The Red Molotov T-Shirts Blog

We are often asked about whether the t-shirts that we sell are ethically produced. Being acutely aware of the horror stories of exploitation within the clothing manufacturing industry, we seek to ensure that all the t-shirts and other garments that we sell have been manufactured by people that have been paid a living wage, are covered by health insurance, are free to collectively bargain for better pay and conditions, do not suffer discrimination, and work reasonable hours in a safe, clean working environment.

To this end we have chosen use Starworld t-shirts. Starworld guarantees that their production processes are ethical both in terms of the labour used to produce them and the environmental impact of production. All clothing produced by them is both Oeko-Tex certified and WRAP-accredited.

You can find out more about Oeko-Tex and WRAP standards here and here

The full ethical policy statement of our t-shirts manufacturer is reproduced below:

OUR ETHICAL POLICY STATEMENT

(Our manufacturer) recognizes its responsibilities to its workers for the conditions under which it manufactures its products. By operating their own production plants, they guarantee that our clothing products are manufactured to the highest environmental and ethical standards. Our clothing complies with the Oeko-Tex 100 standard and all garments are manufactured by trained personnel, operating under fair, safe and well paid working conditions.

EMPLOYMENT IS FREELY CHOSEN

• There is no use of forced labour, slavery, bonded labour or prison labour.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• A safe and hygienic working environment is provided.
• Adequate measures are taken to prevent accidents and injury to health.
• All workers are insured for injuries sustained by accidents during work.
• Workers are given safety training.
• Physical abuse, the threat of physical abuse, unusual punishments or other harassment is strictly prohibited.
• Access to clean toilet facilities, cafeteria and portable water within the factory is provided.

CHILD LABOUR IS NEVER USED

• Only workers above the age of 18 years are employed.

WAGES

• The wages and benefits paid for a standard working week is at least the minimum required to be paid under the national labour laws.
• All workers are covered by the national Social Insurance scheme and the company contributes 60% of the premium paid.

WORKING HOURS

• Workers are not allowed to work more than 48 hours per week, in accordance with the national labour laws.
• At least one day off is given every week.
• Overtime if any, is always voluntary and paid at double the normal wage.
• Overtime never exceeds 6 hours a week.
• All employees are entitled to 3 weeks holiday per year.

NO DISCRIMINATION

• There is no discrimination in hiring, promotion or termination based on race, religion, social background, political views, gender, disability or any other characteristic.

FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION

• The rights of all workers to bargain collectively is recognised.
• All employees can apply for a higher post within the company, without restriction.

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