledge in the industry and to all specified risks. Any type of physical abuse is strictly forbidden, as well as threat, punitive practice or exceptional disciplinary practice, sexual or other harassment as well as any act of intimidation from the employer.
    
    Referenzdokumente:
    
    3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
- Labour Rights
  
  2/20
  - Child Labour
    
    0/3
    - Does the standard require verification and documentation of age of (young) workers?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard require that assistance be provided to replaced child workers?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard include criteria on special treatment of young workers?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
  - Gender
    
    0/3
    - Does the standard include criteria on having policies and/ or processes in place that prevent discrimination of women and men in the workplace?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard include criteria on the right to maternity leave (as defined in ILO 183)?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/2
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic: Partial compliance (1 point)
      
      Advanced: Full compliance (2 points)
  - Wages and Benefits
    
    2/7
    - Does the standard require paying wages sufficient to meet basic needs of the worker and his or her family (living wage)?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Degree of Obligation: Immediately
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Excerpt from standard:
      
      3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct The signatories of the present code call on their members to also respect and include in their possible codes of conduct, the following clauses. 1.7 Payment of a decent remuneration Salaries and allocations paid have to be in conformity with the minimum legal rules and with the minimum rules in the industry and should allow workers to face their basic needs and ensure them a living wage. Deductions on salaries in the context of disciplinary measures are forbidden
      
      Referenzdokumente:
      
      3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
    - Does the standard require paying legal minimum wages?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Degree of Obligation: Immediately
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Excerpt from standard:
      
      3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct The signatories of the present code call on their members to also respect and include in their possible codes of conduct, the following clauses. 1.7 Payment of a decent remuneration Salaries and allocations paid have to be in conformity with the minimum legal rules and with the minimum rules in the industry and should allow workers to face their basic needs and ensure them a living wage. Deductions on salaries in the context of disciplinary measures are forbidden.
      
      Referenzdokumente:
      
      3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
    - Does the standard require the provision of social benefits?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard require compensating overtime?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Immediately
      
      Score: 0/2
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic: Yes (1 point)
      
      Advanced: Yes and overtime is paid at a rate of at least 125% of the regular income (2 points)
      
      Excerpt from standard:
      
      3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct The signatories of the present code call on their members to also respect and include in their possible codes of conduct, the following clauses. 1.5 Reasonable working hours The number of working hours must be in conformity with the legislation and the rules in force in the industry. Workers can not be asked to work regularly over 48 hours per week and they will be entitled to one day of leave every 7 days at least. Overtime hours will be provided voluntarily provided that they do not exceed 12 hours per week, that they will not be requested regularly and that they always be compensated.
      
      Referenzdokumente:
      
      3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
    - Does the standard require wages being paid in a timely, regular and convenient manner understood by all employees?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Immediately
      
      Score: 0/2
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic: Yes, some measures are in place (1 point)
      
      Advanced: Yes, all measures are in place (2 points)
      
      Excerpt from standard:
      
      3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct The signatories of the present code call on their members to also respect and include in their possible codes of conduct, the following clauses. 1.7 Payment of a decent remuneration Salaries and allocations paid have to be in conformity with the minimum legal rules and with the minimum rules in the industry and should allow workers to face their basic needs and ensure them a living wage. Deductions on salaries in the context of disciplinary measures are forbidden.
      
      Referenzdokumente:
      
      3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
  - Working Hours
    
    0/2
    - Does the standard include criteria on working hours, rest days or overtime?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Immediately
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic (0 points)
      
      Advanced: Standard requirements comply with ILO 1 requirements (1 point)
      
      Excerpt from standard:
      
      3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. Article 1 - Content of the Code of Conduct (…) The signatories of the present code call on their members to also respect and include in their possible codes of conduct, the following clauses. 1.5 Reasonable working hours The number of working hours must be in conformity with the legislation and the rules in force in the industry. Workers can not be asked to work regularly over 48 hours per week and they will be entitled to one day of leave every 7 days at least. Overtime hours will be provided voluntarily provided that they do not exceed 12 hours per week, that they will not be requested regularly and that they always be compensated.
      
