Walmart Stores USA General Merchandise Quality Manual Table of Contents 1. Introduction
2. Walmart Responsibilities
3. Supplier Responsibilities
4. Compliance
5. FCCA
6. Supplier Assessment
7. Approved Testing Laboratories a. Consumer Testing Laboratories: 479-286-2300 b. Intertek Laboratories: 479-845-7175 c. Bureau Veritas Laboratories: 479-845-7451 d. SGS Laboratories: 479-273-3786 e. Specialized Technology Resources (STR) f. ACT g. TÜV h. MTS
8. Production Sample Sealing Process
9. Testing Manuals a. Softlines Testing Manual b. Hardlines Testing Manual i. D19 Fabric Testing c. Toys and Seasonal Testing Manual d. Entertainment Testing Manual
10. Color Standards
11. Packaging Requirements
12. Inspections
13. Glossary
14. Appendix a. Product Removal b. Return Center Process
15. Revision History 1 | P a g e
Introduction (Return TOC)
Through the foresight of our founder, Sam Walton, a philosophy of “doing the right thing” for the customer has become a hallmark of what Walmart is all about. We have as our guidelines for doing business three basic beliefs:
Service to our Customers Striving for Excellence
Respect for the individual means giving the customer what they deserve, the best quality at a valued price. Service to our Customer means we provide what they want when they want it. And lastly, we strive for excellence by exceeding their expectations. This means we do not just want good quality; we want consistent, excellent quality that is as good as or better than our competition.
You as a supplier are the key to Walmart living up to these beliefs.
Quality cannot be inspected into a product after it is manufactured. Quality must be designed into the item. The earlier a product is assessed for compliance to specifications, safety requirements, performance requirements and manufacturability, the more cost-effective the process. Once the design is validated, the manufacturing process should have defect prevention solutions embedded throughout the process in order to be the most cost effective. Suppliers must focus on the prevention of quality issues, not just their correction.
This purpose of this guide is to provide a convenient source of Walmart quality requirements and expectations.
2 | P a g e
Walmart Responsibility (Return TOC)
Communicate clearly to our suppliers Walmart quality expectations and processes. Provide a single source to guide suppliers through the Walmart quality process.
Testing requirements will vary based by brand and supplier designation. Designations are listed below:
Private Label: Brands that are exclusive to Walmart, including un-branded product exclusive to Walmart.
Non-Private Label: Brands that are supplier brands or national brands
Suppliers who produce Private Label products may classified as Direct or Indirect Suppliers.
Direct Suppliers control and manage their business with Global Sourcing oversight. The factory manages and executes quality and Walmart validates quality.
Indirect Suppliers control and manage their business domestically with buyer oversight. The Supplier manages quality, factory executes quality and Walmart validates quality.
National Brand Suppliers own the product and label, which is well-recognized within the product category and manage their business domestically with buyer. The supplier manages, supplier/factory executes quality and Walmart validates quality.
Walmart utilizes the three teams to handle product performance and quality: Quality Control, Quality Assurance and Technical.
The mission of the Quality Control team is to monitor Walmart products to ensure conformance to Walmart standards and identify ways to eliminate causes of unsatisfactory performance. Quality Control is responsible for product once it is in the stores and includes the management of the Walmart In-store testing program, monitoring of Defective Return Rates and to inform the merchant, sourcing, quality assurance, technical and supplier when performance does not meet customer requirements.
The Quality Assurance team is responsible for working with overseas factories and suppliers to resolve quality issues, ensure implementation of corrective actions and perform quality inspections as necessary.
The Technical team is responsible for the creation and maintenance of performance standards, product specifications and the pre-production/production testing process with 3rd party testing labs.
3 | P a g e
Our goal is to ensure our suppliers understand and conform to our quality requirements and provide quality products that exceed our customer’s expectations and allow them to save money and live better.
4 | P a g e
Supplier Responsibility (Return TOC)
You have been chosen as a Walmart supplier because you are the leader in your industry in consistently providing defect-free products, on time and at competitive prices. Suppliers are required to have an effective quality system that ensure conforming product is delivered to Walmart and you are continually improving all processes in an effort to support Walmart quality goals and our customer’s needs. Walmart requirements and expectations should not be your only quality process. We expect your own quality initiatives to provide best in class, quality, reliability, consistency and performance.
Even when Walmart provides suppliers product requirements, specifications, or other forms of expectations (e.g. form, fit, or function), the supplier is responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations, as well as, Walmart quality and corporate standards.
As a Walmart supplier, you are responsible for the following: 1. Work with Walmart Compliance and Technical Resources to ensure all applicable federal and state regulations and/or industry standards are built into the product. 2. Know the Walmart Quality Manual. 3. Ensure performance requirements are met. 4. Ensure all purchased materials meet the required standards and specifications. 5. Review the product specifications with factory’s production and quality personnel to ensure they understand Walmart’s expectations in product performance and quality. 6. Have effective and timely processes in place to implement corrective and preventive actions and quality improvements. 7. Complete product testing early enough so as not to delay orders from shipping on time. 8. Correct unsatisfactory test results, submit improved sample to the designated laboratory for retesting and approval prior to shipment. 9. Communicate with Walmart if any expectations of product performance and quality cannot be met. 10. Communicate in writing any changes to product specifications and obtain approval prior to making any product changes. 11. Keep records of all revised or updated product specifications and drawings and make them available on request. 12. Monitor product quality throughout the entire production process and on all manufacturing lots. 13. Monitor quality performance on an on-going basis and have an acceptable plan to improve quality. 14. Notify Walmart about any trends on product performance and monitor Walmart quality performance measures such as Defective Return Rate (DRR) and In-store testing performance.
5 | P a g e
We ask you to help our customers save money and live better by understanding and conforming to our quality requirements and by ensuring our products are produced right the first time.
6 | P a g e
Compliance Documentation on Retail Link (Return TOC)
You can access all the documentation concerning product safety and regulation using the following path of Retail Link
Site Map>Product Safety and Compliance Library
The Compliance library contains documents published by the Corporate Compliance team for your use.
Factory Capability& Capacity Audit (FCCA) Guidelines (Return TOC)
FCCA is applicable to all Direct Import Factories (non-food and non-packaging)
A Factory Capability and Capacity Audit (FCCA) is required prior to order commitment for new factories of all supplies classification and retails markets.
All FCCA audits will be conducted by Walmart designated third parties audit companies at the supplier’s cost. Below are the designated third party audit companies: Bureau Veritas Intertek SGS
Direct Sourcing Group (DSG) assigns a third party audit company for FCCA audit if the supplier is managed by DSG.
The FCCA audit cost is dependent on factory location, e.g. in China, the audit cost is typically USD 450 (for factories located within 100km from the audit company’s nearest office).
All Walmart Direct Import Suppliers (non-food and non-packaging) are responsible to book the audit early as possible, and promptly pay the audit fee in advance. All arrangements must be directly with the designated audit company, and not through Walmart.
Delays due to late scheduling of the request for the FCCA audit will mean that orders cannot be placed.
FCCA – Why To ensure factories are:- Capable of producing the proposed product Can produce safe and legal product Able to produce the proposed order quantities on time Aware of any improvements required to meet Walmart requirements
7 | P a g e
FCCA – When NEW Factory Pre-Qualification Factory has not previously made any product for Walmart Inactive factory to be re-activated Change of Importer of Record - Domestic to Direct Import Factory FCCA report has expired Change of factory status, e.g. Factory’s physical location
Assessment Guideline: Result Rating > 80% A – Pass 60% - 79% B – Meets minimum requirements < 60% C – Unacceptable Note: Factory will not be activated until all pre- qualification requirements are met. A follow up audit may be required.
IMPORTANT All new factories must achieve a FCCA rating of at least 60%, with all critical control points being met.
Re-application for FCCA audits will depend on correction of all non-compliances. (Note: the corrective action plan will be reviewed by the audit company and approved an authorized quality / technical associate).
Renewal audits should be booked at least one month before expiration of existing FCCA audit report. No new orders will be placed on a factory with an expired FCCA audit.
Re-activation of factories requires a new audit even if there is an existing ‘within date’ audit report on file.
Audit process highlights: 1. Supplier books audit request via Supplier Management System (SMS) 2. Booking requests will be sent to designated third party audit company (third party) via SMS 3. Supplier will be contacted by designated third party to arrange audit schedule a. Pre-audit questionnaire form b. Payment c. Audit date 4. Audit report and proposed CAP will be submitted by third party to Walmart Global Sourcing (WGS) 5. WGS reviews audit report and proposed CAP, and finalized CAP will be sent to third party to follow up with Supplier
8 | P a g e
6. Supplier must provide CAP evidence to third party within due date. Failure to do this may result in no new orders being allowed to be placed after this period. A follow up audit may be required.
Supplier Assessment: (Return TOC)
Walmart suppliers are evaluated based on the quality of their products delivered to our stores and customers. These following parameters used to evaluate how successful our suppliers are in meeting these expectations: Product Withdrawals and Recalls Defective Return Rate (DRR) In-Store Testing
Withdrawal: Merchandise is removed from stores for quality, legal, safety, or compliance reasons, but consumers are not advised to return the product for a refund or repair. Quality Issues: examples: poor color, incorrect UPC, packaging defect Legal Issues: Allegation of patent infringement, pending lawsuit Safety Issues: examples: sharp edges, choking hazard, lead exceeding CPSIA limits or as determined by the Food Safety or Product Safety Compliance Teams or supplier Compliance Issues: examples: VOC limits, EPA labeling, not allowed to be sold in specific areas. Federal or State regulations prohibit the sale of an item.
Recall: A recall is a notice to all consumers that a product should be returned by them to a store for a refund or, in some cases, a repair, and is issued by, or in cooperation with, a regulatory agency (e.g. CPSC, NHTSA) for safety/health reasons and is communicated to the public by press release or other means such as phone calls, emails or mail.
IMPORTANT: Withdrawals and Recalls have a significant impact on our business and our customers and are given the highest priority in assessing a supplier’s ability to provide quality products.
Defective Return Rate (DRR): DRR is a percentage of Retail $’s Returned divided by Retail POS $. Supplier’s can analyze their DRR though the use of the Retail Link Decision Support System (DSS).
Walmart’s expectation is for all Suppliers to monitor DRR and respond immediately to any negative trends in customer returns.
In-Store Testing: Walmart’s in-store testing program is designed to detect product changes which affect the performance of a product once it reaches the Stores. A
9 | P a g e
supplier’s in-store testing performance is evaluated based on a comparative analysis of like products and peer suppliers.
Walmart conducts annual evaluations of Supplier’s in-store testing performance which are reported to the Merchant Teams.
10 | P a g e
Approved Testing Labs with Contact Information (Return TOC)
Consumer Testing Laboratories, Inc. (CTL)
Consumer Testing Laboratories, Inc. Textile Laboratory 2601 SE Otis Corley Dr Bentonville, AR 72712 Tel: 479-286-2300 Fax: 479-286-2301 E-mail: [email protected]
Hardlines Laboratory 611 Dream Valley Road Rogers, AR 72756 Tel: 479-636-8782 Fax: 479-636-8961 E-mail: [email protected]
Consumer Testing Laboratories, Ltd. (Bangladesh) Textile Laboratory 270 NOVO Tower, 7th Floor Tejgaon I/A, Dhaka-1208, Bangladesh Tel: 88-02-9881245 Fax: 88-02-9882917 E-mail: [email protected]
Consumer Testing Laboratories (Far East) Ltd. Textile and Hardlines Laboratory Room 702-704, 7th Floor Riley House, 88 Lei Muk Road Kwai Chung, N.T. Hong Kong Tel: 852-2423-7161 Fax: 852-2480-4758 E-mail: [email protected]
11 | P a g e
Testing Laboratories of Canada, Corp. Textile Laboratory 1840 Argentia Road Mississauga, Ontario L5N 1P9 Tel: 905-812-7783 Fax: 905-812-3271 E-mail: [email protected]
Consumer Testing Laboratories (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Footwear Laboratory 52 Yumin Cun, 3rd Floor Heping Road, Luohu Shenzhen 518001 China Tel: 86 (755) 8211 7958 Fax: 86 (755) 8247 3061 E-mail: [email protected]
______
Intertek (ITS) (Return TOC)
Account Management:
USA Director Wal-Mart Account Retail Services: Andy Wingerter Email: [email protected] Tel: 479-845 7175
Account Manager: Amy Bissinger Tel: 479-845 7177 Email: [email protected] Address: 609 SW 8th Street, Suite 450, Bentonville, Arkansas 72712, U.S. Address: 609 SW 8th Street, Suite 450, Bentonville, Arkansas 72712, U.S.
12 | P a g e
China Hong Kong Guangzhou
Myra Siu Account Manager Tel: 852-2173 8878 Email: [email protected] Elaine YL Huang Account Manager Tel: 86-20-3210 2291 Email: [email protected]
Shanghai Account Manager Irene Han Tel: 86-21-6091 7387 Email: [email protected]
Operation: 1) Electrical and Electronic Products USA Retail Team Leader Jeremy Tidd Tel: 607-423 8528 E-mail : [email protected] Address: 545 East Algonquin Road, Suite F, Arlington Heights, Illinois 60005, U.S.
China Hong Kong Customer Services Officer Katherine Lai Tel: 852-2173 8445 Email: [email protected] Address: 2/F, Garment Centre, 576 Castle Peak Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
Guangzhou Quincy Wen Senior Customer Services Officer Tel: 86-20-8213 9485 Email: [email protected]
Joyce Zhou Customer Services Team Leader Tel:86-20-8213 9440 Email: [email protected] Address: Block E, No.7-2 Guang Dong Software Science Park, Caipin Road, Guangzhou Science City, GETDD Guangzhou, China 510663
13 | P a g e
Shenzhen Customer Services Officer Caddie Kwong Tel: 86-755-8614 0621 Email: [email protected] Address: 6/F, Block D, Huahan Building, Langshan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, China 518057
Shanghai Customer Services Officer Jojo Yang Tel: 86-21-6127 8358 Email: [email protected] Address: Bl. No.86, 1198 Qinzhou Road (North), Shanghai, China 200233
Taiwan Grace Wang Customer Services Officer Tel: 886-2-6602 2734 Email: [email protected]
Tina Tsai Business Development Manager Tel: 886-2-6602 2888 ext. 717 Email: [email protected] Address: 5F, No.423, Ruiguang Road, Neihu District, Taipei 114, Taiwan, R.O.C
Thailand Account Manager Pornpimon Ratanawichien Tel: (66 2) 938 1990 Email: pornpimon.ratanawichien @intertek.com Address: Univest Complex No. 546, 4 - 5th Fl., Ratchadapisek Rd., Lardyao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Thailand
Japan Customer Services Officer Account Manager Keiichi Sato Hiroyuki Harada Tel: 81-45-508 6828 Tel: 81-45-508 6796 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Address: 2-3-18 Namamugi, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, post 230-0052 Japan
Korea
Jennifer Jung Account Manager Tel: 82-2-567 7474 Email: [email protected] Address: #1103, 11F, Ace Techno Tower Ⅲ, 197-48, Guro-Dong, Guro-Gu, Seoul, 152- 779 Korea
2) Toys and Hardlines Products
14 | P a g e
Hong Kong Kennix Yeung Client Services Supervisor Tel: 852-2173 8685 Fax: 852-3403 7301 Email: [email protected]
Celia Kwok Senior Client Services Executive Tel: 852-2173 8733 Fax: 852-3403 2409. Email: [email protected]
Karis Kwok Senior Client Service Executive Tel: 852-21738553 Fax: 852-3403 7354 Email: [email protected]
Pinky Ng Client Services Executive Tel: 852-2173 8754 Fax: 852-3403 7304 Email: [email protected] Address: Flat 10D, Garment Centre, 576 Castle Peak Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Shenzhen Vivien Gao Customer Service Supervisor Tel: 86-755-2602 0031 Fax: 86-755-26020588 (ext. 6031) Email : [email protected]
Susea Su Customer Service Executive Tel: 86-755-2602 0016 Fax: 86-755-26020588 (ext. 6016) Email : [email protected]
Fanny Xu Customer Service Executive Tel: 86-755-2602 0034 Fax: 86-755-26020588 (ext. 6034) Email : [email protected]
Linda Huang Tel: 86-755-2602 0039 Fax: 86-755-26020588 (ext. 6039) Email : [email protected]
Lynn Lin Customer Service Executive Tel: 86-755-2602 0076
15 | P a g e
Fax: 86-755-26020588 (ext. 6076) Email : [email protected] Address: 7/F, Shekou Technology Main Building, Industrial 7th Road. Shekou, Nanshan District Shenzhen, China, 518067
Shanghai Customer Service Executive Customer Service Executive (WM USA) Lily Ni Tel: 86-21-6091 7402 Email : [email protected]
Sammy Cao Tel: 86-21-6091 7586 Email : [email protected]
Customer Service Executive (WMCA) Faye Guan Tel: 86-21-6091 7422 Email : [email protected] Address: Block B, Jinling Business Square, No. 801 Yi Shan Road, Shanghai 200233, China
Textile and Footwear:
Hong Kong Senior Account Executive Client Service Manager Vian Cheung Tel: 852-2173 8348 Fax: 852-3403 2410 Email: [email protected]
Joey Lee Tel: 852- 2173 8370 Fax: 852- 3403 2523 Email: [email protected]
Customer Service Coordinator Ankie Chan Tel: 852-2173 8350 Fax: 852-3403 2536 Email: [email protected] Address: 4C/F, Garment Centre, 576 Castle Peak Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Guangzhou Customer Service Executive Customer Service Manager
16 | P a g e
Jana Yang Tel.: 86-20-2820 9251 Fax: 86-20-2232 1669 -9269 Email: [email protected] Jessie Zhao Tel.: 86-20-2820 9318 Fax: 86-20- 2232 1669 -9269 Email: [email protected] Address: 3/F, Hengyun Building, 235 Kaifa Ave., Guangzhou Economic & Technological Development District, Guangzhou 510730
Shanghai Customer Service Executive: Manager: Jacky Zhang Tel.: 86-21-6091 7147 Fax: 86-21-6485 0559 Email: [email protected]
Laura Yu Tel.: 86-21-6091 7089 Fax: 86-21-6485 0592 Email: [email protected] 2/F, Building No.4, Shanghai Comalong Industrial Park, 889 Yi Shan Road, Shanghai 200233, China
______
SGS Consumer Testing Services (SGS) (Return TOC)
SGS Consumer Testing Services 291 Fairfield Ave Fairfield, NJ 07004 USA Heather Maxwell [email protected]
17 | P a g e
SGS-CSTC STANDARDS TECHNICAL SERVICES CO., LTD 2/F Oastar Building Zhong Kang Road, Shang Mei Lin, Shenzhen 518049 China
Vivian Deung [email protected]
SGS-CSTC Standards Technical Services 198 KeZhu Road, Scientech Park GuangZhou Economic & Tech. Dev. Dist. Guangzhou 510663 China
