A chip about the size of a dime is inserted into each garment. It allows Phelps to identify every item issued to our individual customers. RIFD identification chips possess a specific number assigned to them and should not be removed. The chip is scanned when the garment is brought back to Phelps to be washed. The chip is scanned again before leaving the Phelps processing facility.

Before such technology was available, we had to hand count and rely on a bar coding system. Hand counts had a great deal of human error and if a garment had been washed multiple times then even bar codes had their problems.

RFID is the newest technology and allows us to make sure we provide exactly the number of garments you need for every job. The days of coming up short on shirts, towels, dust control or some other items are gone. The chip is located in the waistband of all pants and in the tail of all shirts and will never interfere with the wearer. It’s harmless and uses the same technology as credit cards and employee ID badges.