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Revised November 2016
Bon-Ton
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
QUALITY ASSURANCE
TESTING REQUIREMENTS
AND
PROCEDURES
Revised November 2016
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ....................................................... i
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 1
OBJECTIVE ..............................................................................................................................1
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.. ..............................................................................................1
THE BON-TON STORE’S RESPONSIBILITIES ...................................................................2
VENDORS .................................................................................................................................2
VENDOR RESPONSIBILITIES ...............................................................................................3
BUREAU VERITAS CONSUMER PRODUCT SERVICES LABORATORIES ...................4
BV TESTING FACILITIES RESPONSIBILITY .....................................................................4
APPROVED LABORATORY LOCATIONS ..........................................................................5
Soflines ........................................................................................................................................................... 6
SAMPLE SUBMISSION...........................................................................................................6
REPORTING – HOW TO INTERPRET ...................................................................................8
Hardlines ....................................................................................................................................................... 9
SAMPLE SUBMISSION...........................................................................................................9
PROTOCOL DEVELOPMENT ..............................................................................................10
REPORTING – HOW TO INTERPRET .................................................................................13
Testing Continued ..................................................................................................................................... 14
PRODUCT TESTING FLOWCHART ...................................................................................14
RATINGS ................................................................................................................................15
PROTOCOL INTERPRETATION .........................................................................................18
SAMPLE DISPOSAL/RETURN.............................................................................................19
COSTS .....................................................................................................................................19
Forms ........................................................................................................................................................... 20
TEST REQUEST FORM .........................................................................................................22
GROUP TEST FORM .............................................................................................................23
GENERAL CONFORMITY CERTIFICATE (GCC) .............................................................24
WASHINGTON STATE CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMITY .............................................26
VENDOR CONFIRMATION FORM .....................................................................................27
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Introduction
Revised November 2016 1
Section
1
Introduction
OBJECTIVE
Product testing supports the commitment of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. to offer quality products to
its customers. The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. has established a comprehensive testing program to
monitor and ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations as well as industry
and corporate quality standards. As a part of this program, all products must be tested prior to
shipment (production samples).
The vendor is responsible for all testing charges. Testing is mandatory for doing business
with The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Vendors are not permitted to ship product that failed testing
until all deficiencies have been corrected and approved or discussed with The Bon-Ton
Stores, Inc. and waived if determined to be commercially acceptable.
This publication represents the official The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual. It details the
procedures and requirements for all product testing as it relates to The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. quality
assurance program.
This manual does not address procedures related to the following areas:
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Supplier Approval Process
Inspections (Product or Social Accountability)
Definitions
Softlines – Textile products such as clothing, draperies, bed linens etc.
Hardlines – Non-textile products such as electronics, toys, furniture etc.
THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. currently markets product through their department stores nationwide
under the names of Bon-Ton, Bergner's, Boston Store, Carson’s, Elder Beerman, Herberger’s and
Younkers. We are committed to delivering quality merchandise to The Bon-Ton Store’s customers
and to maintaining a strong relationship with The Bon-Ton Stores product and service suppliers.
Product performance standards have been established to ensure that the expectations of The Bon-
Ton Stores customers are met. This translates to the evaluation of all products from the viewpoint
of overall consumer serviceability. The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual is provided to
suppliers to ensure that you are aware of our testing standards and requirements when working with
our buying staff.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Introduction
Revised November 2016 2
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Responsibilities
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc Testing Manual: Provide copies to all suppliers.
Update suppliers on test procedures, sample submission requirements and performance
standards as changes are made.
Obtain Signed Vendor Confirmation Form: Signed forms will be kept on file electronically.
Instruct Vendors On The Nearest Approved BV Testing Facility For The Submission Of
Test Samples: Product test reports will only be accepted from an approved laboratory.
Certain BV laboratory facilities possess specific capabilities unique to them (i.e. an on-site
electron microscope). BV will instruct vendors on the most appropriate BV facility for
submission of samples.
Report Follow-up: When The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Quality Assurance Department receives a test report from a
laboratory in which the submission has been
rated Rejected or Corrective Action Required
(C.A.R.), the Quality Assurance Department
will discuss the situation with the buyer (and
vendor, when necessary), then follow up with
a disposition as to re-testing, cancellation, or
acceptance of the order.
VENDORS
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. will only work with suppliers that are capable of producing product at
the highest level of quality as demanded by The Bon-Ton Stores customer. The Bon-Ton Stores,
Inc. carefully evaluates, qualifies and must approve all suppliers. Once a supplier is approved and
a manufacturing agreement has been reached, The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. works hard to build and
maintain a close working relationship.
