Milliken sets benchmark with Non-PFAS firefighter gear

Desk Report 22 hours agoLast Updated: December 28, 2024

0 1 minute read

Milliken & Company has become the first textile manufacturer to offer non-PFAS materials for all three layers of firefighter turnout gear, ensuring safety without compromising on performance. These innovative fabrics—Horizon™, Assure™, and Equinox™—address concerns about PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), providing safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives.

Milliken’s materials form a complete system comprising the outer shell, thermal liner, and moisture barrier, simplifying testing and manufacturing processes for garment producers. This advancement aims to minimize delays and expedite gear distribution to firefighters.

“Milliken is proud to offer non-PFAS fabric for every layer of turnout gear,” said Marcio Manique, Senior Vice President of Protective Fabrics at Milliken. “Our certification results prove firefighters don’t have to compromise on health, protection, or comfort when choosing the right gear.”

Innovative Fabric Layers:

Horizon™: A durable, lightweight outer shell with unmatched strength retention and appearance over time.
Assure™: A flame-resistant, non-halogenated moisture barrier exceeding NFPA 1971-2018 requirements.
Equinox™: A slick thermal liner offering superior moisture management and comfort.

Third-party testing confirmed these fabrics outperform the stringent NFPA 1971-2018 standards, surpassing reduced benchmarks set by the 2025 NFPA 1970 standards. Performance metrics for Milliken’s composites show Total Heat Loss (THL) and Thermal Protective Performance (TPP) well above minimum requirements.

With states like Massachusetts and Connecticut banning PFAS in firefighter equipment by 2027, Milliken’s composites are the only high-performing, non-PFAS, non-halogenated options available. Milliken removed PFAS from its fire service fabrics in 2021 and its entire portfolio by 2023.