Milliken & Company has become the first textile manufacturer to sign the International Association of Fire Fighters’ (IAFF) new PPE Manufacturer Code of Conduct for firefighter protective clothing and equipment.
The code establishes expectations for manufacturers serving the fire service industry, including product safety, regulatory compliance, transparent communication, and proactive hazard assessment.
Supporting Firefighter Safety and Transparency
The IAFF developed the Code of Conduct to promote higher standards across the firefighter PPE supply chain and strengthen confidence in protective equipment used by firefighters.
“It’s important for firefighters that we have clean gear and that we’re not introducing toxic chemicals into personal protective equipment,” said Edward Kelly, General President of the IAFF.
The organization says the code helps ensure manufacturers share a commitment to protecting firefighters and reducing exposure to potentially harmful substances.
Focus on PFAS-Free Turnout Gear Solutions
Milliken stopped using PFAS in fabrics developed for the fire service industry in 2021 and now offers non-PFAS fabric options across all three layers of turnout gear systems.
The company says its materials have supported several recent department transitions to PFAS-free turnout gear, including deployments by the San Francisco Fire Department and Horry County Fire Rescue.
Milliken also recently completed voluntary third-party testing through Forever Analytical, which confirmed that its firefighter turnout gear fabrics contain no detectable PFAS.
Continued Investment in Protective Textile Innovation
Milliken supplies fabrics to major turnout gear manufacturers across the United States and continues to invest in research, testing, and manufacturing processes aimed at improving firefighter protection.
“We recognize the responsibility that comes with supplying fabrics used in life-saving protective gear,” said Marcio Manique, EVP and Managing Director of Milliken’s apparel business.
The company says signing the IAFF Code of Conduct formalizes its commitment to firefighter safety, manufacturing integrity, and ongoing innovation in protective textiles.
