GUIDELINE FOR FACTORY CSR COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT Version 3

GUIDELINE FOR FACTORY

CSR COMPLIANCE
MANAGEMENT
Version 3

ASICS CORPORATION

2019
 GUIDELINE FOR FACTORY CSR COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT Version 3

Contents
1. Introduction
1. 1 Aims and scopes of the guideline
1.2 About “Policy of Engagement” of ASICS Corporation
2. CSR Compliance Management of Factory
2.1 Human rights
2.2 Minimum age of labor
2.2 Hours of work
2.4 Salary
2.5 Labor safety and health
2.5.1 Risk report of labor safety and health
2.5.2 Fire prevention
2.5.3 Preparations and measures for emergency
2.5.4 Emergency measures
2.5.5 Electrical safety
2.5.6 Machinery safety
2.5.7 Personal protective equipment (PPE)
2.5.8 Safety related to buildings
2.5.9 Maintenance management
2.5.10 Exposure limits of occupational health
2.5.10.1 Dust
2.5.10.2 Indoor noise
2.5.10.3 Lighting
2.5.10.4 Asbestos
2.5.11 Dining facilities
2.5.12 Dormitory
2.5.13 Management, use, and safety of chemicals
2.5.14 References: ergonomics
3. Environment
3.1 Environmental impact report
3.2 Sustainable resource utilization
3.2.1 Resource utilization
3.2.2 Water utilization
3.2.3 Use of raw materials
3.2.4 Package
3.3 Discharge
3.3.1 Management of wastes
3.3.2 Waste water
3.3.3 Emissions to the atmosphere - general
3.3.4 Emissions to the atmosphere - GHG emissions
 GUIDELINE FOR FACTORY CSR COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT Version 3

3.3.5 Noise around the factory

3.3.6 Soil and groundwater
contamination Appendix
Policy of Engagement for ASICS Corporation
 GUIDELINE FOR FACTORY CSR COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT Version 3

1. Introduction
1.1 Aims and scopes of the guidelines

This is the latest version of the “Guideline for Factory CSR Compliance Management” originally published in
2015 by ASICS Corporation, which includes best practices on topics such as Environmental management,
Health and Safety (EHS).

In the guidelines, we clearly make CSR demands on our business partners (specifically refers to ASICS
Corporation and its subsidiary corporation as well as affiliated company).

Through responsible and transparent environment management of the workplace, ASICS aims to cooperate
with sustainable business partners who consider society, health, safety and environment while making
decisions in all business areas.

The guidelines aim to provide all suppliers globally with clear CSR requirements, improve sustainability
performance, and support overall compliance. They also aim to provide customers with high-quality products
without increasing operating costs. We make these guidelines so that every staff member will work
responsibly and carefully on product manufacturing to improve productivity and quality. In order to achieve
these goals, ASICS and its business partners must adhere to the principle of continuous improvement and
thoroughly implement compliance.

In the guidelines, ASICS provides a general implementation model for business partners, but doesn’t
replace the local limits. Therefore, factories can set the maximum goals and put them into practice in
sustainable projects under the principle of complying with the local regulations.

1.2 “Policy of Engagement” for ASICS Corporation

The “Policy of Engagement” is one of the important documents of the business accountability of ASICS
Corporation, and regarded as the benchmark for the Company to select and retain business partners and
continue the business. It specifies the minimum business requirements of ASICS, its subsidiaries and
related companies, to work with business partners (suppliers including manufactures, contractors, brokers,
advertising companies, consultants and other service providers).

The minimum requirements of the PoE are all specified under the “ASICS Spirit”, “ASICS CSR Policy” and
“ASICS Global Code of Conduct” (all accessible on http://corp.asics.com). It complies with the Fundamental
Conventions of the International Labor Organization (ILO) and the Code of Conduct of the World Federation
of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI).

Aims
The main aims of PoE are as follows.

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(a) Provide business partners with minimum requirements to protect the environment, safeguard human
rights, ensure a healthy, safe and sound factory environment, prevent bribery, corruption, violations of
the anti-trust and competition laws, as well as privacy policy.
(b) Business partners are to follow and meet these minimum requirements in all production sites.

Business partners shall save all documents that comply with the PoE, abide by the applicable laws and
submit these documents to ASICS upon request. ASICS or its designated independent supervisor can carry
out monitoring activities independently in order to check and determine whether a business partner complies
with PoE regardless of whether ASICS has notified said business partners in advance.

For the full text of the Policy of Engagement (PoE) for ASICS Corporation, please refer to Appendix.

2. CSR Compliance Management of Factory

2.1 Human rights

Importance
ASICS respects the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, devotes itself to protect and respect human
rights, and prevent its activities from infringing upon human rights.
ASICS supports the goals of ILO: reach the labor standards accepted by people all over the world.

General requirements
Respect for basic human rights
1. Employees shall work according to their will and not engage in any prison, prisoner, and slave,
contractual or other forced work.
2. Let employees be respected and dignified. No employees will be subject to corporal punishment,
threats of violence, or any form of physical, mental, sexual or verbal abuse and oppression.
3. Employees shall be evaluated by their working ability and shall not be discriminated in employment.
4. No obstruction or retaliation shall be imposed on the lawful exercise of the freedom of association.

1. Notices to everyone
・ Explicitly stipulate the Company regulations and let them be known to every employee.
・ Make policies of human rights and explicitly stipulate them, which shall be known by all employees.

2. Forced labor
・ Forced labor is expressly prohibited in the factory.
・ Employees should not pay to get a job. Employers should bear all recruitment costs.
・ Keep employee personnel files, including contracts of employment.
・ Overtime work will be done according to the employees' own will.
・ The factory shall give new employees a copy of the employment contract. In case of Migrant workers,

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the employment contract should be in the worker’s native language.

・ No tool fees or uniform fees are collected from employees.
・ No blacklist for non-overtime workers will be made.
・ The factory shall not keep the employees’ passports.
・ The work shall not be subcontracted to prisons.
・ Employees shall not be forced to work.

3. Abuse and all kinds of harassment

・ Abuse and harassment are expressly prohibited in the factory.
・ No penalty for employees.
・ There shall be no actual abuse or harassment in the factory.
・ Periodic punishment, such as fines and corporal punishment, is explicitly prohibited.
・ Factory should provide a clear grievance mechanism and train employees how to use it.

4. Discrimination
・ The factory explicitly prohibits discrimination against employees because of their creed,
nationality, ethnic origin, religion, political opinion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity,
medical condition, physical or mental health.
・ There shall be no actual discrimination in the factory.
・ Factory has to train supervisors and employees in their discrimination and harassment policies.

5. Freedom of association
・ Employees are free to decide whether or not to join the union.
・ Employee representatives are elected through free election in the factory.
・ A complaint system shall be set up in the factory.
・ Regulations and procedures of dealing with complaints shall be made and be known to all employees.
・ The factory shall make regulations for maintaining secrecy and ensuring the safety of complainants.
・ Sign the labor agreement.

Recommendations
・ Make the policy for human rights (such as a company code of conduct) and set up organizations to
prevent violations of human rights policy.
・ Conduct formal training sessions for management and employees on a periodic basis on
human/worker rights and company regulations of the factory. Keep records of such trainings including
date, name of attendees, topics covered.
・ Use and preservation of overtime applications
・ Preservation of the records of complaint handling
・ Conduct education against discrimination to the person in charge of personnel and management.
・ Set up working places that are convenient for the disabled to work.
・ Set up a committee of physical harassment prevention, or set up windows to provide relevant

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consultation for employees suffering from physical harassment.

・ Introduce human rights policy to new employees, regularly inform all employees regarding the
human rights policy and conduct education to executive staffs and keep training records.

Special note:
Employees shall not be discriminated because of their HIV status.
・ Employees or hired staff shall not be dismissed owing to their HIV status.
・ Employees and newly hired employees shall not be asked to disclose personal information related to
HIV. Personal information related to HIV infection of employees shall be kept confidential in
accordance with confidentiality rules. Employment relationships shall not be terminated even when
employees are infected with HIV. As in many other cases, even if an employee has an HIV-related
medical record, he
or she can continue to work as long as he or she is medically considered unhindered.

2.2 Minimum age of labor

Importance
ASICS as well as its business partners shoulders social responsibility and shall devote itself to comply with
the core labor standard of the ILO: No child labor.

General requirements
Child labor is prohibited.
・ Business partners shall not employ workers under the age of 15. If the age for finishing compulsory
education is more than 15 in the countries engaged in employment, child laborer who hasn’t
reached the age for finishing compulsory education shall not be employed.
・ Business partners shall provide protection for the physical and mental growth of juveniles.

All suppliers shall implement the following:

・ Make regulations and policies, prohibiting the employment of child labor.
・ Safeguard the local legal documents that are related to the age at which compulsory education ends
and the minimum working age.
・ Make and safeguard the comprehensive information such as the age at which each worker is
employed.
・ The age of applicants shall be checked through identity card, birth certificate, education certificate,
certificate of social insurance registration, health insurance certificate, residence permit,
employment permit and other official certificates in order to prevent employing child labor.
・ Make a name list of minors under 18 years old.
・ Apply for and keep all legal documents of the employment of minors under 18 years old.
・ Research and discuss the protection measures which are applicable for minors under 18 years old. ※
The factory shall explicitly prohibit minors from engaging in dangerous work and overtime, and provide

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them with health examinations to protect minors in the factory.

・ Safeguard the personnel files and copies of certificates that prove whether or not employees
are minors.

Recommendations
・ Employees’ age shall be confirmed when changing the employment contracts and
handling administrative procedures.
・ Every minor in the name list shall be protected.
・ Make the policy for human rights and set up organizations to prevent violations of human rights policy.
・ Make protecting regulations and procedures for child labor instead of sacking them, when they are
discovered.

2.3 Hours of work

Importance
Hours of work are set up by local laws and shall be abided by.
The factory shall prevent overtime and protect physical and mental safety so as to help employees realize
the balance between work and life.

General requirements
ASICS stipulates business partners not to have employees work more than 60 hours per week or the
maximum hours of work prescribed by local laws, based on the shorter one.
Even if over 60-hour work every week is allowed by local laws, it shall be implemented only in a special case
agreed by ASICS.

・ Working hours per week, including regular work and overtime work, shall not exceed 60 hours or
the maximum working hours per week prescribed by local laws, based on the shorter one.
・ Make and let employees know the explicit provisions of working hours.
・ Quantitative improvement shall be made if working hours exceed legal limits or the standard of ASICS.
・ If local laws prescribe the maximum working hours per week, per month or per year, the factory shall
provide related documents to verify the compliance with the requirements of laws and ASICS, and
the records shall be kept.
・ Employees shall have at least one day off every seven days and shall be allowed to take paid
holidays according to the local laws.
・ All records of working hours and working days of each employee shall be kept in accordance with
the preservation time stipulated by local laws. If the preservation time isn’t prescribed by the local
laws, then it shall be kept for 1 year.

Recommendations

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・ Confirm weekly working hours and monthly overtime of every employee according to the records
to manage working hours.
(Develop a regular system to confirm the change of weekly and monthly working hours.)
・ The average working hours per week shall be limited to 54 hours.
・ There shall be electromagnetic records of correct working hours.
・ The average overtime per day shall be limited to 2 hours.

2.4 Salary

Importance
Salary needs to comply with the salary rules stipulated in local laws.

General requirements
Business partners must pay employees full and fair remuneration for all working hours. A document
specifying the specific salary calculation shall be given to each employee at each payment.
Business partners shall do at least the followings for employees:
a) Provide the minimum salary prescribed by local laws, or
b) Average salary of the industry, based on the higher one.
In addition to the normal remuneration, overtime work shall also be paid in accordance with local laws. In
countries where there are no relevant laws and regulations, overtime pay which is 25% more than the
normal hourly wage shall be paid to employees. Business partners, according to the law, need to
provide at least all the subsidies prescribed by the law to all employees.
Compensation including secondary and other benefits should provide employees with earnings sufficient to
cover their basic needs, as well as some discretionary spending.

・ Deductions from wages for disciplinary measures shall not be permitted nor shall any deductions
from wages be applied.
・ The payment of labor remuneration shall not be less than the minimum wage and minimum overtime
pay.
・ All subsidies prescribed by laws shall be fully paid.
・ Distribute salary details to employees.
・ The specific calculation of payment for each employee shall be kept.
・ In the case that part or all of the remuneration is based on the incentive system, the salary paid to
the employee shall be the minimum salary prescribed by the existing law or the general salary in the
industry, based on the higher one, based on the equal or higher one.
・ In addition to creating and distributing salary details to employees, they shall also be kept in
accordance with the time prescribed by law. If the law does not stipulate the preservation time, it shall
be kept for 1 year.

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Recommendations
・ Announce the documents of salary regulations and related instructions in the factory.
・ Explain the calculation of salary to new employees in orientation.
・ Pay living expenses to employees.
・ Distribute operating earnings to employees in the form of bonuses.

2.5 Labor safety and health

2.5.1 Risk report of labor safety and health

There are many advantages to maintaining a safe workplace. The first and also the most important one is
that only in a safe working place can the factory protect employees.

There are also other advantages related to greater safety benchmarks and habits. A safe workplace will
directly or indirectly influence the income of a factory. In a safe working place, costs will be reduced, and
even the indirect cost of productivity reduction caused by emergencies can be minimized.

A safe workplace can improve the morale of employees and increase the production, production efficiency
and yield rate. When employees work in a good and safe working environment, the amount of employee
absenteeism is reduced, the turnover rate is reduced, and the quality of work is improved.