Isabella Ye [email protected]
SGS-CSTC Standards Technical Services 7/F, 3rd Building No. 889, Yishan Road Xuhui District Shanghai 200233 China
Vanessa-RS Wu [email protected]
SGS Hong Kong Limited 5-8/F & 28/F, Metropole Square 2 On Yiu Street, Siu Lek Yuen Shatin, N.T Hong Kong
Edward-MY Chan Edward-MY [email protected]
______
18 | P a g e
Bureau Veritas (BV) (Return TOC)
Inspections:
LOCATION: AMERICAS
LOCATION: CHINA (HONG KONG, SHANGHAI, GUANGZHOU, SHENZHEN, XIAMEN INCLUDED)
Inspections:
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services Division F5/6 Tower D2, DongNan Industry-Trade Building, DongJianTou, HouHai Avenue, SheKou, NanShan District, Shenzhen, China / 518067 Ada Liu Customer Service Email: [email protected] Tel :0755-83437146 Fax : 86-755-3433077 or 83433078 LOCATION: INDIA
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services (India) Pvt. Ltd. Noida Office F-5, Sector-VIII, Noida, UP(201301), India Pooja Bedi Coordinator [email protected] Tel : 91-120-2424846/879/979/889 Fax : 91-120-2424846/880
LOCATION: SINGAPORE / MALAYSIA
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services (Pte) Ltd 11 Ubi Road 1, Meiban Industrial Building #07-01 Singapore, 408723 Yenny Peter Senior Coordinator [email protected] Tel:: (65)6283 8366 fax: (65)6283 8966
19 | P a g e
LOCATION: PAKISTAN
Raphil Management Services (Pvt.) Ltd. 208-Y (Commercial), 2nd Floor, D.H.A., Lahore, Pakistan Iftekhar Ali Coordinator [email protected] Tel:92-42-5899183 fax: 92-42-5891582
LOCATION: THAILAND
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services (Thailand) Ltd. 2410 Sukhumvit Road, Kwang Bangchak Khet Phrakanong, Bangkok 10260 Thailand Wanasanan Buranaboonya (Ant) Coordinator- Customer Service [email protected] Tel:(662) 744 7200 Ext.319 fax:(662) 744 7202
LOCATION: VIETNAM
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services (Vietnam) Ltd. 70 Nguyen Trong Tuyen street, Ward 15, Phu Nhuan District, HCM city Anh Quy Coordinator [email protected] Tel:: (84) 8 995 2406 fax: (84) 8 995 2405
LOCATION: PHILIPPINES
BVCPS-IAA Philippines Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services 8439 South Superhighway, West Service Road, Parañaque City, Philippines Karilagan S. dela Cruz Coordinator [email protected] Tel:+632-8242825 loc. 112 / 113, +632-8217977 loc. 112 / 113 fax: +632-8241430"
20 | P a g e
LOCATION: TAIWAN Inspections - HARDLINE Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services, Taiwan Branch 37 Zhongyang S. Rd. Sec. 2, Beitou, Taipei 112, Taiwan Linda Hu Coordinator [email protected] Tel:886-2-26207217 fax: 886-911222620
Inspections - SOFTLINE Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services (H.K.) Ltd., Taiwan Branch 29/F, No. 27, Sec. 2, Chung Cheng E. Road, Tanhsui, Taipei Hsien, Taiwan Shannen Yang Supervisor [email protected] Tel:(886) 2 2620 7216 fax: (886) 2 8809 3495
LOCATION: TURKEY
Bureau Veritas Consumer Product Services (TR)Ltd Ekspres Cad., Can Sok., Diker Is Merkezi No: 31/3, P.C: 34670 Ikitelli / Istanbul Gokce Kalkan Coordinator [email protected] Tel:0090 212 4943535 fax: 0090 212 494 35 60
LOCATION: INDONESIA
PT Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services Indonesia Office KKM Building 2nd floor, Jl. Cideng Timur No. 38, Jakarta 10130 Indonesia Lince Sihaloho Coordinator [email protected] Tel:6348877 ext 116 fax: 6348838 LOCATION: Sri Lanka
21 | P a g e
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., Inspections & Assessment Services Division 270, Dehiwala Road, Bellanwila Colombo – Sri Lanka Gayan Rukshan Coordinator [email protected] Tel:0094 112 739546 / 7 ,0094 115555175 , ext: 244 fax: 0094 11 2739548
LOCATION: Bangladesh
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services ( BD) Ltd. Bashati Horizon, Flat # B-18/19 ( 18th floor), Hosue # 21, Road # 17, Banani C/A, Dhaka - 1213, Bangladesh. Sayeed Ahad Coordinator [email protected] Tel: +88-02-9885362, 8825962 Ext - 103 Fax: +88-02-9885362, 8825962 Ext - 109
Laboratory:
LOCATION: AMERICAS
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services, Inc. Hardlines/Toys/Juvenile Products/Child Care Articles/Analytical/Transit 100 Northpointe Parkway Buffalo, New York 14228, USA
Susan Coleman Global Program Manager [email protected] Tel: 716-505-3550 Fax: 716-505-3305
Kelly Nasradinaj Toy & Juvenile Products Technical [email protected] Tel: 716-505-3756 Fax: 716-505-3301
Michelle Mills Toy & Juvenile Products Technical
22 | P a g e
[email protected] Tel: 716-505-3454 Fax: 716-505-3301
Doug Campbell Transit & Hardlines Technical [email protected] Tel: 716-505-3517 Fax: 716-505-3301
Teresa Keller Customer Service [email protected] Tel: 716-505-3482 Fax: 716-505-3301
Jeff Sexton Supervisor, Toys / Juvenile Products, Flammability and Toxicology [email protected] Tel: 716-505-3646 Fax: 716-505-3301
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services, Inc. Softlines / Home Textiles 350 Myles Standish Blvd. Taunton, MA 02780, USA
Tara Horton Customer Service [email protected] Tel: 508-844-2741 Fax: 508-844-2773
Lillian Peregrina Analytical [email protected] Tel: 508-844-2993 Fax: 508-844-2773
Cathy Rodrigues Technical [email protected]
23 | P a g e
Tel: 508-844-2742 Fax: 508-844-2773
______
STR- United States (Return TOC)
US Lab
Address 10 Water Street, Enfield, CT 06082 Telephone 860-749-8371 Fax 860-749-0196 Website www.strquality.com
Category -All categories Program Leader
Name Steve Warner Tel 860-265-3544 E-Mail [email protected]
Customer Services
All Categories (D7, D18, D26, D46)
Name Laurie Kivel Tel 860-749-8371 ext. 305 E-Mail [email protected]
Name Mary Jo Shiparski Tel 479-286-1157 E-Mail [email protected]
Customer and Technical Services Sam’s Club Small Appliance (Cat. 15)
Name Laurie Kivel Tel 860-749-8371 ext. 305 E-Mail [email protected]
Name Mary Jo Shiparski Tel 479-286-1157 E-Mail [email protected]
24 | P a g e
ACT www.act-lab.com (Return TOC)
USA Headquarters: ACT Lab LLC 119 Eucalyptus Drive, El Segundo, CA 90245 Tel: 1.310.607.0186 Fax: 1.310.414.9490 Email: [email protected]
CHINA TAICANG ACT SPORTING GOODS TESTING CO., LTD. No. 35 Zhenghe Road, Ludu Town, Taicang City, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China 215412 Tel: 86.512.53230300 Fax: 86.512.53230369 Email: [email protected]
TÜV Rheinland North America www.tuv.com/en/usa/home.jsp
TUV Rheinland of North America, Inc. 12 Commerce Road Newtown, CT 06470
TUV Rheinland of North America 2709 SE Otis Corley, Suite 11 Bentonville, AR 72712
MTS www.mts.com
MTS headquarters 14000 Technology Drive Eden Prairie, MN USA 55344 Sales/Service: 800.328.2255 Fax: 952.937.4515 Email: [email protected]
25 | P a g e
Production Sample Sealing Process: (Return TOC)
NOTE: This process is currently for Import items only.
Effective June 27, 2011, Walmart Global Sourcing (WMGS) A and B suppliers need to request one of the following nominated third party service providers to seal Production Testing samples.
Bureau Veritas lntertek SGS
The production sample sealing will be at the cost of the supplier. Suppliers are advised to get quotations from their selected third party service provider before booking.
The “sealed samples” should be sent by the supplier to the assigned testing laboratory for Production Testing. General guidelines are as follows:
Booking schedule: o Supplier books sample sealing service by sending a completed Production Testing Sample Sealing Application form by email to their selected third party. Note: telephone applications will not be accepted. o Supplier needs to the sample sealing service at least THREE working days in advance to secure the sample sealing time and date.
Cancellation — Any booking cancellation needs to be within at least ONE working day of the scheduled date. Note: refunds for late cancellation will not be given.
Sample selection - At least 10% of finished products, based on PO Quantity and /or required SKU’s quantity, must be packed in master cartons for random sample selection by the third party service provider.
NOTE: If the supplier is managed by DSG, production samples are sealed for testing by DSG inspector and not by third party inspection companies.
26 | P a g e
Walmart Stores Domestic/Import Softlines Testing Program (Return TOC) Table of Contents: Categories of Merchandise Wal-Mart Approval Process Supplier Responsibility Product Development Procedure Color Approval Process – Lab Dip/Strike-off Submission How to Submit Preproduction How to Submit Production Pickup / Stock Buys In-Store Testing Distribution of Reports Instructions for Completing Application Forms Color Testing Application Form Quality Testing Application Form Sampling Plans Performance Requirements Bath Rugs, Area Rugs (Scatter), Bath Sets Bed Pillows Bedding -- Bedspreads, Comforters, Quilts, Dust Ruffles, Duvet Covers, Pillow Shams, Crib Bumper Pads Blankets, Throws Decorative Pillows, Floor Pillows, Bed Rest Down Products Furniture Accessories – Chair Pads, Slip Covers Furniture Accessories – Outdoor Cushions, Pillows Ironing Board Covers & Pads Kitchen Accessories – Pot Holders, Oven Mitts, Aprons Mattress Pads Sheets, Pillow Cases, Protective Pillow Covers Shower Curtains Sleeping Bags Table Top – Napkins, Placemats, Table Runners, Tablecloths Towels – Bath, Hand, Washcloth, Kitchen, Hooded, Beach Window Treatments Zipper Performance Specifications Product Performance Claims Specification Sheet
27 | P a g e
Categories of Merchandise (Return SL TOC)
The following categories of merchandise are covered under the Walmart Stores Softlines Testing Program for Departments 14, 16, 17, 20, 22, 71 & 74. 1. Bath rugs, area rugs (scatter), bath sets (tank covers, lid cover, contour rug) 2. Bed pillows 3. Bedding - bedspreads, comforters, quilts, dust ruffles, duvet covers, pillow shams, crib bumper pads. 4. Blankets, throws 5. Decorative pillows, floor pillows, bed rest 6. Down products 7. Furniture accessories – chair pads, slip covers 8. Furniture accessories – Outdoor Cushions / Pillows 9. Kitchen accessories – pot holders, oven mitts, aprons. 10. Mattress pads 11. Sheets, pillow cases, protective pillow covers 12. Shower curtains 13. Sleeping bag - Indoor 14. Table top – napkins, placemats, table runners, tablecloths (textile or vinyl) 15. Towels – bath, hand, washcloth, kitchen, hooded and beach towels 16. Window treatments
Note: The list of merchandise is not all inclusive. Any new products introduced into departments 14, 16, 17, 20, 22, 71, & 74 must be tested.
28 | P a g e
Walmart Approval Process Flowchart Department 14, 16, 17, 20, 22, 71 & 74 Home Textiles only Lab Dips (Return SL TOC) Submit lab dips and strike-offs to
Product Coordinator (PC) for color approval (Private Label)
Supplier and Non-Branded
PC forwards lab dips and strike- Lab Dip / Strike-offs PC / Technical Fail Fail offs to Test Lab, issues LD report Corrected and Retest decision to Override or continue after PC review (Private Label, (3 retests allowed) Testing Non-private Label)
Preproduction Pass Submit Preproduction to Product Coordinator for color and aesthetic approval (Private Label, Non-private Label) Pass PC submits to Test Lab Preproduction Testi ng PC / Technical Fail Fail Preproduction Testing Corrected and Retest decide to go further or not. 5 business day turn-around (Retest 2 times max.)
Pass Production Submit Production to Product Coordinator for color and aesthetic approval (Private Label only) Pass PC submit to Test Lab Production Testing PC / Technical / Sourcing will Fail Production Testing Corrected and Retest partner with Merchandising 5 business day turn-around (Max. of 1 retest) to make decision on retest failure or stop project. Pass
NOTE: This Color Approval Process Approved by Test Lab applies to product that is required to meet a specific Walmart Color Standard. Please contact PC or Buyer if you have a question as to whether or not your item requires Color approval. Ship product to stores
29 | P a g e
Supplier Responsibility (Return SL TOC)
1. Must comply with Walmart’s Product Approval process which includes having aesthetic and color approval from Product Coordinator (if using Walmart colors) and color approval from Test Lab. See chart (page 4) under Product Approval Procedure for items that need to follow this process.
2. To meet or exceed all of the performance requirements for the specific product sold to Walmart.
3. Work with Walmart Technical Resources to ensure all applicable federal and state regulations and/or industry standards are built into the product.
4. Review the product specifications with factory’s production and quality personnel to ensure they understand Walmart’s expectations in product performance and quality.
5. Must communicate with Walmart if any or all expectations of product performance and quality cannot be met.
6. Must communicate any changes to product specifications and get Technical Dept. and/or Sourcing approval. 7. Keep records of all revised or updated product specifications and drawings and make them available on request.
8. Responsible for submitting preproduction and production samples to Product Coordinator for forwarding to theTest Lab for testing.
9. Responsible for insuring that all performance claims placed on products can be supported.
10. Responsible to know which submittal process the supplier is to use in testing.
11. Do not ship prior to preproduction and production approval.
Product Approval Procedure (Return SL TOC)
Walmart Product Approval Process must be completed prior to submitting samples to Test Lab for Color or Quality Testing and applies to all Walmart Private Label Brands. Product Coordinator will review products for aesthetics and color at each stage in the process. This includes evaluation for artwork interpretation, hand, quality, size, raw materials, product components, color, and packaging. Please see the following chart on which brands need to follow this process.
30 | P a g e
Supplier Non- Private Label Non- Brand Private (exclusive to Branded Walmart) Label Product Coordinator Aesthetic Approval X X X X (Lab Dip, Strike-Offs, Preproduction, Production)
Test Lab Color Testing (lab X X X dip only)
Test Lab Preproduction X X X X Testing
Test Lab Production Testing X X X X *Private Label Brands include but are not limited to: Mainstays, Canopy, HomeTrends, Better Homes and Gardens, Your Zone, and Seasonal items which includes Christmas, Harvest, Easter, Halloween, Valentine and Back To College
Color Approval Process—Lab dip/Strike-off Submission (Return SL TOC)
Lab dip defined - A sample of fabric dyed in a lab by a manufacturer or supplier to a specific color and formula. Upon approval, the Lab Dip formula will be translated to production equipment to dye bulk fabric.
Print-strike off defined – A sample of printed fabric that represents both the print registration and color placement of the production yardage as well as the color specified by the designer.
Yarn-dye pattern defined – A sample of woven or knitted fabric that represents both the pattern of the production yardage as well as the color specified by the designer.
Electronic color may be submitted, but is not mandatory, for all items not included in the electronic exemption list that is outlined below:
A. EXEMPT FABRICS: 1. BULKY KNITS 2. CHENILLE 3. CROCHET 4. CROSS-DYED FABRICS 5. DAZZLE OR REFLECTIVE FABRICS 6. DELUSTERED FABRICS 7. FUR OR FAUX FUR 8. HEATHER YARNS 9. LACE
31 | P a g e
10. METALLIC YARNS, FIBERS, OR FABRICS 12. OPEN WHOLE MESH 13. SHERPA 14. TERRY PRODUCTS 15. WAFFLE-WEAVE FABRICS 16. BURN-OUT FABRICS 17. RUGS 18. PRE-WASHED PRODUCTS 19. JACQUARDS AND PRINT MOTIFS SMALLER THAN 30MM 20. SWEDE OR EMBOSED SWEDE
B EXEMPT PRINT METHODS: 1. FADES 2. GLAVANO 3. SUBLISTATIC 4. TIE-DYE 5. WATERCOLOR 6. RESIST 7. FALL ON COLOR 8. PRINTS ON OPTICALLY BRIGHTENED GROUND
C. EXEMPT COLORS: 1. WHITE- ( will check visually) 2. COLORS ON THE OUT-OF-GAMUT LIST (CONTACT Test Lab)
NOTE: IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING A FABRIC OR COLOR THAT YOU ARE CONSIDERING SUBMITTING ELECTRONICALLY; PLEASE CONTACT THE COLOR TEAM AT CTL DIRECTLY.
1. When to Submit Solid color lab dips, print strike-offs and yarn-dyed patterns should be submitted as soon as possible to avoid production delays. When or before commitment is given, samples should be sent in for evaluation.
2. Where to Submit After receiving an electronic approval all solid Color lab dips, print strike-offs and handlooms must be submitted directly to Test Lab for color approval. Refer to the chart below for Aesthetic Approval Guidelines and to Appendix B for testing application forms. Test Lab will forward the sample to Product Coordinator for color evaluation. Test Lab will not issue a LD report prior to the PC color evaluation. Please refer to the Product Approval section (page 4) of this manual for proper submittal. Product Coordinator will make all final decisions concerning color.
32 | P a g e
Walmart Private Label Products Must use Walmart colors. Must be submitted directly to Test Lab for color review. Test Lab will forward to Product Coordinator for color evaluation and issue the LD report after this evaluation. Supplier Branded Products Color approval by the Product Coordinator is required on all home products. Non-Walmart branded product colors will be set as standard. If using Walmart colors and/or Non-Walmart colors/artwork the process outlined above for Walmart Private Label Product should be followed. Non-Private Label Products Color approval by the Product Coordinator is required for national brands. Product Coordinator will forward to Test Lab for color evaluation.
3. What to Submit A. When submitting solid color lab dips, a 4x4 inch swatch is required. All Lab Dips Must be submitted in duplicate Pairs, 1 set for Test Lab and 1 set for Product Coordinator. The appropriate color name and number must be listed on the application.
B. When submitting print strike-offs or yarn-dyed patterns, a full pattern repeat (a minimum 6x6 inch swatch) is required. All Lab Dips Must be submitted in duplicate Pairs, 1 set for Test Lab and 1 set for Product Coordinator. The CSI color name and number for all colors must be listed on the application, however only a maximum of 4 colors will be evaluated for color correctness. Artwork with color callouts must be included.
4. If Sample Fails If an approval is not obtained by the 3rd submission, it is the responsibility of the supplier to contact the Walmart Product Coordinator to request a review. Test Lab will not automatically take any failing reports to Wal-Mart for review. Note: Each new submission should reflect improvement toward the standard.
5. All Lab Dips approved will remain active and will never expire. Test Lab reserves the right to request a new lab dip from the supplier if the current swatch becomes soiled, torn, or otherwise unusable.
How To Submit Preproduction (Return SL TOC)
1. Preproduction is defined as a sample constructed in the same manner as production and out of production quality fabric.
33 | P a g e
2. When to Submit A. Preproduction samples must be submitted and approved by the laboratory according to the process map schedule give to the supplier. It is recommended that preproduction samples be submitted as early as possible in order to correct potential quality problems before starting production.
B. Items that require lab dip approval must be completed prior to submitting pre- production. Please refer to the color approval process (pages 4-7).
3. Where to Submit Preproduction samples must be submitted to Product Coordinator in Bentonville, AR. Please refer to Appendix A for address and contact information. PC will check for color and aesthetics before submitting to Test Lab for testing.
4. What to Submit When submitting preproduction samples for testing, please refer to the sampling plan in Appendix D. Test Lab will not test until all required samples are received. All components submitted must include proposed care instructions, country of origin, fiber content, manufacturer’s identification, any other product labeling and Walmart Construction Specs. If care label and packaging is not available for preproduction testing, copies of the proposed labeling must be sent.
