Q3: Standards

Question 1

Specifications and standards

why

Answer 1

In order for a textile to be suitable for a particular end use it must have certain attributes or properties.

Question 2

draw up details

Answer 2

Specifications are therefore drawn up detailing things like fibre content, yarn and fabric construction and finish. In addition, the minimum performance in use is also detailed.

Question 3

min performance use

Answer 3

This covers various parameters, such as wash and light fastness, strength, flammability, and so on.

Question 4

identify

Answer 4

The standards also identify the various test methods to be used in determining whether the textile meets the specification.

Question 5

who draws it up

Answer 5

Various national and international bodies, such as South African Bureau of standards (SABS), British Standards Institute (BS), International Standards Or- ganisation (ISO) and American Society for Testing and Materials (AMTS), are responsible for drawing up performance standards.

Question 6

retailers

Answer 6

Many retailers have developed their own performance standards, some of which refer to national/international test methods and others to their own in-house test methods.

Question 7

used as an agreement

Answer 7

Performance standards may be used as part of the agreement between the manufacturer and retailer, in advertising or listed on attached labels as information for consumers.