from SOURCING JOURNAL

TexTest Helps Products Get to Market Quickly—and Safely—Among Changing Regulations

BY SJ GUEST EDITORIAL

TexTest Cotswold Test Tube
SUWIT NGAOKAEW/SHUTTERSTOCK

As manufacturing standards have evolved, so too have customer expectations—and government regulations.

In order to help apparel and textile manufacturers get their products to market more quickly, more accurately and much more safely, TexTest offers a variety of products and services that ensure companies are compliant with the most current regulations. The fabric-testing company, a division of Central Textiles, partners with a wide range of manufacturers, including apparel, upholstery, bedding/mattress, linens/towels, safety apparel, outerwear, footwear/hosiery and marine/outdoor/tent manufacturers.

To help these companies discern whether their fabric meets the level of quality required across varying environments and industries, TexTest has the ability to certify products to indicate they comply with such government standards as the American Association of Textile Chemist and Colorists (AATCC), American Standard Test Methods (ASTM), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), Industrial Fabrics Association Inc (IFAI), Standard for Automotive Testing (SAT) and International Standards Organization (ISO).

Thanks to changing regulations—many of which stem from concerns of eco-friendliness, Ann Underwood, TexTest manager, told Sourcing Journal—the dyes used to color fabrics may be different than what a manufacturer has previously used when seeking certification. Switching to a new dye can often result in additional testing to ensure manufacturers are receiving the consistent colors they need.

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