General requirements
Basic compliance confirmation
・ Information of occupational health and safety (OHS) shall be shared in the factory, known and
jointly managed by all employees.
・ Periodic monitoring and evaluation of labor safety and health (please refer to the following contents).
・ Upon request, report to ASICS, including but not limited to, the following items.
・ Influences on employees and working place.
※Major industrial accidents (including accidents of outsourced employees) shall be reported to
ASICS within 24 hours.
・ Daily losses caused by accidents.
・ Influences caused by delivery delay of raw materials and products.
・ How does the organization handle the incidents and accidents?
・ Report the handling, progress and accountability of accidents to ASICS in the form of a report.

Recommendations
・ Introduce organizations that can identify and manage the risks of the

Company. General guidelines

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Responsibilities for the safety and health of countries and enterprises shall be overall considered according
to the convention and protocol of the ILO (International Labor Organization). ILO and its joining countries
make the following basic principles for labor safety and health.

・ Labor safety and health treaties (1981, 155th) 3 and protocol (2002) 4
・ Treaty on occupational health institutions (1985, 161st) 5
・ The framework treaty on occupational safety and health promotion (2006, 187th) 6

2.5.2 Fire prevention

Importance
・ The risk of fatal fire accidents can be reduced by properly developing fire prevention measures
and strengthening management.

General requirements
・ Be aware of, and comply with, all fire safety measures
and benchmarks.
・ Discuss the fire detection methods and rapid alarms in case of
fire (e.g. setting off smoke sensors, fire alarms or alarm bells).
・ Many fire accidents can be prevented. The person in charge of
facilities or building management and maintenance can take
appropriate actions and certain steps to prevent fire accidents.
The
factory shall ensure the safety of workers on site and prepare risk assessment as well as accident
prevention. For detailed information, please refer to general risk factors for fire.
・ The factory shall identify the causes of possible fires during risk assessment, that is, fire origin
(heat, sparks), flammable substances and people at risk, in order to formulate the accident
prevention measures for factories.
・ Dangerous, flammable substances that may cause fires and explosions shall be noticed, clearly
marked and managed appropriately.
・ The person in charge shall evaluate the danger and take appropriate measures to explore how to
completely prevent the occurrence of the danger, or how to reduce the danger, how to carry out
risk management, and how to protect workers in case of fire.
・ Prepare suitable fire extinguishing equipment for rapid fire fighting.
・ Clearly identify the emergency exits and evacuation routes,
and ensure that there are no obstacles on the roads.
・ All factories shall carry out accident prevention activities, fire extinguishers inspection and fire training.
・ Form a self-defense fire organization.
・ Isolate the fire origin and substances that easily trigger fires.
・ Take measures to prevent the heating equipment from overturning to avoid fire.
・ The factory shall not accumulate waste that is easy to ignite, and shall always conduct proper

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maintenance management.
・ The factory shall be aware that there are many materials that can easily cause fires and explosions,
ranging from conspicuous things such as flammable chemicals, gasoline, diluents, to inconspicuous
things such as engine oil, adhesives, packaging materials and wood dust.
・ In case of serious risk, the automatic sprinkler system shall be set up according to the purchasing
department's wishes or safety insurance requirements.
・ The factory shall think about how to report the accidents quickly when a fire breaks out. (smoke
sensor, fire sensor, emergency bell, etc.)
・ Handle hazardous materials that may cause fire and explosion.

Emergency exits
・ All emergency exits shall be kept unlocked during the operation of the factory, the appropriate
signs shall also be set up.
・ Make sure that the door of the emergency exit opens outwardly. If the sliding door is set up in case of
no circumstances, a large arrow shall be used to indicate the direction of the door opening. The door
at the emergency exit cannot be opened inward or upward. If the emergency exit door is an inward
door or an upward rolling gate, it must be open all the time. Plastic curtains can be set in case of low
temperature to prevent cold air from entering.
※Emergency exits are advised to use outward-facing doors with panic bolts.
※If there is a passageway for employees outside the door, make sure there are signs to prevent a
sudden opening to cause problems outside.
・ The width and number of emergency exit doors in the factory room or area are determined not by the
factory area, but by the number of workers. If there are many workers in a small factory, a very large
door is also needed at the emergency exit. If the number of employees working in large rooms or
areas (warehouses, etc.) is small, it is also possible to set up smaller emergency exits.
・ The width of all evacuation passages shall nevertheless be more than 1.1 meters, and there shall be
no obstacle within the height of 2 meters on the passages.
・ The floor of the evacuation passage shall be bright (yellow).
・ The standard matching color of the guide sign is the white arrow with green background. It is best to
use self-luminous signs (which can store light or use electric light).

Recommendations
Identify a person to be responsible for this topic, to receive information or training, and organize all
employees to carry out necessary general emergency evacuation training and communication.

Additional information

General risk factors for fire

Combustion requires three conditions: ignition source (heat), fuel (things that can be burned), and oxygen.

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・ Ignition source: heater, lighting, open fire, electrical equipment, smoking supplies (cigarettes,
matches, etc.) and items that can generate high temperature and sparks on the surface.
・ Sources of fuel: wood, paper, plastic, solvents, rubber or polyurethane foam, cushioning
materials, garbage and furniture equipment.
・ Oxygen source: oxygen in air, etc.
・ Fire extinguishing equipment is tailored to putting out specific types of fires. Therefore when installing
fire extinguishing equipment ensure to do a risk inventory first involving local fire safety department
or similar authority to assess which equipment, where and how many need to be installed.

Fire extinguishing equipment

The following figure shows a variety of fire extinguishing equipment and their uses.

Group
Group A Group B Group C Group D Electricity
F
Type→fire
Flammabl Electrical Frying
↓ Combustible Flammable
Flammable e solid products pan Remarks
Fire material gases
liquid (lithium (computers (frying
extinguishing (paper and (butane,
(paint, oil) and and pan,
wood, etc.) methane)
potassium) generators) etc.)
It cannot be
used in
fires caused
Water ✔ × × × × ×
by liquids
and
electrical
appliances.
Not suitable
Foam ✔ ✔ × × × ×
for family use.
It is safe to
Powder ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ × use, even up
to 1000 Volts.
It is safe
to use in
CO2 × ✔ × × ✔ ×
high volts
or low
volts.
It can also be
used at
Wet
✔ × × × × ✔ extremely
chemistry
high
temperatures.
Data source: Sally Fire＆Safety Corporation

Implementation of accidents prevention measures

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Emergency exit sign

Emergency
exit
Emergency lighting

Evacuation route
(evacuation map)
Emergency bells Pilot lamp for
emergency exit

Emergency exit: the distance between the emergency exit and all staff must be within a walking
distance of 60 meters.

Stairs

Emergency
The handrails for both sides, emergency
lighting
lighting and emergency guide signs must
be installed on the stairs.

Direction arrow

Evacuation passage

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2.5.3 Preparations and measures for emergency

Importance
・ While ensuring the safety of on-site employees, the factory shall prepare for various emergencies to
improve the rescue and evasion in emergencies.

General requirements
・ Organize a responsible team.
・ The factory shall formulate plans for fire fighting and emergency evacuation in written form and
prepare a documented training procedure so that it can accurately communicate the plan to the
employees to ensure a smooth implementation of the plan for emergency response. The plan is
formulated according to the general understanding of the possible emergencies.
・ Firefighting or evacuation drills shall be held at least every year or held it according to the law.
・ Conduct regular testing for alarm system, emergency lighting, sprinkler system, as well as smoke
detector, and keep all monitoring records on a file.
・ Conduct self-check for all fire extinguishers and keep the records in a file.
・ Formulate an evacuation map consistent with the actual direction of evacuation in the language that
local employees can understand, use large fonts to ensure that employees can clearly see it even at
3 meters away, and post it in a prominent location in the plant, office or dormitory.
・ The following information is required in the evacuation map.
・ Current position (“Where we are now” etc.)
・ The location of the alarm switch.
・ The locations of all fire extinguishers and hydrants.
・ The location of the first-aid kit.
・ The location of a medical center or emergency room shall also be indicated if the facility
is available in factory.
・ Evacuation routes, aisles, evacuation directions indicated by arrows, emergency exits,
and assembly areas.
・ Phone numbers of the fire department, ambulance and hospital.
・ A gathering place for evacuation.

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The following picture is an example.

・ In the factory, it is necessary to keep the workplace clean and tidy, and not to pile up garbage and
waste at will. Do not place obstacles (including inventory and half-processed items) in the passages
and production line corridors.
The following picture is an example.

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2.5.4 Emergency measures

General requirements
・ The minimum number of employees trained in emergency situations must be ensured.
・ All accidents shall be recorded according to the local laws.
・ Keep a record of all accidents that have occurred and possible accidents that may occur and register
them for follow-up monitoring and continuous improvement.

The factory shall set up and maintain the following items, and prepare for emergencies while ensuring
employees’ safety.

・ First-aid kit.
・ Provide first-aid kits in all working places (1 set per 100 workers)
・ The first-aid kit is placed in a prominent location in each workplace, and there are no
barriers around it.
・ Paste prominent and easily identifiable signs on the first-aid kits.
・ Provide first-aid kits that are not locked and easy to use.
・ Place first-aid kits in appropriate containers and boxes to protect them from dust and water.
・ Detailed list of contents of the first aid-kit, checking records and use records shall be stored in the
same place as the first-aid kit.
・ Make up the consumed items immediately after using the first aid kit and properly manage them
to prevent the items from exceeding the use period.
・ Arrange a designated person to manage the first aid kit, check it regularly, replenish the goods
and ensure the effective period of the goods.
・ Emergency response team
・ Identify employees with a certificate that allows performing first aid in an emergency.
・ The person in charge of emergencies must attend emergency management training organized by
a doctor or local licensing authority.
・ The number of persons in charge of emergencies shall
be arranged in proportion to one person per 100 workers.

References
・ ILO (International Labor Organization) “Records and notices on occupational injuries and
occupational diseases" (1996)

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2.5.5 Electrical safety

Importance
・ Compared to mechanical and chemical hazards, electrical appliances are more likely to be
neglected, which may lead to serious accidents and property losses. However, such accidents can
be easily prevented by improving the safety awareness of electrical appliances users.

General requirements
Main measures
・ The power must be disconnected before starting repair work at
the electrical equipment.
・ Use proper plugs.
・ When pulling the plug from the socket, pull the plug instead
of the power cable.
・ Do not touch the plug with wet hands.
・ Check the extension cord of the appliance regularly for damage to the sockets, plug and power cable.
・ Be cautious to connect multiple devices to the same socket to prevent the electrical wiring to overload
and overheat.
・ Do not place flammable liquids near electrical equipment.
・ Be careful to place the extension cord on the floor in walkways to avoid wire damage or obstruction to
employee access to an area. Use plastic pipes as much as possible to cover and wrap the power cable
so as to protect the cable. In addition, never directly fix cables with nails.
・ When electrical wires are connected to each other, they shall not only be connected through
an insulating tape, but shall be insulated after being firmly connected by a crimp terminal.
・ Install a cover on the socket, switch box, and power panel to prevent fire accidents caused by
accumulation of dust, leakage, and shock, etc.
・ Electrical maintenance and wires connection must be done by an electrician with appropriate
qualifications.
・ Provide insulated gloves and insulated shoes for electrical engineers and require them to wear.

Additional information
Lockout/Tagout

Lockout/ tag-out (LOTO) refers to a specific process to safeguard employees from the unexpected
energization or startup of machinery and equipment, or the release of hazardous energy during service or
maintenance activities. An authorized qualified electrical employee turns off and disconnects the machinery
or equipment from its energy sources, locks and/or tags the energy-isolating devices to prevent the release
of hazardous energy, and takes steps to verify that the energy has been isolated effectively. Affected
employees are required to use the lockout/ tag-out process also. Employees should be trained to recognize

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a locked and tagged electrical source and to understand how the LOTO process affects their specific work
areas.

2.5.6 Machinery safety

Importance
There may be risks OHS of employees operating machine and it must be
ensured that employees are provided with a safe working place that takes full account of the safety of the
machine.
Machine operating risks:
・ Keep hands out of machinery because they may be pulled or clamped by machine parts or
waste discharge, machine roller or belt, conveyor, etc.
・ It is possible to be severely wounded caused by a sharp angle cut, stabbed by a sharp part of
the machine, and scratched by a rough surface.
・ It is possible to be crushed by moving parts, machines, walls or jammed between other fixed objects.
・ It is possible to be burned or frostbitten by machine,
material, part of the exhausted gas (vapor, water, etc.), or
suffer electric shock or burn due to contact with
electricity.
・ The abnormal or malfunctioning of the machine or the
improper operation of the equipment due to lack of
experience or training may cause workplace accidents.

General requirements
・ Comply with regulations applicable to the relevant
machinery.
・ Renew the permissions / periodic checks of all machines on time.
・ Operate the machine according to the mechanical manual.
・ All machines must be equipped with relevant necessary protective equipment and safety equipment in
order to operate the machine safely.
・ All safety signs are properly installed.
・ Identify whether workers need to have the knowledge of proper selection and use of PPE (personal
protective equipment).
・ The stationary safety device must be fixed in the necessary position and remains in the position
during the operation of the machine.
・ In the mounting position of the removable safety device, make sure that the machine stops
working when the lid is opened.
・ The lid shall not be opened during operation.
・ In the place where a system is set up to sense the presence of an object, the machine must stop
working when the laser or sensor is turned off.
・ The rear and side of the machine must be equipped with safety devices.

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・ Please confirm that the safety function works properly normally before operating the machine.
・ There are separating steps for carrying out maintenance.
・ The manufacturer's manual should be available in print for the person(s) responsible for machine
maintenance and operation in local language.
・ Ensure that the machine's control devices are protected to prevent accidental movement.
・ Employees can clearly see relevant warning signs and stickers.
・ Ensure a secure working process to reduce the risks caused by operating or approaching the
moving and dangerous machinery parts that cannot be equipped with safety devices.