A. Special Claims Additional samples or fabric yardage must be submitted for items which make reference to special claims such as soil release, soil repellency, wicking and any other claims that would require additional testing. See Appendix F
B. Sleeping Bag Flammability Testing The supplier must send the following with preproduction samples: 2 bags in each color if the sleeping bag measurers 60” in length; 4 bags of each color way if the sleeping bag measures less than 60” in length.
C. Rug Flammability Testing The supplier must send an adequate number of rugs to obtain eight (8) 9” x 9” specimens in each color.
5. Retest of Preproduction A. If further action is required by the supplier, the laboratory will indicate such action on the lab report. It is the responsibility of the supplier to ensure that all indicated improvements are made and that a retest sample is submitted to the lab through Product Coordinator for approval.
B. The retest sample(s) must be submitted to the laboratory that issued the failed report.
C. A Supplier can submit a sample for preproduction retest up to two (2) times to receive a “passing” preproduction test report. The project will stop if failures 34 | P a g e
continue or Walmart Technical will have to decide if additional retesting is warranted.
D. A passing preproduction report will be required before the Supplier can begin production.
6. Testing Application Form A completed testing application form, a copy of the Supplier Product Spec. Form and all additional information pertaining to the sample, must be included with each style or set submitted for testing. Please refer to Appendix B for the application form and instructions for completing the form. Note: The application form must be complete to expedite testing.
How to Submit Production (Return SL TOC)
Do not ship prior to production approval
1. Production is defined as samples that are taken from actual production lots manufactured for Walmart Stores, Inc.
2. When to Submit A. Production samples are to be submitted to the laboratory after approximately ten percent (10%) of production has been completed. Samples must be submitted to the laboratory no later than thirty (30) days prior to the ship date.
B. Lab dip approvals and preproduction must be completed prior to submitting production. Please refer to the color approval process.
3. Sample Sealing Process Production Samples are required to be “sealed” prior to being submitted to the assigned testing laboratory for production testing. Suppliers are required to use a Walmart approved third party service provider to seal production test samples. Currently there are three approved service providers: . Bureau Veritas . Intertek . SGS Cost of the sealing process is the responsibility of the supplier.
4. Where to Submit Production samples must be submitted through Product Coordinator to the Test Lab. Please refer to Appendix A for addresses, contact information, and correct locations for testing.
35 | P a g e
5. What to Submit When submitting production for testing, please refer to the sampling plan in Appendix D. Testing will not take place until all samples are received. All components submitted must include all final labeling, packaging, care instructions, fiber content, country of origin, size specifications and Walmart Construction Specs.
A. If product is being produced in multiple factories, testing must be accomplished from each factory.
B. Additional Supplier’s Documentation The following documentation must be submitted with each production sample as applicable. Certificate of Compliance as required by Critical Regulatory Standards and per Toxics in Packaging Regulations. Supporting documentation for labeled claims, such as “Anti-Microbial” claims. 3rd party test report for nickel release (required for metal components in contact with skin.)(children’s items only) Certificate from Walmart approved certifier on organic cotton.
C. Special Claims Additional samples or fabric yardage must be submitted for items which make reference to special claims such as soil release, soil repellency, wicking and any other claims that would require additional testing. See Appendix F
D. Sleeping Bag Flammability Testing The supplier must send the following with production samples: 2 bags in each color if the sleeping bag measurers 60” in length; 4 bags of each color way if the sleeping bag measures less than 60” in length.
E. Rug Flammability Testing The supplier must send an adequate number of rugs to obtain eight (8) 9” x 9 specimens in each color.
6. Production - Annual Walmart is committed to providing merchandise that meets all Federal and State requirements, Industry Standards, and their Customer’s needs. Therefore Production testing is mandatory for all products on an annual basis. This is designed for replenishment products that will be in the stores for (1) one year or more. Refer to How To Submit Production.
7. Retest of Production A. If further action is required by the supplier, the laboratory will indicate such action on the lab report. It is the responsibility of the supplier to ensure that all indicated improvements are made and that a retest sample is submitted to the lab for approval.
36 | P a g e
B. The retest sample(s) must be submitted to Product Coordinator who will send to Test Lab for testing of the failure.
C. A maximum of two (2) retests will be allowed if the production sample fails testing. Any additional retests must be approved by the Home Technical Team.
D. If an item fails Fiber Analysis testing during production testing, only Technical can authorize the submission of a retest.
8. Testing Application Form A completed testing application form, a copy of the Supplier Product Spec. Form and all additional information, pertaining to the sample must be included with each style or set submitted for testing. Please refer to Appendix B for the application form and instructions for completing the form. Note: The application form must be complete to expedite testing.
Pickup / Stock Buys (Return SL TOC)
1. Pickup or Supplier’s product special buys (stock buys) are defined as product that has been produced and then decision is made by Walmart Stores, Inc. to purchase.
2. Production testing is required. Please refer to and follow the “How to Submit Production” section of this manual.
3. Lab Dip and Preproduction testing are not required.
In-Store Testing (Return SL TOC)
1. In order to insure that merchandise meets Federal and State requirements, Industry Standards, and our Customer’s needs, Test Lab will test merchandise pulled directly from Walmart Stores sales floors. This section identifies what will be pulled from the stores and defines the testing protocol in place if this “initial In- Store Quality Audit” fails testing. 2. For the “initial In-Store Quality Audit” all sizes and colorways representative of each style will be randomly pulled for testing as soon as the products are available in stores. Full testing will be conducted including color match testing. 3. Walmart Private Label Brands will be pulled from the store on a quarterly basis three times a year. All Non-Private Label Brands will be pulled from the store once a year. 4. Additional testing of failed In-Store goods will/may occur when the “initial In-Store Quality Audit” results in a Test Failure. 5. High Sampling Retest from multiple regions for Major or Minor failures will be at the direction of the Walmart Home Technical Team.
37 | P a g e
Distribution of Reports (Return SL TOC)
1. All reports and worksheets will be E-mailed to the supplier.
2. All failed laboratory reports/worksheets and retests will be E-mailed to the Walmart Technical Director for Home, the Walmart Global Procurement Office, and the Buyer.
4. A summary of all test reports that were tested the previous week will be provided weekly to the Walmart Technical Director for Home.
Instructions for Completing the COLOR TESTING Application Form (Return SL TOC)
1. When submitting a style that has been tested previously, please indicate all previous lab report numbers on the application form.
2. When submitting samples for retest, please indicate the failed lab report number on the application form.
3. The application form submitted with initial dye lots must include the approved lab dip number in order for it to be processed.
5. The application form must be filled out completely with all information to expedite testing.
Instructions for Completing the QUALITY TESTING Application Form (Return SL TOC)
1. When submitting a style that has been tested previously, please indicate all previous lab report numbers on the application form.
2. When submitting samples for retest, please indicate the failed lab report number on the application form.
3. The application form submitted with production samples must include preproduction laboratory report numbers
4. The appropriate box must be marked to indicate the proper testing to be done. Example: Samples submitted for production testing must have an “X” in the production box and preproduction lab reports listed in the space provided.
5. The application form must be filled out completely with all information to expedite testing.
38 | P a g e
Sampling Plans Products Preproduction-Sample Size Production-Sample Size 6 of one color, 2 of every other color 6 of one color, 2 of every other color Bath Towel Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color 2 of each color with a minimum of 6 submitted 2 of each color with a minimum of six submitted Hand Towel Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color 2 of each color with a minimum of 12 submitted 2 of each color with a minimum of 12 submitted Finger Towel Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color 3 of each color with a minimum of 12 submitted 3 of each color with a minimum of 12 submitted Wash Cloth Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color 2 of each color with a minimum of 6 submitted 2 of each color with a minimum of 6 submitted Kitchen Towel / Bleach Friendly Claim requires 12 additional towels per Bleach Friendly Claim requires 12 additional towels per Bar Mop color color 3 of each color with a minimum of 12 submitted 3 of each color with a minimum of 12 submitted Dishcloth / Bleach Friendly Claim requires 12 additional items per Bleach Friendly Claim requires 12 additional items per Scrubber color color Flat/fitted – 2 queen of each color Sheets (sold 2 of each color, with each size represented Pillowcase – 3 of each color separately) Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color 2 sets per color 2 sets per color with each size represented. Sheet Sets Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color 2 queen of one color, 2 samples of each of the remaining Comforters/Bedspreads 2 of each color, with each size represented colors (down alternative) Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color 2 queen size pillow shams & dust ruffles in 1 color, Bed 1 yard of fabric or 2 samples in each of the remaining 2 of each color, with each size represented Accessories colors 5 rugs of each color, with each size represented (may 5 rugs of each color, with each size represented (may vary depending on size, due to flam specimen vary depending on size, due to flam specimen Rugs requirements) requirements) Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color Bleach Friendly – 1 additional per color 2 queen size blankets of 1 color, 1 yard of fabric or 2 Blankets 2 of each color, with each size represented samples in each of the remaining colors
Throws 2 of each color 2 of each color, with each size represented
8 queen size and 1 each additional size (or 2 queen 8 queen size (or 2 queen size with mattress pad Mattress Pads size with mattress pad flammability documentation flammability documentation supplied) supplied and 1 each additional size) 4 of one size/pattern/color, 4 of one size/pattern/color, Decorative Pillows 4 of each remaining color/pattern 4 of each remaining color/pattern Bed Pillows 4 of each size 4 of each size. 3 of 1 color and size, 1 yard of fabric or 2 samples in Down Comforters 3 of each color, with all sizes represented each of the remaining colors Kitchen Products - 4 of each color 4 of each color category includes Bleach Friendly Claim requires 12 additional items per Bleach Friendly Claim requires 12 additional items per oven mitts, pot color color holders, aprons, etc. Chair pads 3 per color, all colors/patterns 3 per color, all colors/patterns Table tops (runners, 4 of one size and color, 1 yard of fabric or 2 samples in 4 per color, with all sizes represented placemats, etc) each of the remaining colors 2 of one size, 1 yard of fabric or 2 samples in each of the Draperies (canopies) 2 of each color, with all sizes represented remaining colors
39 | P a g e
Product Performance Specification Sheet (Return SL TOC) Bath Rugs / Area Rugs (Scatter) / Bath Sets (Tank covers, Lid Covers, Contour Rug) PS01-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, miss- stitches, latex voids showing yarn or backing, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) Woven Rugs (+10% / -5%) Tufted Rugs (+12% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+5%) Construction / Visual Serging and Binding should be straight, uniform and Workmanship consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed, etc. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven Reversible: 5.0 x 5.0 Single Sided Tufted: 3.0 x 3.0 Washing / Dry Cleaning *Shrinkage and Durability will be evaluated after 5 launderings per labeled care instructions Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/Commercial Dry Cleaning All components that make up the product must be compatible Durability Pile / Latex / Visual after AATCC 135/Commercial No cuts in latex, No yarn showing thru on back, Serging and Binding Dry Cleaning Binding or serging is intact without significant gaps. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/Commercial No holes, unraveled edge finish, excessive Dry Cleaning pilling, etc. Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/Commercial No evidence of torque. Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 (3 washings/dryings) Minimum of Grade 3.0. Skid Resistance CTL Test Method Co-efficient of Friction 0.8 or greater (rugs only) Fit Properties Lid covers must fit labeled size. Flammability CFR Title 16, Part 1630 As defined by standard (Rugs only) CFR Title 16, Part 1631 As defined by standard Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Spot Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Staining: Grade 4.0 labeled as wash separately) Machine Wash AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Hand Wash Staining: Grade 3.0 Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Vinyl Tile Staining AATCC 137 Grade 4.0 Stain Resistance AATCC 175-2003 Minimum of: Grade 9.0 (if claim is made) Lightfastness AATCC 16 Synthetic Fibers Natural Fibers (Option 3 ) Grade 4.0 Grade 3.0 @20 AFU @20 AFU Water (Static Wetting) AATCC 107 Shade Change: Grade 4.0 Staining: Grade 3.0
40 | P a g e
Bath Rugs / Area Rugs (Scatter) / Bath Sets (Tank covers, Lid Covers, Contour Rug) PS01-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was CFR Title 19, Part 134 processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products If Imported Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act 16 CFR AATCC 20A 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR 300, as appropriate. CFR Title 16, Part 303 + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, registered Identification trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
41 | P a g e
Bed Pillows PS02-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis- stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Unit Weight (lb) ASTM D3776 For record purposes only Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Thickness (vinyl only) ASTM D1777 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.0 x 3.0 Washing / Dry Cleaning *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/Commercial All components that make up the product must be Dry Cleaning compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting and Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning clumping of batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Commercial Dry Cleaning Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 (3 Minimum of Grade 3.0. washings / dryings) Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Warp 35.0 Woven Fill 25.0 Bursting Strength for Knits ASTM D3786 (in-lb) 20lbs Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Warp 1.5 Woven Fill 1.5 Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart located at the end of the Performance Specifications. Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15.0 Pillow Compression CTL SOP 27-40 Soft – Over 70% loss, Medium – 61 to 70% loss, Firm – 51 to 60% loss, Extra Firm – less than 51% loss
42 | P a g e
Bed Pillows PS02-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the CFR Title 19, Part 134 product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile If Imported Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products Identification AATCC 20A Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR 300, as appropriate. CFR Title 16, Part 303 + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, Identification registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information. Bedding Law Tag Various State laws for bedding Must be labeled according to International Association of (items with filling) and upholstered furniture Bedding & Furniture Law Officials (IABFLO) uniform law label. Special Claims Must be tested using the All Special claims made on products must be tested per the (e.g. anti-stain, appropriate test methods. appropriate test method. Test methods to be specified in anti-soil, Test methods to be specified consultation with Supplier and Home Technical Team. antimicrobial, anti- in consultation with Supplier Supplier may submit 3rd party test data to satisfy allergen) and Home Technical Team. requirement.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
43 | P a g e
Bedding - Bedspreads / Comforters / Quilts / Dust Ruffles / Duvet Covers / Pillows Shams / Crib Bumper Pads PS03-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis-stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+5%) Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+5%) Thickness (vinyl only) ASTM D1777 6 gauge (0.006 in.) or as specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5 x 5 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit: 5 x 5 Non-Woven: 3 x 3 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/Commercial Dry All components that make up the product must be Cleaning compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting and clumping of Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Commercial Dry Cleaning Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Loft CTL Test Method ± ⅜ inch Fit Properties Must fit labeled mattress and pillow size. Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Warp 40.0 Woven Fill 30.0 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Warp 1.5 Woven Fill 1.5 Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart located at the end of the Performance Specifications. Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15.0
44 | P a g e
Bedding - Bedspreads / Comforters / Quilts / Dust Ruffles / Duvet Covers / Pillows Shams / Crib Bumper Pads PS03-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 300, 301, 303 Must include a label identifying the country in CFR Title 19, Part 134 which the product was processed or manufactured. If Imported Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR CFR Title 16, Part 300, 301, 303 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the Identification manufacturer’s name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information. Bedding Law Tag (items Various State laws for bedding Must be labeled according to International with filling) and upholstered furniture Association of Bedding & Furniture Law Officials (IABFLO) uniform law label. Naptime to Nighttime Juvenile Products Manufacturers All Crib Bedding sets Must be labeled according Labeling Association (JPMA) to the JPMA Naptime to Nighttime guidelines.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
45 | P a g e
Blankets / Throws PS04-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis- stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) - * Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing – AATCC 135 Dry Cleaning – Commercial Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5 x 5 Hand Laundering – “Standardization of Hand Laundering for Fabrics and Apparel” Knit: 5 x 5 2007 – AATCC Committee RA88 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/Commercial Dry All components that make up the product must be Cleaning / Hand Laundering compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning / Hand laundering Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting and Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning / clumping of batting/stuffing. Hand Laundering General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Commercial Dry Cleaning / Hand Laundering Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning / Hand Laundering Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 < 7.0 oz/sq yd > 7.0 oz/sq yd Woven Warp 25.0 Warp 30.0 Fill 15.0 Fill 25.0 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 20.0lbs Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 < 3.0 oz/sq yd > 3.0 oz/sq yd Woven Warp 1.0 Warp 1.5 Fill 1.0 Fill 1.5 Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart located at the end of the Performance Specifications. Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 10.0 Flammability ASTM D4151 Class 1, as defined in standard
46 | P a g e
Blankets / Throws PS04-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 300, 301, Must include a label identifying the country in 303 which the product was processed or manufactured. CFR Title 19, Part 134 Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. If Imported Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR CFR Title 16, Part 303 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s Identification name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
47 | P a g e
Decorative Pillows / Floor Pillows / Bed Rest PS05-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis-stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Unit Weight (lb) ASTM D3776 For record purposes only Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5x5 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings per labeled care instructions Knit: 5x5 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/ All components that make up the Commercial Dry Cleaning product must be compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning shifting and clumping of batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, Commercial Dry Cleaning excessive pilling, etc. Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 (3 washings / dryings) Grade 3.0 Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Floor Pillows 20” or smaller Woven Warp 40.0 Warp 20.0 Fill 40.0 Fill 20.0 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Floor Pillows 20” or smaller Woven Warp 1.5 Warp 1.0 Fill 1.5 Fill 1.0 Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart at the end of the Performance Specifications Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 20.0 Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) Floor Pillows Only 25.0
48 | P a g e
Decorative Pillows / Floor Pillows / Bed Rest PS05-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Spot Clean or Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR Title 16, Part 303 CFR 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s Identification CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information. Bedding Law Tag (items Various State laws for bedding and Must be labeled according to International with filling) upholstered furniture Association of Bedding & Furniture Law Officials (IABFLO) uniform law label. California Flammability Tag California TB117 Items that are advertised, intended, or (items with filling that can commonly used as upholstered furniture also be used as upholstered must meet the flammability requirements and furniture) (N/A to Bed Rest) be appropriately labeled in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 4, Division 3, Article 13 Flammability Regulations.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
49 | P a g e
Down Products PS06-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis-stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Total (lbs/doz) As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5x5 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit: 5x5 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/Commercial Dry All components that make up the product must be Cleaning compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting and Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning clumping of batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Commercial Dry Cleaning Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Fit Properties Must fit labeled mattress size. Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Warp 35.0 Woven Fill 25.0 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Warp 1.5 Woven Fill 1.5 Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart located at end of the Performance Specification Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15.0
50 | P a g e
Down Products PS06-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Physical Performance (Continued) Air Permeability IDFL Method > 3.0 minimum or < 10.0 maximum Down Content IDFL Method 75% minimum Specie Cleanliness IDFL Method < 10 grams of O2 per 100,000 grams of sample Turbidity IDFL Method 300mm minimum Species Type IDFL Method Duck / Geese / Chicken Fill Weight CTL Method Ounces Fill Power (Lorch IDFL Tumble Dry Method As specified minimum Instrument) Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @ 20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR CFR Title 16, Part 303 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s Identification name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information. Bedding Law Tag (items Various State laws for Must be labeled according to International with filling) bedding and upholstered Association of Bedding & Furniture Law Officials furniture (IABFLO) uniform law label. California Flammability Tag California TB117 Items that are advertised, intended, or commonly (items with filling that can used as upholstered furniture must meet the also be used as upholstered flammability requirements and be appropriately furniture) labeled in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 4, Division 3, Article 13 Flammability Regulations.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
51 | P a g e
Furniture Accessories – Chair Pads / Slip Covers PS07-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis-stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Hems Workmanship should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5x5 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit: 5x5 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/ All components that make up the product must be Commercial Dry Cleaning compatible Durability Seam / Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Hem Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting and clumping of Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Commercial Dry Cleaning Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Fit Properties Must fit labeled size. Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Chair Pads Slip Covers Woven Warp 35.0 Warp 50.0 Fill 25.0 Fill 50.0 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 35.0 Knits (in-lb) Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Chair Pads Slip Covers Woven Warp 1.5 Warp 3.5 Fill 1.5 Fill 3.0 Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart located at the end of the Performance Specifications. Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 20.0lbs Chair Pad Ties CTL Test Method Pull-out Strength 25.0 lbs. Yarn Slippage ASTM D434 Min. @ ¼” Seam separation (Woven) 15.0lbs
52 | P a g e
Furniture Accessories – Chair Pads / Slip Covers PS07-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook Must conform to the labeled dimensions. 130 Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part Must include a label identifying the country in which the 303 product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products Identification AATCC 20A Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR 300, as appropriate. CFR Title 16, Part + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only 303 Manufacturer’s Identification CFR Title 16, Part Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, 303 registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information. Bedding Law Tag (items with Various State laws Must be labeled according to International Association of filling) for bedding and Bedding & Furniture Law Officials (IABFLO) uniform law upholstered label. furniture California Flammability Tag California TB117 Items that are advertised, intended, or commonly used as (items with filling that can upholstered furniture must meet the flammability also be used as upholstered requirements and be appropriately labeled in accordance furniture) with California Code of Regulations, Title 4, Division 3, Article 13 Flammability Regulations.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
53 | P a g e
Furniture Accessories – Outdoor Cushions / Pillows PS07-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis-stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Hems Workmanship should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5x5 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit: 5x5 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/ All components that make up the product must be Commercial Dry Cleaning compatible Durability Seam / Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Hem Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting and clumping of Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Commercial Dry Cleaning Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Fit Properties Must fit labeled size. Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Warp 200.0 lbs Outdoor Cushions Fill 100.0 lbs Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Floor Pillows 20” or smaller Outdoor Pillows Warp 40.0 Warp 20.0 Fill 40.0 Fill 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D2261 Warp 10.0 lbs Outdoor Cushions Fill 8.0 lbs Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Floor Pillows 20” or smaller Outdoor Pillows Warp 1.5 Warp 1.0 Fill 1.5 Fill 1.0 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 20.0lbs Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 20.0lbs Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart located at the end of the Performance Specifications. Chair Pad Ties CTL Test Method Pull-out Strength 25.0 lbs. Yarn Slippage ASTM D434 Min. @ ¼” Seam Separation (Woven) 15.0 lbs
54 | P a g e
Furniture Accessories – Outdoor Cushions / Pillows PS07-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 * Lightfastness AATCC 16 Good @500 AFU Grade 3.0 All Products will require a (Option 3 ) Better @750 AFU Grade 3.0 Letter of Conformance Best @1000 AFU Grade 3.0 * Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 4.5 (Option 3 ) @80 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook Must conform to the labeled dimensions. 130 Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part Must include a label identifying the country in which the 303 product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products Identification AATCC 20A Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR 300, as appropriate. CFR Title 16, Part + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only 303 Manufacturer’s Identification CFR Title 16, Part Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, 303 registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information. Bedding Law Tag (items with Various State laws Must be labeled according to International Association of filling) for bedding and Bedding & Furniture Law Officials (IABFLO) uniform law upholstered label. furniture California Flammability Tag California TB117 Items that are advertised, intended, or commonly used as (items with filling that can upholstered furniture must meet the flammability also be used as upholstered requirements and be appropriately labeled in accordance furniture) with California Code of Regulations, Title 4, Division 3, Article 13 Flammability Regulations.
