Like that faded denim look? Think again…
Labour Behind the Label (LBL) has launched a week of action today (May 30th – June 6th) to raise awareness on the dangers of sandblasting, a deadly hidden narrative of denim production.
“The sandblasting technique aims to remove the dark indigo pigmentation from the garment. Propelling a stream of abrasive material (sand) against the fabric under high pressure gradually softens and lightens the denim.” (LBL, Killer Jeans)
Visit www.KillerJeans.org to take action, hear company responses (communication and implementation) and learn what you can do to help ban sandblasting in denim production internationally.
Fast Facts on Sanblasting, via LBL Killer Jeans Campaign //
- Sandblasting as a process is typically outsourced to unregistered third party facilities, proving it difficult to monitor
- Without proper ventilation and worker protection, crystalline silica dust particles are inhaled by workers
- Linked to Acute silicosis, a fatal lung disease
- Garment workers in Turkey, Bangladesh, China, Pakistan, Syria, Indonesia and countries in northern Africa, are at risk—with little information on worker safety
Click here to view an Animoto by Anna McMullen at LBL on how to take action.
Mary has a PhD in Sociology from University of Edinburgh, researching responsible fashion and transnational labour rights activism in the wake of the Rana Plaza building collapse in Bangladesh.