Additional information

Potential hazards that can be identified include the following:

• tripped, entangled • heat, cold

• rolled • eruption
• shorn • other touches
• cut • noise
• impact • release hazardous substance
• grind • Risks related to the position of the machine or
equipment
• puncture, perforation • Risks related to the working system of the
machine and equipment
• friction, friction loss • simultaneous danger

References
・ ILO (International Labor Organization) “Labor safety and health in mechanical use” (2013)
・ Safety work (New Zealand) Guidelines for best practices "Safe use of machinery" (2014)
・ Health and Safety Executive (HSE) “On fabric production and textile coating machines" (n.d.)
・ HSE “Control of engineering risk in footwear industry” (n.d.)

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2.5.7 Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Importance
・ Even the place where EC and safety work systems are
used, there may be risks including the following items.
・ Lungs (e.g. breathing in a polluted atmosphere)
・ Head and feet (falling objects, etc.)
・ Eyes (spatter, scattering particles, corrosive liquids, etc.)
・ Skin (contact with corrosive substances, etc.)
・ Body (torrid, frosty environment, etc.)
cessary equipment to reduce the
risk for workers.
・ The employer shall provide personal protective equipment
(PPE) to the employees in the factory and shall be responsible for the employees to use of such
equipment.
・ PPE includes safety helmet, gloves, goggles, clothes, safety shoes, safety belts, etc. It is a kind
of working equipment to ensure the health and safety of workers in working period.
・ PPE is only an ultimate means of protection.

General requirements
・ The factory shall provide necessary and appropriate PPE equipment for employees to use at
work according to local regulations and industry standards.
・ Employers shall train all the employees who must use PPE to understand at least the following items.
・ The necessity of PPE.
・ Circumstances requiring PPE.
・ Wear, adjustment and usage of PPE.
・ Limitations of PPE
・ Proper maintenance, service life and disposal of PPE.

Employers shall ensure that every employee understands PPE training before starting the work that requires
PPE, and verify that the PPE is properly worn and used. If the employer believes that the employee who has
attended the PPE training still does not understand the use of the PPE and has not mastered the related
technologies, the employee shall receive the PPE training again. The employee needs to be added or
retrained when workplace changes or required by the PPE.

Select appropriate PPE.

Problems in a particular situation.

・ Who suffered what kind of exposure?
・ How long was the exposure?

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・ What is the amount of exposure?

Protection of hands and arms.

If barrier measures or work habits cannot be used to eliminate potential hazards to the hands and arms of
employees, employers need to make employees wear appropriate protective equipment for work.
E.g. metal mesh gloves for cutting, chemical gloves, heat-resistant and skid-resistant protective gloves and
insulating gloves.

Potential risks include the following items.

・ Hazardous substances that can be absorbed through the skin (confirming whether it is a
substance marked with SDS "skin" warnings).
・ Burns caused by chemicals or high temperatures.
・ Electrical hazards.
・ Bruises, scratches, cuts,

perforations. Eye protection

Please always use protective equipment if there is a risk of exposure for the following reasons.
E.g. goggles, sunglasses, and protective equipment for shading.
・ Spattering foam, spattering solid matter or particles.
・ Dust caused by deburring machine and polishing machine.
・ Liquid chemicals
・ Acid or corrosive liquid
・ Chemical gas or steam
・ Harmful rays such as ultraviolet and laser irradiation
・ Strong light and spark during welding operation.

The following factors need to be considered when selecting the best eye
and facial protective equipment for employees.
・ It has the function of protecting employees from harm in specific workplace.
・ Proper size and comfortable to wear.
・ It does not interfere with vision or movements.
・ Durable and clear.
・ It does not limit other unnecessary PPE protection.

Hearing protection
E.g. earplugs, earmuffs.
Hearing protection in workplace.

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If the noise and noise level in the workplace exceeds 85 decibels (A correction) or dB(A), the sound-proof
protective equipment must be worn. Sound-proof protective equipment can reduce the noise hazard to
employees and reduce the risk of hearing damage.

Employers shall implement a complete sound insulation protection plan, including noise assessment,
selection of personnel who need hearing protection, staff training and education, hearing inspection,
maintenance, inspection, record preservation and project evaluation.

If the size of the sound-proof protection device is not appropriate or if the device is worn only when there is
noise hazard, its hearing protection function will be reduced. Do not transform the protective equipment so
as to ensure the effectiveness. When noise protection is necessary, please do not wear ordinary
headphones since it cannot replace sound insulation equipment.

Types of sound-proof protective equipment that can be used.

Earplugs play a protective role by inserting and blocking the ear canal. Pre-molded earplugs are sold as
reusable types, and the foam earplugs as disposable types. In addition, there is also custom mold
earplug.

The half plug earplugs are connected through the headband of the two earplugs.

The earmuffs consist of noise-reducing materials, soft earpads that closely fit the ears, and shells of harder
materials, which are fixed with headbands.

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Respiratory system protection.

E.g. gas mask, dust mask.
Employees must always use respiratory protective equipment when using organic solvents. If you want to
choose the right PPE, please contact the PPE manufacturer. The general cloth mask, unable to protect
the respiratory system, cannot be used in the use of organic solvents. Employees
need to wear carbon mask with activated carbon.

Workers shall wear dust masks because dust may occur during polishing
operations.

Foot protection

E.g. safety shoes, insulating shoes.

If there is a risk of foot injury due to falling objects, rotating objects, or materials smashing or penetrating
during work, employees shall wear foot protective equipment. Employees exposed to high temperature,
corrosive or toxic substances at work shall wear protective equipment covering all body parts, including
feet.

Apron (protective equipment for body)

When dealing with chemicals, it is necessary for employees to wear

protective shoes, gloves, respiratory protective devices and protective
glasses, as well as appropriate protective aprons.

Head protection
Because head injuries may influence the life of employees, or even cause death, employees must wear
safety helmet to protect their heads.
E.g. safety helmet, scarf.
Employers need to ensure that employees wear head protective equipment when
touching any of the following items:

・ Dropped items or flying objects.

・ Danger of being injured by electric shock.
・ Chemical materials
・ Extreme temperature
・ Hair may be involved in the machine.
・ Exposure to other hazardous
substances. Additional information
・ Build a team that reduces hazardous operations, OHS risk and executes necessary protective

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procedures.
・ Identify the employees working at high risk tasks that require information or training, and organize
necessary training and communication to all relevant employees.

Protective gloves

Classifications of protective gloves

There are different types of gloves to prevent all kinds of hazards. The following examples illustrate how to
choose the type of protective gloves to wear when working.
・ Types of chemicals that employees are exposed to.
・ The nature of contact (full penetration, splash, etc.)
・ Duration of contact
・ The position to protect (only palms, parts below the elbow, the whole arm).
・ Requirements for grip strength (dry, wet, oil).
・ Heat insulation
・ Size and comfort
・ Requirements for friction / resistance.

Gloves of various materials are designed to deal with all possible hazards in the workplace. In general, the
types of gloves are divided into the following groups.
・ Gloves with leather texture, canvas texture or metallic mesh.
・ Cloth gloves and gloves with coated fabrics.
・ Chemical resistant (liquid proof) gloves.

Maintenance of protective gloves

・ Check the gloves before use (rupture, hole, condition reducing the protective function of
gloves, discoloration, and hardening).
・ If the protective function of gloves is damaged, they shall be

discarded. Sound-proof protective equipment and noise reduction

How to measure whether sound-proof protective equipment can reduce the noise hazards to workers?
The noise reduction information of sound-proof protective equipment provided by the manufacturer is taken
as the NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) value. The NRR assessment is based on the noise reduction rate
obtained under laboratory conditions.

The method of using NRR value to measure the protection level of sound-proof protective equipment.
NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) recommends using the test subjects'
applicable data based on ANSI S12.6-1997 (or the latest version) to measure the noise reduction effect of
sound-proof protective equipment.

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However, if applicable data of the test subject are not available, NIOSH recommends using the
manufacturer's designated NRR in the following manner, corresponding to the actual data available for noise
reduction.

・ Earmuffs - subtract 25％ from the NRR marked by the manufacturer.

・ Earplugs - subtract 50％ from the NRR marked by the manufacturer.
・ Other earplugs - subtract 70％ from the NRR marked by the manufacturer.

1. If the noise exposure level in dBC is known, the effective A characteristic noise level (ENL) can be
obtained in the following manner.

ENL [dB (A)] = noise level dBC at work - reduced NRR value

1. If the noise exposure level in dB(A) is known, the effective A characteristic noise level (ENL) can be
obtained in the following manner.

ENL = noise level dB(A) at work - (reduced NRR value - 7)

・ Employees can use PPE in the following circumstances.

・ Emergency situations and during maintenance of facilities and machinery/equipment.
・ Other measures are still in the process of being set up such as construction.
・ Situations in which employees cannot be adequately protected through other measures.
・ The next measure fails.
・ To eliminate the risk factors caused by the redesign of the project.
・ Replace with safer engineering or materials.
・ Control the source of dangers.
・ Reduce exposure during management or working.
・ Let employees realize that PPE is not a standard means, but the last resort.

References
・ Michigan State University “Personal protective equipment” (2003)

2.5.8 Safety related to buildings

Importance
・ In 2013, more than 1,100 people died owing to the Rana plaza collapse in Dacca, Bangladesh,
and there were numerous examples of fatal accidents caused by ignoring the safety of buildings.
・ Buildings which are not constructed in accordance with relevant building codes and standards may

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have a significant impact on safety and are at high risk of accidents, whether spontaneous or triggered
by external forces such as wind, water, impact by a vehicle or human force.
・ Safety measures for buildings apply to all buildings, including existing buildings, new
buildings, extension, renovation, reuse, etc.

General requirements
・ Buildings shall be bought and built according to the relevant applicable building acts and be delegated
to contractors who abide by laws and regulations.
・ Supervise and manage contractors during construction.
・ Confirm the building management permit issued by the relevant government agency.
・ Deploy employees per department and floor on the premise of safety.
・ For details about asbestos, please refer to 2.3.6.5 asbestos.

Additional information
Relevant laws and regulations are defined by several different standards. Here’s an example.
・ Basic design standards for buildings
・ Standards for guiding building structure design
・ Design standards for concrete structures
・ Anti-seismic design standards for buildings
・ Design standards for water supply and drainage in buildings
・ Fire prevention design standards for buildings

・ The Bangladesh Accord on Fire and Building Safety (2017)

2.5.9 Maintenance management

Importance
Effective maintenance and management

・ Reduce handling to case the flow of materials.

・ Eliminate spills and leaks to prevent tripping and slipping.
・ Reduce fire risks.
・ Improve the management of the tools and materials, including stock and supplies.
・ Clean and maintain equipment more efficiently.
・ Improve employees’ health by improving the sanitary conditions.
・ More efficient space utilization.
・ Reduce property damage by prevention of accidents.
・ Development of driving force.

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・ Increase productivity (easy discovery of tools and materials).

Recommendations
・ Comply with local codes and confirm the management procedures based on the industrial standards.

Maintenance management is defined as follows.

・ Plan and manage the storage and transfer of raw materials from import to export.
・ Include the minimally treated material circulation.
・ As the employee will move the raw materials, it is necessary to confirm whether the work area is
the storage area.
・ Set improvement project for eliminating waste in the workplace. It may include additional
waste containers and frequent investments in waste disposal.
・ Thoroughly remove obstructions in all passages and conduct routine inspection.
・ Make sure all passages are in good condition without any ladder disconnected or skid. If it falls
below the standard, be sure to correct.

Additional information
Implement the maintenance plan (6S) to maintain a clean and orderly factory.

・ 6S (the extended version of 5S) is a general and effective method for maintenance management of
the factory and ensuring the safety.
Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain, Security

The components of an effective maintenance process for managing a factory are as follows.
• Eliminate dust and dirt • Control leaks
• Facilities for workers • Tools and equipment
• Maintenance • Maintenance of lighting equipment
• Waste disposal • Passages and stairs
• Place of safekeeping

Employees must be aware of the safe working methods of the products they use, as well as the ways to
protect other workers by using display boards (e.g., "Pay attention to the slippery floor") and abnormal
status reports, etc. Employee training is indispensable in the factory
management.

The factory shall conduct the maintenance management rules

meticulously for a long time, rather than complete a task in a short time.
Therefore, the organization responsible for the cleaning not only needs to
do it at the end of the work, but also needs to do it on a regular basis and

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shall ensure its implementation by including it in the business of maintenance and management.

Focus on hard-to-notice places like shelves, basements, warehouses, and boiler rooms to prevent
omissions. Maintaining operating tools, tools, equipment, devices and supplies is also an important part of
the maintenance plan.

References
・ Michigan State University “Personal protective equipment” (2003)

Additional information
・ According to the ILO (International Labor Organization) “Convention on labor safety and health” (No.
155) (1981), working conditions must be healthy and safe for all employees to prevent the HIV.

2.5.10 Exposure limits of occupational health

2.5.10.1 Dust

General requirements
・ As the standards for indoor dust emission vary from country to country, the level of dust emission at
the production site must be controlled within the allowable range.
・ Measure the amount of dust produced by all machines and production operations (polishing, cutting,
grinding, etc.).
・ Determine the equipment required to reduce dust levels.
・ Check and confirm whether workers are equipped with appropriate PPE and use it properly in
the operation of machines that produce dust.
・ It is an important factor for good management to properly deal with the dust produced in the production
and manufacture, and the gas drawn out by VOC. Effective polluted air extraction and treatment
systems can improve air quality in factories, help protect the environment, and improve product quality.
・ Dust produced by the equipment shall be treated by a suitable dust remover or suction system for dust
removal and collection. Processing equipment shall always be connected.
・ The dust remover must be equipped with a dust collector, a suitable filter and a separator
(cyclone separator, etc.).
・ Provide protective masks for employees working in the places that produce dust and require them
to wear masks at work.