      Referenzdokumente:
      
      3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
    - Does the standard include criteria on working hours, as defined in ILO Convention 47?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic (0 points)
      
      Advanced: Conformity with ILO 47 (1 point)
  - Scope of Labour Rights
    
    0/3
    - Do the employee rights and benefits defined in the standard apply to all types of work?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Do the standard's rights and benefits for workers also apply to sub-contracted labour?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard include criteria on the establishment of labour contracts compliant with national legal requirements?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      Not Applicable (0 points)
  - Other Labour Rights
    
    0/2
    - Does the standard include criteria on the formation of workers representations where freedom of association is restricted by law?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard include criteria on worker grievance mechanisms?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
- Health and Safety
  
  1/10
  - Occupational Health and Safety
    
    1/8
    - Does the standard include requirements on workplace conditions?
      Answer: Yes
      
      Degree of Obligation: Immediately
      
      Score: 1/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Excerpt from standard:
      
      3.8 Social Standards The applicant undertakes to comply with the Code of Conduct for the Leather Industry. The signatories of the present code call on their members to also respect and include in their possible codes of conduct, the following clauses. 1.6 Decent working conditions The workers will benefit from a safe and clean working environment and the best professional practices will be applied with regard to health and safety, having regard to the operating knowledge in the industry and to all specified risks. Any type of physical abuse is strictly forbidden, as well as threat, punitive practice or exceptional disciplinary practice, sexual or other harassment as well as any act of intimidation from the employer.
      
      Referenzdokumente:
      
      3.8 Social Standards ................................................................................................ 15
    - Does the standard include criteria on the access to basic medical services for workers?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/2
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic: Only treatment of acute work-related accidents/ illness (1 point)
      
      Advanced: Work-related accidents plus preventative care (2 points)
    - Does the standard require compensation payments/ covering of costs in case of work related accidents and injuries?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/2
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic: Partial coverage of costs (1 point)
      
      Advanced: Full coverage of costs (2 points)
    - Does the standard require that workers have access to safe drinking water?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard require safe and appropriate housing for workers?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard require access to clean and improved sanitation facilities?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
  - Building and Fire Safety
    
    0/2
    - Does the standard include criteria on building safety?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
    - Does the standard include criteria on evacuation safety and emergency management plan?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic (0 points)
      
      Advanced: An emergency management plan exists (1 point)
Business Practice and Ethical Issues

0/7
- Economic Development and Fair Business Practice
  
  0/4
  - Legality
    
    0/2
    - Does the standard include criteria on business legality?
      Answer: No Information available
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      Basic: (0 points)
      
      Advanced: The scheme assesses business legality for certificate holders, e.g. checking all permits that are required by law (national, regional, local) within a due diligence process (1 point)
    - Does the standard include a requirement for compliance with relevant local, regional and national laws and regulations?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
  - Responsible Sourcing Practices
    
    0/2
    - Does the standard include criteria on fair prices or price premiums?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
      
      No (0 points)
      
      Yes (1 point)
      
      Not Applicable (0 points)
    - Does the standard include criteria for the production processes beyond primary production?
      Answer: No
      
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      
      Score: 0/1
      
      Possible answers
- Corruption and Bribery
  
  0/3
  - Does the standard include criteria for the production processes beyond primary production?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Corruption and bribery is prohibited (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Korruption und Bestechung sind verboten (0 points)
  - Does the standard include criteria on conducting a due diligence assessment of business partners, including subsidiaries and contractors?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
  - Does the standard include criteria on training workers in positions of responsibility workers on issues of corruption and bribery?
    Answer: No
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/1
    
    Possible answers
Company Responsibility

0/4
- Company Responsibility in Europe
  
  0/2
  - Does the standard require the definition of a company-wide CSR strategy?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: CSR strategy is defined (1 point)
    
    Advanced: CSR strategy is publicly available (2 points)
- Impact Assessment
  
  0/2
  - Does the standard include criteria on assessing the impacts of operations on human rights?
    Answer: No Information available
    
    Degree of Obligation: Not covered
    
    Score: 0/2
    
    Possible answers
    
    Basic: Human Rights Impact Assessment OR Social Impact Assessment (1 point)
    
    Advanced: Human Rights Impact Assessment AND Social Impact Assessment (2 points)

Which lifecycle phases are covered by the standard?

Raw materials extraction and production

Animal husbandry and slaughtering processes

Manufacturing

The production of leather involves various sub-steps, both chemical and mechanical (soaking, liming, fleshing, splitting, tanning, finishing)

Transportation / distribution

The transport route from one production stage to the next as well as to the end consumer

Products use and consumption

Usage by the owner

End-of-life

Proper disposal of leather or return to the cycle (upcycling, recycling)

Cred­i­bil­i­ty

En­vi­ron­ment

So­cio-E­co­nom­ic

Cred­i­bil­i­ty 80%

En­vi­ron­ment 52%

So­cio-E­co­nom­ic 17%

Which lifecycle phases are covered by the standard?

Raw materials extraction and production

Manufacturing

Transportation / distribution

Products use and consumption

End-of-life

Credibility

Environment

Socio-Economic

Credibility 80%

Environment 52%

Socio-Economic 17%