Company News Announcements
Fire-Dex Acquires Chieftain Safety Manufacturing
 Cleveland, OH, September 4, 2008 - Fire-Dex, one of the nation's largest firefighter turnout gear manufacturers, announced today that it has acquired Chieftain Safety Manufacturing, a provider of top-quality firefighter protective gear.
The combined entity will be based at Fire-Dex's current headquarters in the Cleveland suburb of Medina, Ohio, and will have approximately 200 employees between Medina and Chieftain's production facility in Aguascalientes, Mexico. The merger will grow Fire-Dex's work force by 10% in Medina in the near term as a result of transferring several managers and some production from Mexico to Medina. Fire-Dex intends to run Fire-Dex and Chieftain as separate operations and separate brands. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
"We are thrilled about this acquisition, which is a major event in our industry and for our customers, distributors and suppliers," said Bill Burke, president of Fire-Dex. "The transaction will make Fire-Dex a larger, stronger company, and create new opportunities for our people and our partners. The addition of the Chieftain line will enable us to offer customers a stronger market presence, best-in-class distribution, and broaden our line of quality products in personal fire protective equipment."
Ed Careaga, CEO of The Protective Group (TPG), stated, "Since our main business is with the military and security markets we felt that the sale of our Chieftain Safety division to Fire-Dex was prudent. This will allow TPG to focus on our core business. Likewise, with Fire-Dex's current presence in the fire service market it will allow Chieftain to move forward as part of a company that spends 100% of their time focusing on fire fighter protective equipment. This should place Chieftain Safety in an environment where the current employees can flourish and continue to gain market share.
Burke noted that Fire-Dex is currently the only turnout provider to manufacture premium quality NFPA hoods and gloves and to enable firefighters to personalize their turnout gear. "With the Chieftain acquisition, we are acquiring the added capability of manufacturing our own firefighting helmets," he said.
In a related matter, Chrissy Foster joined Fire-Dex as the customer service representative for Chieftain Safety in 2008, bringing with her 7 years of customer relations experience. Her responsibilities, among others, include providing customer support to all Chieftain customers. She resides in Medina with her husband and two children.
Fire-Dex is a quality manufacturer of protective firefighting clothing and emergency response apparel since 1983. The company manufactures NFPA compliant structural and proximity turnout gear featuring its line of Express Gear - "5 styles delivered in 5 days or less." Fire-Dex also manufactures two models of NFPA compliant ParaDex™ EMS gear and is the only turnout manufacturer to also manufacture premium quality NFPA hoods and gloves.
Chieftain Safety Manufacturing has been providing firefighters with the protective gear they need to get the job done since 1927. Chieftain turnout gear is UL certified to meet all current NFPA standards. Chieftain helmets are SEI certified.
Lydia's Uniforms Brings Medical Scrubs to You Tube
 Grand Rapids, MI, August 28, 2008 - Lydia's Professional Uniforms is proud to announce the recent launch of two new YouTube videos. The videos strive to give the company's existing and potential customers an inside look at customer experiences with Lydia's Uniforms and also give them an idea of what they can expect from the customer service that the business provides.
To film the videos, interviews were conducted with actual customers at a local health center. The customers were happy to offer their opinions on the price, comfort and quality of their medical uniforms from Lydia's. They also spoke about their experiences buying from the business. In addition to filming at the local health center; footage for the videos was also shot inside Lydia's Uniforms' headquarters.
The first video has a strong focus on customer testimonials. It features four different employees of the health center speaking candidly about Lydia's Uniforms. The second video is more focused on customer service. It includes interviews with the Contact Center Manager of Lydia's Uniforms and the Systems Coordinator of Cherry Street Health Services who does the uniform purchasing for around 200 employees. It also gives a look inside the contact center at Lydia's Uniforms.
In addition to publishing these videos here: www.youtube.com/user/lydiasuniforms on YouTube, Lydia's has also made them available at www.LydiasUniforms.com and on their Facebook and MySpace profiles. Viewers are encouraged to leave comments about these two videos and feedback regarding what types of videos they would like to see from Lydia's Uniforms in the future.