Recommendations
・ In some cases, a dust explosion may occur, so explosion-proof lamps and hermetically sealed
electrical switches shall be installed as necessary.

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2.5.10.2 Indoor noise

Importance
・ Exposure to excessive noise every day may lead to permanent hearing loss for workers.

General requirements
・ Air compressors must be installed separately outdoors or in boxes, and workers shall be protected
from the noise with proper sound-proof protective equipment (earplugs / earmuffs).
・ Provide sound-proof protective equipment for workers who work near sewing machines,
deburring machines and other noise equipment.
・ Warning signs “Caution, noise” shall be clearly set up in areas causing noise.
・ Conduct noise related investigations.
・ Earplugs must be worn when workers are constantly exposed to noise beyond 85dBA.
・ Earplugs are essential when exposed to noise beyond 90dBA, and earmuffs are recommended.
・ If the noise exceeds 95dBA, the machine must be adjusted.
・ Ensure that employees working in high-noise jobs are examined annually for occupational
health (hearing impairment test).
・ Record and monitor all noise in the factory.

Recommendations
・ Verify that the noise is within the maximum allowable noise level (see appendix).
・ The noise insulation provided by the factory to the workers shall have an appropriate NRR, which can
reduce the hearing loss of workers working in an environment with noise levels lower than those listed
in the above table.
・ Conduct the risk assessment of the impact of noise on workers' health.
・ Assess ways and means of reducing noise.

Additional information
Exposure to noise

Employees’ exposure to noise is a common hazard in many parts of the factory. The general noise levels of
a shoe factory are listed in the table blow.

General noise levels of a shoe factory db(A)

Clicking 77 – 83
Upper stitching 77 – 87

Eyeleting 89 - 93

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Insole attaching 84 - 94

Area of accessories installation 84 - 93

Deburring area 90 - 95

Sole stitching 88 - 91

Equipment that reduces noise and protects hearing

Daily exposure to excessive noise may cause hearing damage to workers. If workers are consistently
exposed to noise of the following decibels, they must be provided with sound insulation (earmuffs or
earplugs) to reduce the adverse effects on their health.

Duration of exposure to noise during Noise level that requires the sound-proof
working hours protective equipment
(unit/hour) (unit/dBA)

12 82

8 85
4 88

2 91
1 94
1/2 97

1/4 100
1/8 103

References

ILO “Working Environment (air pollution, noise and vibration) Treaty (no. 148 )”(1977)

2.5.10.3 Lighting

Importance
・ Inadequate lighting can lead to misjudgment of the position, shape and speed of objects, resulting
in accidents and injuries. There are security risks.
・ Inadequate lighting can reduce the quality of the work, especially the work that requires precision
and overall productivity.
・ Inadequate lighting can be harmful to the health of employees. For example, lighting that is too bright
or too dark can harm employees' eyes, which may cause discomfort (such as dry eyes) and
headaches.

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General requirements
・ Ensure adequate lighting for all workplaces in all other areas of the facility.
・ Each sewing machine must be equipped with a separate lamp to ensure the level of
illumination required by the worker. LED lights are recommended to save energy and reduce
costs.
・ Measure the illumination of all machines and workstations and maintain proper

illumination. Additional information

Suggested illumination level

The followings are lighting recommendations for various factory areas.

If the legal standard is more stringent than the following table, then the illumination level shall comply with
the law.

Each area of the factory Illumination Values (lux)

Office area 450 – 750
Storage area and warehouse 100 – 150
Passage 100 – 300
Stairs 100 – 300
Manufacturing: assembly, sewing, and all
450 – 750
manual work
Machining: cutting, grinding, punching,
450 – 750
laser cutting, drilling, electric sewing,
etc.
Quality assurance and control 700 – 1000
Measures for emergency > 450

2.5.10.4 Asbestos

Importance
・ Asbestos used to be widely used in building materials and pipes, but it has proved to be a
known carcinogen today.
・ It is necessary to take measures to provide employees with a safe working environment.

General requirements
・ In all jobs related to the use of asbestos, or the maintenance, repair and demolition of the buildings
that may use asbestos, the necessary safety and health facilities must be used. Preventive measures
for safety and health, such as cleaning, enclosure and sealing, shall be taken to prevent the fiber
diffusion.
・ When local regulations stipulate an external company shall be involved to manage and remove
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asbestos.

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Recommendations
・ Check and list all the buildings and areas where asbestos is being used or may be used.
・ Develop written strategies and plans for all the operations that may release asbestos for all
buildings using it, and obtain the approval of the highest responsible person.
・ List the asbestos. Carry out relevant training and organize a designated team to carry out the
necessary procedures.
・ Formulate procedures to measure progress and reassess strategy.

References
・ ILO “Asbestos Convention (no.162)” (1986)

2.5.11 Dining facilities

Importance
・ Keeping all employees healthy and in good condition can reduce the risk of production accidents.
Therefore, the factory shall provide appropriate food and drinks to employees and strengthen the
hygiene management.

General requirements
・ Make sure kitchen and storage facilities are built according to building safety regulations and that all
safety measures, evacuation plans and fire extinguishers are in place.
・ Comply with the relevant regulations of hygiene and fire prevention when using the kitchen and
storage facilities.

The requirements for kitchen facilities are as follows.

・ Facilities that are used to prepare food, especially the kitchen and hearth, must be clean and tidy.
・ Ensure that the factory has a license to set up meal facilities and that all restaurant staff has a health
certificate within the validity period.
・ The factory shall provide employees with cooked food if they have no other access to it.
・ In addition to cases where workers can obtain cooked food outside the factory, the factory shall
provide the employees with kitchens and restaurants with the right size and structure and they are
separated from the workers' bedrooms.
・ The kitchen and cafeteria buildings shall be equipped with adequate windproof and rainproof devices.
・ The kitchens, canteens, or mess halls often used by the staff in dormitories are not allowed to employ
people with infectious diseases to prepare, cook, and supply food or other related processing with
food, ingredients or other ingredients.
・ Food storage: keep all food containers away from the floor. All food must not be stored in the
factory where it may come into contact with toilets or toxic chemicals.

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・ The temperature of the freezing system and refrigeration system shall remain in the appropriate range.
・ It is prohibited to eat or drink water in toilets or places that may be exposed to toxic chemicals.
・ Employees working in the kitchen must wear hats that cover their hair and so on.
・ Use drains as much as possible to keep the floor dry.
・ The factory shall provide alternative work surfaces and walking surfaces such as double floors,
platforms, mats, or allow employees to wear waterproof shoes.
・ Prevention of pests and animals: each kitchen and dining hall shall be equipped with devices to
prevent entry and survival of mice, dogs, cats, birds, insects and other pests or animals. A continuous
and effective elimination plan must be implemented whenever they show up.
・ The kitchen ventilation system must be able to remove excess water vapor, heat, steam, smell
and smoke in time, and the ventilation ducts shall be inspected on a regular basis.
・ Prepare appropriate fire extinguishers for use in the event of a fire in the kitchen, caused by oil
burning or an electric stove.
・ Washrooms shall be provided for staffs to wash their hands before and after meals.

Recommendations
・ The canteen shall be provided with enough seats to accommodate all the staff who has meals at any
work shift.

2.5.12 Dormitory

Importance
・ Safe and sound dormitory facilities are important to ensure the safety and health of workers
and managers.

General requirements
・ Dormitory facilities must be constructed in accordance with building safety standards and equipped
with all safety measures, evacuation routes and fire extinguishers.
・ Proper drainage and sanitation (PUB and NEA): the factory must abide by the laws of drainage and
wastewater, and the codes of sanitation facilities as well as the discharge of sewage and surface
water.
・ Proper shelter: the factory must fully protect the well-being, hygiene and safety of employees and not
allow the working environment to harm them.
・ Proper water supply and pressure, including the design of indirect water supply systems when it
is necessary.
・ Proper ventilation: employee's bedroom, facilities and public areas must be well ventilated.
・ Toilets and bath facilities are in good condition.
・ Safe storage of personal belongings: provide employees with lockable storage facilities to prevent
the unauthorized use and theft of personal belongings.
・ Personal privacy must be protected.

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・ Conduct fire training at least once a year.

・ Keep ready-to-use first-aid kits.
・ The dormitory remains unlocked from the outside.
・ Make sure the door can be locked from the inside.
・ Bedroom areas are separated by gender.
・ If there are special local regulations, they shall be followed.

References
Lighting
・ Each bedroom in the dorm shall be equipped with at least one ceiling lamp.
・ At least one ceiling or wall-mounted lighting shall be placed in the laundry room, kitchen, bathroom
and other rooms where people gather.
Air conditioner
・ Air conditioning and ventilation equipment shall be equipped to properly maintain room temperature.
・ All air conditioning systems must be maintained and managed to ensure safe
operation. Ventilation
・ Install windows in all bedroom areas.
・ Windows shall be able to open more than half of their areas to ensure ventilation.
・ The window shall be opened outward or toward the courtyard, not inward.
・ Provide electric fans or air conditioning equipment for employees at high temperatures.

2.5.13 Management, use, and safety of chemicals

Notice: this section is not to deal with the residual chemicals in products, but to deal with chemicals from the
perspective of environment, safety and health.

Importance
・ Uncontrolled use of chemicals can pose serious risks to health, environment and physics, some of
which may have long-term effects. It is necessary to reduce the impact on the environment, workers
or public health.

General requirements
・ Ensure the compliance with “ASICS guidelines for chemical management and operation” for the
management and use of chemicals.
・ Be aware of all legal requirements and permits for the use, preservation and processing of
chemicals used or manufactured on site.
・ Be aware of the legal requirements for the exposure limits of compounds used or manufactured during
manufacturing.
・ Establish the tracking system related to the change of laws and regulations of environmental

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management and the system to report to the management.

・ All chemicals used or manufactured on the site are subject to the process for meeting legal
requirements and approvals.
・ Exposure control→Comply with the legal limits on chemical emissions and conduct monitoring.
・ Take all necessary precautions to meet legal exposure limits and reduce exposure (e.g., safe use
of potentially hazardous equipment, air extractors, etc.)
・ Ensure the compliance with "ASICS guidelines for chemical management and operation" related
to chemical control and use.
・ Preserve the hazardous chemicals according to the relevant administrative regulations
(local regulations on fire prevention or dangerous goods).
・ Follow local regulations to keep and dispose of used chemicals.
・ Make sure the annual health checks are conducted for the staff who have been exposed to hazards
at the work site in accordance with local regulations.
・ Confirm that the chemical management in the facility is in compliance with
the WEEE/RoHS/REACH/Conflict mineral law or other relevant regulations.
・ All chemicals are properly labeled. (For further information, please refer to the chemical label)
・ Ensure that SDS (safety data sheet) is applicable to all storage and handling sites as well as
chemical use sites. (Please refer to the safety data table (SDS) in the additional information below)
・ Make sure the safe handling of the chemicals. (Please refer to the treatment and use of chemicals in
the following additional information)
・ Make sure the chemicals are safely stored. (Pease refer to the storage of chemicals in the
additional information below)
・ Ensure the safe disposal and preservation of chemical waste. (Pease refer to the management of
chemical waste in the following additional information)
・ Raise the awareness of chemical management at work site.
・ Provide special training for all personnel dealing with chemicals and waste.
・ Ensure that first-aid kits and eye washing facilities are located near the chemical handling station
(within 30 meters from the chemical treatment site) and are available.
・ If there is a separate laboratory in the facility, steps for using it must be set.
・ Ensure that the compound formation area and production line are physically separated.
・ Ensure that the auxiliary containers are used effectively for storing hazardous liquid.
・ Chemicals stored in the manufacturing area shall only be retained for the required amount per day.
・ Chemicals must be kept separate from the source of the fire.

Recommendations
・ Control and monitor all VOC used in the factory and verify that the employees are aware of its impact
on health.
・ Confirm the compliance with TLV guidelines (for more information on allowable concentrations,
see here).
・ Be sure to install shower facilities near the chemical handling station (within 30 meters from the

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chemical treatment site) and ensure they are available to use.

・ List all chemicals that have been purchased.
・ List all chemicals used on the work site (please refer to the items below for additional information:
a catalog of chemicals).
・ Find the chemicals that can be replaced and replace them with safer alternatives.
・ Decide who is responsible for the management of chemicals.
・ Be aware of the hazards of all chemicals (see additional information below: classification of hazards
of GHS).
・ Do not use banned chemicals. In order to reduce the occupational health risk of the laborer to the greatest
extent, the laborer must be aware that substances shown in the following table are prohibited to use
owing to their high toxicity which can be rapidly absorbed through the skin and difficult to control the harm.

Substance CAS#
Benzene 71-43-2
Methylbenzene 108-88-3
Dichloromethane 75-09-2
N,N-Dimethylformamide 68-12-2
Trichloro ethylene 79-01-6
Tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene) 127-18-4
Carbon tetrachloride 56-23-5
・ Emergency measures must be regularly checked and properly updated after training and
the occurrence of emergencies.
・ The following points must be checked regularly for chemical containers.
・ No labels.
・ Variation of character.
・ Exceed the use period.
・ Unnecessary materials.
・ Instead of using special containers, use PET bottles that hold drinks, etc.
・ No lids.
・ No auxiliary containers.

・ Use easy-to-understand content and images to quickly communicate safety information to workers to
explain the hazardous nature of chemicals and the safe handling methods.
・ Set warning labels to remind employees to operate safely.