All products are required to be submitted with a Letter of Conformance that the product will comply with the Lightfastness requirements. All Pre-Production, Production, and In-Store submissions will be held to the Grade 4.5 @ 80 AFU requirements. However all products are subject to random audits at the higher requirements at Walmart’s direction.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
55 | P a g e
Ironing Board Covers & Pads PS02-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis-stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Unit Weight (lb) ASTM D3776 For record purposes only Batting /Foam ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Thickness (vinyl only) ASTM D1777 6 gauge (0.006 in.) or as specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.0 x 3.0 Washing / Dry Cleaning *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/Commercial All components that make up the product must be Dry Cleaning compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting and Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning clumping of batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Commercial Dry Cleaning Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 (3 Minimum of Grade 3.0. washings / dryings) Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Warp 35.0 Woven Fill 25.0 Bursting Strength for Knits ASTM D3786 (in-lb) 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Warp 1.5 Woven Fill 1.5 Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart located at the end of the Performance Specifications. Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15.0 Resistance to Heat SOP 27-34 No holes or scorch marks that would affect Deterioration serviceability of product Resistance to Fire SOP 27-42 No evidence of visible fire
56 | P a g e
Ironing Board Covers & Pads PS02-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 5.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR Title 16, Part 303 CFR 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the Identification manufacturer’s name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
57 | P a g e
Kitchen Accessories – Pot Holders / Oven Mitts / Aprons PS08-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis-stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Thickness (vinyl only) ASTM D1777 6 gauge (0.006 in.) or as specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5x5 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit: 5x5 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/Commercial Dry All components that make up the product must be Cleaning compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting and clumping Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning of batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Commercial Dry Cleaning Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Fit Properties (Aprons) Must fit labeled size.
Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 1.5 – 2.9 oz/sq yd > 3.0 oz/sq yd Woven (Apron only) Warp 25.0 Warp 25.0 Fill 15.0 Fill 25.0 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 20.0lbs Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 < 3.0 oz/sq yd > 3.0 oz/sq yd Woven (Apron only) Warp 1.0 Warp 1.5 Fill 1.0 Fill 1.5 Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart located at the end of the Performance Specifications. Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15.0lbs Heat Resistance CTL Test Method <130°F
58 | P a g e
Kitchen Accessories – Pot Holders / Oven Mitts / Aprons PS08-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR Title 16, Part 303 CFR 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the Identification manufacturer’s name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
59 | P a g e
Mattress Pads / Protective Mattress Covers / Protective Pillow Covers PS09-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis- stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Thickness (vinyl only) ASTM D1777 6 gauge (0.006 in.) or as specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing. (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5 x 5 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit: 5 x 5 Non-Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/ All components that make up the product Commercial Dry Cleaning must be compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning and clumping of batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive Commercial Dry Cleaning pilling, etc. Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Fit Properties Must fit labeled mattress and pillow size. Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Warp 25.0 Woven Fill 25.0 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Warp 1.5 Woven Fill 1.5 Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 (Across seam) Woven 15.0 Flammability CFR Title 16, Part 1632 As defined by standard Waterproof AATCC 35 (Rain Test) No more than 0 gram penetration
60 | P a g e
Mattress Pads / Protective Mattress Covers / Protective Pillow Covers PS09-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if labeled Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook Must conform to the labeled dimensions. 130 Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part Must include a label identifying the country in which 303 the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR CFR Title 16, Part 300, as appropriate. 303 + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s Identification CFR Title 16, Part Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s 303 name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information. Bedding Law Tag (items with Various State laws Must be labeled according to International Association filling) for bedding and of Bedding & Furniture Law Officials (IABFLO) upholstered uniform law label. furniture
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
61 | P a g e
Sheets / Pillow Cases PS10-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis- stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Thickness (vinyl only) ASTM D1777 6 gauge (0.006 in.) or as specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage, Workmanship hems should be straight, uniform and consistent, loose thread should be properly trimmed, etc. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Sheeting: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5x5 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit: 5x5 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/Commercial Dry All components that make up the product must Cleaning be compatible Durability Seam / Hem / Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, Commercial Dry Cleaning etc. Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning
Pilling Resistance ASTM D4970 Minimum of Grade 3.0. Smoothness Appearance AATCC 124 3.0 minimum (avg.), 2.2 minimum (avg.) conducted on all items conducted on all 100% that claim wrinkle cotton sheet without free/ wrinkle resistant wrinkle free claim. Fit Properties Must fit labeled mattress size/depth and pillow size. Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Warp 40.0 Woven Fill 30.0 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Warp 1.5 Woven Fill 1.5 Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15.0
62 | P a g e
Sheets / Pillow Cases PS10-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR Title 16, Part 303 CFR 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s Identification CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information. Special Claims Must be tested using the All Special claims made on products must be (e.g. anti-stain, anti-soil, appropriate test methods. tested per the appropriate test method. Test antimicrobial, anti-allergen) Test methods to be specified methods to be specified in consultation with in consultation with Supplier Supplier and Home Technical Team. Supplier and Home Technical Team. may submit 3rd party test data to satisfy requirement.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
63 | P a g e
Shower Curtains PS11-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis- stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Thickness (vinyl only) ASTM D1777 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed, etc. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5x5 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit: 5x5 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/ All components that make up the product Commercial Dry Cleaning must be compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive Commercial Dry Cleaning pilling, etc. Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Warp 30.0 Woven Fill 25.0 Bursting Strength for Knits ASTM D3786 (in-lb) 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Warp 1.5 Woven Fill 1.5 Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15.0 Water Repellent AATCC 22 Minimum Spray Rating 80 Original Minimum Spray Rating 70 After Wash Water Resistant AATCC 35 No more than 1 gram penetration Waterproof AATCC 35 No more than 0.05 gram penetration
64 | P a g e
Shower Curtains PS11-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if labeled Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR CFR Title 16, Part 303 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s Identification CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
65 | P a g e
Sleeping Bags PS12-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis-stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry Cleaning Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 Washing / Dry Cleaning Flannel: 5 x 5 * Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit: 5 x 5 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/ All components that make up the product must be Commercial Dry Cleaning compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ No open seams or broken stitches. Commercial Dry Cleaning Batting / Stuffing Visual after AATCC 135/ No disintegration or noticeable shifting and clumping Durability Commercial Dry Cleaning of batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Commercial Dry Cleaning Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ No evidence of torque.. Commercial Dry Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Woven Warp – 40 lbs. Fill – 30 lbs. Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 20.0lbs Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Woven Warp – 2.0 lbs. Fill – 1.5 lbs. Zipper Strength ASTM D2061 *See detailed chart located at the end of the Performance Specifications. Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15 lbs.
Flammability ASTM F1955 As defined by Standard
66 | P a g e
Sleeping Bags PS12-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if labeled Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber AATCC 20A Products Identification Act 16 CFR 303 CFR Title 16, Part 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s Identification CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information. Bedding Law Tag Various State laws for bedding and Must be labeled according to (items with filling) upholstered furniture International Association of Bedding & Furniture Law Officials (IABFLO) uniform law label.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
67 | P a g e
Table Top – Napkins / Placemats / Table Runners / Tablecloths PS13-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis- stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Batting ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+10% / -5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Thickness (vinyl only) ASTM D1777 6 gauge (0.006 in.) or as specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) - * Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 Woven Synthetics 3.5 x 3.5 launderings Woven Cotton 7.0 x 7.0 Washing – AATCC 135 Flannel 5.0 x 5.0 Dry Cleaning – Commercial Dry Cleaning Knit 5.0 x 5.0 Hand Laundering – “Standardization of Hand Laundering for Fabrics and Apparel” 2007 – AATCC Committee RA88 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/ All components that make up Commercial Dry Cleaning / Hand the product must be Laundering compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry No open seams or broken Cleaning / Hand Laundering stitches. Batting / Stuffing Durability Visual after AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry No disintegration or Cleaning / Hand Laundering noticeable shifting and clumping of batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry No holes, unraveled seams, Cleaning / Hand Laundering excessive pilling, etc. Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry No evidence of torque. Cleaning / Hand Laundering Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM 5034 Warp 30.0 Woven Fill 25.0 Bursting Strength for Knits (in-lb) ASTM D3786 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Warp 1.0 Woven Fill 1.0
68 | P a g e
Table Top – Napkins / Placemats / Table Runners / Tablecloths PS13-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Physical Performance (continued) Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15.0
Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Indoor Indoor/Outdoor (Option 3 ) Grade 3.0 Grade 3.0 @20 AFU @ 80 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR CFR Title 16, Part 303 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s Identification name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
69 | P a g e
Towels – Bath / Hand / Washcloth / Kitchen / Hooded / Beach PS14-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, mis-stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Thread Count ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (Flat Woven) (+ 5%) Yarn Size ASTM D1059 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Terry to Base Ratio Calculated from thread As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing count (+ 5%) Loops per square inch Calculated from thread As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing count (+ 5%) Total (lbs/doz.) As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage, hems Workmanship should be straight, uniform and consistent, loose thread should be properly trimmed, etc. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance AATCC 135 Towels: 8x5 Terry (% maximum) Flat Woven Towels: 7x7 Washing Loose Novelty Weave Dish Towels: 15x12 *Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 launderings Knit Towels: 5x5 Differential Shrinkage CTL Test Method The widest point in the widthwise direction cannot exceed the narrowest point in the widthwise direction by: Bath Sheets / Beach Towels 1.875 inches Bath Towels 1.25 inches Hand Towel 0.875inches Finger Towel / Wash Cloth 0.625 inches Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135 No open seams or broken stitches. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135 No holes, unraveled seams, excessive pilling, etc. Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135 No evidence of torque. Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0 unless otherwise specified. (3 washings / dryings) Linting CTL Test Method 0.9% or less unless otherwise specified. Absorbency ASTM D4772 50% Bath Towels 30% Baby Bath Towels / Kitchen Towels 50% Beach Towels > 10 oz. /sq. yd. 30% Beach Towels < 10 oz. /sq. yd. Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Bath and Beach Kitchen Hand/Finger Tip Woven ≥7lbs/dz Warp 30.0 and Wash Warp 40.0 / Fill 30.0 Fill 30.0 Warp 30.0 ≤7lbs/dz Fill 25.0 Warp 35.0 / Fill 25.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Warp 1.5 Woven Fill 1.5 Bursting Strength for ASTM D3786 Knits (in-lb) 35.0
70 | P a g e
Towels – Bath / Hand / Washcloth / Kitchen / Hooded / Beach PS14-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC61-2A Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash AATCC61-1A Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Water (Static Wetting) AATCC 107 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Applies to Staining: Grade 3.0 Beach/Bath/Multi Pack Wash Towels Sea Water AATCC 106 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Applies to Staining: Grade 3.0 Beach Towels Chlorinated Water AATCC 162 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Applies to Staining: Grade 3.0 Beach Towels Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 3.0 (Option 3 ) @20 AFU Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products AATCC 20A Identification Act 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR Title 16, Part 303 CFR 300, as appropriate. + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the Identification manufacturer’s name, registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
71 | P a g e
Window Treatments PS15-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, miss- stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Fabric Weight (oz/sq yd) ASTM D3776 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (g/sq m) (+ 5%) Thread Count (Woven) ASTM D3775 As specified in Product Specification or Previous Testing (+ 5%) Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Shrinkage Performance (% maximum) - * Shrinkage will be evaluated after 3 Woven: 3.5 x 3.5 launderings Washing – AATCC 135 Flannel: 5 x 5 Dry Cleaning – Commercial Dry Cleaning Hand Laundering – “Standardization of Hand Laundering for Fabrics and Apparel” Knit: 5 x 5 2007 – AATCC Committee RA88 Differential Shrinkage AATCC 135/Commercial Dry Cleaning All components that make up the product must be compatible Durability Seam / Hem Visual after AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry No open seams or broken Cleaning stitches. Batting / Stuffing Durability Visual after AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry No disintegration or noticeable Cleaning shifting and clumping of batting/stuffing. General Appearance Visual after AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry No holes, unraveled seams, Cleaning excessive pilling, etc. Shape Distortion Visual after AATCC 135/ Commercial Dry No evidence of torque.. Cleaning Pilling Resistance AATCC 135/150 Minimum of Grade 3.0. (3 washings / dryings) Tensile Strength (lb) ASTM D5034 Length 40.0 Woven Width 30.0 Bursting Strength for Knits (in-lb) ASTM D3786 20.0 Tear Strength (lb) ASTM D1424 Length 1.5 Woven Width 1.5 Seam Strength (lb) ASTM D1683 Woven (Across seam) 15.0
72 | P a g e
Window Treatments PS15-0604
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Washing Machine Wash AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (No stain requirement if Hand Wash Staining: Grade 3.0 labeled as wash separately) Dry Cleaning Commercial Dry Cleaning Shade change: Grade 4.0 Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Bleaching Chlorine AATCC 135 Shade change: Grade 4.0 (Home laundering) Non-chlorine AATCC 172 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 4.0 (Option 3 ) @ 40 AFU Polyester, Nylon or combination of both Grade 4.0 @ 20 AFU Cotton, Rayon, Wool, Silk or blends of these fibers with Polyester
Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act AATCC 20A 16 CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR 300, as appropriate. CFR Title 16, Part 303 + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, Identification registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
73 | P a g e
Window Tie Backs PS15-0604 (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction Fabric Defects ASTM D3990 No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub yarns, miss- stitches, etc. Evenness of Color Visual Uniform and even color within a sample and between samples Construction / Visual Seams should be neat with no open seams or needle damage. Workmanship Hems should be straight, uniform and consistent. Loose thread should be properly trimmed. No noticeable migration of batting fibers visible. Physical Performance Use and Abuse Checks for products which could disintegrate under normal use.
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Properties (all requirements are minimum acceptance) Dry Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 4.0 Wet Crocking AATCC 8 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Water (Static Wetting) AATCC 107 Shade change: Grade 4.0 Staining: Grade 3.0 Lightfastness AATCC 16 Grade 4.0 (Option 3 ) @ 40 AFU Polyester, Nylon or combination of both Grade 4.0 @ 20 AFU Cotton, Rayon, Wool, Silk or blends of these fibers with Polyester
Labeling Measurements NIST Handbook 130 Must conform to the labeled dimensions. Care ASTM D3136 Should include practical care instructions based on the nature of the product. Country of Origin CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the country in which the product was processed or manufactured. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act. Fiber Content ASTM D629 Must conform to the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act 16 AATCC 20A CFR 303 or Wool Act 16 CFR 300, as appropriate. CFR Title 16, Part 303 + 3% from the labeled fiber content – blends only. All cords and ties must be sectionally disclosed. Manufacturer’s CFR Title 16, Part 303 Must include a label identifying the manufacturer’s name, Identification registered trademark or registered identification number. Refer to Textile Fiber Products Identification Act for further information.
Note: Testing will be conducted for performance claims placed on items.
74 | P a g e
ZIPPER PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS*(Return SL TOC)
Fastener Class 1 - 2 3 - 4 5 – 6 - 7 8 - 9 10 Chain Crosswise Strength (lbs.) Metal 75 120 120 140 175 Aluminum 55 65 85 85 95 Molded Plastic 30 55 85 110 130 Coil 75 85 140 175 200 Separating Unit Crosswise Strength (lbs.) Metal 20 20 25 30 30 Aluminum 20 20 25 30 30 Molded Plastic 20 20 25 35 45 Coil 10 13 25 40 45 Slider Pull Pull-Off Strength (lbs.) Metal 30 35 40 50 60 Aluminum 30 30 35 50 60 Molded Plastic 20 25 35 40 50 Coil 20 20 45 50 50 Slider Pull Twist-Off Strength (lbs. per sq. in) Metal 2.5 3.5 4.0 5.0 5.0 Aluminum 2.5 2.5 4.0 5.0 5.0 Molded Plastic 1.5 2.5 4.0 5.0 5.0 Coil 1.0 1.5 4.0 5.0 6.0 Top Stop Strength (lbs.) Metal 15 17 20 30 35 Aluminum 15 17 20 30 35 Molded Plastic 15 17 20 30 30 Coil 15 17 20 30 30 Bottom Stop Strength (lbs.) Metal 15 15 20 25 30 Aluminum 15 15 20 25 30 Molded Plastic 15 15 20 25 30 Coil 15 15 20 25 30
* All Small Parts, including zipper parts, must meet requirements stated in Safety Section for children 3 years and under.