SanMar Debuts New Streaming Product Videos
 Seattle, WA, September 5, 2008 - SanMar Corporation, a leading supplier of imprintable apparel and accessories, announced today the release of all-new, customizable product videos. These 22 new web videos are now available for streaming and emailing to clients.
"As the internet continues to change how we do business, product videos are no longer just a novelty, but an essential part of product exposure," explains Tenley Peck, SanMar website marketing manager. "This e-tool will allow our customers to engage their clients in a more targeted way, helping them make confident, informed purchasing decisions."
Because customers can add their personal message or logo to a video before sending a custom email with the video URL to their clients, each web video functions as a customizable sales tool. Running approximately 30 to 60 seconds, each video provides detailed product information and highlights unique features. This initial batch of web videos is available for many of the top-sellers from Port Authority®, Sport-Tek®, District Threads® and Port & Company®.
The new web videos expand SanMar¹s suite of marketing tools and reaffirms SanMar¹s commitment to supplying customers with valuable marketing materials and aids. As Peck explains, "Not only is this a great sales tool, but this is another convenient means by which we can help customers efficiently manage their time and provide information that can maximize their sales."
SanMar Corporation is a leading supplier of wholesale apparel and accessories including Nike Golf, Tiger Woods Collection, PING® Collection, OGIO®, Red House, New Era®, Port Authority®, Port & Company®, District Threads®, CornerStone and Sport-Tek®. A family-owned business since 1971, SanMar is based in Seattle, WA, with six national distribution centers.
To view the new product videos, visit www.sanmar.com/marketing/videolist.jsp
New Flannel Lined 5.11 Tactical Pant Delivers Unmatched Comfort and Warmth
 Modesto, CA, September 25, 2008 - A "winterized" version of the authentic 5.11 Tactical Pant is now available. Constructed of tough, 8.5-oz., 100% cotton canvas lined with soft, preshrunk cotton flannel in red plaid, the pants deliver 5.11's unmatched fit, function and performance in a design that looks great on virtually everyone. Flannel insulation makes these pants a versatile choice for on and off-duty wear in multiple environments.
Because they're perfect for cold-weather activities like camping, fishing, spectator events and travel, you'll want to stock up. Like the authentic 5.11 Tactical Pant, the Flannel Lined version has the same popular seven-pocket design, 5.11's patented rear strap and slash pockets, double thick seat and knees, bartacking in high-stress areas and more. The pants are available in khaki, and pricing begins at $59.99.
For a limited time only, Flannel Lined 5.11 Tactical Pants also include a mail-in offer for a free pair of 5.11 flannel boxers valued at $14.99. Visit www.511tactical.com today to locate your closest 5.11 Dealer, where you'll find the complete lineup of 5.11 Tactical pants, covert wear, footwear, jackets, nylon gear, gun accessories and more.
New TRU-SPEC 24/7 All Season Pants Lighter, More Comfortable than Original
 Marietta, GA, September 8, 2008 - TRU-SPEC by Atlanco has introduced an ultra-comfortable, lightweight alternative to its popular cotton canvas 24-7 duty/casual trousers. Like the original 24-7's, the new "24-7 All Season Pants" are based on the multi-function trousers commonly worn by many police tactical teams, but have been designed for both style and function and easily cross the line between on-duty and off-duty wear.
To ensure maximum wearability in virtually any environment, the new 24/7 All Season Pants are manufactured from rugged, lightweight 6.5 oz 65/35 polyester cotton rip-stop (the originals are 8.5 oz. 100% cotton canvas). The fabric is Teflon-coated to protect against stains.
TRU-SPEC has designed its 24-7 All Season Pants with what TRU-SPEC calls an "Engineered Dimensional Fit." That simply means that the length of the rise increases in proportion to the length of the inseam. The result is a nearly perfect fit, or Tru-Fit, regardless of the wearer's size or body style. As a further accommodation to comfort, TRU-SPEC has integrated a comfort fit slider waistband into the trouser design. Much like the expandable waistband found on some expensive dress trousers, this band is inside, not outside the waistband. It stretches and conforms to the body shape and provides ease of movement on-the-job.
