by Shane Henson — February 1, 2013— Green Seal, a nonprofit environmental certification organization, has released a new standard, GS-51, that addresses the life cycle impacts of laundry products used in institutional and industrial settings.
Like many cleaning products, traditional laundry products are significant contributors to water pollution, and both manufacturers and users risk exposure to harmful chemicals through inhalation and skin contact, says Green Seal.
To receive certification under GS-51, laundry products cannot contain any components that are carcinogens, reproductive toxins, mutagens, neurotoxins/systemic toxins, endocrine disruptors, asthmagens, and respiratory and skin sensitizers. Certified products must also not cause skin corrosion or eye damage. GS-51 also focuses on product performance, says Green Seal. Certified products must demonstrate that they perform as well as conventional laundry care products.
According to Green Seal, GS-51 covers more than 20 categories of products for conventional laundry and dry cleaning, including detergents, prewash products, and spot removers; additives such as alkali boosters; and fabric care products such as anti-static treatment, starches, and fabric softeners.
Facilities managers for hotels, hospitals, and other institutions and businesses that routinely use laundry products may choose to start purchasing those that are GS-51 certified in an effort to protect the health of janitorial staff and residents/guests.
