AIR TESTING
Footwear production requires the use of substances that can cause an air quality hazard to workers. Since 1997, when worker exposures to Toluene in footwear factories were brought to the attention of the industry, Reebok has engaged in a monitoring program to evaluate factory conditions and to provide a direction for improvements. Particular emphasis has been placed on worker exposure to the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)—ingredients in most adhesives, primers, cleaning solvents, inks and paints— due to their recognized occupational health and environmental effects.

We evaluate the relative risk of exposure to workers by assessing the toxicity of the chemical(s) in use, the presence of a ventilation system, the method of chemical application, and any other relevant characteristics of the local work environment and task.

Our monitoring strategy focuses attention on the groups of workers who are assessed to be at greatest risk from chemical exposure. Reebok uses an air sampling and analysis method that evaluates 12 to 15 different VOCs known to be used in a particular factory or commonly used in footwear production. The method uses a single index, the Exposure Fraction (EF), which can be compared with established governmental or industry limits. An EF value less than 1.0 is the recommended acceptable level of exposure to a range of chemicals. Reebok strives for an EF of 0.5 or less.

A range of measures are taken to limit worker exposure. These are both broad initiatives across our entire production base (such as our program to reduce use of VOCs) and specific actions to remedy bad practice at an individual factory.

For more information on our findings from air testing visit: AIR TESTING RESULTS .