All suppliers must meet the legal requirements applicable in the country of production as well as
all of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. quality, performance and social standards. Such standards are not
intended to restrict or hamper a supplier’s competitiveness. The objective is to evaluate the
capability and suitability of a supplier, in terms of set-up, attitude, equipment and general standards,
to produce a product that meets the requirements of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. reserves
the right to require re-testing when deemed
necessary due to among other things,
product non-conformities found during the
quality assurance process, or during
distribution or sale of the merchandise.
All costs associated with re-testing will be
the responsibility of the vendor.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Introduction
Revised November 2016 3
Vendor Responsibilities
Receipt of The Bon-Ton Stores Testing Manual: Read and abide by all The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. performance and quality requirements.
Complete the vendor confirmation form and return it to The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. within 14
working days (see form on page 24).
Forward The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual to those individuals and departments that
work with The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
Production Testing (must be production quality with final approved components and
labeling/packaging): The vendor is responsible for all testing fees. Testing is mandatory for doing business
with The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
Quality testing is required for all new products and reorders with expired test results. Test
results are valid for 12 months from the last test date to In DC of a reorder. All new colors
must be tested regardless of the timeframe. If a style has multiple deliveries within a season,
some items, such as children’s replenishment styles or programs over 100,000 units must be
tested more frequently (see section below).
Additional Production Testing – For All Programs in Excess of 100,000 Units - Samples will
be randomly pulled by the Agents or Bon-Ton’s third party inspection team or pulled from the
top of production by the vendor and forwarded to BV lab of choice for final testing approval.
Shipment will be contingent on production samples meeting Bon-Ton performance
requirements of the pulled samples when testing is required.
Replenishment Styles – Replenishment styles that fall under CPSIA regulations (i.e.
children’s items and other non-exempt items requiring a GCC) must be tested every six
months even if the style DOES NOT exceed 100,000 units.
Submit samples with a fully completed Bon-Ton Stores Test Request Form to a Bureau
Veritas Lab of choice. Test laboratories will not accept samples if the test request form is
missing or incomplete.
If you have questions regarding the testing costs for the product you are producing for The
Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. contact Kevin Clancy ([email protected]) for further
information or a local lab prior to sample submission to
obtain an estimate.
Submit the required minimum number of samples for
testing representing bulk production, all styles, colors,
and/or fragrances purchased. Unless otherwise noted
and approved, such as in the case of development
samples, all products must be in the same form as they
will be sold, including labeling and final packaging.
Visually unsatisfactory samples (i.e. stains, tears,
missing pieces) will not be accepted for testing.
Each vendor is responsible for ensuring that prior to
shipment, all products are accurately labeled in
accordance with all laws and that each product has been
tested in accordance with all the procedures as outlined
by The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Quality Assurance
program.
Packaging is considered an important part of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. quality image and
must be included with test samples.
Regulatory Testing – The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. tests all items to various state and federal laws
and regulations. When laws are unclear in their requirements, as is the case for California
Proposition 65, The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. chooses to test to levels established in previous
settlements whether or not they are involved in such settlements. The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
uses the lowest allowable limits to establish testing guidelines
Regardless of whether
or not a laboratory has tested a
particular item, the vendor is
solely responsible for ensuring
that their products meet or
exceed all regulatory standards
and voluntary industry
standards in the markets in
which they are sold. Products
which fail to meet any such
applicable local, state, or
national standards will not be
accepted by The Bon-Ton
Stores, Inc.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Introduction
Revised November 2016 4
BUREAU VERITAS CONSUMER PRODUCT SERVICES LABORATORIES
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. will only work with BV testing facilities that have been approved.
All BV laboratories meet the legal requirements of the country
they are located within.
BV Testing Facilities Responsibilities
Receipt of Samples When the test request form is incomplete and/or insufficient sample is submitted, the
laboratory notifies Bon-Ton Quality Assurance. Until complete information and/or sufficient
number of samples has been received; testing will be put “on hold” and delayed. To prevent
unnecessary delay, the laboratory shall notify Bon-Ton Quality Assurance department
immediately if testing must be put on hold.
Testing Of Samples Conduct testing and evaluate products in accordance with all Bon-Ton quality standards.
Reporting Of Test Results At the conclusion of testing, provide complete written report, including the reasons for failure
and the recommendations for improvement (Rejected, Corrective Action Required [C.A.R.] or
Approved with Comments [AWC] ratings).
Additional Program Services Technical Seminars And Workshops
Technical Meetings With Vendors
Technical Training For Buyers
Technical Updates/Publications
Currently, Bureau
Veritas is the only Bon-Ton
approved test laboratory for the
evaluation of its products.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Introduction
Revised November 2016 5
BUREAU VERITAS LOCATION LISTING
To obtain the latest lab location guide please visit www.bureauveritas.com
Then highlight Your Industry (1).
Then under the Quick Access panel at the bottom of the page click locations (2).
