In textile industries, chemicals are integral to every stage of production, from raw cotton processing to final product washing. However, the discharge of these chemicals during fabric dyeing processes presents significant financial and environmental challenges, particularly in the treatment of effluent through Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs).

Experts stress the urgent need for improved chemical management to ensure sustainable growth and reduce pollution. The unsustainable use of chemicals not only harms the ecosystem but also poses serious health risks. Effective chemical management is essential for promoting cleaner production practices, improving occupational health and safety, and protecting ecosystem services.

In response to these challenges, ESTex, in collaboration with Solidaridad, has developed chemical management training modules. These modules aim to optimize chemical use, reduce risks and accidents, and promote safer industrial practices. The training is aligned with both national and international policies, including the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) standards, ensuring a comprehensive approach to chemical management.

By implementing these training modules, the textile industry can significantly reduce the risks associated with chemical use, move towards zero liquid discharge, and adopt more sustainable and environmentally friendly production practices. This initiative represents a crucial step towards achieving greater environmental responsibility and improving occupational health and safety in the sector.

This guideline has eight modules:
1. Introduction of process sequence and chemical use of knit dyeing
2. Introduction of process sequence and chemical use of cotton woven dyeing
3. Introduction of process sequence and chemical use of denim dyeing
4. Safe procedures of chemical storage
5. Safe transportation of chemicals
6. Safety and security of textile chemicals
7. Health hazard and environmental impact of textile chemicals
8. Restricted substances list: chemical compliance & legislations

Contents of each module give attention on basic information, industry standards, regulatory guidelines and practical applications. The practical applications within the modules were designed with the help of real-time scenarios and pictorial references. This manual can be used as a single document of guidelines or as separate modules. For training purpose, each module is designed as an independent resource material. As a result, some of the contents (for example, contents on chemical hazards, safety data sheet, restricted substances list, etc) may appear more than once in this manual.