TRU-SPEC's design includes a host of special features and functions aimed at real working cops, including extra-deep slash-style front pockets; two cargo pockets with expandable gussets, secure hook-and-loop flap closures on a slanted pocket cover; external cell phone/magazine pockets, also with secure hook-and-loop flap closures; easy-access knife or accessory pockets; rear pockets with hook-and-loop flaps; and reinforced knees with inside openings for tactical knee pads.
TRU-SPEC's new 24/7 All Season Pants are available in five colors: khaki, navy, olive drab, coyote and black. All colors will be available in waist sizes from 28 to 54.
SanMar Releases 2008 Holiday Gift Guide
 Seattle, WA, September 11, 2008 - SanMar Corporation, a leading supplier of imprintable apparel and accessories, has introduced its 2008 Holiday Gift Guide to help distributors prepare for fourth quarter holiday selling. The 28-page catalog offers over 50 gift ideas and is appealingly organized according to various personalities and interests for intentional shopping.
"Arranged by activities and interests, this year¹s Guide makes it easy for distributors to help their clients find the right gift for every person on the list, including those traditionally hard-to-buy-for folks," says Lee Strom senior marketing manager.
Designed for convenience, the Guide is divided by five different personality traits: Executive; Eco-Conscious; Urbanite; Golfer; and Outdoorsman. A sixth section is devoted to bags and totes for creative wrapping options and gift packages. Each section also helpfully profiles top gifts, as well as budget-friendly presents under $20.
The 2008 Holiday Gift Guide includes suggested retail prices on all items and is available mid-September.
To request a catalog, please call 800.426.6399 or visit www.sanmar.com
Penn Emblem's David Braun, Mike Costello add New Territories
 Philadelphia, September 18, 2008 - The Penn Emblem Company is pleased to announce that David Braun, western regional accounts manager, has acquired additional territory to cover the company's Southern California and Arizona customer base. He will now oversee the entire western division with a full support team in the Mira Loma California office.
Braun has been with Penn Emblem since 2003, and has been serving the rental uniform industry since 1999. Braun has been a valuable asset since he first joined the Penn Team and will bring the same determination and hard work to these new regions that he has always brought to his customers. "We look forward to taking advantage of David's vast knowledge and his contacts to grow this region and continue to serve our current base," said Randi Joseph, VP of sales and marketing.
Penn Emblem's Mike Costello, central division accounts manager, has also acquired additional territory and will now control the entire Central/Midwest region of the country, which extends from Texas to North Dakota and includes Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana and Utah. Mike is based out of Overland Park, KS, and has been with Penn Emblem for over 13 years. He brings to his customers a wealth of experience from over 30 years in the industrial uniform business.
Tafford Announces Nursing Scholarship Winners
 North Wales, PA, September 16, 2008 – Tafford Uniforms, a leading supplier of nursing scrubs, shoes, and medical accessories, today announced that two students have been awarded the Tafford Uniforms Nursing Scholarship. Charla Walker and Nathan Brimmer are the fifth and sixth recipients of the Tafford Scholarship, which was first awarded in June 2007.
Charla Walker has been awarded the scholarship to assist in her pursuit of an Associate's Degree in Nursing from Bevill State Community College, in Hamilton, Alabama. Charla, who grew up in a single parent, low income family, works two jobs in addition to attending school and volunteering at two local hospitals. Charla strives to achieve a successful career in nursing not only for herself, but to help her family as well.
"Some people never try to make their life better, but I strive to. I have already set many goals for myself and reached them," said Walker. After completing her Associate's Degree, Walker plans to pursue her Bachelor's Degree and eventually become a nurse practitioner.
Nathan Brimmer, a student at Central Maine Medical Center School of Allied Health Sciences pursuing his Associate's Degree in Nursing, is an active Wilderness First Responder and first-aid teacher. Brimmer realized he wanted to pursue a career in nursing after volunteering in a New Orleans health clinic after Hurricane Katrina. Nathan's time in New Orleans reminded him of the plight of those in his home state of Maine who lack quality affordable healthcare.
"My experiences in New Orleans have left me compelled to advance my training to a level that will allow me to provide vital services in my home community, as well as in future disaster scenarios," said Brimmer.
