Tag: compliance
ZSL: Global natural rubber production lacks transparency
Global natural rubber production lacks transparency and the necessary sustainability commitments to protect both people and wildlife, according to an analysis of the natural rubber industry undertaken by international conservation charity ZSL (Zoological Society of London). ZSL assessed 15 of the “most significant” natural rubber companies and calculated an average score of just 35 per cent on SPOTT (Sustainability Policy Transparency Toolkit).
CAM’s online tool helps customers become GDPR ready
In fewer than four months, the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will become active, presenting businesses with a number of requirements related to the way they process data. Ahead of the 25 May 2018 deadline, systems provider CAM is introducing a dedicated GDPR online tool created by specialist lawyers to help customers prepare fully for “the seismic changes the legislation will generate.”
Delphi launches ECE R90 certified brake discs
While Delphi states that its brake discs have been fully compliant with R90 quality standards for many years, its discs for new vehicles launched after 1 November 2016 will now be R90 homologated and certified. The recently introduced R90 legislation only applies to discs or drums for vehicles launched after 1 November 2016. Delphi is also securing R90 certification for discs fitted to older vehicle applications.
TRA Recycling Day 2016 pursues professional collective approach
Spokespeople from tyre industry, government agencies, external industry bodies gather to demonstrate broad-base discussions on ‘Meeting the Compliance Agenda’, including fire prevention and part-worn tyres The new president of the Tyre Recovery Association (TRA), John Bramwell opened proceedings at May’s Ardencote Manor hosted Recycling Day 2016 by setting out the “need for strength” within the […]
Kwik Fit survey highlights MoT fallacies
Survey results don’t necessarily paint a flattering picture of UK motorists, and the outcome of the latest research from Kwik Fit is no exception. The fast fit network commissioned Consumer Intelligence to survey a group representative of the British motoring public, and it turns out that nine per cent of the 2,002 adults surveyed admitted they weren’t even aware that an MoT certificate is a legal requirement for cars over three years old. An equal number didn’t realise car insurance is compulsory and ten per cent said the same about a valid tax disc.
Smithers Rapra now testing to R117 standard in China
Tyre, rubber, plastics and composites specialist Smithers Rapra has announced that its operation in Suzhou, China has been certified to test to the United Nation’s Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) R117 standard by TÜV NORD. The company says adding the ECE R117 standard test capabilities for rolling resistance and road noise will support international tyre makers with testing systems that ensure the highest product integrity.
Bridgestone reaches plea agreement with US Department of Justice
On 13 February, Bridgestone Corporation entered into a plea agreement with the US Department of Justice; this deal will see the company plead guilty to an antitrust conspiracy related to the sale of automotive anti-vibration rubber products. Bridgestone will also pay a US$425 million fine, and says it now intends to “take appropriate disciplinary action against certain responsible employees” in accordance with applicable corporate standards.
Bridgestone adding 3 sizes to Battlax S20 Evo tyre range
On 10 March, three new sizes will join Bridgestone’s Battlax Hypersport S20 Evo sport radial tyre range. These include one front and two rear sizes, in dimensions popular on 250cc and other light/middle weight motorcycles. Bridgestone will initially launch the tyres in Japan and will then introduce them in other global markets.
Toyo enters anti-trust plea agreement
On 26 November, Toyo Tire & Rubber entered into a plea agreement with the United States Department of Justice and agreed to pay a US$120 million fine based on charges that the company violated US anti-trust laws in connection with sales of automotive anti-vibration rubber products and constant-velocity-joint boot products. The Japanese company says it decided to enter into the plea agreement “after careful consideration of the applicable laws, and the results of the findings from the investigation.”
Cabot investing in emissions reduction technology
Cabot Corporation, the second largest carbon black manufacturer in the United States, has agreed to pay a US$975,000 civil penalty and spend an estimated $84 million on state of the art technology to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxide (NOX), sulphur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter (PM) from its carbon black plants in Franklin and Ville Platte, Louisiana, and Pampa, Texas. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Justice, these measures will resolve alleged violations of the New Source Review (NSR) provisions of the Clean Air Act (CAA) at these three facilities.
Labelling compliance worse one year on
Compliance to tyre labelling legislation is lower one year on from its introduction than it was in the opening months of the rules. According to research conducted by market analysts at Encircle Market, the amount of labelling talk has actually decreased since tyre labelling was introduced in November 2012. The research also reveals a number of other details demonstrating relative some degree of inertia when it comes to the subject of tyre labelling.
Exol joins VLS to promote ‘transparency’ in UK lubricants market
The UK’s largest independent lubricants company has joined the independent Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS) organisation. Exol Lubricants said the move underlined its commitment to bringing greater transparency to the lubricants market. CEO Darren Frogson commented: “joining VLS is a strong signal that we want an industry that is professional, accurate and can be relied upon at every juncture.”
Michelin recognises outstanding suppliers
Six Michelin suppliers have been awarded for their “exceptional contribution” in 2011 and 2012. At an awards ceremony held on 25 September, the French firm saluted these companies’ contribution towards its growth and development, a contribution they said to be with a respect for Michelin’s values.
Bridgestone Australia leaves ATIC, investigating own recycling programme
Bridgestone Australia states it has relinquished its Australian Tyre Industry Council (ATIC) membership for “a variety of business reasons pertaining to the operation of the Council.” No further details explaining the tyre firm’s differences with the ATIC have been given.