Ansell Launches New Hybrid Technology in GAMMEX™ N95 Respirator and Surgical Mask

ISELIN, New Jersey, December 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Ansell, a global leader in protection solutions today announced the latest addition to its Active Infection Protection (AIP) portfolio, the GAMMEX N95 Respirator and Surgical Mask, extending the AIP range beyond surgical gloves. This new mask is the first to utilize a hybrid technology that incorporates the comfort of a standard surgical mask with the protection of a respirator.  The mask is designed to more comfortably protect healthcare workers and patients from harmful airborne pathogens, therefore reducing the risk of Healthcare Associated Infection (HAI).

The GAMMEX N95 Respirator and Surgical Mask filters out 95% of airborne particles down to 0.1 micron in size, exceeding the worldwide standard for respirators of 0.3 microns set by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), US FDA, and Health Canada. This allows the mask to remove many airborne particles contained in surgical smoke and filter out 99.9% of airborne viruses and bacterial microorganisms. Its high filtration capability, combined with TYPE II fluid resistance, makes the new GAMMEX N95 Respirator and Surgical Mask a critical component in personal protection for Infection Control, Isolation, ICU, ER, OR and many other areas subject to airborne pathogens and harmful particles.

The GAMMEX N95 Respirator and Surgical Mask is designed for unrivalled comfort and performance. Its patented Breathable Face Seal allows air to circulate through the top, bottom and sides of the respirator, ensuring maximum breathability. The unique design feels lighter and cooler so it can be worn comfortably for longer periods of time, promoting compliance and further enhancing infection prevention.

"This addition to the Ansell Active Infection Protection portfolio, coupled with our antimicrobial surgical gloves and a series of products currently in our pipeline, demonstrates our commitment to delivering clinically relevant solutions in infection prevention to help in the fight against healthcare associated infections," said Anthony B. Lopez, President and General Business Manager, Ansell Medical Solutions.

"In line with our focus on innovation, the GAMMEX N95 Respirator and Surgical Mask provides a unique technological solution, specialized for the demands of the healthcare environment where exposure to airborne pathogens is high," he continued.

The GAMMEX brand offers the most innovative and technologically advanced solutions worldwide, protecting against external aggression, allergic reactions and microbial contamination in the perioperative environment. The GAMMEX N95 Respirator and Surgical Mask is now available for sale in North America, with global rollout to follow in 2013.

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/Caribbean, EMEA and Asia, Ansell employs more than 10,000 people worldwide and holds leading positions in the personal protective equipment 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

Ansell Protected | HyFlex, GAMMEX, SKYN and ACTIVARMR are trademarks owned by Ansell Limited or one of its affiliates.

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