"Nathan and Charla demonstrate the dedication and perseverance required to succeed in the nursing field," said Gene S. Godick, CEO and co-owner of Tafford Uniforms. "We are proud to help them achieve their goals and help fill the critical need for nursing professionals in our country."
Tafford Uniforms is a leading manufacturer and retailer of nursing uniforms, scrubs, accessories, and footwear. For over 20 years, millions of customers have looked to the Tafford brand for the best in style, quality, customer service, and value. For more information, visit www.tafford.com
Tullahoma Leverages Eton System to Expand Production of Army Uniforms
Alpharetta, GA, September 4, 2008 – Eton Systems Inc. announces that longstanding customer Tullahoma Industries LLC has shifted production of its U.S. Army's Generation III uniform trouser program from traditional sewing and assembly lines to the advanced Eton unit production system in its Brilliant, Alabama facility. The move was warranted by production limitations related to handling of bundles (stacks) of the lightweight, waterproof materials used in the uniform.
After utilizing a manual production process for more than six months, the move to Eton resulted in a 15 - 20% increase in productivity in less than 90-days. With operator productivity now running at 117% of established standards, the company plans to increase production of the Gen III pant from 500 units to 750 per day.
"Moving the GEN III product to Eton has been a huge improvement for us," stated Russell Boren, former Brilliant plant manager turned corporate engineer. "The slick and lightweight materials were far too difficult to keep organized manually. The operators got very frustrated trying to stack, tie and untie, and position the fabrics for assembly and very few were even coming close to production goals. With Eton, all of the parts for each pant are efficiently organized in a special product carrier. Most of the time, workers do not even have to remove the work from the carrier to do their job. This eliminated the need for two general materials handlers and dramatically reduced operator handling time across the board. Eton has enabled us to increase productivity by at least 15 – 20% and we can now keep production of the uniform pant running smoothly."
Apparel Sourcing Firm Launches Workwear Brand, Direct-Sourcing Program
Mount Airy, North Carolina, September 25, 2008 - Independent and regional uniform-rental companies will benefit from significantly lower product costs, consistent product quality and private label opportunities via new products and services offered by ThirdLine Sourcing & Marketing, Inc.
ThirdLine announces the launch of Williams Brand™ apparel - classic uniforms for the workplace. The line includes popular styles of industrial workwear, safety apparel, medical apparel, chef's apparel and image wear. Several styles of shop towels and bar mops are also available. These items are offered at a significant discount to market-leading brands through the company's direct-sourcing program.
"Our market research reveals many independent rental uniform companies across the country that purchase uniforms for rental but are not necessarily large enough to competitively source the products direct from the factory," says Tony Williams, president. For these users, ThirdLine combines the needs of several firms to place bulk, container-load orders with its factories. This allows each firm to reap the cost advantage of bulk sourcing without committing to the large quantities typically required to justify bulk-sourcing. The bulk orders are imported to the United States and then distributed to each firm. "This method of sourcing and distribution, along with our in-house, structured quality audit program, ensures that our customers always receive superior quality at a lower cost," Williams says.
How significant is the savings? Kevin Williams, vice president, states, "As a result of our bulksourcing program, Williams Brand™ customers experience a cost savings of 15% - 45%. Even buyers who use a group-purchasing organization will find a 20% - 25% savings off their already discounted prices." There are no fees or dues associated with the program and no need to rely on rebates or quota discounts to experience the savings. "Just place a bulk order from the standard Williams Brand™ price list, " says Williams, "and experience a savings that will dramatically enhance profit margins."
For more information about the Williams Brand™ products offered by ThirdLine's direct-sourcing program or to learn about private label opportunities, please contact Tony G. Williams, president, ThirdLine Sourcing & Marketing, Inc, 902 South Renfro Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone: (336) 719-0031. Email: twilliams@thirdlineinc.com
ThirdLine Sourcing &Marketing, Inc. was founded in 2006 by the father-son team of Tony and Kevin Williams. With a combined 30+ years of experience in the apparel and textile industries, the team uses their sourcing expertise and factory contacts around the world to source private-label and house-branded apparel for the childrenswear, pediatric medical and workplace apparel markets.