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Additional information
Purchase of chemicals
Following steps must be performed when purchasing new
chemicals.
・ Choose substances that are suitable for use with
the least risk.
・ Obtain the latest SDS for each chemical (safety
data sheet).
・ It must be assessed and approved by the
responsible personnel for environmental safety and
health (EHS).
・ Preserve the documents related to the purchase
and transportation of hazardous chemicals,
including certificates related to hazardous
chemicals, as required by regulations.
・ Keep an annual purchase record of all chemicals.
Record the name of the chemical substance, its CAS
number, supplier, quantity of content, purpose of use,
purpose of purchase, supply point, discharge point, intermedia and waste generated along with use,
usage amount, content of final product and content of production waste.

Processing and use of chemicals

・ In order to reduce all risks and exposures associated
with the use, storage, and disposal of various
chemicals, the necessary precautions and summaries
related to PPE (see 2.3.9 PPE personal protective
equipment) and containment equipment must be
made clear.
・ Label the substance with its name and hazard on
the container of the chemical.
・ Mark SDS on the area where dangerous
and hazardous chemicals are stored or
used.
※ If SDS is too difficult and not practical for ordinary employees, CSDS recorded with important items,
such as drug names, first-aid measures, protective measures, fire fighting methods, etc., can be
adopted. It is also helpful for employees to understand when marked in red on important items of SDS.
・ Don't use food containers to contain chemicals.
・ No eating in the workplace.
・ Employees shall ensure that the appropriate PPE are worn and that the intended chemicals are
used when mixing chemicals.
・ When mixing chemicals, the formula or prescription must be followed.
・ To minimize employee’s exposure to chemicals and reduce the waste (daily consumption), place only

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the required amount of chemicals on the work site.

・ Containers shall be provided with auxiliary containers to prevent discharge.
・ Install eye-washing facilities near the place where chemical products are used.
・ The factory shall introduce ventilation equipment, local exhaust ventilation equipment and equipment
that can isolate the site and surrounding environment to prevent chemical users and staff from
exposing or inhaling chemicals.

Storage of chemicals
・ Store and lock hazardous chemicals in outdoor chemical warehouses which are separate from
production buildings. In addition, chemicals must be marked by eye-catching warnings: dangerous
articles, no fireworks, etc.
・ Do not expose chemicals to direct sunlight.
・ Chemicals must be kept in a dry and ventilated place.
・ When installing the ventilator, use the electrodes sealed type and install the power supply and
switch outdoors.
・ Chemicals must be preserved according to their compatibility with other chemicals.
・ Chemicals must be kept under special care.
・ Special building requirements for room size, building materials, location, etc.
・ Only special electrical equipment such as an explosion-proof lamp can be used when lighting and
other electrical equipment is needed (otherwise, there may be an explosion). However, it is
forbidden to install power outlets and switches inside the warehouse in order to prevent a fire.
・ Ventilation and temperature control
・ Firefighting equipment, such as chemical extinguishers and sand, is necessary.
・ Dangerous and hazardous chemicals must meet the requirements of fire and explosion prevention
when stored outdoors. Chemicals, such as gunpowder, type 1 combustible material and
hazardous materials shall not be stored in open places.
・ Storage places of dangerous and hazardous chemicals shall be managed by the person
equipped with all personal protective equipment (PPE).
・ Containers shall be provided with auxiliary containers to prevent discharge. Auxiliary container must
be laid with absorbent sand.
・ Connect the ground wire to the roller in specific circumstances.
・ Flammable items such as wooden pallets and corrugated cardboard are prohibited in the warehouse.
・ Check for chemicals that may explode in the presence of water and, if any, prohibit the use of
sprinklers and turn off the faucets.

Management of chemical waste

・ Identify the use of chemicals, discharge points and levels of all waste, and identify hazardous levels of
waste as well as methods of disposal, storage and discard.
・ If pipelines and waste-treatment workshops do not operate as required, there may be a risk
of contamination of soil and groundwater, depending on the chemical, which must be noted.

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・ The recycling of empty containers must be entrusted to the professional company with the
qualification of handling hazardous materials, and a written contract shall be signed.
・ Its business license, qualification certificate, road transport license must be obtained and kept at the
time of signing the contract.
・ Obtain and maintain a list of materials recycled by the contractor.
・ To prevent contamination in the surrounding environment, empty containers of chemicals shall be kept
in a covered area and not placed in the open. If chemicals are placed in a place without roofs,
measures such as covering empty containers with plastic sheets must be taken to prevent
contamination in soil and rivers.

Catalog of chemicals
Chemicals catalog for the stock or those stored in working place shall be managed according to the following
guidelines.
・ Newly acquired chemicals must be added to the catalog immediately.
・ When a chemical is consumed or processed, it must be removed from the catalog or drawn a deletion
line on the name of it.
・ Check and renew the catalog regularly (at least once every six months).
・ Everyone in the work area can use this catalog immediately.
・ Develop detailed facility plans related to physical characters of the storage and use of chemicals and
facility plans for the following areas that shall be separately identified.
・ Purchasing and distribution area
・ Storage area of products
・ Storage area of chemicals
・ Storage area of materials except chemicals
・ Engineering area
・ Manufacturing area
・ Storage area of waste
・ Storage area of chemical waste
・ Storage area of waste water
・ Storage area of waste except chemical waste
・ Other areas containing chemicals such as laboratories and maintenance areas

Labels of chemicals
・ Understand the outline of chemical classification and necessary labeling at the production site in
accordance with GHS (The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals)
and local regulations. It includes the intermedia and transport container of chemicals, but not limited to
these. Notes for handling, storage, and disposal, as well as labels of the chemicals must be clearly
marked on the chemical container and the area where the chemicals are used.
・ Identify the chemicals of priority assessment for the products used or manufactured on site.

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Permissible concentration (allowable threshold)

The conditions in the workplace are determined on the basis of air exposure thresholds of chemicals
specified by government agencies and specialized agencies. The exposure that has no adverse impact on
the health of employees is acceptable. The allowable concentration (TLVs) is the data based on the
minimum standard of the threshold calculated by the experts of the American Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), based on working 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week. TLVs are used in
conjunction with the exposure limit of the factory. The concentration of chemicals used in the workplace
must be kept below the allowable concentration. The allowable threshold is expressed by "PPM"
(concentration of a millionth of the volume of the atmosphere) and mg/m 3 (mass of the substance present
in a cubic meter of atmosphere).

The following are TLV values for commonly used substances (another type of TLV can be specified in local
regulations).
Workers exposed to VOC concentrations above TLV use appropriate PPE.

Substance CAS# TLV

(8 hours a day, 40 hours (12 hours a day, 60
a hours a week)
week)
Acetone 67-64-1 500ppm // 1188mg/m3 333ppm // 792mg/ m3
Ammonia 7664-41-7 25ppm // 17mg/ m3 17ppm // 11mg/ m3
Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) 78-93-3 200ppm // 590mg/ m3 133ppm // 393mg/ m3
n-butanol 71-36-3 20ppm// 61mg/m3 133ppm // 393mg/ m3
Hexamethylene 110-82-7 100ppm // 344mg/ m3 67ppm // 229mg/ m3
Cyclohexanone 108-94-1 20ppm // 80mg/ m3 13ppm // 53mg/ m3
Ethyl acetate 141-78-6 400ppm // 1440mg/ m3 267ppm // 960mg/ m3
Ethylbenzene 100-41-4 100ppm // 434mg/ m3 67ppm // 289mg/ m3
Xylene 1330-20-7 100ppm // 434mg/ m3 67ppm // 289mg/ m3
n-heptane 142-82-5 400ppm // 1640mg/ m3 267ppm // 1093mg/ m3
n-hexane 110-54-3 50ppm // 176mg/ m3 33 ppm // 117 mg/ m3
Isopropanol (IPA) 67-63-0 200ppm // 492mg/ m3 133ppm // 328mg/ m3
Methyl isobutyl ketone(MIBK) 108-10-1 50ppm // 205mg/ m3 33ppm // 137mg/ m3

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Measurement of volatile organic compounds (VOC)

・ When monitoring each worker, organic solvent vapor measurement markers or portable VOC
measuring instruments are used to measure the worker's breathing area (near the mouth/nose,
please refer to the legend). Monitor the whole working time (the most important terms are listed below
・ SDS - safety data sheet GHS terms used in material
safety data sheet (MSDS)
・ Hazard - although there is no formal definition, GHS
classifies hazards into three main categories (health,
physical chemistry and environment).
・ Level - level classification is used to describe various
types of hazards Example: gas under pressure is a class
with physical and chemical hazards. Please refer to GHS
hazard classification.

・ Classification by category - it is used to describe the items in

the level. There are seven categories of self-reactive Great hazard

chemicals, each of which has rules or criteria for determining

Severe hazard
the nature of each chemical.
Moderate hazard

Some hazards
The Category 1 (A Category) is regarded as the most
dangerous. Please refer to the right picture. Very small hazard

・ Information on hazards - use the standardized information

in each category to explain the hazard. E.g. the hazard
information of chemicals classified as Category 1 in the
category of self-heating substances and mixtures is
spontaneous heat and there is a risk of fire. The hazard
note is displayed on its label and SDS.

・ Preventive measure - the standardized measures designed to minimize or prevent adverse effects
of improper handling or storage of hazardous products to which workers are exposed.
・ Words that arouse employees' attention - “Hazard” and “Warning”. It is set up by a differentiated
system and alerts for its hazardous degree by labels and SDS. E.g. Category 1 which includes the
categories of self-heating substances and mixtures uses "danger" to warn, and Category 2 including
the lower danger uses "warning" to indicate, but there are also categories that do not use words to
arouse employee's
attention.
・ Legend identification - legend is used for tags and GHS of SDS, but there are also categories that
do not use legend.
・ Evaluate the use of all VOC and determine the possibility of alternatives.
・ Explore the use of water based alternatives to replace VOC based adhesives or cements.

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・ Explore the use of water based alternatives to replace detergent.

・ Install suitable filtration system and ensure its normal operation.
・ In some cases, VOC is in danger of explosion, so explosion-proof lamps and sealing switches must be
installed as needed. At this moment, it is necessary to confirm the socket or electrical switch that is
not likely to cause fire in the surrounding environment.

GHS hazard level

According to GHS's physical chemistry, the classification of health and environmental degree is shown
below.

Class Category Class Category

distinction distinction
Hazard of Explosive 7 Spontaneously-combusting liquid 2
physical Combustible / 2 Spontaneously-combusting solid 1
chemistry (16 flammable gases
classes) Combustible / 2 Self-heating substances and 1
Flammable aerosol mixtures

combustion-supporting 1 Combustible chemicals and 3

/ oxidizing gases mixtures that react with
water

Compressed gases 4 Organic peroxides 7

Flammable liquid 4 Oxidizing liquid 3
Flammable solid 2 Oxidizing solid 3
Self-reactive chemicals 7 Metallic corrosion substance 1
and mixtures

Class Category
distinction
Health hazard Acute toxicity 5
(10 classes) Skin corrosion / irritation 5
Serous eye damage / eye Irritation 3
Respiratory or skin sensitization 1
Germ cell mutagenicity 4
Carcinogenicity 4
Reproductive toxicology 2
Target organ system toxicity (one-time exposure) 2
Target organ toxicity (repeated exposure) 2
Aspiration toxicity 2
Environmental Hazardous to aquatic environment 7
hazard Hazardous to ozone layer 1
(2 classes)

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For more information on the above classes, please refer to the following.

CCOHS (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety) “ WHMIS 2015 - Hazard Classes and
Categories” (2015)

Safety data sheet (SDS)

The purpose of using safety data sheets or SDS in the workplace is to provide concise, appropriate and
correct comprehensive information on chemicals to users or employees based on the viewpoint of hazard,
use and risk management of chemicals.

References
・ Guidelines for the management and operation of ASICS chemicals for the control and use of chemicals.
・ Chemical Management System Guidance Manual (2015) of ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous
Chemicals).
・ ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) "Chemical management for the textile
industry, training module 1" (2016).
・ ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) "Chemical management for the textile
industry, training modules 2-5" (2016)
・ "Chemical Safety in the Workplace", "Guidance Notes on Chemical Safety in Textile Finishing" by
the Occupational Safety and Health Branch Labor Department (2003)

2.5.14 References: ergonomics

Importance
・ Ergonomics is to design objects and environments so that human beings can work as efficiently as
possible in natural motion and maintain a healthy condition. By improving the working environment,
accidents can be reduced.

Additional information
The consideration and guideline of ergonomics
Potential hazards identified include the following.
・ Violent, sudden movements and actions
・ Extreme or repetitive movements as well as gestures and actions
・ The duration of sweating, posture, movement, vibration, hot or cold temperatures, etc.
・ Inadequate rest
・ Work factors (for instance, close performance monitoring, wage incentives, machine-paced work).
・ Environmental factors

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The questions that can identify dangers:

・ What kinds of diseases and injuries
have been repeatedly suffered in
factories?
・ Set up a list that can be used while
walking in a factory.

Please refer to "A Guide to Implementing an

Ergonomics Process" protocol by AAFA
(American Apparel and Footwear
Association) and OSHA (Occupational
Safety and Health Office) to get the detailed
information on how to implement effective
ergonomics plan.

Implementation methods for manufacturing areas

Avoid the unnatural posture of hands, arms, neck and
shoulders.
・ Move the location of products or change
the posture of the body.
・ Adjust the distance between work objects and
workers.
・ Remove the action of raising the arms
repeatedly over the shoulder.

Remove the action of reaching the center line of the body.

Keep your wrist in a straight state.

