Wash, Reuse, Protect: Optimizing PPE Investment Through Launderability

Food manufacturers are continuously challenged to balance rigorous infection control standards with increasing pressures to optimize costs and minimize environmental waste. In environments where mechanical gloves and protective clothing are necessary to protect against hazards like cuts and abrasions, reusable PPE provides a strategic advantage. Ansell, as a global provider of safety solutions, recommends embracing launderability as a core strategy for achieving cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability.

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The triple benefit of cleaning and reusing PPE

The decision to clean and reuse appropriate PPE, such as certain HyFlex^® gloves is rooted in three key benefits:

1. Resource conservation and cost-effectiveness: While reusable PPE may have higher upfront costs, its durability reduces the need for frequent replacements, leading to long-term savings. This approach ensures a continuous supply and conserves valuable resources.
2. Environmental sustainability: Washing and reusing PPE significantly minimizes waste, which contributes positively to environmental sustainability. Ansell is committed to making a positive difference for both people and the planet, offering high-performance PPE through initiatives like Ansell Earth, which is designed with sustainability in mind.

3. Infection control: Properly cleaning and disinfecting PPE helps eliminate harmful microorganisms, thereby reducing the risk of infection.

Ensuring proven performance through international standards

To ensure that safety is never compromised, Ansell follows International Standards, which specify the correct washing procedures for mechanical PPE. These standards provide the basis for determining a glove’s performance after laundering:

• ISO 6330: This standard specifies the procedures for domestic washing and drying for textile testing. Washing is typically done at 104°F (40°C) and tumble-dried at 122°F (50°C).
• ISO 15797: This standard specifies test procedures and equipment for evaluating workwear intended for industrial laundering. Industrial washing is typically performed at 140°F (60°C) and tumble-dried at 140°F (60°C).

Understanding and implementing launderability claims

Ansell’s tests verify the performance of unused gloves after laundering. For certain mechanical gloves, the "3X" symbol applies, meaning the glove's performance will not be reduced after 3 laundering cycles.

For example, various HyFlex cut and multi-purpose styles, such as the 11-561 and 11-581, have been confirmed as 3X washable through both domestic and industrial methods, utilizing the Standard washing - Synthetics program.

Nelson-Jameson & Ansell: Your partners in helping protect employees

At Nelson-Jameson, we deliver solutions, not just products. We understand the unique challenges of food manufacturing and are dedicated to helping you create a safer, more compliant workplace. We can assist you in selecting the right Ansell PPE for your specific plant needs.

Related: Begin your AnsellGUARDIAN^® Hazard Analysis here >