19.11.2009

EXTENSION TO PHASE IN PERIOD FOR NEW BLEACHING SYMBOL

The current revision of ISO 3758 is ongoing and it is difficult to predict when a final Standard will be agreed. This has created a difficulty with regard to the do not bleach symbol. In the current version of ISO 3758 the do not bleach symbol is a filled in triangle with a cross imposed over the top. This symbol has proved difficult to reproduce and therefore it was decided to move to a blank triangle with the superimposed cross (see below).

In order to ease the situation for all GINETEX members and all users in their respective countries, the GINETEX Governing Body has decided to agree to extend the 2 years transition period, previously stated, during which both symbols can be used. This period is extended until November 30th, 2012.

              Old do not bleach symbol                                         New do not bleach symbol

Background

The very first symbol used for bleaching was a white triangle with Cl in it, indicating the possibility of using chlorine for bleaching and disinfecting. GINETEX, the owner of the trademarks, then authorized ISO to use this symbol, in the first 1991 ISO 3758.
When the ISO standard 3758 was revised in April 2005, several countries expressed the wish to mention also letters, it was been decided to drop the Cl and to have a blank triangle for chlorine bleach and a triangle with 2 bars for oxygenated bleach products.
The 2005 ISO 3758 also introduced a blackened triangle with a superimposed cross to symbol the banning of any bleach products. It was felt such an addition was necessary to differentiate between do not chlorine bleach, do not oxygen bleach and do not bleach at all.