WHAT: Medline Industries Inc., the nation's leading supplier of exam gloves will host a ribbon-cutting, dedication ceremony and tour celebrating the major expansion of its Honea Path, SC plant. As a result of the more than $15 million investment, Medline will triple its production of Isolex™ a synthetic polyisoprene material used to make latex-free Sensicare® surgical gloves.

WHY: According to OSHA, since 1987 the number of latex-allergies in healthcare workers has increased dramatically. This increase coincides with an increase in glove usage to protect workers from HIV and Hepatitis. The Centers for Disease Control reports that studies indicate 8 - 12 percent of healthcare workers are now at risk for latex-allergies. The risk to young children is significantly higher. Isolex™ is a synthetic polyisoprene material that is gaining popularity and becoming the preferred choice of material to replace natural rubber latex. Isolex™ has a similar molecular structure as natural rubber latex, which in the Sensicare® gloves provide the fit, feel and comfort similar to the finest latex gloves without the harmful latex proteins. Continued exposure to natural rubber latex proteins can result in developing a Type I allergic reaction, which in some cases can be life threatening. "Due to serious concern over latex allergies, surgeons are looking for protective alternatives. Our Sensicare® surgical gloves have gained widespread usage among surgeons nationwide because the synthetic polymer in Isolex™ provides the same excellent tactile sensitivity and comfort found in natural rubber latex," said Tripp Amdur, President, Medline Glove Division.

WHO: Medline Co-Founder Jon Mills, Vice President of Manufacturing Greg Tysl, and Medline Glove Division President Tripp Amdur, Vice President of Operations, Alan Weiss will join Honea Path Mayor Earl Lollis Myers and other local officials for the announcement.

WHEN: Wednesday, June 28, 2006. Dedication Ceremony is at 1 p.m. followed by a brief Plant tour. ** Note to photographers. There are certain areas where, for safety reasons, photographs cannot be taken.

WHERE: 308 Church St., Honea Path, SC