・ Change the position of the hand to relieve the burdens of the wrist and elbow.
・ Change to the tool that can be held with the wrist in a straight state.

To improve the comfort of the spine at work

・ Adjust the height of the work bench.
・ Provide supports for the waist.
・ Provide swivel chair to reduce body torsion.

To improve the upright posture at work

・ Redesign the work so that workers can freely choose to sit or stand at work.
・ Use a convertible stool that allows workers to freely choose to sit or stand at work.

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・ Spread out the cushion on the factory floor to relieve operators’ fatigue.

Avoid keeping hands of workers tightly held for long periods of time.
・ Let workers use clips as much as possible. (fastener)
・ Minimize the pinching movement of the operator.

When lifted:
・ Make plans after considering the actual circumstances of lifting up.
・ Seize the goods and pull them near the body.
・ Keep the waist and shoulders in a straight line.
・ Keep stability.
・ Advise operators to wear supporting belts.

In ergonomics, there are also factors affecting the safe lifting of objects in addition to the weight. Therefore,
the following items need to be considered besides the weight of objects.
・ The distance between the object and body.
・ The distance between the object to be raised and the ground.
・ The distance between the height of the lifted object and the ground.
・ The distortion of the body when lifting the goods.
・ Is there close contact between the hands and the lifted object?
・ The frequency of lifting the goods within a certain time.

References
・ “Ergonomic checkpoints: practical and easy-to-implement solutions for improving safety, health and
working conditions” (2010) by ILO (International Labor Organization)
・ “Ergonomic Handbook for the Clothing Industry” (2001) by UNITE (Union of Needle trades,
Industrial and Textile Employees)
・ “A Guide to Implementing an Ergonomics Process” protocol by AAfA (American Apparel &
Footwear Association) and OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration)

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3. Environment

3.1 Environmental Impact Reporting

Importance
• Both ASICS and its supply chain partners have a role to play in minimizing the environmental
impacts associated with manufacture of footwear, apparel, and other sports and lifestyle products.
• ASICS reports its priority environmental impacts publicly, including those impacts occurring in its
supply chain.

General Requirements
Ensure Legal compliance
• Ensure that all reporting requirements in environmental permits are being fulfilled.

Recommendation
Measure and Assess
All suppliers are expected to regularly monitor their priority environmental impacts, and be able to report
them to ASICS upon request. This includes but is not limited to:
・ Energy Use & CO2 Emissions
・ Water Use
・ Wastewater Emissions
・ Waste Emissions

Monitoring and reporting should also include general production data including total production and
ASICS-specific production, and preferably be at monthly frequency. It is recommended that Key
Performance Indicators (KPIs) indexed to production levels be created e.g. water use per unit production.

In addition to regular data collection and reporting, suppliers should also collect and report to ASICS any
emergency events which have a potential environmental impact e.g. spills, untreated emissions to air.
Specifically, ASICS suppliers are expected to report against SAC Facility environmental module (suppliers
have been informed separately), IPE PRTR (IPE Pollutant Release and Transfer Register; Chinese
suppliers), as well as ASICS’ environmental datasets.

Recommendation
Set goals and
targets
・ Understand buyer’s expectations.
・ Every factory should have improvement goals for priority environmental impacts as referred to above.

3.2 Sustainable Resource Use

3.2.1 Energy use
Importance

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• Ensure that boilers and other installations using energy comply with legal requirements.
• Energy consumption varies throughout the textile, apparel and footwear industry’s supply chain.
However, the trend is increasing, due to modernized machines and continuous usage of the
equipment in inefficient operating conditions.
• Beyond the environmental impacts related to an inefficient energy management, it also has a
significant financial cost.

General Requirements
Ensure Legal compliance
• Ensure to have updated permits and authorizations
for energy sources, boilers, etc. Have a clear
overview of limits and requirements.
• Ensure the necessary monitoring measurements are
done at a regular basis.
• Ensure all measures are in compliance and if not,
remediate immediately.

Recommendation
Measure and assess
• Identify energy sources, and corresponding consumption at different stages of the processes/
different locations of the facility.
• Identify the highest energy users/factors.
• Conduct a simple energy audit (see simplified checklist further below in the section “Additional
information”) by walking through the factory and identify and document inefficiencies and
losses.

Recommendation
Set goals and
targets
• Understand buyer’s expectations.
• Identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption.
• Set reduction goals, targets and strategies to achieve targets (incl. deadlines).
• Identify ways to improve efficiency and reduce losses.

Recommendation
Installations
• Wherever possible use renewable energy sources.
• Improve energy performance of the building: improved insulation, improved heating solutions,
efficient lighting system.
• Apply thermal insulation to pipes, valves, containers and machinery.
• Optimize process sequences in production.
• Use machines with low liquor ratio (short bath).

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• Use air low-jet dyeing machines instead of conventional jet dyeing.

• For batch processes: install automatic controls that enable the precise setting of filling volumes and
bath temperature.
• For continuous processes: install low control devices and automatic stop valves that combine the
water flow with the main propulsion of the machine.
• Closed design of machines to reduce vapor loss.
• Separate the hot and cold waste water streams before the heat exchanger and recover the heat in hot
stream.
• Install exhaust air heat recovery systems.
• Optimize the boiler house: Condensate recovery, Pre-heating of air intake, Heat recovery
from combustion waste gases.

Additional information
Simplified checklist for energy audit
In order to find the largest consumers of energy in the factory as well as understand where there may be
inefficiencies in the use of energy, a simplified energy audit can be conducted.
The following installations should be reviewed:
・ Lighting;
・ Boilers;
・ Chillers;
・ Ventilation;
・ Air conditioning;
・ Office equipment;
・ Domestic hot water;
・ Insulation;
・ Air infiltration;
・ Compressed air;
・ Drying processes;
・ Automatic doors;
・ Automatic conveyors;
・ All machines, such as sewing machines, printers, etc.

References
• Sharma, S. (2012). Energy Management in Textile Industry. International Journal of Power
System Operation and Energy Management 2(1,2):2231-4407.
• ISO (International Organization for Standardization) (n.d.). ISO 50001 – Energy Management.
• European Commission (2017). Promotion of Energy Management Practices in the Textile Industries of
Greece, Portugal and Spain. (EMS-TEXTILE).
• Greer, L., Keane, S., Lin, C., Meinert, J. (2013). NRDC’s 10 Best Practices for Textile Mills to save
Money and Reduce Pollution. A practical guide for responsible sourcing.

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• Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC), (2003). Reference Document on Best
Available Techniques for the Textiles Industry.

3.2.2 Water use

Importance
• Manufacturers are required to control their use of water in accordance with legal requirements. There
is a trend in many developing countries towards increased regulation of water use.
• High volumes of water are used in the textile industry, thereby depleting fresh water resources.
Reduce resource depletion through improved efficiency and recycling.
• High consumption of water in drier regions of the world can lead to a lack of availability for production
at certain periods of the year. Improve stability in production throughout the year.

General Requirements
Ensure Legal compliance
• Ensure to have updated permits and authorizations for all
water sources. Have a clear overview of requirements.
• Ensure the necessary monitoring measurements (where
applicable) are done at a regular basis.
• Ensure all measures are in compliance and if not, remediate
immediately.

Recommendation
Measure and assess
• Classify the water streams by purpose of use and identify and document respective consumption and
sources, as a minimum into the following water streams: Process water, Heating, Cooling, Drinking
and Sanitary.
• Identify and document water usage in the process, their sources (e.g., municipal mains, surface
water, groundwater (pond, well), recycled water, etc.), and respective volumes.
• Identify the highest water users/ factors.
• Be aware of the water stress level in the region where the factory is located.
Drinking water should meet local water quality standards and if not available, the WHO (World Health
Organisation) (2011), Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality. Fourth Edition.

Recommendation
Set goals and
targets
• Understand buyer’s expectations.
• Identify opportunities to reduce water consumption.
• Set reduction goals, targets and strategies to achieve targets (incl. deadlines)
• Identify ways to improve efficiency and reduce losses.

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Recommendation
Process Water consumption
Water use
• Test to ensure the quality of each water stream is fit for
the purpose for which it is being used (chemical and
microbial properties).
• Ensure the process and piping system in place does not
lead to any contamination of the different water
qualities.
• Have a procedure in place for regular control
and maintenance.
• Ensure water collection, spill control and a leakage
control system.
• Ensure water collection, spill control and a leakage control system.
• Install process water system pressure management.
• Shut off water in unused areas.
• Washing Machines: monitor machine water use, compare with specifications and replace nozzles
when water and heat use reaches levels warranting such work.
• Flow control optimization: consider options to reduce the rate of water supply to tanks, and reduce
tank levels to reduce spillage.
• Use flow timers and limit switches to control water use.
• Consider the option to reduce flow in water cooling sprays while maintaining cooling performance.
• Testing can determine the optimum balance.
• Water jets/sprays: review the accuracy of the spray pattern to prevent unnecessary water loss.
• Use of dry process technologies, e.g. dry quenching.
• Install self-closing taps, automatic shut-off valves, spray nozzles, pressure reducing valves and water
conserving fixtures (e.g. low-flow shower heads, faucets, toilets, urinals and spring-loaded or
sensor faucets).

Recommendation
Reused water
• Strive for zero water discharge design.
• Use treated and recycled wastewater where possible.
• Use of localized recirculation systems in factory departments (as opposed to centralized
recirculation systems).
• Implement water reuse: such as counter current rinsing, reusing wastewater from one process
for another one with lower quality requirements

References
• Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC), (2003). Reference Document on Best
Available Techniques for the Textiles Industry.

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• Greer, L., Keane, S., Lin, C., Meinert, J. (2013). NRDC’s 10 Best Practices for Textile Mills to save
Money and Reduce Pollution. A practical guide for responsible sourcing.
• WHO (World Health Organisation) (2011). Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality. Fourth Edition.

3.2.3 Materials Use

Importance
• Manufacturers are required to control their sourcing of materials used for product manufacture. There
is a trend in many developing countries towards increased regulation of hazardous chemical content in
materials as well as the origin of natural materials.
• Be in compliance with legal and other requirements will reduce the use of hazardous chemicals,
hence reduce environmental and health impacts.

General Requirements
Ensure Legal compliance
• Ensure to have updated permits and authorizations for all materials used, where applicable.
• Ensure compliance with ASICS’ Guidelines for the Control and Use of Chemicals, ASICS
Materials Guideline.

Recommendation
Measure and assess
• Classify the most significant material streams by purpose of use and identify and document
respective consumption and sources.
• Identify and document material usage in the process and respective volumes.
• Identify the highest material usages.

Recommendation
Set goals and
targets
• Understand buyer’s expectations.
• Identify opportunities to recycle within the processes and the manufacturing entity.
• Set reduction goals, targets and strategies to achieve targets (incl. deadlines), and identify ways
to improve efficiency and reduce losses.

Recommendation
Material consumption in garment and footwear manufacturing
• Ensure that patterns are efficient and distributed effectively on the textile.
• Ensure high marker efficiency.
• Recycle materials if possible.
• Recycle footwear outsole and midsole waste materials (if color allows; check with Buyer if allowed).
• Use materials waste for other manufacturing streams.
• Sell materials waste for upcycling and / or down-cycling.

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• Reduce the number of samples (virtualization).

3.2.4 Packaging
Scope: Packaging which supplier decides its specification and is used in factory to transport materials and
other things between the processes and facilities.
Importance
• Contributes to increased waste production. → Reduced waste production.
• Use of hazardous compounds in packaging. →Reduced consumption and circulation of
hazardous compounds, hence reduced environmental and health impacts.

Recommendation
• Ensure no banned or restricted substances are used in the packaging materials and pay
particular attention to additives in plastic materials.
• Use recycled packaging materials
• Reduce packaging weight

3.3 Emissions
3.3.1 Waste management
Importance
• Waste management is typically regulated. Certain waste fractions (especially hazardous waste)
require particular considerations for transport and treatment.
• Waste disposal can represent significant costs for an organization, but waste fractions can be sold
for recycling if appropriate sorting and storage is carried out.

General Requirements
Ensure Legal compliance
• Ensure to have updated permits and authorizations for all
waste streams. Have a clear overview of requirements.
• Ensure the necessary monitoring measurements
(where applicable) are done at a regular basis.
• Ensure all measures are in compliance and if not,
remediate immediately.
• Ensure all hazardous waste handling companies that process the supplier’s hazardous waste have
the necessary permits and licenses. If possible visit these facilities and verify compliance and
appropriate treatment technologies.
• Ensure that waste fractions are contained appropriately according to their nature as to minimize all
leakage or emission (including smell) - ex: shelter from the rain and wind, use lids when possible, label
clearly in order to avoid sorting errors.
• Do not store waste at proximity of any water source.
• Be aware of the potential for waste to cause soil and groundwater contamination (see 3.3.6 Soil and

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Groundwater contamination).
• Establish a corrective action procedure for non-compliances and ensure it is kept up dated.
• Establish a substitution plan in order to investigate opportunities to substitute use of
hazardous substances with safer alternatives that shall not constitute hazardous waste.

Recommendation
Measure and assess
• Classify all waste streams and identify and document respective volumes and sources. Waste may
be classified into many different waste categories. Several examples are given in the “Additional
information” box further below.
• Identify hazardous waste fractions and establish specific procedures to guarantee containment and
control: specific areas must be created, waste should be contained in closed containers and labeled
accordingly, containment solutions in case of leakage should also be considered. Keep records as
regards to volumes disposed of and by which licensed waste disposal company (ex: invoices that
specify volumes).