International
Chinese-made Uniforms Recalled
 Sydney, September 8, 2008 (The Australian) - An Australian power company has withdrawn more than 3000 Chinese-made protective uniforms after staff complained of skin irritations.
"The health and safety of our staff has always been our priority. There will be none in the field from close of business today," Ergon Energy said.
The Electrical Trades Union said more than 250 Ergon Energy workers had broken out in rashes and some had vomited after wearing the flame-retardant suits, the Courier-Mail reported.
"As soon as staff reported skin irritations we advised them to seek medical advice," said Ergon.
"We immediately had the uniforms sent for independent scientific testing and advised the suppliers to do the same. Testing initiated by Ergon Energy has so far proved inconclusive."
Chinese manufacturers have been hit by a series of product recalls in the past year, involving millions of toys, cell phones and food products.
The recalls prompted China to strengthen product controls, audit manufacturers, and revoke the export license of 701 companies in the toy sector, an EU-commissioned report said in June.
Qantas Launches Contemporary Morrissey Designs for Cabin Crew Uniforms
 Sydney, September 9, 2008 - Qantas has announced the launch of an all-new modern version of its cabin crew uniforms to coincide with the commencement of its A380 flights in October.
Qantas Group General Manager Customer Product and Services, Ms Lesley Grant, said that the redesigned uniforms had been created by designer, Peter Morrissey.
"Qantas launched its current Morrissey designed uniforms in 2003," she said.
"While the uniforms remain stylish and distinctive and are popular with both our crew members and customers, the time is right to introduce a new color palette, in keeping with our increasing focus on contemporary design and to coincide with the arrival of the new generation A380."
Ms Grant said the Australian designer used the textile design Wirriyarra from the Balarinji Design Studio to create the airlines uniforms.
"Australian wool suits in black are combined with Wirriyarra scarves or ties in a new ‘dusk' print - characterized by silver and blue tones - and a dusk print dress has been created for female flight attendants," she said.
"Qantas Customer Service Managers will also wear new ties and scarves, including ‘platinum' box weave silver for men and platinum silver for women.
"Qantas cabin crew is the face of our airline and this updated uniform is fresh, contemporary and reflects our premium style."
In 1938, Qantas' first male cabin crew dressed in white waiters' jackets when serving dinner to passengers.
In 1947, female crew joined Qantas and wore a military style uniform. Qantas' cabin crew uniform has been re-designed nine times since – in 1959, 1964, 1969, 1971, 1974, 1985, 1993, 2003 and 2008 – created by leading designers such as Emilio Pucci, Yves Saint Laurent and George Gross and Harry Who.
Postal Staff Try Out New Uniforms
 United Kingdom, September 8, 2008 (BBC News) - The Royal Mail is trying out a new uniform for its postal staff which includes polo shirts, fleece tops, summer hats and cycle helmets.
The red outfit also has new lightweight cagoules, all-weather jackets and trousers with specially-designed pockets to hold new handheld computers.
Postmen and women in Brighton, Sussex, and Surrey are currently testing the new uniforms.
They will be introduced more widely across the country during 2009.
"The distances our postmen and women cover on their delivery rounds means they need something that stands up to the demands of the job and which keeps them warm and dry," said Royal Mail's national uniforms manager Bob Taylor.
He said customers had given positive feedback about the handheld computers used to sign for and trace items.
"These developments play a critical role in the modernization of the postal delivery service," he said.
But the Communication Workers Union said the fact that only a few hundred workers were being offered the new uniform was a "shambles".
"This new modern and improved uniform should be rolled out across the whole country immediately," said a spokesman.
End Users in the News
Screeners Have New Look, but Mission of Airline Security is Failing, Report Says
 Chicago, September 12, 2008 (Chicago Tribune) - The nation's airport security screeners unveiled new uniforms Thursday on the seventh anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks as a congressional report blistered the federal government for failing "to provide the American people the security they expect and deserve."
The report, titled "Wasted Lessons of 9/11," cited poor progress toward identifying potentially dangerous airline passengers before they show up at the airport. It also questioned whether the Department of Homeland Security will meet a 2010 deadline to screen all cargo transported on passenger planes in the U.S.
