(Gurgaon, November 8, 2013) Suzuki has approved SGS laboratories in Germany, India and Thailand to conduct volatile organic compound (VOC) testing on its vehicle interior components and materials.

SGS testing ensures that Suzuki products comply with international VOC requirements that safeguard the environment and human health. In addition to national and international VOC regulations, SGS will also be testing to Suzuki's own specifications for VOC.

"Suzuki's approval of our testing facilities and capabilities further endorses our already successful automotive division," said Matthias Popp, Global VP CTS Automotive, SGS. "We look forward to working with Suzuki to verify regulatory compliance at the same time as protecting the environment and consumers."

SGS's extensive experience of VOC testing for car interior components and cabin air quality at its specialist automotive facilities and testing laboratories makes it the partner of choice for VOC testing services.

VOC Testing

VOC are regulated in the manufacture of many products, especially those for indoor use where concentrations can be highest, and also in paints and lacquers, because of their potential adverse impact on the environment and on human health. The environmental effects of VOC include:

  • Direct effects and after photochemical conversion to secondary pollutants
  • Ground ozone formation
  • Damage to materials and buildings

VOC only become harmful when released into the atmosphere. In cars, the main sources of potential VOC release are plastic components, such as dashboard and steering wheel, seats & seat covers, leather, carpets and even glass.

Effects on human health from VOC tend to be chronic, rather than acute, but can include skin and eye irritation, respiratory illness, headaches, fatigue and cancer.

As a result many countries have guidelines to reduce VOC concentrations in consumer products. Manufacturers need to be aware of the VOC requirements for their products and be sure to comply.

Global Marketing Communications
Consumer Testing Services - Automotive

About SGS

SGS is the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 75,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 1,500 offices and laboratories around the world.

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