TJX and other chain stores accused of lax chemical safety

The TJX Companies, headquartered in Framingham, received an “F” for its efforts to eliminate harmful chemicals from its products, according to activist group Mind the Store, which cited other store chains for poor chemical safety. TJX said it complies with all laws.For the third straight year, retail giant TJX Companies, headquartered in Framingham, received a grade of “F” for failing to eliminate or reduce harmful chemicals in its products, according to a report by Mind the Store. One shortcoming highlighted in the report is failure by TJX to eliminate bisphenol S (BPS) in cash register receipt tape handled by employees and customers in its stores. A potential health risk from the chemical is hormone disruption, according to Mind the Store. TJX owns Marshalls, T.J. Maxx, Sierra Trading Post, HomeGoods and Homesense. “TJX is in the Toxic Hall of Shame,” said Mike Schade, Mind the Store campaign director. “It needs to step up, and get a handle on the toxic chemicals that may be present in its supply chain (of products).” Mind the Store supports effective chemical policy, works with retailers to eliminate hazardous chemicals, and educates the public about ways to protect families from toxic chemicals, according to its website.