Ansell leads the way in adopting new EN388 glove protection standard

BRUSSELS, June 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Ansell, a global leader in protection solutions, is proud to launch an extensive program for its distributors and customers to implement the upcoming changes in the EN388 standard concerning hand protection against mechanical risks. Ansell is committed to help its distributors and customers better understand these changes and guide them through this change with clear information, training and a fully compliant product range. In addition, with one of the largest and most knowledgeable glove manufacturer sales forces across the globe, Ansell is ready to assist all safety professionals in taking the most educated purchase decision for their safety requirements and prepare for the new regulations.

The new EN 388 standard represents the most sweeping revisions to this fundamental mechanical hand protection benchmark established over 20 years ago. Ansell has taken the lead in developing a range of tools to make the new regulations simpler to understand and easier to adopt. The new EN388 standard introduces several new testing protocol for abrasion, impact and cut performance, this includes a new test method based on the current EN ISO 13997 which will become mandatory for protective gloves made from specific "engineered yarns." With the old test method, the testing cut blades were often blunted by the presence of such specific fibres such as stainless steel and glass fibres in the yarns.

"Ansell supports improved industry transparency with regard to the true performance of protective gloves against mechanical risks and the new revision is a major step towards harmonization and more reliable claims," says Guido Van Duren, Director Global Regulatory Compliance PPE Products of Ansell and former President of the European Safety Federation. "For the past eight years we have been working within the standards committee for the introduction of more reliable and consistent EN388 performance levels, including improved lab testing methodology. Our distribution partners, customers and safety managers will be able to select the right hand protection based on more rigorous, repeatable and standardized testing."

In addition, a full Ansell Guardian^® customized auditing and consulting methodology benefits companies that are interested in SKU reduction, health and safety compliance, productivity and cost reduction. Ansell is committed to keeping its clients "Well Informed, Well Protected, Well Ahead."

To hear more about what this new regulation means to the industry, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NE6cFcxaCY to watch a video of Peter Dobbelsteijn, Chief Commercial Officer EMEA & APAC Region & Ansell Global Guardian at Ansell. This month Ansell is hosting a series of brief webinars in order to outline all EN388 industry changes. In addition, Ansell has developed a range of tools to make the new standards simple to understand and easy to adopt. To learn more, visit www.ansell.com/enresourcecenter.

About Ansell
Ansell is a world leader in providing superior health and safety protection solutions that enhance human well-being. With operations in North America, Latin America/Caribbean, EMEA and Asia, Ansell employs 15,000 people worldwide and holds leading positions in the personal protective equipment and medical gloves market, as well as in the sexual health and well-being category worldwide. Ansell operates in four main business segments: Medical, Industrial, Single Use and Sexual Wellness. Information on Ansell and its products can be found at www.ansell.com. #AnsellProtects

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