75 | P a g e
Product Performance Claims Specification Sheet (Return SL TOC) Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Wrinkle Resistance Wrinkle Resistance AATCC 124 Fabric smoothness Grade 3.0 minimum (avg.)
AATCC 88b Seams Grade 3.0 minimum (avg.)
Tested after 5 home launderings
Stain Repellency Stain Repellency AATCC 118 Must repel #4 Oil – n-tetradecane Original Stain Resistant Grade 4.0 Must repel #3 Oil – n-hexadecane After Wash Grade 3.0 Tested after 5 home launderings Stain Repellency (Ironing Board & Covers) Stain Repellency AATCC 193 Must repel #5 Solution – 70% Water/30% Alcohol Stain Resistant Grade 5.0
Stain Resistance - Rugs Stain Repellency AATCC 175 Minimum of: Grade 9.0 Stain Resistant
Stain Release Stain Release AATCC 130 Minimum of: Grade 3.0 Releases spills Stains easily wash out Tested after 5 home launderings Anti-Allergen Allergen Blocker Capillary Flow Porometer Pore size of 10 micron or smaller (Hypoallergenic not included) Moisture Wicking Moisture Wicking CTL FW-106 Vertical Must wick 6.0 cm in 30 minutes Wicks moisture away Wicking Test Method Tested after 5 home launderings Water Repellency Water Repellant AATCC 22 Minimum Spray Rating 80 Original Repels Water Minimum Spray Rating 70 After Wash
Tested after 3 home launderings Water Resistance Water Resistant AATCC 35 No more than 1 gram penetration Original
No more than 1 gram penetration After Wash
Tested after 3 home launderings
76 | P a g e
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Bleach Friendly All products except rugs AATCC 135 1, III, Ai Grade 3.0 or higher on the grey scale and shower curtains are washed with 1.5 ounces of bleach in each load for 5 launderings, “unless otherwise specified.”
Bleach Friendly Rug and shower curtains AATCC 135 2, II, Aii Grade 3.0 or higher on the grey scale are washed with 1.5 ounces of bleach in each load for 5 launderings, “unless otherwise specified.” Antimicrobial Finish Triclosan Antimicrobial AATCC 147-2004 Acceptable – must have no bacterial colonies directly under finish sample in the contact area.
Antimicrobial Finish All other Antimicrobial AATCC 100-2004 90% Reduction finishes
Mildew Resistant Mildew Resistant AATCC 30- 2004 No Macroscopic growth noted (visible to the eye) Test III (seven days with 3% glucose) Pillow Compression Pillow Compression SOP 27-40 Soft - Over 70%, Medium - 61 to 70% loss, Firm - 51 to 60% loss, Extra Firm - less than 51% loss
Window Light Blocking Light Blocking AATCC 148 Room Darkening 98% or Greater Light Blocking / Thermal 99% or Greater
Colorfastness to Benzoyl Peroxide Resistance to color loss Walmart Benzoyl Peroxide Grade 4.0 from application of 10% Testing Protocol Benzoyl Peroxide containing Acne Medication
77 | P a g e
Walmart Stores Domestic/Import Hardlines/Hard Home Testing Program (Return TOC) 1. Introduction
This is a mandatory testing program that covers all Hardlines/Hard Home items with the exception of Footwear, Watches, Jewelry and Optical.
This Hardlines program covers the following levels of product testing: Color Approval Process Pre-Production Production Production – Annual Production – Semi-Annual In-Store 5 Region In-Store pull, Comparative Evaluation Testing, or other testing conducted at the request of Walmart
Note: Country of Origin - The laboratories have been asked to verify that the Country of Origin on the packaging or the sample matches the Country of Origin listed on the application form submitted by the Supplier. If a discrepancy between the application form and the sample is identified, the test report will be issued as “Fail”. The Lab will not retest the sample without written confirmation of the correct Country of Origin from the Walmart Buying or Merchandising group (not the Supplier).
78 | P a g e
2. Color Testing Walmart Color Approval Process Flowchart
Lab Dips
Submit lab dips and strike-offs to Product Coordinator (PC) for color approval (Private Label)
Supplier and Non-Branded
PC forwards lab dips and strike- Lab Dip / Strike-offs PC/Technical Fail offs to Test Lab, issues LD report Fail Correct and Retest decision to Override or continue after PC review (Private Label, (3 retests allowed) Testing Non-private Label)
Pass Preproduction Submit Preproduction to Product Coordinator for color and aesthetic approval (Private Label, Non-private Label)
PC submits to Test Lab Pre-Production Testing PC/Technical will decide to allow Fail Fail Preproduction Testing Corrected and Retest additional testing 5 business day turn-around (maximum of 2 retests)
Pass Production Submit Production to Product Coordinator for color and aesthetic approval (Private Label only) Pass
PC submit to Test Lab Production Testing PC/Technical /Sourcing will partner with Fail Fail Production Testing Correct and Retest Merchandising to make decision on retest 5 business day turn-around (maximum of 1 retest) failure or stop project.
Pass
NOTE: This Color Approval Process applies to product that is required to meet Approved by Test Lab a specific Walmart Color Standard. Please contact Product Coordinator if you have a question as to whether or not your Ship product to stores item requires Color approval.
79 | P a g e
Color Approval Process—Lab Dip/Strike-off Submission
Lab Dip (LD) defined - A sample of the material that is made to meet a specific Walmart Color Standard.
Print-Strike off defined – A sample of printed material that represents both the print layout and color placement of the production material as well as the color specified by Walmart.
Electronic color is allowed but not mandatory for all items that are not electronically exempt. Exemptions will be determined by the Test Lab.
NOTE: IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING A MATERIAL OR COLOR THAT YOU ARE CONSIDERING SUBMITTING ELECTRONICALLY; PLEASE CONTACT THE COLOR TEAM AT THE TEST LAB DIRECTLY.
1. When to Submit
Solid color lab dips and print strike-offs should be submitted as soon as possible to avoid production delays. When or before commitment is given, samples should be sent in for evaluation.
2. Where to Submit
After receiving an electronic approval on non-exempt materials, lab dips and print strike-offs must be submitted directly to the Test Lab for color approval. Refer to the chart below for Aesthetic Approval Guidelines.The Test Lab will forward the sample to the Product Coordinator for color evaluation. The Test Lab will not issue a LD report prior to the PC color evaluation. Please refer to Product Approval Procedure for the proper submittal process. The Product Coordinator will make all final decisions concerning color.
Walmart Private Label Products
Must use Walmart colors. Must be submitted directly to the Test Lab for color review. The Test Lab will forward to Product Coordinator for color evaluation and issue the LD report after this evaluation. Supplier Branded Products
Color approval by the Product Coordinator / Brand Team is required on all home products. Non-Walmart branded product colors will be set as standard. If using Walmart colors and/or Non Walmart colors/artwork the process outlined above for Walmart Private Label Product should be followed.
80 | P a g e
Non-Private Label Brand Products
Color approval by the Product Coordinator / Brand Team may be required for national brands. If required, Product Coordinator will forward to the Test Lab for color evaluation.
3. What to Submit
A. When submitting solid color lab dips, a 4x4 inch swatch or larger, depending on the material, is required. All Lab Dips must be submitted in duplicate pairs, 1 set for the Test Lab and 1 set for Product Coordinator. The appropriate color name and number must be listed on the application.
B. When submitting print strike-offs or yarn-dyed patterns, a full pattern repeat (a minimum 6x6 inch swatch) is required. All Lab Dips must be submitted in duplicate pairs, 1 set for Test Lab and 1 set for Product Coordinator. The CSI color name and number for all colors must be listed on the application, however only a maximum of 4 colors will be evaluated for color correctness. Artwork with color callouts must be included.
4. If Sample Fails
If an approval is not obtained by the 3rd submission, it is the responsibility of the supplier to contact Walmart Product Coordinator to request a review. The Test Lab will not automatically take any failing reports to Walmart for review. Note: Each new submission should reflect improvement toward the standard.
5. All Lab Dips approved will remain active and will never expire. The laboratory reserves the right to request a new lab dip from the supplier if the current material becomes soiled, torn, scratched, or otherwise unusable.
6. Product Approval Process
Walmart Product Approval Process must be completed prior to submitting samples to the Test Lab for Color or Quality Testing. The Product Coordinator will review products for aesthetics and color at each stage in the process. This includes evaluation for artwork interpretation, hand, quality, size, raw materials, product components, color, and packaging. Please see the following chart on which brands need to follow this process.
81 | P a g e
Non- Supplier Private Private Un - Brand Label Label Branded (exclusive to (National Walmart) Brand)
Product Aesthetic Approval (Lab Dip, Strike-Offs, Preproduction, Production) X X X X
Color Testing (lab dip only) X X X
Pre-Production Testing X X X X
Production Testing X X X X
Note: Walmart Seasonal Private Label may include: Christmas, Harvest, Easter, Halloween, Valentines, and Back to College products.
3. Pre-Production Testing Pre-Production Testing applies to all new items and items with changed materials or factories.
Prior to production, Suppliers must submit Pre-Production samples to the laboratory for testing. Suppliers must have passing Pre-Production test results prior to submitting Production samples.
Pre-Production samples must be submitted as far ahead of production as possible to enable quality problems to be corrected before production begins. Pre-Production must be tested and approved within 30 days of commitment with Walmart.
Note: Every material, product design, or factory change requires the testing cycle to begin again with Pre-Production.
4. Production Testing Production Testing must be conducted for all items. New items must have passing pre- production testing completed before submitting for production level testing.
See production sample sealing process. (Sample Sealing Process)
82 | P a g e
Production samples must be submitted to the laboratory after approximately 10% of production is complete.
If an item is produced in multiple countries, production level testing must be submitted separately for each country of origin.
Pick-up/Stock purchases require Production Testing.
5. Production – Annual Testing
Production Annual Testing applies to all replenishable items and is conducted every year as long as the item remains on the modular. Note: If the item has a change in raw material, the source of raw material, a change in product design, or change in factory, the testing cycle must begin again at Pre- Production testing.
6. Production – Semi-Annual Testing
Production-Semi-Annual Testing applies to all replenishable Children’s items and is conducted every 6 months, as long as the item remains on the modular.
Note: If the item has a change in raw material, the source of raw material, a change in product design, or change in factory, the testing cycle must begin again at Pre- Production testing.
7. Retest of Failed Pre-Production and Production Samples When any Pre-Production or Production sample fails testing, the Supplier is responsible for improving the product and submitting an improved sample for a retest. A failed Production test requires a CAP to be submitted and approved before re-submitting for re-test.
The item must have a passing production test prior to shipment.
Following is the maximum number of retests allowed. Additional retests must be approved by Walmart.
Pre-Production samples: Two (2) Retests (see note below for Safety/Regulatory failures) Production samples: One (1) Retest (see note below for Safety/Regulatory failures)
Note: All Safety and Regulatory related failures require Suppliers to submit a Corrective Action Plan (WRAP). Please refer to Walmart’s Product Safety and Compliance Pre-Production and Production process flow chart published on Retail Link (see PSC newsletter 16).
83 | P a g e
A Walmart Technical Manager or Merchandise Manager will decide if additional retests are allowed for non-Safety and Regulatory failures. The Walmart Product Safety and Compliance department will decide if additional retests are allowed for Safety and Regulatory failures.
8. In-Store Testing
In addition to Pre-Production, Production, Production-Annual, and Production-Semi- Annual Testing, items are pulled from store shelves periodically for testing.
All items require In-Store Testing at least once a year.
All Private Label Brand items require quarterly In-Store testing with a maximum of three In-Store tests per year.
The first In-Store test of new items will take place within a month of the modular being set. Subsequent In-Store tests will be approximately 3, 6, 9, or 12 months later, as applicable.
Additional In-Store Testing may be required at Walmart discretion.
9. Testing Turnaround Time
Turn around time is typically 5-7 business days from the time the laboratory receives the samples.
Note: Longer turnaround times can be expected in the following cases:
Inconclusive test results: additional testing is required Long term weathering, full life candle burn, or durability testing is required Samples which must be submitted to an outside testing facility Insufficient quantity of samples necessary for testing or incomplete information submitted to the laboratory
Express service is available at additional cost.
Note: Not all items can be express tested due to testing time limitations.
If you have any questions regarding samples submitted for testing, please contact a Customer Service Representative at the respective laboratory.
10. Monitoring of Pre-Production, Production, and Production-Annual / Semi- Annual Testing
Purchase Orders will be monitored to ensure compliance with Walmart testing requirements. If testing is not complete, current, and satisfactory, Testing Notification Forms will be forwarded to the Supplier.
84 | P a g e
If Supplier fails to submit samples in a timely manner. Test lab will issue a Non- Compliance Testing Notification Form and forward it to the Supplier.
A summary of items that are non-compliant with the testing program is distributed to Walmart monthly.
Suppliers should not wait for the Testing Notification Form to submit samples. Samples should be submitted when Supplier has knowledge of an approved order.
Pre-Production and Production samples may not be submitted simultaneously. Pre- Production Testing must be accomplished and sample must receive a Pass rating before production of goods is initiated.
11. What to Submit
When submitting Pre-Production, Production, and Production-Annual/Semi-Annual samples, send at least two (2) samples in original packaging, unless otherwise indicated below. For Pre-Production samples, if original packaging is not available, send a list of all claims that will be placed on the packaging.
Items that require more than two samples for testing:
. Hammers/Striking Tools ...... 3 each . Lighters ...... 6 each . Padlocks ...... 5 each . Ceramic ware and porcelain enamel for leachable, lead and cadmium testing ...... 12 each Cal Prop 65 internal. Cups and mugs send 6 additional for SGCD lip & rim or Cal Prop 65 external decorations testing. . Candles ...... 3 each . Glassware for lead and cadmium testing, externally decorated and decorated at lip and rim area ...... 6 each . Liquid Filled Items ...... 3 each . Batteries ...... 12 each (not automotive styles) . Casters ...... 4 each . Bulk Pack/PDQ ...... Entire assortment . Food contact items under US FDA Title 21 CFR ...... Contact the laboratory for guidance on sample quantity to submit. Sample quantity varies depending on material type.
Note: A sufficient quantity of children’s samples must be submitted for testing to CPSIA regulations. For example, if there are insufficient surface coatings available from the two samples submitted, the laboratory will contact the Supplier for additional samples necessary to perform the testing.
85 | P a g e
Additional Supplier’s Documentation –
The following documentation must be submitted with each Pre-Production or Production sample as applicable:
A. Certificate of Compliance (COC) as required by Walmart Regulatory Standards and per Toxics in Packaging Regulations (TIP) is required at Production and Production- Annual Testing.
B. Supporting documentation for labeled claims.
C. The Walmart Product Safety & Compliance Department provides direction on the testing reports/documentation that Suppliers are allowed to submit in lieu of testing. Please visit Walmart Retail Link or the laboratories’ website for the acceptable documentation. Please review the appropriate testing protocol for your product prior to sample submission.
12. Where to Submit
Suppliers are responsible for submitting all samples for Quality and Performance Testing to the laboratory as designated by Walmart. Contact your laboratory with any questions on sample submission.
13. Testing Application Form
Suppliers are required to completely and properly fill out the testing application form.
A completed testing application, along with any additional information (such as UL, CSA, etc.) pertaining to the sample, must be included with each style/sample submitted.
When submitting an item with previous testing history (e.g. previous Pre-Production, Production, Production-Annual/Semi-Annual, Production Retest, Color Evaluation, etc.) please indicate the previous lab report number(s) on the application. Most importantly:
- When submitting samples for retest, please indicate the failed laboratory report number on the application.
- Applications submitted with all Production samples must include Pre- Production laboratory report number(s).
- If the item is required to have Walmart Color Evaluation, indicate the LD (Lab Dip) report number on the application when submitting Pre- Production and Production samples.
86 | P a g e
When submitting Bulk Pack/PDQ samples, use the style number assigned to the Bulk Pack/PDQ on the application. Submit the entire Bulk Pack/PDQ assortment for testing.
Note: If you have any questions about the procedures for submitting samples, please contact the laboratory directly.
14. Distribution of Laboratory Reports
All laboratory reports will be e-mailed to the Supplier and distributed to applicable Walmart Associates.
15. Testing Charges
All charges related to testing including shipping, customs/duties, handling/administration fees are the responsibility of the Supplier.
16. Quality and Performance Protocols
Quality and Performance Protocols are available from your selected 3rd party testing laboratory.
87 | P a g e
(Return TOC) Walmart Stores Domestic/Import Department 19 Fabric Quality Testing Program
QUALITY STANDARDS FOR WALMART FABRIC SUPPLIERS
1. Ship only first quality merchandise to Walmart, regardless of the item. Quality is critically important to our stores and customers. It impacts the image of the department and the store, and is taken very seriously. Defective merchandise will be returned and you will be charged in-bound and out-bound freight, plus 10% handling charge. Seams are considered a defect. If the item is a panel, do not begin or end the bolt with a partial panel. Excessive splits are not acceptable.
2. Double & Roll correctly (face in or out) and in the correct number of yards based on the worksheet. This includes rolling taut on the board as well as using the correct length board. Ship and invoice the exact number of yards requested, or less. If you must occasionally ship more than the put-up, ship no more than one yard over the put-up.
3. Double & Roll so fabric with a definite directional design runs right side up as it is draped on the selling floor. For example, when the customer looks at a bolt of fabric on a table, the design should not appear upside-down. Borders must clearly show when draped or rolled face out. This can dramatically affect the sales of your merchandise. We are asking stores to return merchandise when I see it that drapes upside down or is rolled so that a border cannot be seen.
4. Use boards that will withstand the weight of the fabric as it is merchandised. Bolts must be able to stand on a table without bending, breaking or leaning. A board that looks “second-hand” hurts our image of offering first quality merchandise and actually affects the sales of the item. Again, you can expect returns when this is allowed to happen.
5. Care instructions (not care code number), origin, and fiber content must be printed on all board-end labels.
6. Walmart utilizes an independent quality testing facility and tests fabrics on a regular basis for construction, shrinkage, quality, crocking, proper care instructions, etc. All fabrics are to be tested prior to shipping to Wal-Mart. If you have questions on any testing of your merchandise, you can contact your Buyer or Technical Manager.
7. Make sure you are following the laws governing care and origin labeling. Compliance information can be found in the FTC publication “Clothes Captioning” available at www.ftc.gov, or by calling 1-877-ftc-help. There is also a publication titled “Threading Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements Under the Textile and Wool Acts”, also available from the FTC.
88 | P a g e
8. Walmart will not offer merchandise that depicts an American Flag in any form unless the merchandise is made in the U.S.A. If there is any question regarding the origin of the fabric please discuss with Walmart Buyer.
Department 19 Fabric Quality Testing Program
The Walmart Stores Testing Program requires mandatory testing and each style produced for Walmart Stores, Inc. must be tested on an annual basis.
Pre-Production Testing (optional unless Buyer requests)
Production Testing
In-Store Testing
Note: If product is being produced in multiple countries, testing must be accomplished from each country of manufacture.
The following categories of merchandise are covered under the Walmart Stores Testing Program.