Here you can view any international lab location by region or download a PDF version of the list under
ResourcesLocations PDF
Or you may contact your local lab or BonTon’s testing program manager Kevin Clancy to obtain the latest lab
location listing and test request forms.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
310 West Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53203
Attn: Kevin Clancy
Program Manager
Tel: (414) 347-5251
E-mail: [email protected]
1
2
4
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Product Evaluation
Revised November 2016 6
Section
2
Softlines Testing SAMPLE SUBMISSION
• Testing Fees
The vendor is responsible for all testing fees. Testing is mandatory for doing business with
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Invoices are due within 30 days of receipt
• Fabric Testing
A minimum of two (2) square yards must be submitted to any Bureau Veritas lab for full testing.
A minimum of ½ square yard must be submitted for additional colorways.
• Note: Pricing can be found in testing protocols, for information about obtaining and interpreting
protocols (please see INTERPRETING PROTOCOLS, Page 12)
• Submit samples with a fully completed Test Request Form. BV will not accept sample if the
form is incomplete. Vendor may obtain Test Request Forms directly from BV (See Section 4,
TEST REQUEST FORM, Page 19).
• Samples must be submitted using a Bon-Ton test request form. Failure to submit test requests on a
Bon-Ton test request form will result in an unofficial test report format that may not be accepted
as a valid test report by The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
• Softlines garment/home textiles must include all trim, accessories and embellishments.
Note: Production trim for all colorways must be submitted for testing.
• VISUALLY UNSATISFACTORY SAMPLES (stains, tears, missing pieces) WILL NOT BE
ACCEPTED FOR TESTING!
• A retest sample would follow the same submission procedures as outlined above.
• Production Garment/Home Textile Testing
Adult Garment Testing: Send three (3) garments for each adult style in one (1) colorway.
Children’s Garment Testing: Send four (4) garments for each children’s style in one (1)
colorway and one (1) additional garment in each additional colorway.
If additional garment/ fabric is required, BV will immediately contact the vendor.
Home Textile Testing: The number of samples required for testing varies depending on the
product. You may request current protocols for home textiles from your local lab or by
contacting Kevin Clancy ([email protected]).
The reference number of the passing Fabric Test Report must be submitted on the test request
form. Failure to do so will require the lab to repeat fabric testing at vendor’s expense.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Product Evaluation
Revised November 2016 7
Note 1: Submit one (1) additional garment/home textile sample in each affected colorway for an
adult style containing high contrast color combinations or significant trim/decoration differences
at the color level.
Note 2: Production garment/home textiles must be made on bulk production machinery in the
fabric quality contracted by The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. and include all labeling and packaging.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Product Evaluation
Revised August 2013 8
REPORTING – HOW TO INTERPRET
Report Cover
This section is a quick reference of
the same test property sections as
found on the test protocol. The ratings of each
property will determine the
overall rating of the test report (see
above).
This section provides detailed
information on the sample that was received and tested by the laboratory.
Client Information
As directed by Bon-Ton, this would be the
current mailing address and attention for
delivery of all completed test
reports.
BV Number
Every sample submitted to the lab, receives a unique BV
number.
Overall Rating
This is the final rating of the sample
based on all test data.
Client Retest Number
Internal Bon-Ton Reference Number
Used For Re-submits
No. Working Days
Total number of working days from the time the sample was received to the time testing is completed.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Product Evaluation
Revised November 2016 9
Section
3
Hardlines Testing
SAMPLE SUBMISSION
Vendors are to submit samples to the
appropriate BV testing facility. In some cases,
samples from domestic vendors may be
requested by and submitted to The Bon-Ton
Stores, Inc. Quality Assurance department who
will forward them to the correct BV testing
facility. A completed Bon-Ton Stores Test
Request Form must accompany all samples
submitted.
Failure to submit test requests on a Bon-Ton test
request form will result in an unofficial test
report format that may not be accepted as a valid
test report by The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
The required number of samples (dependent upon the individual product type) must be sent for
testing. If the correct number of samples is not received by the laboratory, testing will be put on
hold or testing could require extended periods of time to complete. The suggested minimum
number of samples is indicated on the last page of each test protocol or can be obtained by
contacting The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Quality Assurance department or laboratory directly.
Test Request Form (See the ‘Forms’ Section 5 of This Manual)
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Product Evaluation
Revised November 2016 10
PROTOCOL DEVELOPMENT
All samples received by the laboratory are tested in accordance with an established Bon-Ton Stores
test protocol. If at the time samples are received, a Bon-Ton Stores test protocol does not exist for
that particular product, the laboratory will develop a test protocol. Additional time may be required
for the development of test protocols under certain circumstances such as the research and ordering
of standards for foreign countries. Test protocols are easily identified by their landscape style
orientation and the presentation of information in table format (see below example).