Recommendation
Set goals and
targets
• Understand buyer’s expectations.
• Apply the waste hierarchy. Please see illustration below. The
preferred option is at the top and the least preferred option
Reduce Re-use Recycle
at the bottom.
Energy recovery
• Identify and document waste fractions that can be reused
or recycled - identify opportunities to maximize the potential Disposal
of waste reuse and recycling; including provision of
sufficient waste containers that are suitable for factory
operations.
• Set reduction goals, targets and strategies to achieve
targets (incl. deadlines).
• Identify ways to improve efficiency and reduce losses.

Recommendation
Good Practice
• Institute good inventory control to reduce the amount of waste resulting from materials that are
out-of-date, off-specification, contaminated or damaged.
• Record quantities and types of waste associated with ASICS production.
• Include inspection of the waste stations in factory EHS rounds.
• Identify manufacturing processes that convert materials efficiently, providing higher product output
yields, including modification of design of the production process, operating conditions, and process
controls.
• Monitor waste disposal companies and verify that their waste disposal practices are compliant with

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regulations.

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Additional Information
Waste categories
 Domestic (household) category waste:
・ Domestic (household) category waste that is incinerated (energy waste).
・ Domestic (household) category waste that is deposited in a landfill.
 Biodegradable waste
 Metal waste for recycling.
 Metal sludge for recycling or final depositing.
 Waste oil for recycling.
 Hazardous waste:
・ Hazardous waste - waste cleaner solvents.
・ Hazardous waste - waste primer solvents.
・ Hazardous waste - waste oil.
・ Hazardous waste - waste chemicals.
・ Hazardous waste - waste dyestuffs.
・ Hazardous waste - inks and paints.
・ Hazardous waste - other.
・ Residual (unsorted) waste.
• Leather waste. • PVC waste.
• Synthetic Leather waste. • Fluorescent lamps.
• EVA. • Thread spool cones.
• Textile waste. • Paper packaging – general.
• Rubber. • Paper packaging – cardboard tubes.
• Waste cement adhesive. • Plastic packaging.
• Sludge. • Wooden Pallets.
• PU waste. • Other.

3.3.2 Wastewater discharge

Importance
・ Various chemicals are used throughout the different manufacturing processes of the textile industry,
many of which are considered as harmful pollutants for the environment and public health and often
are discharged via the wastewater path. Reduced environmental and public health impact.
・ Manufacturers have a legal obligation to control their environmental emissions and thereby know
what they are releasing and in what quantities.
・ High volumes of water are used in the textile industry, thereby depleting fresh water resources.
Reduced resource depletion through recycling.

General Requirements

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Ensure Legal compliance

• Ensure to have updated permits and authorization
for wastewater discharge and for a commissioned
effluent treatment plant. Have a clear overview of
limits and requirements.
• Determine if surface water drainage system and the
domestic/sanitary water and process water
drainage systems are legally required to be
separate.
• Ensure the necessary monitoring measurements are done at a regular basis.
• Ensure all measures are in compliance and if not, remediate immediately.

Recommendation
Measure and assess
• Identify and document wastewater streams, their sources, contaminants, flow direction and respective
volumes.
• Classify each wastewater stream into categories depending on the type of waste water
treatment necessary to treat the wastewater.
• Identify the highest wastewater volumes and their connected manufacturing processes.
• Separate wastewater at the source with regard to impurity type and load before mixing it with
other flows.
• Document how each individual wastewater stream is treated prior to its discharge to ensure
compliance with the standards/limits.
・ Identify any non-compliances, evaluate treatments and identify how to improve treatment
performance and establish improvement plan accordingly.
• Identify wastewater quality testing / monitoring required to ensure ongoing compliance with permitted
effluent limits. Establish a monitoring program accordingly. Tests must be conducted by a
professional and qualified independent laboratory. All test records must be kept on file for at least 5
years or according to legal requirements.
• Identify and list the appropriate material type holding tanks with ability to contain with sufficient
capacity and/or have the ability to stop production in case the waste water pre-treatment / treatment
facility/equipment/system malfunctions. Compare to material available in your facilities and identify
missing elements and establish plan to complete equipment (with deadlines, team and
responsibilities).
• Establish procedures to guarantee that specific process residue (e.g. printing paste residue, padding
liquor residue) do not enter the wastewater but are disposed of in a more appropriate manner.
• Establish and gather policies and written procedures to manage wastewater generation, pre-treatment
and treatment.
• Assess wastewater impacts and risks.
• Be aware of the risk that wastewater can cause soil and groundwater contamination if pipes or
the treatment plant are not working as they should.

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Recommendation
Set goals and
targets
• Understand buyer’s expectations.
• Identify opportunities to improve wastewater quality and reduce volumes in order to be compliant and
be better than industry limits and standards. Establish wastewater reduction plan with clearly set goals
and targets (baseline, end date, reduction, quantity) approved by top management.
• Assess the characteristics of the wastewater and conduct root-cause analysis to identify the key
operations in factory production that are most polluting.
• Identify strategies and innovative solutions to improve performances.
• Identify performance factors to measure progress.

Recommendation
Technical measures
Stormwater: includes any surface run-off and flows resulting from precipitation, drainage or other sources.
• Prevent surface run-off from process areas or potential sources of contamination.
• Separate stormwater from other wastewater streams and potentially more contaminated surface run-off,
in order to reduce the volume of wastewater to be treated prior to discharge.
• Assess the possibility to use stormwater as a water resource.

Sanitary wastewater includes effluents from domestic sewage, food service, and laundry facilities serving
site employees.
・ Segregate from other wastewater streams to ensure compatibility with selected treatment option.

Additional information
Wastewater treatment installations
The textile industry consumes large quantities of water
and produces large volumes of wastewater. During the
manufacturing process of both footwear and apparel
products a significant amount of different substances is
released and discharged into the effluent. These
substances may originate from exhausted dye bath,
heated process water, as well as storm water or sanitary
wastewater and load the water in form of chemicals, bacteria, toxins, acidic and alkaline contaminants or
dust particles.

The processes most contributing to the generation of wastewater are dyeing and finishing. The chemicals
and dyestuffs involved are organic compounds of complex structure. Major substances that need to be
removed from textile processing wastewater are COD (chemical oxygen demand), BOD (biological oxygen
demand), nitrogen and heavy metals.

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In order to prevent contamination of soil and groundwater or rivers, a functional wastewater treatment plant
is required. Wastewater treatment is the process of converting water that is no longer needed or is no longer
suitable for use by reducing the level of contamination into water that can either be recycled, or discharged
back into the environment without causing harm. Some factories have no treatment on- site and discharge
wastewater to a central plant, some factories only have a pre-treatment in place and then discharge the
pre-treated water to a central plant and other factories treat all their wastewaters on- site and discharge to
e.g. a river (direct discharge).

Types of wastewater treatment plants

There are three options of how wastewater can be treated and contamination levels can be reduced or
eliminated. Either a physiochemical wastewater treatment or a biological wastewater treatment or a
combination of both is applied.
Below an illustration of a comprehensive wastewater treatment plant is included.

Process of treating wastewater

In general wastewater from the textile industry follows the treatment steps listed below.
1. Wastewater Collection
Wastewater is collected by drainage pipes and directed to a central point. The pipes or tracks should be
leak proof and the people offering exhausting services should adopt PPE.
2. Screening
This process involves the removal of large objects that may damage the equipment. These items must
be disposed of correctly.
3. Primary Treatment

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In the primary treatment, macrobiotic solid matter is separated from the wastewater. This process
includes: sedimentation, equalization, neutralization, chemical coagulation and mechanical flocculation.
4. Secondary Treatment
Seed sludge is added to the wastewater to
ensure the degradation of organic
components. This is done under aerobic
conditions and with help of bacteria and
microorganisms that consume the organic
matter. The process takes 3 to 6 hours and
results in the production of large particles that
settle down as sludge to the bottom of the
tank.
In addition to the application of activated sludge the following steps might be included in the secondary
treatment: aerated lagoon, biofilm, trickling filtration, oxidation ditch/pond.
5. Sludge handling
The sludge that precipitated during the secondary treatment is removed at regular intervals
and dewatered in a filter press. The filter cake is disposed of and the filtrate water is fed back
to the wastewater treatment plant.
6. Tertiary Treatment
Similar to the functionalities of drinking water plants, the tertiary stage has the ability to remove up to
99 % of impurities by the following techniques: oxidation, electrolytic precipitation & foam fractionation,
membrane technologies, electrochemical processes, ion exchange, photo catalytic degradation
adsorption and thermal evaporation. This cost and equipment intensive process is adapted to the
degree of contamination.
7. Disinfection
The treated wastewater may be disinfected for at least 20-25 minutes by the mixing in chlorine and
sodium hypochlorite. After this step, the effluent can be safely discharged.

References
• Silvana, Z., Sanja, R., Golomeova, S. (2014). Methods for Water Treatment in Textile Industry.
• International Scientific Conference, Gabrovo.
• Nautiyal, V.T. (2013). Waste water and its treatment in textile industry.
• Green Choice Alliance Phase IV Textile industry report: No excuses. Taking full responsibility
from pollution from manufacturing (2014).
• Conserve Energy Future (2017) What is wastewater treatment?
• Tripathi, V. (2013) Waste water and its treatment in textile industry.
• Wang, Z., Xue, M., Huang, K., & Liu, Z. (2011). Textile dyeing wastewater treatment. In Advances
in Treating Textile Effluent. InTech.

3.3.3 Air emissions – general

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Comment: Here we focus on outdoor air emissions. In the section Occupational health exposure limits we
handle indoor air emissions, i.e. air emissions that may affect the workers in the factory.

General Requirements
Ensure Legal compliance
• Ensure to have updated permits and authorizations for air emissions. Have a clear overview of limits
and requirements.
• Ensure the necessary monitoring measurements are done at a regular basis.
• Ensure all measures are in compliance and if not, remediate immediately.

Recommendation
Measure and assess
• Identify and document all air emissions (controlled
and fugitive), their sources, contaminants and
respective volumes.
• Document how each controlled air emission is treated prior
to discharge to ensure compliance with the standards/limits.
• Identify any non-compliances, evaluate treatments and
identify how to improve treatment performance and
establish goals and an improvement plan accordingly.
• Identify monitoring required to ensure ongoing compliance with permitted limits. Establish a
monitoring program accordingly. Tests must be conducted by a professional and qualified independent
laboratory. All test records must be kept on file for at least 5 years or according to local law.

Recommendation
Set goals and
targets
・ Understand buyer’s expectations.
・ Identify opportunities to reduce air pollution.
・ Set reduction goals, targets and strategies to achieve targets (incl. deadlines), and identify ways
to improve efficiency and reduce losses.
・ Assess the characteristics of the organization’s air pollution and conduct root-cause analysis to identify
the key operations in factory production that are most polluting.
・ Phase out chemicals classified as ozone depleting substances. No new systems or processes should
be installed using CFCs, halons, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, carbon tetrachloride, methyl bromide or
hydrobromofluorocarbons (HBFCs).
・ Re-evaluate strategies according to progress monitoring results.
• Establish a corrective action procedure for non-compliances and ensure it is kept updated.
• Establish a substitution plan in order to investigate opportunities to substitute use of hazardous
substances with safer alternatives and shift to leading practice mechanisms, to avoid the production
of

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the most hazardous compounds identified in the organization’s air emissions.

Recommendation
Technical measures
• Ensure there is sufficiently functioning ventilation in place, in order to safeguard workers (see
section Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)).

Additional Information
Fugitive emissions: all releases to air that are not released through a confined air stream. Fugitive emissions
include equipment leaks, evaporative losses from surface impoundments and spills, and releases from
building ventilation or heating systems.
・ Identify fugitive emissions and their composition.
 Carry out ambient air quality testing.
 Implement a leak detection and repair (LDAR) Program.
・ Identify strategies to reduce fugitive emissions and redirect them to confined air streams.
・ Do not practice open burning of solid wastes, whether hazardous or non-hazardous.

3.3.4 Air emissions – GHG Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Importance
• The vast majority of energy in the world is produced from non-renewable sources that contribute to the
emission of GHG which contribute to Climate Change as well as other air pollutants detrimental for
public health. Reduced environmental and public health impact.

General Requirements
Ensure legal compliance
• Ensure to have updated permits and authorizations for energy
sources, boilers, etc. Have a clear overview of limits and requirements.
• Ensure the necessary monitoring measurements are done at a
regular basis.
• Ensure all measures are in compliance and if not,
remediate immediately.

Recommendation
Renewable energy sources
• Explore renewable energy purchasing opportunities.
• Use lower-carbon fuels.
• Develop and use renewable forms of energy, both on-site and as an off-site energy source.
• Consider setting Science Based Targets (SBT)
• Consider setting a science-based emission reduction target.
※Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi): This partnership between CDP, UN Global Compact, WRI and

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WWF helps companies to determine how much they must cut emissions to prevent the worst impacts of
climate change. It supports companies in establishing emission reductions targets in line with scientific
consensus on how to limit global warming to 2°C compared to pre-industrial era temperatures.

3.3.5 Noise outside the factory perimeter

Comment: Here we focus on outdoor noise, i.e. noise reaching the perimeter of the site. In the section.Indoor
Noise we handle indoor noise, i.e. noise that may affect the workers in the factory.

Importance
Noise not only affects the health of employees working at the factory, but also may have a public health
impact on neighboring residence, schools, and other workplaces.
Reduced public health impact and increased community support.

General Requirements
Ensure Legal compliance
• Ensure to have updated permits and authorizations for noise emissions. Have a clear overview of limits
and requirements.
• Ensure the necessary monitoring measurements are done at a regular basis.
• Ensure all measures are in compliance and if not, remediate immediately.