Fabrics and yarn
Monitoring of Testing
Walmart’s designated test lab will monitor the testing process by reviewing all Purchase Orders to ensure compliance with the Walmart Stores testing program. If required testing is not complete and satisfactory, production and non-compliance testing notification forms will be submitted to the supplier and the Buyer at the following times:
Production notification forms will be forwarded to the Supplier 30 days prior to the ship date.
Note: All items that require flammability testing or testing for safety issues must be submitted for testing. (This includes promotional items).
If the Supplier fails to submit production samples for testing 15 days prior to the ship date, the third-party test lab will issue a non-compliance testing notification form to the Supplier and the Buyer.
Suppliers are not required to wait for the testing notification from the lab in order to submit samples to the laboratory for testing.
How to Submit
If Pre-Production samples are submitted to the laboratory, they should be submitted no later than 60 days prior to the ship date. It is recommended that pre-production samples be submitted as early as possible in order to correct potential quality problems before starting production.
89 | P a g e
Production samples are to be taken from the actual production lot manufactured for Walmart Stores, Inc. after approximately ten (10) percent of production has been completed. Production samples must be submitted to the laboratory no later than 30 days prior to the ship date.
If product is being produced in multiple countries, testing must be accomplished from each country of manufacture.
When submitting pre-production or production samples for testing, send a minimum of two (2) yards of fabric in every colorway. If multiple colors or prints are being produced (total over 10 colors or prints), a minimum of five (5) colorways must be submitted. All style numbers and purchase order numbers represented must be clearly noted on the application form.
If fabric is “raised surface” or “lightweight”, one (1) additional yard of fabric in each colorway (for a total of three {3} yards) must be submitted for flammability testing.
Correct labeling from the end of the fabric bolt must be submitted with all pre-production and production samples.
Additional Action Requirements
If further action is required by the supplier, following pre-production (optional), production, or in-store testing, the laboratory will indicate such action on the lab report. It is the responsibility of the Supplier to ensure that indicated improvements are made and a retest sample is submitted to the lab for approval prior to shipping the merchandise.
Retests
Retest of improved samples will be required as needed.
The Supplier may submit the sample for retest in optional Pre-Production testing after corrections have been made as many times as required to receive a “passed” Pre-Production test.
Maximum of one (1) retest will be allowed if the production sample fails testing
Any additional retest must be approved by the Technical Manager, DMM and/or GMM. Fiber/Safety retests require Safety and Compliance and/or GMM approval.
In-Store Testing
Samples will be selected annually for in-store testing by Consumer Testing Laboratories, Inc. on a per style basis.
Testing Charges
The Supplier is responsible for all pre-production, production, and in-store testing charges. Any shipping charges, administration costs, and item costs associated with
90 | P a g e
testing of the sample is also the responsibility of the Supplier. Supplier should contact designated Test Lab for actual testing charges.
Distribution of reports
Currently all reports will be e-mailed to the Supplier.
All failed laboratory reports and retests will be emailed to the Walmart Buyer and Technical Manager.
All failed in-store tests will be emailed to the Quality Control Manager and Buyer.
91 | P a g e
Performance Specifications for Department 19 Fabric (United States and Canada)
General Requirements for All Department 19 Fabric Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Labeling - United States 16 CFR Part 423 Care Labeling ASTM D 3136 Must comply with Care Labeling Regulation. ASTM D 5489 Must comply with Fiber Content Labeling 16 CFR Part 300 Regulations, as applicable. Fiber Content 16 CFR Part 303 100% fabrications: 0.0 % AATCC 20, AATCC 20A Fiber content blends: 3.0 % 16 CFR Part 300 Must include a label identifying the country of Country of Origin 16 CFR Part 303 origin, as applicable. 19 CFR Part 134 Must include a label identifying the Manufacturer’s 16 CFR Part 300 manufacturer’s name, registered trademark or Identification 16 CFR Part 303 registered identification number, as applicable. Must include a Faux Fur or Real Fur label, as NY CLS Gen Bus 399-aaa Faux Fur or Real Fur applicable. Real Fur must comply with the Fur 16 CFR Part 301 Products Labeling Act. Dimensions 60 cm (24 in) or more: 3 % of labeled width for negative errors 6 % of labeled width for plus errors NIST Handbook 130 Fabric Width Labeling Dimensions less than 60 cm (24 in): NIST Handbook 133 6 % of labeled width for negative errors 12 % of labeled width for plus errors
Flammability - United States Apparel Flammability 16 CFR Part 1610 Class 1, as applicable Children’s Sleepwear 16 CFR Part 1615 Must meet the criteria for acceptance, as Flammability 16 CFR Part 1616 applicable. Labeling - Canada CAN/CGSB 86.1-2003 Per client, care labeling required for piece Care Labeling (Not mandatory for piece goods. goods) Must comply with Fiber Content Labeling Textile Labeling Act/ Regulations, as applicable. Fiber Content Competition Bureau/ 100% fabrications: 0.0 % CAN/CGSB 4.2 #14 Fiber content blends: 5.0 % Canadian Border Service/ Must include a label identifying the country of Country of Origin Competition Bureau/ origin, as applicable. Textile Labeling Act Must include a label identifying the Manufacturer’s Textile Labeling Act/ manufacturer or Canadian Registered Identification Competition Bureau Identification Number, as applicable.
92 | P a g e
General Requirements for All Department 19 Fabric (continued)
Flammability - Canada Hazardous Products Act/ General Textile General Textiles Flammability (Adults and Must meet the criteria for acceptance Regulation/ CAN/CGSB 4.2 Children) #27.5 Hazardous Products Act/ Children’s Sleepwear Must meet the criteria for acceptance, as Children’s Sleepwear Flammability applicable. Regulation
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements pH pH AATCC 81 pH 5.0 - 9.0, as applicable
Note: For piece goods that are embellished (ex. sequins or beads) and could be used to make products intended for children, refer to the section covering Children’s Safety in the Wal-Mart Apparel Testing Manual, issued May 2008 (latest revision).
Fabric Qualities/ Construction / Workmanship
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Fabric Qualities / Construction / Workmanship No major defects, such as stains, holes, slub Fabric Defects ASTM D 3990 yarns, miss stitches, or other fabric defects. Evenness of Color Visual Evaluation Uniform and even. Shade Tolerance Visual Evaluation Good match to standard. Fabric Weight ASTM D 3776 As specified in Product Specification (+ 5.0%) (oz/sq yd OR g/sq m) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #5.1 ASTM D 3775 - Woven Thread Count ASTM D 3887 – Knit As specified in Product Specification (+ 5.0%) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #6
Special Claims
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Product Claims Original: Water Repellency (Spray AATCC 22 Minimum Spray Rating 80 Test) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #26.2 After 5 Home Launderings: Minimum Spray Rating 70 Water Resistance Max. 1 gram at 2 feet (600 mm), 2 minutes AATCC 35 (Rain Test) Original and after 5 home launderings. Wrinkle Resistance AATCC 124 Fabric Smoothness Grade 3.5 (Permanent Press) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #59.1 Tested after 5 home launderings.
93 | P a g e
Colorfastness Properties - All Fibers / All Fabrications
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Colorfastness Crocking All Fabrics / All Fiber AATCC 8 Dry: Grade 4.0 Contents or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #22 Wet: Grade 3.0 (except as noted below) Crocking Denims, sulfur dyes, tie AATCC 8 Dry: Grade 3.0 dyes, pigment prints, raised or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #22 Wet: Grade 2.0 fiber surfaces and pile fabrics Crocking Dark colorways for plain surface fabrics (very AATCC 8 Dry: Grade 3.0 deep/dark navy, green, or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #22 Wet: Grade 2.5 burgundy, maroon, purple, brown, black and red). Crocking AATCC 8 Dry: Grade 3.0 Dark Indigo denim or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #22 Wet: Grade 1.5 Accelerated Laundering AATCC 61 Shade Change: Grade 4.0 (small fabric swatches only) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #19.1 Staining: Grade 4.0
Bleach AATCC TS-001 Shade Change: Grade 4.0 Chlorine AATCC 172 Staining: Grade 4.0 Non-chlorine or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 AATCC 15 Shade Change: Grade 4.0 Perspiration or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #23 Staining: Grade 3.5 Colorfastness to Laundering AATCC 135 All Fabrics / All Fiber AATCC TS-006 Shade Change: Grade 4.0 Contents (1 hand wash cycle or Staining: Grade 3.5 (except as noted below) 3 machine wash cycles) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 Denims, sulfur dyes, tie dyes, pigment prints, raised fiber surfaces and pile AATCC 135 fabrics. AATCC TS-006 Dark colorways for plain Shade Change: Grade 3.0 (1 hand wash cycle or surface fabrics (very Staining: Grade 3.0 3 machine wash cycles) deep/dark navy, green, or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 burgundy, maroon, purple, brown, black and red). Dark Indigo denim. AATCC R-003 Shade Change: Grade 4.0 Drycleaning (1 cycle) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 Staining: Grade 4.0 #58/Commercial Process
94 | P a g e
Dimensional Stability - Wovens
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Natural Cellulosic - Predominantly Cotton, Linen, Ramie, Hemp, Jute and Blends (50% or more)
Dimensional Stability - Other Natural Cellulosics AATCC 135 Shrinkage and blends 3x3 AATCC 158 1 Hand wash cycle or AATCC R-003 Stretch Fabrics w/ spandex 3x4 3 Machine wash cycles or or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 Corduroy/Flannel 4x4 1 Drycleaning cycle Terry, Basket 4x4
Man-Made Cellulosic Origin - Predominantly Acetate, Lyocell, Modal, Rayon (Cuprammonium or Viscose), Rayon from Bamboo (Bamboo Rayon), Triacetate, Viscose and Blends (50% or more) Dimensional Stability - AATCC 135 Shrinkage Acetate, Lyocell, Modal, 3x3 AATCC 158 1 Hand wash cycle or Rayon,Rayon from AATCC R-003 3 Machine wash cycles or or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 Bamboo,Triacetate 1 Drycleaning cycle Viscose and Blends
Man-Made Synthetic - Predominantly Acrylic, Aramid, Modacrylic, Nylon, Olefin (Polyethylene and Polypropylene), Polyester, Spandex, Vinal, Vinyon and Blends (50% or more) Dimensional Stability - AATCCC 135 Shrinkage 3x3 AATCC 158 Acrylic, Aramid, Modacrylic, 1 Hand wash cycle or AATCC R-003 Nylon, Olefin, Polyester, Vinal 3 Machine wash cycles or Spandex, Vinyon and Blends or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 1 Drycleaning cycle Predominantly Silk, Wool, Animal Hair and Blends (50% or more) Dimensional Stability - AATCC 135 Shrinkage AATCC 158 Silk and Blends 4x4 1 Hand wash cycle or AATCC R-003 Wool & Animal Hair Blends 3x3 3 Machine wash cycles or or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 1 Drycleaning cycle Decorator Fabrics Only - All Fiber Contents / All Fabrications Dimensional Stability - AATCCC 135 Shrinkage AATCC 158 Length: 5.0 % 1 Hand wash cycle or AATCC R-003 Width: 5.0 % 3 Machine wash cycles or or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 1 Drycleaning cycle Denim Fabric Only Dimensional Stability - AATCC 135 Shrinkage Denim 3x3 AATCC 158 1 Hand wash cycle or AATCC R-003 Stretch Denim 4x4 3 Machine wash cycles or or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 1 Drycleaning cycle Growth - All Fiber Contents / All Fabrications AATCC 135 Dimensional Stability - All Fibers / Length Width AATCC 158 / R-003 Growth (1 or 3 cycles) All Fabrications 1.0 % 1.0 % or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58
Note: For 50% synthetic blended with any other fibers, synthetic standards apply.
95 | P a g e
Dimensional Stability - Knits
Weft Knits - Dimensional Stability AATCC 135 / 158 / R-003 (length / width) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 (1 dryclean, 1 hand wash, or 3 machine wash cycles) Fancy Knits, Fake Fur, Jersey, Thermal/ Pique, Pointelle, Fleece, Fiber Content Double Rib Knits Waffle Interlock Bird’s French Terry, Knit Apparel Eye, Velour, Terry, Jacquard Length: Length: Length: Length: Length: Length: Predominantly Cotton, 6.0 % 6.0 % 8.0 % 7.0 % 8.0 % 6.0 % Linen, Ramie, Hemp Width: Width: Width: Width: Width: Width: or Jute (50% or more) 6.0 % 6.0 % 8.0 % 7.0 % 8.0 % 6.0 % Predominantly Acetate, Lyocell, Length: Length: Length: Length: Length: Length: Modal, Rayon 6.0 % 6.0 % 8.0 % 7.0 % 8.0 % 6.0 % (Cuprammonium and Width: Width: Width: Width: Width: Width: Viscose) or Rayon 6.0 % 6.0 % 8.0 % 7.0 % 8.0 % 6.0 % from Bamboo (50% or more) Predominantly Acrylic, Aramid, Modacrylic, Length: Length: Length: Length: Length: Length: Nylon, Olefin 5.0 % 5.0 % 6.0 % 7.0 % 8.0 % 5.0 % (Polyethylene and Width: Width: Width: Width: Width: Width: Polypropylene) or 5.0 % 5.0 % 6.0 % 7.0 % 8.0 % 5.0 % Polyester (50% or more) Predominantly Wool, Hand or Machine Washing Drycleaning Animal Hair or Silk Length: 3.0 % Length: 3.0 % (50% or more) Width: 6.0 % Width: 3.0 % Warp Knits Dimensional Stability Tricot and Shrinkage AATCC 135 Warp Knits Rachel Lace Hand Wash (1 cycle) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 Length: 5.0 % 5.0 % or Machine Wash (3 Width: 5.0 % 5.0 % cycles) Dimensional Stability AATCC 158 Length: 3.0 % 3.0 % Shrinkage AATCC R-003 Width: 3.0 % 3.0 % Drycleaning (1 cycle) or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58 Growth – All Fibers / All Knits AATCC 135 Dimensional Stability Length: 3.0 % AATCC 158 / R-003 Growth (1 or 3 cycles) Width: 3.0 % or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #58
96 | P a g e
Appearance Retention and Skewing - All Fibers / All Fabrications
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Appearance Retention / Skewing (after 1 or 3 cycles) General appearance must be satisfactory, no holes, excessive pilling, Appearance Retention Visual Evaluation differential shrinkage or other changes that affect the appearance. Skewing AATCC 179/AATCC TS-004 4.0 % Maximum
Physical Performance - All Fibers / All Fabrications
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Tensile Strength - Wovens Warp Weight lbf Fill lbf Tensile Strength - All Fabrics / All Fiber ASTM D 5034 (Grab) <2.5 oz/sq yd 20 15 Contents or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #9.2 2.5 - 4.3 oz/sq yd 30 20 (except as noted below) 4.4 - 7.3 oz/sq yd 40 30 ≥7.3 z/s yd 50 35
Warp W i ht lbf Fi l lbf Tensile Strength - ASTM D 5034 (Grab) <8.0 oz/sq yd 60 35 Denim or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #9.2 8.0 .8 o /sq yd 80 45 9.9 - 11.9 oz/sq yd 90 ≥12.0 oz/sq yd 100 75
Wa p Tensile Strength - Weight lbf Fill lbf Heavily Distressed ASTM D 5034 (Grab) <8.0 oz/sq yd 50 3 Denim (bleached, sand or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #9.2 blasted, acid washed, . - 9.8 oz/sq yd 55 40 or enzyme washed) 9.9 - 11.9 oz/s yd 70 50 ≥12.0 oz/sq yd 80 60
Warp Tensile Strength - Weight lbf Fill lbf Woven Pile Fabrics: ASTM D 5034 (Grab) <2.5 o / q d 20 12 Corduroy, Terrycloth, or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #9.2 Velvet, Velveteen and 2.5 - 4.3 oz/sq yd 28 20 other pile fabrics 4.4 - .3 oz/sq yd 32 24 ≥7.3 oz/sq yd 40 32
97 | P a g e
Physical Performance (continued)
Test Description Test Method Performance Requirements Tearing Strength - Wovens Warp Weight lbf Fill lbf Tearing Strength - All Fabrics / All Fiber <2.5 oz/sq yd 1.5 1 ASTM D 1424 (Elmendorf) Contents 2.5 - 4.3 oz/sq yd 2 1.5 (except as noted below) 4.4 - 7.3 oz/sq yd 2.2 2 ≥7.3 oz/sq yd 3 2.
Warp Weight lbf Fill lbf Tearing Strength - < . o / q yd 3 2 ASTM D 1424 (Elmendorf) Denim 8.0 - 9.8 oz/sq yd 3.5 2.5 9 - 11.9 oz/sq yd 4 3.5 ≥12.0 oz/sq yd 5 4
Warp Tearing Strength - Weig t lbf Fill lbf Heavily Distressed <8.0 oz/sq d 3. .5 Denim (bleached, sand ASTM D 1424 (Elmendorf) blasted, acid washed, 8.0 - 9.8 oz/sq yd 4.5 3.2 or enzyme washed) 9.9 - .9 oz/sq yd 5.5 3.5 ≥12.0 oz/sq yd 6.5 4
Warp Tearing Strength - Wei ht lbf Fill lbf Woven Pile Fabrics - <2.5 oz/sq y 1 5 1.5 Corduroy, Terrycloth, ASTM D 1424 (Elmendorf) Velvet, Velveteen and 2.5 - 4.3 oz/sq yd 2 2 other pile fabrics 4.4 - 7.3 z/sq yd 2.5 2.5 ≥7.3 oz/sq yd 2.5 2.5
Bursting Strength - Knits Weight psi < 100 g/sq m Bursting Strength - ASTM D 3786 (Diaphragm) (< 3.0 oz/sq yd): 30 Weft Knit Fabrics or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #11.1 ≥ 100 g/sq m (≥ 3.0 oz/sq yd): 35
Bursting strength - ASTM D 3786 (Diaphragm) 20 psi (lace only) Warp Knit Fabrics or CAN/CGSB 4.2 #11.1
98 | P a g e
Walmart Stores Domestic/Import Toys and Seasonal Testing Program (Return TOC) 1. Introduction
This is a mandatory testing program that covers all Toys and Seasonal items including Toys Department (D07), Seasonal Department (D18) and Celebration Department (D67).
This Toys and Seasonal program covers the following levels of product testing: iCiX Lab Selection Testing Protocol Testing Request Pre-Production Testing Production Production – Annual Production – Semi-Annual In-Store Testing Appendix (Direct Import items’ testing Flow Chart before shipment)
Note: Country of Origin - The laboratories have been asked to verify that the Country of Origin on the packaging or the sample matches the Country of Origin listed on the application form submitted by the Supplier. If a discrepancy between the application form and the sample is identified, the test report will be issued as “Fail”. The Lab will not retest the sample without written confirmation of the correct Country of Origin from the Walmart Buying or Merchandising group (not the Supplier).
99 | P a g e
2. iCiX What is iCiX?
International Compliance Information Exchange (iCiX), a third-party web-based software vendor, to obtain and manage regulatory documentation such as test results and General Conformity Certificates (GCC) as required under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).
iCiX is not a laboratory or auditing company but more of a clearinghouse where testing labs and certification companies can post validated information and documentation directly to the suppliers’ iCiX sites, and where the suppliers, in turn, can share that information with those to whom the suppliers give permission.