A test protocol is a compilation of various requirements (i.e. tests) into a “Basic Test Package” that
the product must meet. An assortment of Basic Test Packages (testing protocols) have been
approved by The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
Test Protocol
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Product Evaluation
Revised November 2016 11
The Basic Test Packages (test protocols/worksheets) serve two primary purposes:
1. The Basic Test Packages provide information regarding what tests will be performed so that
vendors understand the expectations of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. for their products prior to
testing. As some items may be slightly different, the Basic Test Package is to be used as a
guideline only at the point of negotiation. A product-specific Test Package will be developed
at the sample submission stage if necessary.
2. Once established, the Basic Test Packages ensure consistency between laboratories around the
world by providing instructions to the approved testing laboratories on what tests are required
for specific Bon-Ton products.
While the extent of the laboratory tests will vary by product category and by specific item,
consumer products will be subjected to numerous tests to attain quantitative data on overall
consumer serviceability in addition to verification of its conformance with required federal and
state laws/regulations and industry safety criteria. Common regulations to be observed are as
follows:
Domestic (partial list) Flammable Fabric Act
Poison Prevention Packaging Act
Child Safety Protection Act (CSPA)
Textile Fiber Products Identification Act
Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA)
Coalition of New England Governors (CONEG)
Toy Safety Amendment to the Hazardous Substances Act
California Safe Drinking and Toxic Enforcement Act (Prop. 65)
Labeling of Hazardous Art Materials Act (LHAMA)
Leather and Simulated Leather Labeling Act
Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA)
Federal Wool Products Labeling Act
Hazardous Substances Act (HSA)
Fur Products Labeling Act
Care Labeling Rule
International (partial list) Green Laws (in the UK)
EC 9462 (in the UK)
Canadian Hazardous Products Act (CHPA)
Certain states have additional licensing requirements pertaining to the permanent labeling of stuffed
toys, upholstered furniture, bedding and other items stuffed or filled with concealed material.
Bon-Ton believes strongly in
compliance with all government
regulatory and labeling requirements. It is
the vendor's responsibility to ensure that
merchandise shipped to Bon-Ton
complies with all applicable regulatory
standards. Merchandise in violation to a
regulation will automatically be rejected.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Product Evaluation
Revised November 2016 12
The types of tests conducted on items will differ depending on the intended use. In most cases,
evaluation of the products will include:
Safety: Could the product cause illness or injury in normal use or in foreseeable abuse?
Instructions: Are they easy to understand and carry out? Are they accurate?
Packaging: Does it provide all necessary information? Does it comply with labeling regulations?
Actual Use: Will it accomplish satisfactorily the purpose for which it is intended by providing good
performance characteristics and durability?
Standards: The government has issued regulations on many of the items that are tested. Where
no government standards exist, the testing lab will research all reasonably available
studies and market conditions in order to establish practical end-use standards.
Testing procedures are designed to ensure a uniform understanding and implementation of The
Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. quality assurance program by all vendors, agents and laboratories.
Test protocols for new products are developed at the time samples are submitted for testing.
Development of protocols for new items will require research to determine what is reasonable and
technically possible for that product. The foundation of most test protocols (methods, procedures
and requirements) are developed in reference to a standard(s) or other information from one or
more of the following organizations:
Domestic (partial list)
AATCC American Association of Textile Chemists & Colorists AFMA American Furniture Manufacturers Association
ANSI American National Standard Institute
ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers ASQ American Society for Quality
ASTM American Society of Testing and Materials
BHMA Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association BIFMA Business & Institutional Furniture Manufacturers
Association
CBHF California Bureau of Home Furnishings CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CPAI Industrial Fabrics Association International
CPSC Consumer Product Safety Commission DOT Federal Department of Transportation
ETL ETL Testing Laboratories, Inc.
FCC Federal Communication Commission
FDA Federal Food and Drug Administration FED Federal Specifications and Standards
FTC Federal Trade Commission
IFAI Industrial Fabrics Association International ISO International Organization for Standardization
ISTA International Safe Transit Association
MIL Military Specifications and Standards NAHM National Association of Hosiery Manufacturers
NFPA National Fire Protection Association
NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology TAPPI Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry
TMA Toy Manufacturers Association
UFAC Upholstery Furniture Action Council UL Underwriters Laboratories
USP United States Pharmacopeia
International (partial list)
AS Australian Standards Institute (also SA) BIS Bureau of Indian Standards
BSI British standards Institute
CEN European Committee for Standardization CGSB Canadian General Standards Board
CNS Chinese National Standards
CSA Canadian Standards Association DIN Din Deutsches Institut Fur Normung E.V.
(German National Standards)
EU European Union ISO International Organizations for Standardization
JIS Japanese Industrial Standards
NOM Normas Oficiales Mexicanas (Mexican National Standards)
UNI Ente Nazionale Italiano di Unificazione
(Italian Standards) WTO World Trade Organization
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 13
REPORTING – HOW TO INTERPRET
Report Cover
This section is a quick
reference of the same
test property sections
as found on the test
protocol. The ratings
of each property will
determine the overall
rating of the test report
(see above).
