MSA Taps RFTrax For CZT Radiation Sensors; New Sensors Enable Enhanced Detection of Dirty Bombs, Other Hazards.

SUGAR LAND, Texas -- Mine Safety Appliances Co. (NYSE:MSA), Pittsburgh, Pa., is using groundbreaking RAD-CZT(TM) gamma-radiation sensors from Texas-based RFTrax Inc. in a newly enhanced wireless system for detecting dirty bombs and other homeland security threats. The new sensing capability, which is being incorporated into the next generation of MSA's SAFESITE(R) System, was announced earlier today by the global safety equipment company.

MSA selected the RFTrax sensors based on their ability to differentiate background radiation from actual radiation threats. This level of sensitivity gives first responders a greater, more effective ability to detect radiological threats when compared to using conventional technologies, such as gamma-detection.

CZT technology -- short for Cadmium Zinc Telluride crystal detection -- is not new. For years this technology has been widely deployed in large-scale medical and laboratory instrumentation. The MSA SAFESITE application, however, is significant because it marks one of the first uses of this technology in a compact, portable detection system, which requires small and lightweight sensors capable of operating on a limited power source.

RFTrax met this challenge through a unique design that allows it to produce low-cost CZT sensors capable of running for years on small batteries. The sensors, which are about the size of a disposable lighter, maintain CZT's principal performance benefit: sensitivity to low radiation levels, while also providing a broad dynamic-detection range. This capability allows users to make sensitivity adjustments to the sensor -- minimizing false alarms that might otherwise be prompted by naturally occurring gamma radiation.

"Traditional gamma-detection technologies have very limited dynamic range," said Hal Haygood, president of RFTrax. "They fail to distinguish between low levels of non-harmful radiation and releases of higher and harmful radiation. As a result, emergency workers frequently deactivate their radiation detectors to eliminate the nuisance of false or meaningless alerts."

"After a thorough review of gamma radiation detection technologies available, it was apparent to us that the RAD-CZT sensor from RFTrax provided the design features and quality we require when integrating enabling technology into our products," said Kevin McKeigue, Product Group Manager for MSA. "The sensor's unique performance specifications provide MSA and our customers with a distinct advantage in gamma-radiation detection for the Homeland Security, First Responder, Military and Industrial markets."

RFTrax introduced its RAD-CZT sensor in late 2003, and has made continuous advancements in the product's performance and functionality since then. The company also offers RFID-enabled CZT-sensor systems to detect low radiation levels in container shipments and other transportation systems.

About MSA:

Established in 1914, MSA is a global leader in the development, manufacture and supply of sophisticated safety products that protect people's health and safety. Sophisticated safety products typically integrate any combination of electronics, mechanical systems and advanced materials to protect users against hazardous or life-threatening situations. The company's comprehensive line of products is used by workers around the world in the fire service, homeland security, construction and other industries, as well as the military. Principal products include self-contained breathing apparatus, gas masks, gas detection instruments, head protection, respirators and thermal imaging cameras. The company also provides a broad range of consumer and contractor safety products through retail channels. These products are marketed and sold under the MSA Safety Works brand. MSA has annual sales of more than $850 million, manufacturing operations throughout the United States and Europe, and more than 30 international locations. Additional information is available on the company's Web site at http://www.msanet.com.

About RFTrax:

RFTrax develops enterprise telemetry systems, enabling its clients with an end-to-end solution that tracks shipments globally, protects valued assets, and provides critical visibility into the supply chain. By utilizing RFTrax sensors, ETS(TM) management/alerting software, and application-specific radio technologies, companies can increase supply-chain efficiencies, reduce losses, and ensure the integrity and security of the freight transport industry. RFTrax is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fairfield Industries, a global company specializing in manufacturing electronic equipment for operation in the worlds most hostile environments. Fairfield Industries maintains offices in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Europe, and North America, and is headquartered in Sugar Land, Texas. Additional information is available on the company's Web site at www.rftrax.com