Overview
ISO 21061:2021 - Footwear - Chemical tests - General principles on the preparation of samples - defines standardized principles for sample preparation of footwear and footwear components prior to chemical testing. Published by ISO, this document is applicable to all types of footwear and components and provides a consistent framework to reduce variability between laboratories when testing for restricted substances and other chemical hazards.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and applicability: Procedures cover preparation and designation of test samples for concurrent chemical testing of footwear and footwear components.
- Designation system: Each sample must be specified by component part, colour, material classification, and useful information (e.g., whether the component contacts skin, is accessible/inaccessible, or is covered by glue).
- Material classification: Guidance for classifying materials (leather, textile, polymer, rubber, foam, metal, etc.) with notes on generic terms where identification is difficult.
- Preparation steps:
- Photograph footwear (multiple views) before disassembly for traceability and identification.
- Disassemble and separate materials to avoid cross-contamination.
- Record samples in a registration table (examples and format provided in the standard).
- Determine required quantities for each chemical test and create a testing schedule based on customer RSLs (or ISO/TR 16178) and test methods.
- Composite test samples: Permitted where test methods allow; decision to use composites depends on laboratory performance (limit of quantification, measurement uncertainty).
- Storage and conditioning: Samples must be stored and conditioned appropriately prior to testing (see annexed procedures).
- Normative annexes: Annex A (colour designation), Annex B (sample preparation flowchart/procedure), Annex C (materials used in the footwear industry).
Applications and users
ISO 21061 is practical for:
- Analytical laboratories performing chemical testing on footwear (to harmonize sampling procedures).
- Footwear manufacturers and suppliers preparing samples for conformity testing and supplier quality control.
- Compliance and regulatory teams assessing restricted substance lists (RSLs) and product safety.
- Procurement and testing laboratories collaborating on testing schedules and sample designation.
Benefits:
- Improves repeatability and comparability of chemical test results.
- Reduces unnecessary testing by guiding sample selection and composite sampling strategy.
- Supports regulatory compliance and product safety programs.
Related Standards
- ISO 4044 - Leather - Chemical tests - Preparation of chemical test samples (normative reference).
- ISO 19952 - Footwear - Vocabulary (for component definitions).
- ISO/TR 16178 - Guidance on Restricted Substances Lists (referenced for testing schedules).
Keywords: ISO 21061, footwear chemical tests, sample preparation, material classification, footwear components, chemical safety, sample designation.