This section
provides detailed
information on
the sample that
was received and
tested by the
laboratory.
Client Information As directed by Bon-
Ton, this would be
the current mailing
address and
attention for
delivery of all
completed test
reports.
Client Test Number Internal Bon-Ton
Reference Number
Client Retest Number Internal Bon-Ton
Reference Number Used
For Re-submits
BV Number Every sample submitted
to the lab, receives a
unique BV number.
Overall Rating This is the final rating
of the sample based on
all test data.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 14
Section
4
Testing – Continued
PRODUCT TESTING FLOWCHART
*Note – The laboratory makes every effort to complete testing within the established time frame. This time may increase based on the
nature of a specific product, requests for extended testing or circumstances beyond the control of the laboratory.
BV
Retains original Email copy
BV Completes Testing Within 5-7 Working Days for a Single Sample*
BV Develops Test Protocol
(When Applicable)
Vendor Submits Samples to Bureau Veritas
(Including Test Request Form & Minimum Number of Samples)
Vendor Reads QA Manual & Returns the Vendor Confirmation Form
Within 14 Working Days to the Bon Ton QA Department
Bon-Ton QA Department Sends QA Manual to Vendor
BV Distributes Completed Test Report As Follows
Bon-Ton QA/Vendor
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 15
RATINGS
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. performance specifications (protocols) will be updated periodically to reflect
changes in technology and data available on developing products. The primary goal in revising
performance specifications is to establish standards, which are realistic or reflective of a specific product's
capabilities and/or limitations. The test laboratory makes every effort to evaluate products in the shortest
time possible. Under normal circumstances, products will be evaluated in accordance with the basic
testing packages (protocols) within five to seven working days (not including the day the sample is
received). In the case of comparison testing, products will be evaluated in accordance with the basic
testing packages (protocols) within ten working days (not including the day the sample is received).
Under certain circumstances it may not be possible to complete testing on an item within the established
five working days due to conditions inherent to specific test requests (i.e. a request for extended
environmental testing of 500 hours) or the product itself (i.e. candles that burn for 200 hours).
The Bon-Ton Stores’ testing protocols vary by each individual product and can vary by each style. Basic
Test Packages are subject to change if the product varies from the initial product for which the Basic Test
Package was developed. Upon receipt of actual samples, it is at the laboratory’s discretion to determine
which, if any, additional tests are necessary.
Each test property as well as the overall rating of the final report will be based on the following Bon-Ton
Stores established rating system:
Ratings
Approved
The product provides good overall consumer serviceability with no improvement required.
Approved With Comments (AWC)
The product provides good overall consumer serviceability. However, for example, there may be
minor labeling or construction deficiencies that the laboratory will suggest be changed on future
production runs. In such cases The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. will permit shipment of current
production. However, it will be the responsibility of the vendor to follow laboratory
recommendations going forward.
Corrective Action Required (CAR)
The product exhibits deficiencies either in packaging and/or product qualities that requires
changes to be made and a corrected, improved sample to be re-submitted. If final packaging has
not been included for testing and the product provides good overall consumer serviceability, the
final report will still show a rating of C.A.R. Final Packaging must then be submitted to the
laboratory or The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. QA Department for final approval. Vendors are not
permitted to ship product rated as C.A.R. until all deficiencies have been corrected and
approved or discussed with The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. and waived if determined to be
commercially acceptable.
Rejected
The product has deficiencies of such severity that there is POSSIBLE risk of injury to the
consumer through normal use, customer dissatisfaction will likely result and/or the product is in
non-compliance of regulatory requirements. Vendors are not permitted to ship product rated
as Rejected until all deficiencies have been corrected and approved.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 16
PROTOCOL INTERPRETATION
Protocol Identification
Located at the top of all The Bon-Ton Stores test protocols are the words “BON-TON STORES,
TEST PROTOCOL FOR”. This identifies The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. as the laboratory client for
whom that test protocol was developed.
Protocol Number
Every protocol has a protocol number unique to that specific test package (product). The protocol
number is listed at the top of the protocol directly below the protocol identification and consists of
a prefix, a core number, and a suffix.
The prefix letters indicate the BV client for whom that particular test protocol was developed.
The BV designated prefix letters for The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. are “BTON”.
The core number indicates the number assigned to that specific product protocol. These
numbers are chosen from a sub-category and remain constant throughout protocols regardless
of which country or client the protocol is created for.
The suffix indicates the country of export for which the protocol was developed.
