Safety Components Announces Independent Testing Program for Fabrics Manufactured with PFZero™
Greenville, SC – Safety Components, a leader in developing fabric technologies that move the industry forward, is announcing the launch of an independent fluorine chemicals testing program for all National Fire Protection Association certified fabric manufactured with its PFZero™ finish, the first non-fluorinated durable water repellent finish developed specifically for PPE fabrics. This independent testing program supports the Company’s recently updated PFZero™ Fabric Assurance policy and underscores our commitment to transparency, quality, and confidence across our product lines.
The independent testing program will utilize randomized sampling to ensure swatches represent the full scope of each production lot. All samples will then be submitted to accredited third-party laboratories for independent verification using scientifically recognized methods capable of detecting fluorine at trace levels.
If any independent test indicates the presence of intentionally-added fluorine chemicals, Safety Components will immediately investigate and implement corrective action before any material is shipped or additional lots are manufactured. The independent testing program will be conducted in addition to and does not otherwise replace any testing requirements required by law, regulation, or customer-specific standards.
“Safety Components is dedicated to manufacturing all our National Fire Protection Association certified fabrics finished with our PFZero™ treatment so that they are free from intentionally added fluorinated chemicals, including C6,” said Guy Lucas, President, Burlington & Safety Components. “This independent testing program reflects our rigorous quality assurance and our commitment to the health and safety of first responders and the environment.”
Full details of the testing policy can be found on the Safety Components website at: https://safetycomponents.com/.
About Elevate Textiles
With a global array of premium fabric and thread solutions focused on innovation, sustainability and quality craftsmanship, Elevate Textiles provides products that surround us every day and in all facets of life. We offer advanced, high quality products and mission critical textile solutions across vast industries including fashion and functional apparel, footwear, military, fire, medical, athletic, automotive, aerospace, outdoor, and other specialty sectors. Elevate Textiles is committed to delivering solutions that protect and enhance our lives through its global manufacturing platform that includes 35 facilities across six continents and over 15,000 employees.
PFZero Fabric Assurance Policy
Commitment to Transparency, Quality, and Customer Confidence
Commitment to Customers
We are dedicated to manufacturing all our NFPA certified fabrics finished with our PFZero treatment so that they are free from intentionally added fluorinated chemistries, including C6. This policy outlines our independent testing and verification program designed to provide customers with confidence and transparency. This independent testing program is conducted in addition to and does not otherwise replace any testing requirements required by law, regulation, or customer-specific standards.
Independent Testing Process
Random Sampling: Swatches are taken from a randomized set of fabric rolls to ensure testing represents the entire production lot.
Independent Verification: All samples are tested by accredited third-party laboratories using scientifically recognized methods capable of detecting fluorine at trace levels.
Clear Action Steps: If any test indicates the presence of intentionally added fluorine/C6 chemistry, the fabric is investigated and corrective action is taken before any material is shipped or additional lots are manufactured.
Independent Testing Frequency
Our independent testing program uses a phased approach:
• August 2025 – August 2026: Every production will be independently tested.
• September 2026 – December 2026: Independent testing will be conducted on a monthly basis.
• Calendar Year 2027: Independent testing will be conducted on a quarterly basis.
• Ongoing thereafter: Independent testing will be on a discretionary, risk-based basis or as required by law, regulation, or customer-specific standards.
Independent Testing Vendors
The following laboratories have been identified as approved for independent PFZero fabric testing: Applied Technical Services ,Vartest Laboratories, and North Carolina State University.
Recordkeeping
All independent test results will be retained for at least three years.
Continuous Improvement
This independent testing policy will be reviewed annually and updated as testing technologies advance or as customer and regulatory requirements evolve.