All Testing Reports, Certification, GCC of Walmart Toys, Seasonal, Celebration items must be uploaded to iCiX to ensure the compliance in accordance to CPSIA. Testing laboratories will update the testing reports certifications, GCC, etc to iCiX after testing finished. If these documents are within our normal testing process, supplier must upload these documents to iCiX.
iCiX will accept Jpg, PDF, .doc & .xml files. The file size should be kept below 2.0 Mb. iCiX can accept files up to 70Mb if the files are loaded using the Advanced File Upload feature. Edit restrictions should be removed from the files because iCiX converts all non-PDF files to PDF for added protection. Files can be loaded in original format but that feature is usually used for documents stored for internal reference
To be a member of iCiX
Once your P.O is released, you should have received a username and password to login to your iCiX site. If you did not, please contact iCiX registration department at 877-888-4249 option 2. Once you have your username and password, go to www.icix.com, click on login button. Once you enter your username and password, you will be able to “pay your iCiX membership”.
The annual fee for a Basic Membership is US$299.00 per supplier (Walmart Vendor #), which enables you to share requested information with one iCiX member.
The Basic Membership includes the ability to add 10 of your coworkers to an account. This ability can be expanded to allow additional staff profiles on an account. Please contact the iCiX Sales department a877 888 4249 option 4 or [email protected] for additional information.
100 | P a g e
Payment to iCiX can be made by credit card (American Express, Visa & Master Card), bank check, EFand purchase order. iCiX Technical Support Specialists do not have the authorization or the access necessary to process payments or conduct other Accounting tasks. Please contact the iCiX Accounting department at 877-888-4249 option 5 or [email protected] for additional information about payments and invoicing. An additional $50.00 service fee is required for all payments made by check or EFT.
You will need an Internet connection, Adobe Reader and a current web browser, preferably Internet Explorer. iCiX does not require the install of proprietary software onto individual computers or a server because it is web-based. A few Active X controls may be required for advanced users and all Pop-Up Blockers should be disabled. In addition, desktop sharing tools may be used by the iCiX technical support specialists if assistance with technical issues is requested. iCiX Technical Support Specialists can only ain an advisory capacity regarding the adjustment of settings on workstations and laptops.
Who can you contact with for more information?
Please visit www.icix.xom
Or Retail Link\Product Safety and Compliance Library
Or mail to:
Note: iCiX membership is the beginning of any testing and one of foundations to do Toys, Seasonal, Celebration business with Walmart.
3. Lab Selection for Pre-Production testing and Production testing Supplier must select one nominated 3rd party testing laboratories yearly (usually will be in every April).
Nominated laboratories are:
Bureau Veritas (BV) www.bureauveritas.com Consumer Testing Laboratories, Inc. (CTL) www.consumertesting.com Intertek (ITS) www.intertek.com SGS Consumer Testing Services (SGS) www.sgs.com 101 | P a g e
Specialized Technology Resources (STR) www.strquality.com ACT www.act-lab.com
TÜV Rheinland North America www.tuv.com/en/usa/home.jsp
MTS www.mts.com
Lab Selection process must go thru iCiX or Walmart compliance approval.
All the nominated laboratories have a Walmart discount percentage and 5 to 7 working day for the lead time.
Each supplier is responsible for selecting the testing partner. You should consider total testing cost, testing lead time, testing capacity and capability. Walmart is only responsible for the general review the nominated laboratories. It is supplier’s responsibility to choose the test lab best suited for their needs.
In-store testing lab(s) it will be assigned by Walmart.
All charges related to testing including shipping, customs/duties, handling/administration fees are the responsibility of the Supplier.
Note: One supplier only can select one lab no matter how many different Departments or different Retail Countries you are doing business. Without Walmart approval, more than one nominated laboratories selected will lead testing report invalid.
4. Testing Protocol Walmart testing protocol includes Safety Protocols and Quality Protocols.
Safety Protocols mean the regulation, legislation, Federal Law, States’ law, which the product must compliance with for the retail market. However, the Safety Protocol is only related to the safety testing standard which is from Walmart Directives. All products should also compliant to the Directives.
All Safety Protocols and Directives can be reached in Retail Link\Product Safety and Compliance Library.
Quality Protocols are to ensure the products performance and durability conforms to the standards, as determined by Walmart.
Quality Protocols are available from your selected 3rd party testing laboratory.
. 102 | P a g e
Note: Both Safety Protocols and Quality Protocols are continually being updated. You are responsible for knowing any updates and should monitor Retail Link updates. 5. Testing Request Once your P.O. is released by Retail Link, iCiX will help to make the Test Request Form (TRF).
If you do not receive the iCiX TRF, you can manually make a TRF in iCiX website.
The iCiX TRF only contains the Safety Requirements.
Once you have the iCiX TRF, you can use your selected lab’s TRF form to add Quality Requriments or combine other regulations to request lab do additional testing.
Note: Without iCiX TRF, your testing report may be invalid.
6. Pre-Production Testing Pre-Production Testing applies to all new items and items with changed materials or factories.
Prior to production, Suppliers must submit Pre-Production samples to the laboratory for testing. Suppliers must have passing Pre-Production test results prior to submitting Production samples.
Pre-Production samples must be submitted as far ahead of production as possible to enable quality problems to be corrected before production begins. Pre-Production must be tested and approved within 30 days of commitment with Walmart.
Note: Every material, product design, or factory change requires the testing cycle to begin again with Pre-Production.
7. Production Testing Production Testing must be conducted for all items. New items must have passing pre- production testing completed before submitting for production level testing. Production samples must be submitted to the laboratory after approximately 10% of production is complete.
Samples must be sealed by Walmart approved parties: See production sample sealing process. (Sample Sealing Process)
103 | P a g e
If an item is produced in multiple countries, production level testing must be submitted separately for each country of origin.
Validation:
If it is not a Children Product, Production Testing report is valid for 1 year. If it is a Children’s Product, Production Testing report is valid for 6 months.
The report will be invalid if there is not a remark which describes the testing samples are sealed by an 3rd party inspector.
8. Production – Annual Testing
Production Annual Testing applies to all replenishable items and is conducted every year as long as the item remains on the modular. Note: If the item has a change in raw material, the source of raw material, a change in product design, or change in factory, the testing cycle must begin again at Pre- Production testing.
9. Production – Semi-Annual Testing
Production-Semi-Annual Testing applies to all replenishable Children’s items and is conducted every 6 months, as long as the item remains on the modular.
Note: If the item has a change in raw material, the source of raw material, a change in product design, or change in factory, the testing cycle must begin again at Pre- Production testing.
10. Retest of Failed Pre-Production and Production Samples When any Pre-Production or Production sample fails testing, the Supplier is responsible for improving the product and submitting an improved sample for a retest.. A failed Production test requires a CAP to be submitted and approved before re-submitting for re-test.
The item must have a passing production test prior to shipment. For Direct Import items, any testing Failure Corrective Action Plan must be approved by Merchandising Quality Engineer (MQE).
Following is the maximum number of retests allowed. Additional retests must be approved by Walmart.
Pre-Production samples: Two (2) Retests (see note below for Safety/Regulatory failures) Production samples: One (1) Retest (see note below for Safety/Regulatory failures)
104 | P a g e
Note: All Safety and Regulatory related failures require Suppliers to submit a Corrective Action Plan (WRAP). Please refer to Walmart’s Product Safety and Compliance Pre-Production and Production process flow chart published on Retail Link (see PSC newsletter 16).
A Walmart Technical Manager or Merchandise Manager will decide if additional retests are allowed for non-Safety and non-Regulatory failures. The Walmart Product Safety and Compliance department will decide if additional retests are allowed for Safety and Regulatory failures.
9. In-Store Testing
Additional In-Store Testing may be required at Walmart direction.
10. Monitoring of Pre-Production, Production Semi-Annual and Annual Testing.
Purchase Orders will be monitored to ensure compliance with Walmart testing requirements. If testing is not complete, current, and satisfactory, Testing Notification Forms will be forwarded to the Supplier.
If Supplier fails to submit samples in a timely manner. Test lab will issue a Non- Compliance Testing Notification Form and forward it to the Supplier.
A summary of items that are non-compliant with the testing program is distributed to Walmart monthly.
Suppliers should not wait for the Testing Notification Form to submit samples. Samples should be submitted when Supplier has knowledge of an approved order.
Pre-Production and Production samples may not be submitted simultaneously. Pre- Production Testing must be accomplished and sample must receive a Pass rating before production of goods is initiated.
11. What to Submit When submitting Pre-Production, Production, and Production-Annual/Semi-Annual samples, send at least two (2) samples in original packaging, unless otherwise indicated. For Pre-Production samples, if original packaging is not available, send a list of all claims that will be placed on the packaging.
Note: A sufficient quantity of children’s samples must be submitted for testing to CPSIA regulations. For example, if there are insufficient surface coatings available from the two samples submitted, the laboratory will contact the Supplier for additional samples necessary to perform the testing.
105 | P a g e
Additional Supplier’s Documentation –
The following documentation must be submitted with each Pre-Production or Production sample as applicable:
Certificate of Compliance (COC) as required by Walmart Regulatory Standards and per Toxics in Packaging Regulations (TIP) is required at Production and Production-Annual Testing.
Supporting documentation for labeled claims.
The Walmart Product Safety & Compliance Department provides direction on the testing reports/documentation that Suppliers are allowed to submit in lieu of testing. Please visit Walmart Retail Link or the laboratories’ website for the acceptable documentation. Please review the appropriate testing protocol for your product prior to sample submission.
12. Where to Submit
Suppliers are responsible for submitting all samples for Quality and Performance Testing to the laboratory as designated by Walmart. Contact your laboratory with any questions on sample submission.
13. Testing Application Form
Suppliers are required to completely and properly fill out the testing application form.
A completed testing application, along with any additional information (such as UL, CSA, etc.) pertaining to the sample, must be included with each style/sample submitted.
When submitting an item with previous testing history (e.g. previous Pre-Production, Production, Production-Annual/Semi-Annual, Production Retest, Color Evaluation, etc.) please indicate the previous lab report number(s) on the application. Most importantly:
- When submitting samples for retest, please indicate the failed laboratory report number on the application.
- Applications submitted with all Production samples must include Pre- Production laboratory report number(s).
- If the item is required to have Walmart Color Evaluation, indicate the LD (Lab Dip) report number on the application when submitting Pre- Production and Production samples.
106 | P a g e
When submitting Bulk Pack/PDQ samples, use the style number assigned to the Bulk Pack/PDQ on the application. Submit the entire Bulk Pack/PDQ assortment for testing.
Note: If you have any questions about the procedures for submitting samples, please contact the laboratory directly.
14. Distribution of Laboratory Reports
All laboratory reports will be e-mailed to the Supplier and distributed to applicable Walmart Associates.
15. Testing Charges
All charges related to testing including shipping, customs/duties, handling/administration fees are the responsibility of the Supplier.
16. Quality and Performance Protocols
Quality and Performance Protocols are available from your selected 3rd party testing laboratory.
107 | P a g e
Walmart Stores Domestic/Import Entertainment Testing Program (Return TOC) 1. Introduction
This is a mandatory testing program that covers Entertainment items including Departments 5, 6, 72 and 87.
This Entertainment program covers the following levels of product testing: Color Approval Process Pre-Production Production Production – Annual Production – Semi-Annual In-Store 5 Region In-Store pull, Comparative Evaluation Testing, or other testing conducted at the request of Walmart
Note: Country of Origin - The laboratories have been asked to verify that the Country of Origin on the packaging or the sample matches the Country of Origin listed on the application form submitted by the Supplier. If a discrepancy between the application form and the sample is identified, the test report will be issued as “Fail”. The Lab will not retest the sample without written confirmation of the correct Country of Origin from the Walmart Buying or Merchandising group (not the Supplier).
108 | P a g e
2. Color Testing Walmart Color Approval Process Flowchart
Lab Dips
Submit lab dips and strike-offs to Product Coordinator (PC) for color approval (Private Label)
PC forwards lab dips and strike- Lab Dip / Strike-offs PC/Technical Fail offs to Test Lab, issues LD report Fail Correct and Retest decision to Override or continue after PC review (Private Label, (3 retests allowed) Testing Non-private Label)
Pass Preproduction Submit Preproduction to Product Coordinator for color and aesthetic approval (Private Label, Non-private Label)
PC submits to Test Lab Pre-Production Testing PC/Technical will decide to allow Fail Fail Preproduction Testing Corrected and Retest additional testing 5 business day turn-around (maximum of 2 retests)
Pass Production Submit Production to Product Coordinator for color and aesthetic approval (Private Label only) Pass
PC submit to Test Lab Fail Production Testing Fail PC/Technical /Sourcing will partner with Production Testing Correct and Retest Merchandising to make decision on retest 5 business day turn-around (maximum of 1 retest) failure or stop project.
Pass
NOTE: This Color Approval Process applies to product that is required to meet Approved by Test Lab a specific Walmart Color Standard. Please contact Buyer if you have a question as to whether or not your item Ship product to stores requires Color approval.
109 | P a g e
Color Approval Process—Lab Dip/Strike-off Submission
Lab Dip (LD) defined - A sample of the material that is made to meet a specific Walmart Color Standard.
Print-Strike off defined – A sample of printed material that represents both the print layout and color placement of the production material as well as the color specified by Walmart.
Electronic color is allowed by not mandatory for all items that are not electronically exempt. Exemptions will be determined by the Test Lab.
NOTE: IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING A MATERIAL OR COLOR THAT YOU ARE CONSIDERING SUBMITTING ELECTRONICALLY; PLEASE CONTACT THE COLOR TEAM AT THE TEST LAB DIRECTLY.
1. When to Submit Solid color lab dips and print strike-offs should be submitted as soon as possible to avoid production delays. When or before commitment is given, samples should be sent in for evaluation.
2. Where to Submit
After receiving an electronic approval on non-exempt materials, lab dips and print strike-offs must be submitted directly to the Test Lab for color approval. Refer to the chart below for Aesthetic Approval Guidelines. The Test Lab will forward the sample to the Product Coordinator for color evaluation. The Test Lab will not issue a LD report prior to the PC color evaluation. Please refer to Product Approval Procedure for the proper submittal process. The Product Coordinator will make all final decisions concerning color.
Walmart Private Label Products Must use Walmart colors. Must be submitted directly to the Test Lab for color review. The Test Lab will forward to Walmart for color evaluation and issue the LD report after this evaluation. Supplier Branded Products Color approval may be required. Non-Walmart branded product colors will be set as standard. If using Walmart colors and/or Non Walmart colors/artwork the process outlined above for Walmart Private Label Product should be followed Non-Private Label Brand Products Color approval by Walmart may be required for national brands. If required, Walmart will forward to the Test Lab for color evaluation.
110 | P a g e
3. What to Submit
A. When submitting solid color lab dips, a 4x4 inch swatch or larger, depending on the material, is required. All Lab Dips must be submitted in duplicate pairs, 1 set for the Test Lab and 1 set for Walmart. The appropriate color name and number must be listed on the application.
B. When submitting print strike-offs or yarn-dyed patterns, a full pattern repeat (a minimum 6x6 inch swatch) is required. All Lab Dips must be submitted in duplicate pairs, 1 set for Test Lab and 1 set for Product Coordinator. The CSI color name and number for all colors must be listed on the application, however only a maximum of 4 colors will be evaluated for color correctness. Artwork with color callouts must be included.
4. If Sample Fails
If an approval is not obtained by the 3rd submission, it is the responsibility of the supplier to contact Walmart to request a review. The Test Lab will not automatically take any failing reports to Walmart for review. Note: Each new submission should reflect improvement toward the standard.
5. All Lab Dips approved will remain active and will never expire. The laboratory reserves the right to request a new lab dip from the supplier if the current material becomes soiled, torn, scratched, or otherwise unusable.
6. Product Approval Process
Walmart Product Approval Process must be completed prior to submitting samples to the Test Lab for Color or Quality Testing. Walmart will review products for aesthetics and color at each stage in the process. This includes evaluation for artwork interpretation, hand, quality, size, raw materials, product components, color, and packaging. Please see the following chart on which brands need to follow this process.
111 | P a g e
Non- Private Supplier Private Un- Label Brand Label Branded (exclusive to (National Walmart) Brand) Product Aesthetic Approval (Lab Dip, Strike-Offs, Pre-production, Production) X X X X
Color Testing (lab dip only) X X X
Pre-Production Testing X X X X
Production Testing X X X X
3. Pre-Production Testing Pre-Production Testing applies to all new items and items with changed materials or factories.
Prior to production, Suppliers must submit Pre-Production samples to the laboratory for testing. Suppliers must have passing Pre-Production test results prior to submitting Production samples.
Pre-Production samples must be submitted as far ahead of production as possible to enable quality problems to be corrected before production begins. Pre-Production must be tested and approved within 30 days of commitment with Walmart.
Note: Every material, product design, or factory change requires the testing cycle to begin again with Pre-Production.
4. Production Testing Production Testing must be conducted for all items. New items must have passing pre- production testing completed before submitting for production level testing.
See production sample sealing process. (Sample Sealing Process)
Production samples must be submitted to the laboratory after approximately 10% of production is complete.
If an item is produced in multiple countries, production level testing must be submitted separately for each country of origin.
112 | P a g e
Pick-up/Stock purchases require Production Testing.
5. Production – Annual Testing
Production Annual Testing applies to all replenishable items and is conducted every year as long as the item remains on the modular.
Note: If the item has a change in raw material, the source of raw material, a change in product design, or change in factory, the testing cycle must begin again at Pre- Production testing.
6. Production – Semi-Annual Testing
Production-Semi-Annual Testing applies to all replenishable Children’s items and is conducted every 6 months, as long as the item remains on the modular.
Note: If the item has a change in raw material, the source of raw material, a change in product design, or change in factory, the testing cycle must begin again at Pre- Production testing.
7. Retest of Failed Pre-Production and Production Samples When any Pre-Production or Production sample fails testing, the Supplier is responsible for improving the product and submitting an improved sample for a retest. A failed Production test requires a CAP to be submitted and approved before re-submitting for re-test.
All items must have a passing production test prior to shipment.
Following is the maximum number of retests allowed. Additional retests must be approved by Walmart.
Pre-Production samples: Two (2) Retests (see note below for Safety/Regulatory failures) Production samples: One (1) Retest (see note below for Safety/Regulatory failures)
Note: All Safety and Regulatory related failures require Suppliers to submit a Corrective Action Plan. Please refer to the Walmart Product Safety and Compliance Pre-Production and Production process flow chart published on Retail Link (see PSC newsletter 16).
113 | P a g e
A Walmart Technical Manager or Merchandise Manager will decide if additional retests are allowed for non-Safety and Regulatory failures. The Walmart Product Safety and Compliance department will decide if additional retests are allowed for Safety and Regulatory failures.
8. In-Store Testing
In addition to Pre-Production, Production, Production-Annual, and Production-Semi- Annual Testing, items are pulled from store shelves periodically for testing.
All items require In-Store Testing at least once a year.
Private Label items may require quarterly In-Store testing with a maximum of three In- Store tests per year.
The first In-Store test of new items will take place within the month of the modular being set. Subsequent In-Store tests will be approximately 3, 6, 9, or 12 months later, as applicable.
Additional In-Store Testing may be required at Walmart direction.
9. Testing Turnaround Time
Turn around time is typically 5-7 business days from the time the laboratory receives the samples.
Note: Longer turnaround times can be expected in the following cases:
Inconclusive test results: additional testing is required Long term weathering or durability testing is required Samples which must be submitted to an outside testing facility Insufficient quantity of samples necessary for testing or incomplete information submitted to the laboratory
Express service is available at additional cost.
Note: Not all items can be express tested due to testing time limitations.
If you have any questions regarding samples submitted for testing, please contact a Customer Service Representative at the respective laboratory.
