In April 2004, Gildan became the first manufacturer catering to the wholesale imprinted activewear market to obtain the Oeko-Tex^® Standard 100 certification. This unique certification provides the textile and clothing industry with a globally uniform standard for the objective assessment of the presence of harmful substances. Raw materials, intermediate and end products at all stages of processing throughout the manufacturing chain, including accessories, are tested and certified.

The laboratory tests currently comprise around 100 human, ecological and performance-related test parameters based on international test standards and other recognized testing procedures. These also include simulation tests, which take into account all possible ways by which harmful substances could be absorbed into the human body.

Textile products may be certified according to Oeko-Tex^® Standard 100 only if all components meet the required criteria without exception. The certificate issued needs to be renewed on an annual basis.

The Oeko-Tex^® Standard 100 is consistent with the Company’s own rigorous Environmental Code of Practice, and it should further assure consumers that Gildan is committed to environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.

For more information about the certification and the test program, please visit the www.oeko-tex.com.