Testing is an indispensable part of the wool industry. Among other things, wool testing protocols provide a way to ensure that wool meets quality standards and also lays down clear specifications regarding the amount and quality of fibre being delivered. Here, the International Wool Textile Organisation’s (IWTO) explains the process of testing in the wool supply chain.
Wool Testing Standards and Practices
In order for testing to be carried out, there needs to be a set of standards and rules that apply across the industry. The IWTO maintains these standards for the entire wool value chain worldwide. We update them annually and publish the revised specifications and regulations in our Red Book and White Book, respectively. Testing laboratories are audited annually to ensure that they comply with these standards.
In line with these standards, the IWTO developed the Test Methods and Draft Test Methods for the measurement of wool fibre, yarn and fabric properties. Once wool is tested according to the standards and practices, IWTO Test Certificates are issued.
What do our wool testing standards test for? Some examples include the mean diameter of wool fibres in combed wool, the colour of raw wool or the amount of dichloromethane soluble matter in combed wool, among others.
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The Wool Testing Authority Europe
The IWTO authorises and accredits several regional testing authorities to carry out the testing methods we formulate and regulate. For example, the Wool Testing Authority Europe (WTAE) is tasked with carrying out wool testing services for the continent’s wool industry. Its services include greasy wool certification, which includes measuring the post-scouring yield of wool, and assessing the percentage of vegetable matter content, colour and the fineness of wool fibres.
Under the IWTO’s licensing, the WTAE enables European buyers and sellers to be fully informed about the physical properties of their wool. It also protects producers and consumers by guaranteeing the quality of wool. The WTAE is completely independent and is not affiliated with any specific business interest, which means that its findings are guaranteed to be fair and impartial.
These testing guidelines and methods, and the institutions tasked with applying them, help to maintain high quality standards in the wool industry and ensure that buyers and sellers can do business with complete trust and assurance.
Learn more about WTAE in the WTAE Brochure (PDF).
Learn More About Wool and Sustainability by Browsing IWTO’s Wool Industry Resources
For more information on the wool industry around the world, take a look at our fact sheets, statistics and guidelines, or visit our website.
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