The policy is a part of broader strategy to ensure quality and safety for the end user.
One local company leading the way is ladies blouse manufacturer, Crestpalm Ltd.
Managing director Kal Sandhu said that his aim was to ensure that no broken needles get
lost during the manufacturing process and find their way into finished garments.
"We know that buyers are keen for suppliers to adhere to the most stringent
standards on every aspect of health and safety and tracing broken needles is one important
aspect of this.
"We make absolutely sure, that if a needle breaks an authorised person will take
the remainder out of the machine and then check the garment thoroughly to make sure no
fragments are left.
"Every piece of the needle has to be accounted for and if it is not, then that
batch of clothing is discarded.
"We also make sure that a log sheet is completed each time a needle breaks or is
replaced."
Mr Sandhu said he was delighted with the response from potential customers to the new
policy.
"Our public commitment to the needle policy is already helping us to attract
interest from buyers from some of the UK's major stores," he added.
Councillor Ram Lakha, chairman of the Coventry Clothing Centre, believes that the
success of the local industry will depend on manufacturers adopting world class standards.
"I can only encourage all our clothing manufacturers to adopt this policy and make
sure that it is adhered to," he said.
Particular emphasis is being given to manufacturers of baby and children's wear. In
addition to the needle policy, manufacturers are also being advised to install a metal
detector.
Health and safety experts at Coventry Clothing Centre are available to assist
manufacturers on every aspect of health and safety.
