MRSL - IMPLEMENTATION AND COMPLIANCE INTRODUCTION


The Marks & Spencer Restricted Substances List (RSL) is well-established, and defines the limits for residues of hazardous chemicals allowed on the finished product.

However, it is possible that some chemicals may be used within the manufacturing process which may not be present in the final product, but which may be of concern to worker safety and the environment. 

For example, chemicals which are applied at an earlier stage of manufacture may be washed out of the substrate during the course of wet processing. While residues of these chemicals on the final product may be compliant with the RSL, their use may provide a risk to workers, and their presence in effluent may cause local environmental problems.

Also, there may be chemicals (for example machine cleaning chemicals), which have no direct contact with the substrate, but which may cause worker exposure and environmental issues.

In conjunction with the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals Group (ZDHC), Marks & Spencer has compiled a Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL) of hazardous chemicals. 

The purpose of the MRSL is to restrict the input of hazardous chemicals to the manufacturing process. The chemicals listed are banned from deliberate use in formulations. 

In general, the MRSL reflects the requirements of the RSL, and therefore compliance with the MRSL will lead to more certain compliance with the RSL.

Note: THE MRSL DOES NOT REPLACE THE RSL. Compliance with the RSL is required as part of the business Terms and Conditions.

In addition, THE MRSL DOES NOT REPLACE APPLICABLE NATIONAL AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL OR WORKPLACE SAFETY RESTRICTIONS.

Note: The Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals group (ZDHC) has compiled an MRSL for discretionary use by its members. The content of the Marks and Spencer MRSL is based on the ZDHC document, with additions specific to Marks and Spencer’s requirements.