When Is BPA (Bisphenol A) Testing Required for Reflective Materials?

While Bisphenol A (BPA) is not a mandatory test item for all reflective materials, there are certain circumstances under which BPA content testing is recommended—or even required—especially for materials used in children's products.

1. Used in Children's Products (e.g. kidswear, backpacks, toys, children's footwear):

- If customers require certification under OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, especially Product Class I (for babies and toddlers), BPA testing is mandatory.

- Starting April 2025, the OEKO-TEX® limit for BPA will tighten from 100 mg/kg to 10 mg/kg, reflecting stricter safety requirements.

2. Materials Containing Polycarbonate (PC), Epoxy Resin Adhesives, or Certain Additives:

- BPA is often present as a residual monomer in polycarbonate plastics or epoxy-based coatings/adhesives, which are sometimes used in reflective film systems or bonding layers.

3. Products Exported to the EU/US Under Regulations Like REACH or CPSIA:

- BPA is listed as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) under EU REACH, and is also regulated under US CPSIA and state-level requirements (e.g., California Proposition 65).

- If your customer requires SVHC compliance, BPA testing becomes essential.

• Under OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 (Product Class I), the BPA limit is set at ≤ 10 mg/kg starting from April 2025.

• The EU REACH SVHC list recommends that BPA levels should be non-detectable (N.D.) or not exceed 10 ppm.

• For US regulations such as ASTM F963 (Toys), CPSIA, and California Proposition 65, the BPA limit is typically ≤ 0.1%, depending on the product category and usage.

- If your reflective materials are used in adult workwear, safety apparel, footwear, or bags, BPA testing is generally not mandatory.

- However, if they are intended for children's garments or next-to-skin applications, it is highly recommended to conduct BPA testing.

- ESA Reflex's reflective products such as M6033, B2007, B1007, and B1007Ns are engineered with this in mind, and have been tested to comply with global BPA safety requirements.