1
2
2 3
4
5
6
15
13
14
7 8 9 10 11 12
1
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 17
Prefix Core Number Suffix
BTON Bon-Ton 0 – 999 Softlines CN Canada
1000 – 1999 Home Textiles FR France
2000 – 2999 Apparel Accessories & Luggage DE Germany
3000 – 3999 Furniture JP Japan 4000 – 4999 Electrical - Battery - Mechanical MX Mexico
5000 – 5999 Stationery - Organizational Accessories UK United Kingdom
6000 – 6499 Housewares (Food) US United States 6500 – 6999 Housewares (Non-Food)
7000 – 7999 Health & Beauty
8000 – 8499 Toys 8500 – 8999 Sporting Goods
9000 – 9199 Packaging - Shipping
9200 – 9399 Footwear 9400 – 9599 Candles
9600 – 9799 Pet Supplies
9800 – 9999 Food
Protocol Name
The next line below the protocol number identifies what item that particular protocol was developed
for (i.e. Candle or Outdoor Table).
Number of Samples Required For Complete Testing
The minimum number of samples required for testing is listed on the last page of each test protocol;
it is the responsibility of the vendor to ensure that the correct number of samples are submitted for
testing. If insufficient samples are submitted, the testing may be delayed or results may be
incomplete. When the laboratory finds it necessary to have additional samples to complete the test
requirements, BV will ask the vendor to submit an additional sample(s).
Items that contain any painted surface and small painted components (trim, decorations,
etc.) will require additional samples. It is recommended that additional samples of any
painted component be submitted to avoid any delays in testing.
Number of (Fully Packed) Shipping Cartons for Transit Testing
(Only if required in writing by The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. QA department)
Beneath the number of samples required, the minimum number of shipping cartons required for
transit testing is listed. Shipping cartons must be sent to BV fully packed, as they would be upon
delivery. Shipping cartons must also be delivered to BV “double-packed” with an external label
secured to the over-packaging indicating that “This is an over-packaged shipping carton for transit
testing”. Items submitted for transit testing will not be accepted for product testing regardless if it
passes all transit tests due to the stresses involved in the transportation simulation.
Number of Working Days for Complete Testing
The number of working days required for testing in accordance with each particular protocol is
located on the last page of each protocol just below the number of cartons required for transit
testing.
Evaluation
Listed down the left-hand side of each test protocol are the test properties applicable to that item.
All test properties listed are performed when applicable. Additional tests may be added to the Basic
Test Package, if necessary, due to variations between the item for which the Basic Test Package
was developed and the actual product submitted for testing.
3
4
5
6
7
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 18
Citation / Method
The second column lists the test method for each
specific test property. The test method indicated most
often is a reference to an established testing standard
or methodology from one of the regulatory agencies or
standard developing organizations listed previously.
Number of Samples
The third column listed down each protocol represents
the number of samplings or readings that are required for each test property. This should not be
confused with the minimum number of samples required for testing.
Criteria
The fourth column of the protocol lists the general test principle and/or test requirements. These
requirements must be met in order to comply with The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. quality standards or
product specifications as identified in the test property column.
Results
This is where any data, comments or other test findings are recorded.
Rating
This is where each test property is given a rating (Approved / Approved with Comments /
Corrective Action Required / Rejected).
Creation Date
The creation date is located at the bottom right-hand corner on the last page of each protocol. This
indicates the date on which that particular test protocol was first developed for The Bon-Ton Stores,
Inc.
Revision Date
The last revision date is located at the bottom right-hand corner on the last page of each protocol
just under the creation date. This indicates the date on which that particular test protocol was last
edited. Changes can be of a formatting or content nature or both.
Pricing Information
This section lists the cost of testing. Prices are given for the USA labs as well as all other labs
(‘Overseas’).
TEST PROTOCOL LIST
Please contact your local BV lab or The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. QA department for most
updated protocols.
SAMPLE DISPOSAL/RETURN
8
9
10
13
14
11
12
15
Where no industry test methods are available, an
appropriate test method (‘BV Method’) may be created by
the laboratory. Please note that any such test methods are
the property of Bureau Veritas and are provided to sourcing
channels and/or vendors in strict confidence. They are to
be used solely in dealings with Bon-Ton Stores Inc. and are
to be returned to the Bon-Ton Quality Assurance
Department immediately upon the cessation of the
sourcing channel and/or vendor’s dealings with Bon-Ton
Stores or upon request.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 19
Product testing is fully destructive. All samples become the property of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
and are retained by the test laboratory for three months from the date of submission. Samples sent
for transit testing are retained for two weeks while customer complaint samples are returned to The
Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Vendors can have samples returned to them provided they accept all costs
for re-packaging and shipping. Before the laboratory can return any samples, the vendor must
obtain authorization from The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Q.A. department.
Vendors are responsible for all shipping costs associated with the submission of test samples to
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Q.A. department and return of such samples from BV if authorized by
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Neither The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. nor the laboratory is responsible for
product damage incurred as a result of shipping.