At O'Hare International Airport, the stepped-up security in the terminals on the anniversary and the spiffy appearance of the Transportation Security Administration screeners went unnoticed by most passengers.
Many travelers acknowledged they were more focused on the mundane—removing their shoes and laptop computers from their cases at security checkpoints and reaching their destinations—than reflecting on the loss of life on Sept. 11, 2001.
"It's just another day to travel," said Vernon Baldwin, 23, who was returning home to Charlotte after interviewing in Chicago for a job to teach English in Japan.
The new TSA uniforms—blue shirts and a golden metal badge that replaced a cloth patch on white shirts—are intended to boost the image of professionalism and skill among officers and improve their morale, officials said.
At O'Hare, Annie Gregg, 23, a transportation security officer from Midlothian who has been working for TSA for a year, agreed that the uniforms would improve spirits, saying they look "a lot sharper" than the old ones.
"Every transportation security officer will feel better about themselves and the TSA," Gregg said.
Not every screener agreed, however.
"The new uniform makes us look more like we should be pushing wheelchairs through the airport or valet-parking cars," said one TSA security officer who did not want to be identified.
Security agency officials said the new look is only one component of an evolving effort to introduce more advanced explosives-detection skills at airports to protect the public yet taking a more customer-friendly approach to screening passengers.
Government and independent security authorities still consider commercial aviation a prime target for terrorism, due largely to the psychological and economic shock waves an attack using aircraft creates.
But the congressional report blasted the Bush administration for failing to implement key homeland security improvements, including new protections needed to safeguard airports. The report was prepared by the majority staffs of the House Homeland Security and Foreign Affairs committees.
It said a program called Secure Flight, intended to screen the risk levels of passengers based on background checks and their travel history, is years behind schedule.
Secure Flight, which was supposed to replace a passenger screening system that critics said amounted to racial and ethnic profiling, was to begin last year for all flights into and out of the U.S.
The TSA, meanwhile, faces an early February deadline to screen at least half of all cargo loaded onto passenger planes. Currently, a small percentage of cargo is X-rayed. The TSA is scampering to deploy huge X-ray machines capable of scanning the contents of trucks and cargo containers.
All air cargo on passenger planes must be screened by August 2010.
"Recent testimony . . . makes it clear that there has been little progress on this critical homeland security mandate," said the report, noting that Congress has given more than $500 million to the Department of Homeland Security in the last five years to tighten air cargo security.
Meanwhile, homeland security agents wearing bulletproof vests labeled "DHS Police" patrolled O'Hare's terminals Thursday. Deployment of Chicago police officers also appeared stepped up at O'Hare.
The Homeland Security agents are members of the VIPER (Visible Intermodal Protection and Response) squad being sent on a random basis to U.S. airports, said Kathleen Petrowsky, the TSA's federal security director at O'Hare.
Gwen Stefani to Design Uniforms for The W Hotel's Bar Staffs
 New York, NY, September 15, 2008 (CNS) - Singer Gwen Stefani will be designing the uniforms of W Hotels' bar staff in L.A.M.B. style.
Stefani, who has her own fashion ranges L.A.M.B. and Harajuku Lovers, has inked a deal with the hotel to create the Rande Gerbar staffs' everyday garment. W and L.A.M.B. are expected to announce their partnership in the coming days.
The uniforms, which are short dresses made of washable black jersey, will make their debut in December or early 2009.
Portfolio.com has quoted Jenni Benzaquen, director of public relations for W Hotels, as saying, "Gwen Stefani was in our lounge last season, and through that relationship she's doing uniforms for the [Rande] Gerber bars located in W Hotels."
No other details of the deal were disclosed.
Hot Topics
New Textiles Lab Aims to Advance Functionality of Protective Garments
August 7, 2008 (Textile Web) - A new facility at North Carolina State University will help provide increased protection to first responders by testing their turnout gear against potentially harmful chemical and biological threats.
