22 August 2007

Investigation into formaldehyde in clothing

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has opened an urgent investigation into formaldehyde in clothing.

Ministry of Consumer Affairs General Manager Liz MacPherson says that considerable progress has been made in the investigation, which was opened on Monday.

"The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has selected a testing provider, AgriQuality, and begun planning a testing programme," says Ms MacPherson.

"Testing of clothing is expected to begin next week."

Liaising with agencies in New Zealand and overseas will be an important part of the investigation, Ms MacPherson says.

"Since Monday I have met with representatives from the Ministry of Health and the Environmental Risk Management Authority."

"I have also been in contact with Australian authorities, and as part of the investigation, New Zealand will look at standards and testing regimes overseas."

Neither New Zealand or Australia currently has a standard for formaldehyde levels in textiles.

See also: Formaldehyde in Clothing - Questions and Answers