COSTS
The cost of testing in accordance with a particular Basic Test Package (protocol) is listed at the
bottom of each protocol in the ‘Pricing Information (US$)’ box. The pricing information box is
only visible on test protocols sent to The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. for review and archiving. On final
test reports, the pricing information box is not visible. Some test properties will require an
additional charge. Additional charges (i.e. analytical work) are noted with an asterisk next to the
test name in the test property column and on the bottom of the Basic Test Package in the Pricing
Information box under additional charges.
Normal Service Refer to Protocol (5+ Working Days)
2+ Item Comparison Testing Refer to Protocol (10 Working Days)
Rush Service 40% Surcharge (3 Working Days)
Priority Service 100% Surcharge (24 Hours if applicable to tests selected and available)
All costs associated with The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. testing program will be evaluated annually. If
there is to be a change to established costs during the yearly evaluation, vendors will be notified
accordingly. The vendor is responsible for all testing costs. Testing is mandatory for doing business
with The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 20
Section
5
Forms
To obtain the latest Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. protocols or forms contact your local lab or Bon-Ton
Store’s Lab testing coordinator at the following location:
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
310 West Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53203
Attn: Kevin Clancy
Program Manager
Tel: (414) 347-5251
E-mail: [email protected]
TEST REQUEST FORM
When submitting a sample for testing, a Bon-Ton test request form must be filled out completely
and sent in with the sample to be tested. Failing to fill out the test request form completely and
accurately may result in delayed testing. To obtain the latest test request form please refer to
page 22.
GROUP TEST FORM
Group testing forms are used to group similar items together to reduce overall testing costs.
Hardline items that are of the same base material and construction but of different colors can be
grouped together based on these similarities. One item would require full testing, while other
colors/styles would require regulatory testing only. All group testing forms must be reviewed
with The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. QA team prior to submitting. The group test form as well as
acknowledgement from The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. must be submitted with the test request form to
prevent delays in testing.
GENERAL CONFORMITY CERTIFICATE (GCC)
GCC forms are either created by BV (for most children’s items and when requested) or can be
issued by the vendor (for adult products or children’s products exempt from CPSIA regulations).
However whether BV, or the vendor creates the GCC, it is the vendor’s responsibility to obtain
the document, assure all information on the document is correct and to store the document with
the assumption if The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. or another agency needs to reference it, it will be
readily available. This document also needs to be presented at the time of inspection.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 21
WASHINGTON STATE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
The Children’s Safe Product Act enacted by the State of Washington requires manufacturers
(including importers of record) of children’s products to provide notice to the Washington
Department of Ecology if a children’s product contains one or more Chemicals of High Concern.
The required notice must list each Chemical of High Concern that is intentionally added to a
children’s product in a concentration that can be reliably measured using scientifically defensible
standard analytical methods (“Practical Quantification Limit” or “PQL”). In addition, any
Chemical of High Concern in the product that was not intentionally added must be reported if it is
at any concentration above 100 ppm.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. cannot determine whether it must file a report with respect to a product
without receiving information from your company. Therefore, for each product intended for
children that you supply to The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc., you must provide data showing (i) whether
any Chemical of High Concern was intentionally added to a component of the product at any
concentration above the PQL, and (ii) whether any chemical on the Chemical of High Concern
list is a contaminant present in a product component at any concentration above 100ppm.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. is requiring each supplier of children’s products to provide the data to
Bon-Ton in a specific format, below is the Declaration of Conformity form, which should be self-
explanatory. Both the Declaration of Conformity form and accompanying GCC should be
submitted to The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. for all children’s products.
Note that each component of a children’s product must be assessed to assure that you are
providing Bon-Ton with the highest known level of any Chemical of High Concern. If a product
comes in several styles, you can report the data for each style on the same declaration form. The
declaration form must be provided to The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. for all children’s merchandise and
must include data on all components making up the finished product.
VENDOR CONFIRMATION FORM
Please sign and date this form confirming that you have received and read The Bon-Ton Stores,
Inc. Quality Assurance Testing Requirements and Procedures Manual. Then please mail, fax, or
e-mail the completed form to:
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
310 West Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53203
Attn: Michael DiCocco
Director of Quality Assurance
Tel: (414) 212-6793
Email: [email protected]
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 22
TEST REQUEST FORM
SOFTLINES TESTING.doc
HARDLINES TESTING.doc
To obtain the latest Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. test request form please visit www.bureauveritas.com Then highlight Your Industry (1).
Then under the Quick Access panel at the bottom of the page scroll over to the right (2) until you see
Test Request Forms (3).
Then on the Test Request Forms Screen select Client Specific Forms and Choose Bon-Ton Department Stores,
Inc. (4), then click the go box (5) and click the form you would like to download (6).
