Ansell Creates New SENSOPRENE™ Formulation to Deliver Market-Leading Sensitivity in GAMMEX® Non-Latex Surgical Glove

RED BANK, New Jersey, BRUSSELS and MELBOURNE, Australia, July 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Ansell Ltd., a global leader in protection solutions, has today introduced a ground-breaking new SENSOPRENE™ formulation, with the launch of its GAMMEX® Non-Latex Accelerator-Free Sensitive surgical glove. SENSOPRENE™ formulation is up to 30 per cent thinner than standard surgical gloves to provide an unprecedented level of sensitivity and comfort for healthcare workers worldwide.

Not only does SENSOPRENE™ technology deliver market-leading sensitivity, it also provides advanced allergy protection. Free of both latex proteins and chemical accelerators, the SENSOPRENE™ formulation reduces the risk of both Type I (latex) and Type IV (chemical) allergies. Clinical evidence reveals that 33 per cent of glove-related allergic reactions in the medical sector are chemical-based* while 17 per cent are latex-related**.

The GAMMEX® Non-Latex Accelerator-Free Sensitive surgical glove with SENSOPRENE™ is a unique and complete solution, suitable for any surgical need and all allergenic profiles. It addresses key end-user requirements - fit, comfort, grip, strength, resistance, as well as providing unrivalled sensitivity and allergy protection.

Commenting on the new SENSOPRENE™ formulation, Anthony B. Lopez, President and General Manager of Ansell's Medical Global Business Unit said,

"For over 100 years, Ansell has delivered market-leading solutions, to support and empower healthcare workers and protect patients worldwide. An approach based on innovation and continual technological advancement is key to our business. We were the first company to introduce an accelerator-free surgical glove and, with SENSOPRENE™, we are again setting a new standard for allergy management in the healthcare industry."

He continued, "With more than 100 million pairs of GAMMEX® surgical gloves used annually in hospitals worldwide, our insight is second to none. We know and anticipate our end-users' requirements and continually strive to not just meet, but exceed them."

The GAMMEX® Non-Latex Accelerator-Free Sensitive glove with SENSOPRENE™ complies with all international standards. Ansell first introduced this new glove in Europe and has plans to launch in Australia, New Zealand and North America later this year.

* Types of eczema: hand dermatitis. EczemaNet Web site: http://skincarephysicians.com/eczemanet/hand_dermatitis.html. Updated December 7 2006. Accessed July 20 2011

** Filon FL. Bosco A. Fiorito A. Negro C. Barbina P. Latex symptoms and sensitisation in healthcare workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health. 2001: 74: 219-223

About Ansell

Ansell is a world leader in providing superior health and safety protection solutions that enhance human wellbeing. With operations in North America, Latin America, EMEA and Asia, Ansell employs more than 10,000 people worldwide and holds leading positions in the industrial and medical gloves market, as well as in the sexual health and wellbeing category worldwide. Ansell operates in four main business segments: Medical Solutions, Industrial Solutions, Specialty Markets and Sexual Wellness. Information on Ansell and its products can be found at http://www.ansell.com.

SOURCE Ansell Healthcare Europe nv