The Man-in-Simulant Test (MIST) laboratory, located at NC State's College of Textiles, will allow researchers to evaluate the capabilities of protective garments against non-toxic vapors that resemble chemical and biological agents. The new facility will give researchers the necessary technological advances to provide test results and analysis faster than similar facilities.
The MIST facility is the only one of its kind located at a university in the United States. The laboratory was funded by a two-year, $2M grant from the Department of Defense secured by U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge, who serves on the U.S. Homeland Security Committee. The facility was dedicated this morning at a ceremony attended by Etheridge, Tim Roberts of the U.S. Department of Defense, NC State Chancellor James Oblinger, College of Textiles Dean Blanton Godfrey, Dr. Roger Barker, director of NC State's Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC), and members of the Raleigh fire department.
The facility allows protective garments to be tested in a functional manner. In the main testing chamber, researchers can test the penetration of chemical vapors through protective clothing on mannequins and human subjects. During testing, subjects can perform the same tasks as a first responder, such as climbing a ladder, crawling, or carrying a victim to safety, in an environment that can be controlled for temperature, wind speed and vapor concentration.
Subjects will wear adhesive pads underneath their clothing, which will be analyzed to determine vapor penetration levels through the fabric and at seams and closures of the garment.
In addition to the main test chamber, the facility includes an observation and control room, a conference room with closed-circuit video feeds for test monitoring, a data collection room, and a dressing and subject preparation area.
Barker will oversee the new MIST lab. In 2003, he received a grant from the Department of Homeland Security to develop a prototype of new firefighter turnout gear, which offers increased protection against heat and chemical and biological agents while also improving comfort and durability. While searching for a facility to test the suit, Barker and his colleagues saw a need for a readily accessible lab and developed a proposal for the MIST facility.
He says the new lab will enhance the research and development of next-generation protective garments by building upon previous and current projects conducted at NC State.
"The new MIST lab will be integrated into our existing garment testing facilities and increases our ability to provide accurate studies of protective gear in a timelier manner," Barker said. "This facility complements all of the research we engage in and will accelerate the development process for new types of protective gear."
During the past decade, projects conducted by TPACC researchers have led to many advances in protective garments, including improved fire- and heat-resistant fabrics for firefighters; surgical gowns that provide doctors and nurses with greater protection against infection from blood and other biological agents; and outerwear that helps safeguard HAZMAT workers from dangerous chemical agents.
L.A.'s Movie Cop Dilemma
 Los Angeles, September 8, 2008 (LA Times) – A common sight across L.A. is police officers commandeering a street for a film crew. But the folks wearing the uniforms often don't work for the Los Angeles Police Department -- they're retired cops who work only on movie shoots. To the filmmaking community, this cadre of professionals is one of the benefits of working here. But to the LAPD brass, non-officers in uniform are a threat to the department's image and integrity.
That's why the department has been developing a plan to take over the work done by retired and off-duty cops at film locations and by off-duty cops at about a dozen sports and entertainment venues, including Dodger Stadium and Staples Center. Filmmakers and event organizers who wanted to hire uniformed officers would have to put in a request with a new "contract services" unit, which would assign off-duty officers who had volunteered for such jobs. In the works for at least 3 1/2 years, the idea has run into increasing resistance lately from Hollywood and labor groups, prompting the LAPD to promise more talks before acting.
The department's concern is understandable. The public expects officers in uniform to be able to respond when help is needed, but a retired cop can do little more than dial 911 and summon an active-duty officer. And everything a movie cop does in uniform reflects on the rest of the department, good and bad.
Nevertheless, the LAPD's desire to protect its brand doesn't necessitate a takeover of the movie cops' business. A city-run system would cost filmmakers more, would be less responsive to their needs and would sacrifice the expertise of more than 100 retired officers who've been filling these jobs. And if the system proved unreliable or overly costly, more productions might abandon Los Angeles for cheaper locales. A better solution would be to distinguish the uniforms worn by movie cops from those of other officers. In 1989, the City Council authorized retired officers to wear uniforms to direct traffic and control crowds on shoots, reasoning that the recognizable garb would confer the authority needed to do their jobs. Coming up with a new but equally effective uniform for movie cops would be easier than persuading alienated filmmakers to come back to Los Angeles.
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