Childrenswear specialist from M&S will join supply chain experts and risk assessment consultants at the ASBCI technical seminar. © ASBCI

Product safety is critical for childrenswear, and Deborah Sharpe from M&S will brief delegates at the ASBCI’s technical seminar on delivering effective product risk management. As Head of Technology for Kidswear, Deborah will outline how M&S works to ensure safety and compliance across its global supply chain, as well as the steps the retailer takes if there is an issue with one of its products.

Industry consultant Geraldine Cosh will expand on risk assessment for childrenswear, looking at the injury database, and explaining when and why a garment might be classified as a toy and the implications of this for suppliers.

The specific risks of drawstrings, small parts, and sharp edges will be among the many aspects of safety covered by the event’s keynote speaker, Sheikh Minhazuddin, TÜV SÜD’s Deputy General Manager and Head of R&D, technical governance, and regulatory compliance. Mr Minhazuddin’s wide-ranging opening presentation will look at product safety regulations and standards, including flammability, as well as statistics and trends for product failures and recalls and regulatory updates.

Geoffrey Willis, international senior apparel industry specialist from Trigon, will focus on the key aim of fashion brands: producing the right product at the right time and the right cost. Looking at the factors that have led to increased risk in the supply chain, Geoffrey will detail “30 elements that can affect risk objectives”. He will also look at fast fashion and how the changing nature of the industry has shifted the focus of risk management strategies.

The day will also feature an afternoon of interactive product-based risk assessment workshops led by Geraldine Cosh, and will be followed by an expert forum that will include speakers and representatives from a range of test house organisations, to whom seminar delegates can put their questions.

The seminar will take place at Eastwood Hall, Nottingham, on 26 September 2019.

www.asbci.co.uk