2
4 5
3
6
Note: The following
information is mandatory on
all Test Request Forms:
6. Vendor Name
7. Resource #
8. Manufacturer
9. Factory #
10. Style #
If unknown, please contact
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
1
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 23
GROUP TEST FORM:
BTON-GB-SUPP-GROUP TEST FORM-V1.xls
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 24
GENERAL CONFORMITY CERTIFICATE (GCC)
BV Issued GCC :
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 25
Vendor Issued GCC :
GCC version 8.xls
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 26
WASHINGTON STATE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY:
Washington State Declaration.xls
Manufacturer(s):
Adress: Phone #:
Bon-Ton Style
Numbers:
Product Category:
Component and
function:
Other Information:
CAS ChemicalNot
Present
Chemical of
High Concern
intentionally
added
Chemical of
High
Concern not
intentionally
added
<100 ppm
(0.01%)
100 ppm -
<500 ppm
(0.05%)
500 ppm -
<1000 ppm
(0.10%)
1000 ppm -
<5000 ppm
(0.50%)
5000 ppm -
<10,000 ppm
(1.00%)
>=10,000
ppm
(>1.00%)
50-00-0 Formaldehyde
62-53-3 Aniline
62-75-9 N-nitrosodimethylamine
71-43-2 Benzene
75-01-4 Vinyl chloride
75-07-0 Acetaldehyde
75-09-2 Methylene chloride
75-15-0 Carbon disulfide
78-93-3 Methyl ethyl ketone
79-34-5 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane
79-94-7 TBBPA; Tetrabromobisphenol A
80-05-7 Bisphenol A
84-66-2 DEP; Diethyl phthalate
84-74-2 DBP (Dibutyl phthalates); di-n-butyl phthalate
84-75-3 di-n-hexylphthalate
85-44-9 Phthalic anhydride
85-68-7 BBP; butyl benzyl phthalate
86-30-6 N-nitroso-diphenylamine
87-68-3 Hexachlorobutadiene
94-13-3 n-Propyl paraben
94-26-8 Butyl paraben
95-53-4 2-Aminotoluene
95-80-7 2,4-toluenediamine
99-76-3 Methyl paraben
99-96-7 4-hydroxybenzoic acid
100-41-4 Ethyl benzene
100-42-5 Ethylenbenzene; styrene
104-40-5 4-n-nonylphenol (n-NP)
106-47-8 Chloroaniline
107-13-1 Acrylonitrile
107-21-1 1,2-Ethandiol; Ethylenglycol
108-88-3 Toluene
108-95-2 Phenol
109-86-4 2-Methoxyethanol
110-80-5 Ethylene glycol monoethyl ester
115-96-8 TCEP (tris-(2-chlorethyl)-phosphate)
117-81-7 Bis (2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate
117-84-0 Bis(n-octyl) Phthalate (DNOP)
118-74-1 Hexachlorobenzene; HCB
119-93-7 3,3’- Dimethylbenzidine
120-47-8 Ethyl paraben
123-91-1 1,4-Dioxane
127-18-4 perchloroethylene; tetrachlorethylene
131-55-5 BENZOPHENONE2
140-66-9 4-tert-octylphenol
140-67-0 Estragole
149-57-5 2-Ethyl hexanoic acid
556-67-2 Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane
608-93-5 PeCB; pentachlorobenzene
842-07-9 C.I. Solvent Yellow 14
872-50-4 1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidinon; NMP
1163-19-5 BDE 209; Deca-BDE
1763-23-1perfluorooctane sulfonate; PFOS; PERFLUOROOCTANE SULFONIC ACID
1806-26-4 4-Octylphenol
5466-77-3 2-Ethylhexyl-p-methoxycinnamate
7439-97-6 Mercury & mercury compounds
7439-98-7 Molybdenum & Molybdenum compounds
7440-36-0 Antimony & Antimony compounds
7440-38-2 Arsenic & Arsenic compounds
7440-43-9 Cadmium
7440-48-4 Cobalt & Cobalt compounds
13674-87-8 Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TDCPP)
25154-52-3 Nonylphenol
25637-99-4 HBCD; Hexabromocyclododecane
26761-40-0 Diisodecyl phthalate
28553-12-0 Di-isononyl phthalate
Vendor Signature:
Declaration of Conformity
We Hereby claim that the below product contains one or more Chemicals of High Concern to Children ("Chemical of High Concern") according to Washington State's Children's Safe products Act (WAC 173-
334-130). This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Testing Manual Forms
Revised November 2016 27
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Vendor Confirmation
We acknowledge receipt of The Bon-Ton Stores Quality Assurance Testing Requirements and
Procedures Manual.
We have read and understand the importance of the policies and procedures set forth in the above
document and agree to comply with them.
Company Name (Type or Print)
Company Officer’s Signature
(Type or Print Name Signed Above)
Title Date
Please be sure to complete and sign this form and return to the below contact.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
310 West Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53203
Attn: Michael DiCocco
Director of Quality Assurance
Tel: (414) 212-6793
Email: [email protected]