Mount Vernon Mills today announced that the company has more than doubled its capacity to produce flame resistant (FR) fabrics in its manufacturing facilities located in Trion, Georgia. The expansion will enhance the company's ability to meet increased demand for flame resistant garments to protect workers against hazards associated with electrical energy (NFPA 70E) and oil refining (NFPA 2112).

"The increase in capacity is a demonstration of our commitment to producing FR fabrics in the U.S. in our vertically integrated manufacturing facility, where we have in-house control of 25 major processes, including spinning, weaving, dyeing and FR finishing," said Mike Woods, vice president of flame resistant fabric sales for Mount Vernon Mills. "We now have three ranges producing FR fabrics, and we are the only U.S. producer to be using the latest technology in softening equipment from Biancalani."

The company has invested more than $15 million in capital equipment to support its FR programs. The increased capacity will allow Mount Vernon Mills to continue to provide consistent 6-8 week delivery of its flame resistant fabrics while also maintaining in-stock inventory on core products and colors that will be available for immediate shipment.

At the core of every FR protective fabric is the company's more than 165 years of experience in the development and production of fabrics that work hard. Blending history with technology, Mount Vernon Mills uses more than 3,000 computer monitored control points and extensive quality assurance testing to provide customers with the highest level of reliability, quality, durability, color consistency and shrinkage control in every FR fabric.

"Our heritage began with sail cloth and canvas for tents, and has evolved into being a leading producer of fabrics for career apparel and the military," added Woods. "We put our experience to work in every flame resistant fabric, and we know what it takes to make durable and dependable workwear fabrics that meet the safety, comfort and styling needs of today's workforce."

Mount Vernon Mills is also committed to protecting the environment. All FR fabrics are backed by the company's Eco-excellence™ program, providing flame resistant fabrics that are made responsibly. Flame resistant fabrics from Mount Vernon Mills comply with the following standards for environmental excellence: Oeko-tex, SONG Sustainability Initiative, REACH; Worldwide Responsible Apparel Production (WRAP) Principles, Responsible Care (CMA) and the Environmental Stewardship Program.

To learn more about the company's collection of flame resistant fabrics, please visit booth 357 at the Safety 2012 Exposition, which will be held June 3-5 in the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colo.

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