31.01.2010 I Super-thin new nitrile gloves cut risk of latex allergies while improving performance.
For many years latex’s excellent combination of protection and comfort made it the material of choice for safety gloves. However, recently a growing concern for latex allergies has forced manufacturers to look at alternatives to the natural rubber harvested from the Hevea Brasiliensis tree.
Current estimates of latex sensitivity vary from less than 1% to 6% of the general population (1,2). But due to repeated exposure to latex products, a condition known as latex protein sensitivity appears to be increasing. The growing use of latex gloves for various household cleaning tasks and the higher availability of gloves in retail shops may be factors in the growth of latex sensitivity.
Hypersensitivity
Three different latex allergies exist – Irritant contact dermatitis, Type IV (allergic contact dermatitis) and Type 1 hypersensitivity. Type 1 is considered the most serious. Sufferers of Type 1 can experience itching and a burning sensation within five to 60 minutes of contact, but also rhinitis (a runny nose), asthma and in extremely rare cases anaphylaxis – a life-threatening allergic reaction.
Vendors of latex products have altered their manufacturing processes in an effort to reduce the risks of allergic reaction. For example, improved leaching methods have helped decrease levels of soluble allergenic proteins. Yet concerns related to allergy levels still appear to be growing.
Nitrile helps solve health concerns
In response to the health issues caused by latex, KIMBERLY-CLARK PROFESSIONAL* has worked hard to create nitrile products that provide the same or even higher levels of protection and comfort as latex solutions.
In the past, non latex gloves were acknowledged as having increased strength and durability, but lacking in comfort and fit. KIMBERLY-CLARK PROFESSIONAL* has overcome these concerns with the release of the exciting KLEENGUARD* G10 Arctic Blue Nitrile Glove.
The KLEENGUARD* G10 Arctic Blue Nitrile Glove is so thin – just 0.06 millimetres –. These premium gloves offer maximum touch sensitivity, comfort and flexibility.
Gloves fit like a second skin
Marc Southon, category manager of KIMBERLY-CLARK PROFESSIONAL* Safety Business explains: “We believe that customers will be really positive about this addition to our glove category. The gloves fit like a second skin!”
