China laboratory expands testing service

SATRA’s Dongguan laboratory now offers assessment of all types of footwear.

The SATRA testing laboratory in Dongguan has been in operation since 2012. Until now, however, testing services on offer have been limited to safety footwear and gloves. SATRA is pleased to announce that an extensive range of general footwear tests have now been added to the Dongguan laboratory schedule, which is now able to offer member companies a quick, reliable and accurate testing service for all types of footwear. During July, new SATRA test equipment was installed and additional staff have been recruited and trained, with testing being carried out in a modern temperature- and humidity-controlled environment. Staff members at the Dongguan laboratory – which has recently been assessed for United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) laboratory accreditation – prides themselves on a professional service with quick turn-around times. During 2015, average turn-around time was reduced to four days.

Over 60 per cent of the world’s footwear is still made in China, most of which is produced in the south of the country. Many SATRA members have factories or sourcing operations in Guangdong and surrounding provinces, and SATRA believes it is important to offer members a fast and reliable testing service close to the point of manufacture. Any specialist tests not performed in the Dongguan laboratory will be available to members at SATRA’s UK testing centre via an express service for samples submitted to the Dongguan Office. For members with their own laboratories in South China, the Dongguan laboratory team will also offer training for laboratory staff on SATRA test methods, other testing procedures and laboratory management systems.

SATRA is the leading technical service provider for the footwear industry, and SATRA test reports are recognised and respected throughout the world. Member companies will continue to have access to free advice and information and SATRA’s recommendation for minimum performance values for any SATRA tests conducted. Please email info@satrafe.com for further information.

Photograph above shows the SATRA laboratory in Dongguan.

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 46 of the September 2016 issue of SATRA Bulletin.

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