Moroccan Yarn Manufacturer ATREFIL Implements Sustainable Chemical Management System

Project Attributes:

  • Project Name: MED TEST III, part of the regional EU-funded SwitchMed programme
  • Project Timeline: 2021 - 2022


Project Overview

ATREFIL was founded in 2001 and is a leading Moroccan textile manufacturer, specialised in yarn dyeing. The company embarked on a transformative journey through its participation in the SwitchMed Project. ATREFIL took part in this project in recognition of the imperative need to enhance its chemical management system at its facility and supply chain.

Before joining the project, ATREFIL operated without defined policies for chemical management, pollution control, wastewater treatment, or assessing the environmental impact of its operations. Notably, the absence of an Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) was identified as a substantial environmental health and safety risk.

The absence of an environmental management strategy at ATREFIL was, in part, due to a lack of interest from stakeholders and brands in the enhancement of the company's chemical management practices. However, the management realized the intrinsic benefits of adopting a robust chemical management system.

Throughout the project, ATREFIL engaged in an array of training sessions and consultancy services facilitated by UL Solutions, a recognized ZDHC Approved Solution Provider. Empowered by these initiatives, ATREFIL successfully crafted and implemented an effective Chemical Management System (CMS) based on the ZDHC CMS Framework & Technical Industry Guide (TIG).

Key accomplishments included:

  • Hazard Identification: A comprehensive analysis of chemicals in the inventory.
  • Storage Segregation: Improved safety through effective chemical storage practices.
  • Training Initiatives: Equipping staff with knowledge on safe chemical handling and risk assessment.
  • Mandatory Safety Measures: Enforcing the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

“Our goal from the experience made with ZDHC is to completely ban harmful substances from our production. The project established a complete chemical inventory. It implemented a purchasing procedure based on ZDHC standards, improved chemical management, and enhanced internal safety measures.”

--- Abdellah KHALIL, Production Director, ATREFIL


Extended Reading


UNIDO SwitchMed Business Case - ATREFIL

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