114 | P a g e
10. Monitoring of Pre-Production, Production, Semi-Annual Production and Production-Annual testing
Purchase Orders may be monitored to ensure compliance with Walmart testing requirements. If testing is not complete, current, and satisfactory, supplier will be notified.
Walmart GS sourcing team notify supplier and 3rd party Testing Lab about shipping schedule. Supplier is responsible to work with concerned parties to ensure test be completed in time.
If Supplier fails to submit samples in a timely manner, supplier will be notified.
A summary of items that are non-compliant with the testing program is distributed to Walmart monthly.
Supplier should provide Corrective Action Plan against all the non-compliant issue in Production Test and Production-Annual Test.
Suppliers should not wait for notification to submit samples. Samples should be submitted when Supplier has knowledge of an approved order.
Pre-Production and Production samples may not be submitted simultaneously. Pre- Production Testing must be accomplished and sample must receive a Pass rating before production of goods is initiated.
11. What to Submit
When submitting Pre-Production, Production, and Production-Annual samples, send at least two (2) samples in original packaging, unless otherwise indicated below. For Pre- Production samples, if original packaging is not available, send a list of all claims that will be placed on the packaging.
Please refer to table below for details: No. Item Sample required Turnaround Time (days) 1 LCD/Plasma TV 2 7 2 DVD/Blu Ray DVD 2 7 3 DVD + TV 2 9 4 VCR + DVD + TV 2 11 5 HTIB 2 7 6 LCD Monitor 2 7 7 DVD Recorder + HDD 8 DVD Recorder + VCR 2 11 9 DVD + VCR 2 9
115 | P a g e
10 Set-Top Box 11 Radio 2 5 12 HD Radi/Satellite Radio 13 Cassette Player 2 5 14 CD Player 2 5 15 Radio + CD 2 7 16 Radio Cassette/ Walkman 2 7 17 CD + Radio +Cassette 2 9 18 AV switch 2 5 19 MP3 Player 2 5 20 Compact Stereo System (Radio + CD) 2 7 21 CD + MP3 Player 2 6 22 Headphone / Earphone / Loudspeaker 2 5 23 Wireless Headphone/Loudspeaker 2 24 Microphone 2 5 25 Universal Remote Control 2 7 26 Digital Camcorder 2 27 Digital Camera 2 28 Digital Photo Frame 2 5 29 Memory Card (SD, MMC, CF, etc) 2 7 30 Flash Drive 2 31 Card Reader 2 32 Smart Cellphone 2 33 Basic Cellphone 2 34 Telephone / Telephone with Answering 2 7 Machine 35 Basic Cordless Phone 2 9 36 Cordless Phone with Answering 2 Machai/CID 37 Walkie Talkie (FRS/GMRS) 2 8 38 Laptop Computer 2 39 Tablet 2 40 Wireless Router 2 41 MiFi Adaptor 2 42 Printer 2 7 43 Mouse 2 7 44 Computer Keyboard 2 7 45 Cables (USB,1394, Networking, HDMI, 2 5 Optical…) 46 WebCam 2 47 CDR disc 15 11 48 DVD+/-R disc 15 11
116 | P a g e
49 Game pad 2 5 50 Gaming gun 2 5 51 Game console remote control 2 5 52 Battery operated clock 2 5 53 GPS 2 7 54 Power Adaptor 2 5 55 Cellphone/MP3 Chargers 2 56 Relocatable power tap 2 10 57 Surge Protector 2
Note: A sufficient quantity of samples must be submitted for testing to CPSIA regulations. For example, if there are insufficient surface coatings available from the two samples submitted, the laboratory will contact the Supplier for additional samples necessary to perform the testing.
Additional Supplier’s Documentation –
The following documentation must be submitted with each Pre-Production or Production sample as applicable:
A. Certificate of Compliance (COC) as required by Walmart Regulatory Standards and per Toxics in Packaging Regulations (TIP) is required at Production and Production- Annual Testing.
D. Supporting documentation for labeled claims.
E. The Walmart Product Safety & Compliance Department provides direction on the testing reports/documentation that Suppliers are allowed to submit in lieu of testing. Please visit Walmart Retail Link or the laboratories’ website for the acceptable documentation. Please review the appropriate testing protocol for your product prior to sample submission.
F. Additional Documentation:
1. Product with all material finalized at salable status. 2. Any information pertaining to the item such as product specifications. 3. FCC documentation 4. ETL or UL listing report. 5. CEC (California Energy Commission) report. 6. Energy Star compliance test report. 7. FDA certification report. 8. RoHS test report issued by ITS/ SGS/ BV or TUV. 9. Test report against hazard substance restricted by CPSIA. 10. Any other applicable test report which not listed above. 117 | P a g e
Note: 1) All applicable labeling and mark needed to be included. 2) Only UL listing report is acceptable for GE products.
12. Where to Submit
Suppliers are responsible for submitting all samples for Quality and Performance Testing to the laboratory as designated by Walmart. Contact your laboratory with any questions on sample submission.
13. Testing Application Form
Suppliers are required to completely and properly fill out the testing application form.
A completed testing application, along with any additional information (such as UL, CSA, etc.) pertaining to the sample, must be included with each style/sample submitted.
When submitting an item with previous testing history (e.g. previous Pre-Production, Production, Production-Annual, Production Retest, Color Evaluation, etc.) please indicate the previous lab report number(s) on the application. Most importantly:
- When submitting samples for retest, please indicate the failed laboratory report number on the application.
- Applications submitted with all Production samples must include Pre- Production laboratory report number(s).
- If the item is required to have Walmart Color Evaluation, indicate the LD (Lab Dip) report number on the application when submitting Pre- Production and Production samples.
Note: If you have any questions about the procedures for submitting samples, please contact the laboratory directly.
14. Distribution of Laboratory Reports
All laboratory reports will be e-mailed to the Supplier and distributed to applicable Walmart Associates.
15. Testing Charges
All charges related to testing including shipping, customs/duties, handling/administration fees are the responsibility of the Supplier. 118 | P a g e
16. Quality and Performance Protocols
Quality and Performance Protocols are available from your selected 3rd party testing laboratory.
119 | P a g e
Color Standards: (Return TOC)
Color Solutions International has been designated by Walmart to manage our color standards program. Below is the information needed to order color standards:
How to Order:
The preferred method of ordering is via CSI web-site. The address is www.colorsolutionsinternational.com. All color palettes can be accessed via our web site as well as some additional information. All orders will need the information listed below. Orders must have the following basic information:
1) Company Name 2) Shipping Address & Postal Code 3) Shipping method (FedEx, UPS, DHL) Account number 4) Credit card information i.e. card type, card number, expiration date, and cardholder’s name. 5) Contact / Attention Name 6) Phone Number 7) Fax Number 8) E-mail address 9) Standard Color name and number 10) Quantity for Each Color Standard 11) Date order is placed
Domestic vendors can expect lead times of 3 business days or less for processing and ship time (provided orders are placed by 12 PM Eastern Time and order information is complete). International vendors can expect lead times of 3 to 7 days depending on the location and shipping option. Duties and taxes are the responsibility of the recipient.
Payment:
Credit Cards are required for payment and will insure the most expeditious handling of your order. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express & Discover Card. All orders have an invoice enclosed, unless customer specifies differently.
Orders with incorrect numbers and names will cause major delays in shipment of your order. Please always include a phone number and a contact name. Orders without this information could also be delayed. PLEASE ORDER CAREFULLY, WE DO NOT ACCEPT RETURNS OR EXCHANGES.
Upon receiving your color standards please take the following precautions;
- Keep the color standards out of the light when not in use - Make sure hands are clean and dry - Only use un-backed color standards for color matching 120 | P a g e
- Discard swatches after 6 months of use - If a certain color is a problem to match, contact us as soon as possible
Age, improper handling, and exposure to environmental elements adversely affect the color standards. Please replace your color standards seasonally.
Any other questions please call.
1-800-962-6023 ext 2908 or Phone (704) 561-2900 E-mail: [email protected]
Address:
Color Solutions International, Inc. 9844-A Southern Pine Blvd Charlotte, NC 28273 USA
Standards and Prices: Textiles: $15 each Plastics – solids and tints: $17 each Paper: $31 each Metal and wood: $32 each
Wal-Mart Color Team Apparel – NY office Priscilla Ghaznavi, Sr Color and Fabric Design Manager [email protected] 917-934-6183
Nadezda Debons, Color Manager [email protected] 917-934-6226
Rena Camara, Assistant Color Manager [email protected] 917-934-6230
Home and Hardlines – Bentonville office Ashley Jansma, Color Production Manager [email protected] 479-204-8877
121 | P a g e
Packaging Requirements: (Return TOC)
Packaging Tool Kit for Suppliers
Packaging Tool Kit communicates the following information:
Approved packaging sources and contact information. Packaging processes and specifications for import items.
A reference to the Packaging Production Guidelines in the Packaging Toolkit section on Retail Link provides suppliers with valuable information for the Proprietary Brands packaging process.
Packaging Tool Kit information can be downloaded through Retail Link
The path is: Site Map -> Packaging Tool Kits
The document is listed in the
Packaging Design
Packaging Design information communicates the following information:
General Packaging Guidelines of the types of packaging that is and is not allowed Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) Supplier Source Tagging Guidelines.
Packaging Tool Kit information can be downloaded through Retail Link
The path is: Site Map -> Packaging Design
122 | P a g e
Final Inspection: (Return TOC)
Suppliers are required to perform a final inspection conducted by Walmart designated 3rd party prior to shipment. If the Final inspection fails, then the supplier will be required to rectify the issue and apply for a re-inspection by a designated 3rd-party at supplier’s expense.
Final Inspection Requirement: 100% production completed and at least 90% export carton-packed required.
Final Inspection by 3rd party at supplier’s expense: Final Inspection will be conducted by 3rd party at supplier’s expense on any of the case below: Late Inspection Advice Reschedule with insufficient notice time Any non-compliance issues, such as o Failed (1st) Final Inspection o Aborted Trips The cost / fee of all re-inspection by 3rd party QC will be borne by the supplier.
Important Notice: Supplier must have a valid Production Lab Test report (where applicable depending on retail market requirement) available at the time of final inspection, or else the inspection will be considered as an Aborted Trip, causing further delays and possible fees paid by suppliers for QC inspection.
Aborted Trip: Walmart classifies Aborted Trip as: Inspection is booked Schedule is confirmed Upon arrival at factory, either: o % of packed product less than the requirement are not ready for inspection. o Approval sample is not available. o Goods stacked not in orderly manner & causing difficulty for Global Sourcing QC to count carton quantity and select cartons randomly. o Lack of supplier self inspection report. o Lack of valid production lab test report (if being required).
Note: Supplier shall be fully responsible for any extra costs associated with any shipment delay as a result of aborted trip.
Quality Control Results: Pass: Quality of merchandise is in conformance to standard.
123 | P a g e
Shipment can be released. (For DuPro accept, shipment cannot be released until Final inspection by 3rd party passes)
Pending: Merchandising issues (such as: cancel date, asst.), Merchandise Dept.’s confirmation is required. Supplier issues (such as: lab test report), must be solved by supplier. Warehouse pack and supplier pack different from Purchase Order (P.O.). P.O. shows conflicting information. Short shipment or over shipment. Expired cancel date. Actual place of production is different from factory name and address on P.O. Designated 3rd party QC auditor cannot make proper judgment on site. Follow-up of Pending matters
If pending issues are confirmed acceptable, Global Sourcing QC will release the shipment and inform the supplier . After confirmation and the inspection result is revised to “failed” - factory must undertake reworking of merchandise.
Failed: Failed due to quality issue. Re-work is needed. Re-inspection (by 3rd party) is required.
After 2 inspections and if the same error occurs, order maybe cancelled.
Inspection Process:
1. Packing inspection: a. All the inspected carton numbers will be recorded on inspection report b. All cartons should be checked for carton markings, quality, quantity, and proper assortment according to the purchase order and any specific criteria provided.
2. Function inspection: a. Verification of claims/performance feature statements on the product package b. Ease of usage/function/fitness for use c. General product safety considerations - including non-functional sharp points or edges, small parts, etc. when handling the item or simulating normal use d. Measurement for the dimensions, counts, and weights which claimed on PO or package e. For any product requiring assembly, the inspector must assemble at least two units by himself or herself while strictly following the directions on the manual. The remaining units may be assembled by factory people under supervision of the inspector.
124 | P a g e
One Critical defect shall render the inspection result failed.
3. Visual inspection: a. QC will check for appearance and workmanship using the approval sample and any other available reference criteria (CMM guidelines, product specification, PO comments, etc.). b. For purposes of visual inspection these non-conformances should be those which are obvious when the item is viewed from an “arm length”. c. This inspection will also check for any missing major components.
4. On-site check (critical and basic on site testing): With the authorized signature, supplier acknowledges the inspection findings and assumes responsibility and liability for correction of before in the entirety of production lots if any have been identify and recorded in this report.
How to handle a situation when supplier/factory disagrees with designated 3rd party QC’s judgment? Mark down the reason(s) in the Remark Column of QC Inspection report and then sign the report Together with the designated 3rd party QC Inspector, stamped & sealed the defective samples Urgent shipments…send the defective samples to Walmart Global Sourcing inspection office review.
Supplier‘s Role to Minimize Quality Problem: Supplier should attend the inspection process. Ensure that the merchandise matches P.O. stipulations and approval sample(s). Ensure that the product has no deviation from description, indication and photos on individual packing or manual. Ensure to assemble, operate, utilize and evaluate the product from consumer‘s point of view, in addition to professional inspections.
Cooperation from Factory during Inspection Process: The person in charge of inspection clearly knows where the goods are stored. Provide an inspection room with appropriate table and lighting fixtures. Provide help for picking, moving and opening of cartons. Provide equipment for related testing. Factory (Supplier) representative must review the inspection report carefully before signing, especially information with regard to quantity, measurement, P.O. No. and inspection result.
For additional information regarding the final inspection process, please contact the QC team of the relevant Global Sourcing office.
Follow-up to Resolution: For any issues as a result of the inspection, suppliers are required to communicate and work directly with the QC team of the relevant Global Sourcing office for direction and 125 | P a g e
resolution. In some cases, Global Sourcing Merchandisers and/or buyers of the retail market may be involved in follow-up communication. Every effort must be made to avoid late-delivery issues.
If designated 3rd party QC final inspection result is a pending (hold) status due to any of the following reasons, suppliers should contact their respective Global Sourcing Merchandisers and seek their approval. Actual product and packaging different from PO’s specification (i.e. size, weight, and color deviation). Actual quantity different from PO. Pre-price different from PO. Late shipment (pass PO cancel date). Actual stock # or UPC coder different from PO. Case pack and pack size different from PO. Actual product assortment different from PO.
Once approved by the respective Global Sourcing Merchandisers, the approved documents (i.e. emails) must be forwarded to the Global Sourcing QC office for shipment release.
If Global Sourcing QC team rejects a shipment for quality reasons, the supplier must work directly with their respective Global Sourcing Merchandisers on next steps and resolution.
126 | P a g e
(Return TOC) Glossary
AATCC - American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists
AQL – Acceptable Quality Level
ASTM - American Society for Testing and Materials
CAP – Corrective Action Plan
CMA - Cookware Manufacturers Association
CPSC – Consumer Product Safety Commission
CPSIA - Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act
CSI - Color Solutions International
C-TPAT- Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism
Defective Return Rate (DRR) - DRR is a percentage of Retail $’s Returned divided by Retail POS $.
Direct Supplier - controls and manages their business with Global Sourcing oversight.
DSG – Direct Sourcing Group
ECN – Engineering Change Notification
ES - Ethical Sourcing
FAR – First Article Review
FCCA - Factory Capability and Capacity Audit
GCC - General Conformity Certificate
GDP - Global Design Pack
GS – Global Sourcing iCiX - International Compliance Information Exchange (iCiX), a third-party web-based software vendor, to obtain and manage regulatory documentation such as test results and General Conformity Certificates (GCC) as required under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).
Indirect Supplier – controls and manages their business domestically with buyer oversight. 127 | P a g e
In-Store – items are pulled from store shelves periodically for testing
Lab dip - A sample of fabric dyed in a lab by a manufacturer or supplier to a specific color and formula. Upon approval, the Lab Dip formula will be translated to production equipment to dye bulk fabric.
MQE – Merchant Quality Engineer
MSDS - Material Safety Data Sheet
National Brand Supplier - owns the product and label, which is well-recognized within the product category and manages their business domestically with buyer.
NIST - National Institute of Standards and Technology
Non-Private Label - Brands that are supplier brands or national brands
OQL – Outgoing Quality Level
PLM - Product Lifecycle Management
Pre-Pro – Pre-Production Testing
Pre-Production - samples tested prior to beginning production to enable quality problems to be corrected before production begins
Print-strike off – A sample of printed fabric that represents both the print registration and color placement of the production yardage as well as the color specified by the designer.
Private Label: Brands that are exclusive to Walmart, including non- branded product exclusive to Walmart.
Product Coordinator (PC) - person responsible for reviewing products for aesthetics and color at each stage in the process. This includes evaluation for artwork interpretation, hand, quality, size, raw materials, product components, color, and packaging.
Production - samples submitted to the test laboratory after 10% of production is complete.
Production – Annual -testing that applies to all replenishable, non-children’s items and is conducted every year as long as the item remains on the modular
Production – Semi-Annual - testing that applies to all replenishable Children’s items and is conducted every 6 months, as long as the item remains on the modular
QA - Quality Assurance
128 | P a g e
QC – Quality Control
Quality Protocols - are to ensure the products performance and durability conforms to the standards, as determined by Walmart.
Recall - A recall is a notice to all consumers that a product should be returned by them to a store for a refund or, in some cases, a repair, and is issued by, or in cooperation with, a regulatory agency (e.g. CPSC, NHTSA) for safety/health reasons and is communicated to the public by press release or other means such as phone calls, emails or mail
Safety Protocols - mean the regulation, legislation, Federal Law, States’ law, which the product must compliance with for the retail market. However, the Safety Protocol is only related to the safety testing standard which is from Walmart Directives. All products should also compliant to the Directives.
Sealed Sample - Sample shall be packed/wrapped in a manner so that contents of the pack cannot be removed/altered without tearing the seal and signature
SKU - Stock Keeping Unit
SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) is a written document which describes how to perform a particular task or operation in a step-by-step outline manner or form
Test Protocol - A written checklist of functional points to test whether they are working properly
Withdrawal - Merchandise is removed from stores for quality, legal, safety, or compliance reasons, but consumers are not advised to return the product for a refund or repair.
Yarn-dye pattern – A sample of woven or knitted fabric that represents both the pattern of the production yardage as well as the color specified by the designer.
129 | P a g e
Appendix: (Return TOC)
Product Removal:
Product Removal Process: Retail Link/Site Map/Product Removal Help/Product Removal Guide
Return of Merchandise
Standard Process: Supplier Agreement o Supplier designates choice of return options in supplier agreement
Special Requests: Temporary Ship o Samples are collected for 2 weeks or truckload quantity (whichever comes first) and then shipped to the supplier Temporary Hold o Specific quantity collected at the Return Center and held for the supplier to physically come in and review the samples
Temporary Hold and Ship Requirements:
Temporary Ships are limited to 2 times per year per supplier
Temporary Holds are limited to 2 times per year per supplier
Temporary Ships and Holds need to be limited during December – February, due to high volume of Christmas returns being handled by the Return Centers.
130 | P a g e
(Return TOC)
Document Revision History Rev Date Description of Revision Approval
131 | P a g e