Recommendation
Measure and assess
• Identify and document noise sources, and corresponding noise levels at different locations at
the perimeter of the factory site.
• Carry out noise monitoring and modeling if necessary to identify ambient noise pollution levels in order
to ensure compliance with limits: include all stationary and non-stationary noise sources related to the
operation of the facility.
• Identify the highest noise emitters/factors.

Recommendation
Technical measures
• Select low noise power equipment.
• Install silencers for fans and mufflers on engine exhausts and compressor components.
• Install acoustic enclosures for equipment causing radiating noise.
• Improve the acoustic performance of buildings, such as sound insulation.
• Install acoustic barriers.
• Install vibration isolation for mechanical equipment.
• Limit operation hours of louder equipment.
• Relocate noise sources to less sensitive areas.

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• Locate permanent facilities away from community areas if possible.

• Use the natural topography as a noise buffer during facility design.

3.3.6 Soil and Groundwater contamination

Importance
• Soil and groundwater pollution can result from poor factory housekeeping, and represent a
significant impact for the environment and public health.
• Soil and groundwater pollution can represent an important liability for an organization, which may lead
to extremely costly remediation efforts. Appropriate management will reduce liability and financial risk.

General Requirements
Ensure Legal compliance
• Ensure that reasonable steps have been taken to
prevent chemical spills from occurring, and to minimize
their impact should they occur.
• Contaminated soil should be disposed of or remediated
in accordance with local regulations.
• Ensure to comply fully with local or national
standards and laws for the evaluation and mitigation
of soil and groundwater contamination.

Recommendation
Measure and assess
• Identify contaminated soil/ groundwater within and around the facility and identify contaminants
and contamination level, including historical contamination non-related to the facility’s current
activity.
• Identify groundwater sources at proximity of the facility.
• Identify on-site activities that could potentially lead to soil/ groundwater contamination, including run- off.
• When assessing risks related to accidental release or leaks include a risk assessment
of soil/groundwater pollution.
• When contamination of land is suspected, or confirmed during any project phase, the cause of the
uncontrolled release should be identified and corrected to avoid further releases and associated
adverse impacts.
• Establish procedures to ensure a systematic approach to identifying, checking and monitoring
pollutant risks that might generate contamination to the soil/groundwater.
• Establish specific pollution control or decontamination strategies for all polluted soil.

Recommendation
Technical Measures
• Install oil/water separators, sand traps in areas where run-off that may contain hydrocarbons is likely
to occur.

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• Do not store chemicals or hazardous waste directly on the ground.

• Confine chemicals and hazardous waste.
• Install secondary containment for all chemicals and hazardous waste storage areas.
• Ensure to have spill kits easily accessible.
• Ensure waste is contained.
• Ensure wastewater and chemical pipes are intact.
• Ensure underground storage tanks (UST) are installed with a leakage detection and are well maintained.

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Policy of Engagement
19-3-2019

Part 1 To the Management and Employees of Business Partners

A. Purpose
1. ASICS Corporation, its subsidiaries and its affiliates (hereinafter collectively referred to as
"ASICS") require all of ASICS' suppliers (including manufacturers), (sub)contractors,
intermediaries, commercial agents, consultants and other service providers (hereinafter
collectively referred to as "Business Partners") to operate their business so that they meet
the minimum requirements provided herein.

2. The minimum requirements provided herein are based on the "ASICS Spirit", "ASICS CSR
Policy" and the "ASICS Global Code of Conduct", which are accessible on the ASICS
corporate website1, and are in line with the Fundamental Conventions of the International
Labor Organization(ILO)2 and the Code of Conduct of the World Federation of the Sporting
Goods Industry (WFSGI)3.

3. The major purposes of this Policy are:

(a) To inform Business Partners of these minimum requirements for the protection of the
environment, the protection of human rights, the maintenance of a sound workplace
including health and safety, the prevention of bribery and corruption, the prevention
of the violation of antitrust and competition laws, and the protection of privacy; and
(b) To ensure that Business Partners comply with such minimum requirements at all
of their facilities.

4. This Policy is one of the core documents regarding corporate responsibility at ASICS and
establishes a substantial part of the criteria for selecting and retaining Business Partners.
Business Partners should maintain all relevant documents necessary to demonstrate their
compliance with this Policy, and submit these documents to ASICS upon ASICS' request,
respecting applicable laws. Further, ASICS shall have the right to conduct, announced or
unannounced, initial and follow up audits or shall have the right to have ASICS'
designated independent monitors conduct such audits to determine if Business Partners
comply with this Policy. Business partners are expected to follow non-retribution and non-
retaliation

1
https://corp.asics.com/en/csr
2
https://www.ilo.org/global/standards/introduction-to-international-labour-standards/conventions-and-recommendations/lang--en/index.

htm
3
https://www.wfsgi.org/sites/default/files/inline-files/WFSGI%20Code%20of%20Conduct%202016.pdf
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principles, including all individuals that participate in individual or group interviews during
such audits.

B. Standards (minimum requirements)

At a minimum, ASICS requires Business Partners to operate their business in accordance with the
following standards:

1. General Principle
Business Partners shall fully comply with all laws, regulations and administrative instructions
(hereinafter collectively referred to as "laws") applicable to their business operations. Furthermore,
Business Partners shall operate their business observing the requirements for approval of the
establishment of their facilities as well as the safety requirements at their facilities.

2. Environmental Standards
Business Partners shall comply with all the environmental laws applicable to their business
operations. Further, Business Partners shall operate their business with consideration on the
environment and safety matters. Business Partners shall establish greenhouse gas emission
reduction measures; sustainable procurement such as renewable energy; track environmental
data; minimize pollution and reduce waste; make efficient use of resources such as water and raw
materials, and reduce the emissions and the usage of hazardous substances.

3. Employment Standards
With regard to the employment of any and all of their employees (hereinafter referred to as
"Employees"), Business Partners shall comply with the following Standards:

(1) Prohibition of Forced Labor:

No Employee can be compelled to work through force, the threat of force or intimidation of any
form. Business Partners shall be committed to the Employer Pay Principle4 and Responsible
Recruitment5 practices to eliminate conditions that can lead to forced labor, whether in the form of
prison labor, indentured labor, bonded labor, or otherwise.
Employees should not bear the cost for their employment whether in the form of recruitment fees
or other; should retain control of their travel documents and have full freedom of movement.
Furthermore, (migrant) workers should be informed of the basic terms of their employment prior
to relocation (if applicable) and starting their position. Employees, especially migrant workers

4
https://www.ihrb.org/employerpays/the-employer-pays-principle
5
https://www.aafaglobal.org/AAFA/Solutions_Pages/Commitment_to_Responsible_Recruitment

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should receive copies of their labor contracts in their native language and should have access to
grievance mechanisms that include a non-retaliation policy.

Legally Binding Employment Relationship

Obligations to employees under labor or social security laws and regulations arising from the
regular employment relationship shall not be avoided through the use of labor-only contracting
arrangements,
renewal of temporary employment while the nature of employment relationship is permanent or
through apprenticeship schemes where there is no real intent to impart skills or provide regular
employment.
Younger workers shall be given the opportunity to participate in education and training
programmes.

(2) Prohibition of Child Labor:

Business Partners shall not employ any persons who are younger than 15 years old, or who are
younger than the age for completing compulsory education in their country of employment where
such age is equal to or higher than 15.
Young/Juvenile workers younger than 18 years old, shall not perform work which, by its nature or
the circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to harm their health, safety or morals."

(3) Prohibition of Harassment and Abuse:

Business Partners shall acknowledge that their Employees have the right to have a workplace free
from physical, sexual, psychological or verbal harassment or abuse and Business Partners shall
treat their Employees with respect and dignity.

(4) Non-Discrimination:
Business Partners shall not discriminate against the Employees in their employment conditions,
including recruitment, hiring and firing, opportunities for growth, development and promotions,
selection of Employees for training, determination of wages and benefits, and disciplinary action
on the basis of their creed, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, political opinion, age, gender, sexual
orientation, gender identity, medical condition, physical or mental health.

(5) Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining:

Business Partners shall recognize and respect the Employees' right to organize and join
associations by their own choice, and to bargain collectively.
Business Partners shall, when the rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining are
restricted by law, allow the development of parallel means of independent and free association
and bargaining for all workers. Workers' representatives shall not be the subject of
discrimination

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and shall have access to all workplaces necessary to carry out their representation functions.
Business partners are expected to follow non-retribution and non-retaliation principles.

(6) Compensation:
Business Partners shall recognize that the Employees should be fully and fairly compensated for
all of their working hours and be provided with a clear and written accounting for every pay period.
Compensation including secondary and other benefits should provide Employees with earnings
sufficient to meet their basic needs, as well as some discretionary income.
Business Partners shall pay the Employees at least
a) the minimum wage required by the applicable laws or
b) the prevailing wage in the industry, whichever higher.
In addition to their compensation for regular hours of work, the Employees shall be compensated
for overtime work at least at the premium rate required by applicable laws or, in the countries
where such laws do not exist, at a rate of no less than 25% over their normal hourly compensation.
At a minimum, Business Partners shall provide all the legally required benefits to all of their
Employees.
Deductions from wages for disciplinary measures shall not be permitted nor shall any deductions
from wages not provided for by national law be permitted. Legal deductions shall never constitute
an amount that will lead the employee to receive less than the minimum wage.

(7) Hours of Work and Overtime:

Business Partners shall not ask their Employees to work in excess of sixty (60) hours per week
(this number is the sum of regular working hours and overtime working hours) or the maximum
working hours stipulated by the applicable laws, whichever shorter.
Even when it is allowed to work in excess of sixty (60) hours per week under the applicable laws,
the work exceeding sixty (60) hours is permitted only in extraordinary business circumstances as
pre-defined by the employer and agreed in writing by ASICS. Business Partners shall grant their
Employees:
a) at least twenty-four (24) consecutive hours off in every seven day period,
b) paid annual leave required according to the applicable laws, and
c) the ability to voluntarily perform overtime work and the reassurance that there will not be
any form of retribution in case overtime cannot be performed by the individual(s).

(8) Health and Safety:

Business Partners shall provide a safe and healthy working environment, including but not limited
to adequate lighting, temperature control and air ventilation systems.
Business Partners shall provide training to their Employees periodically, promote best practices
with regard to occupational health and safety practices while taking into account specific hazards
associated with the industry and facility set up.

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Further, Business Partners shall provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to their Employees
free of charge.
Business Partners employees shall have access at all times to adequate, hygienic sanitary
facilities. When Business Partners provide residential facilities (dormitories) to their Employees,
the same standards should be applied.

4. Standards for Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption

Business Partners shall comply with all applicable anti-bribery laws and anti-corruption laws, and
shall never engage in bribery and corruption. In particular, Business Partners who deal with
governments or government officials need to be extremely careful not to give rise to suspicions
that they might engage in bribery or corruption.
As a result, gifts, hospitality, facilitation payments and kickbacks will be prohibited. Business
Partners shall recognize that anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws may be applied internationally.

5. Standards for Antitrust and Competition

Business Partners shall comply with all applicable antitrust and competition laws. To fully comply
with these laws, Business Partners shall recognize that the following activities are strictly
prohibited or restricted in most countries and that they are expected to avoid such activities or, at
least they are required to consult their legal department or external advisors in advance:
a) Making contracts or arrangement of price fixing with competitors;
b) Making contracts or arrangements of market sharing or customer sharing with competitors;
c) Making contracts or arrangements with competitors not to enter into a business
relationship with another business entity;
d) Setting a price which is lower than costs in order to throw competitions from market; and
e) Advertising that belittles others’ products, etc.
Business Partners shall recognize that antitrust and competition laws may be applied
internationally.

6. Standards for Privacy Protection

Business Partners shall comply with all applicable laws on privacy protection. Business Partners
shall acknowledge that leakage and abuse of private information is harmful to business and
society, and that it deprives people of trust and confidence in the company.
Part 2 To the Management of Business Partners

A. Publicity
Business Partners shall exert their best effort to have their Employees understand this Policy by
informing the Employees of this Policy orally, or by distributing or displaying a written copy of Part
1 of this Policy, which is translated into the local languages spoken by the Employees, at a
conspicuous place in the facilities. In the case where information of this policy is provided orally,
the Employees are entitled to receive a written copy of Part 1 of this Policy from Business Partners

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upon their request. ASICS strongly encourages its business partners to create their own
behavioral code based on ASICS Policy and to periodically train employees on its contents and
applicability.

B. Breach of this Policy

In the event that Business Partners breach any of their obligations stipulated in this Policy, ASICS
may, at its discretion,
a) order such Business Partners to cure the breach immediately; and/or
b) terminate the contract between ASICS and such Business Partners.
However, if otherwise agreed between ASICS and Business Partners in an individual contract in
writing, such agreement prevails.

C. Liability and Indemnification

Business Partners are liable for any and all damages, losses, costs or expenses that ASICS, its
employees, its officers and its directors may suffer arising out of or in connection with the breach
of this Policy by Business Partners.
Further, Business Partners must indemnify and hold harmless ASICS, its employees, its officers
and its directors from and against any and all claims, suits, demands, proceedings, damages,
losses, costs or expenses arising out of or in connection with the breach of this Policy by Business
Partners.

D. Protected Disclosure (Whistle-blowing)

Business Partners, its employees, its officers and its directors, may report to ASICS Global
Whistle-blowing Line with respect to any illegal, unacceptable, undesirable conducts, or
concealment of such conduct, by ASICS. Business Partners, its employees, its officers and its
directors, who reported to ASICS’ Global Whistle-blowing Line are protected against any
disadvantageous treatment by ASICS because of the said report.
The details of ASICS Global Whistle-blowing Line are displayed on the ASICS website6

6
https://corp.asics.com/en/p/global-policy-on-protected-disclosure-whistleblowing

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