Single-use blue nitrile gloves are widely used in the Automotive market for a variety of applications. The current global supply issue is forcing the automotive industry to look at other alternatives and to evaluate the possibility of switching to a more durable and sustainable substitute for disposable products.
It is important in this sector that an alternative solution will be both cost-effective and enhance the wearer experience while ensuring the same or better protection for optimum safety. At Allied Autocare, our search for an alternative brought us to the Hyflex® 11-840 from Ansell. This is a reusable glove with enhanced grip and extreme durability meaning that it can be worn for longer periods in abrasive applications. This skin-friendly glove solution features Ansell’s proprietary ZONZ™ Comfort Fit Technology, which provides exceptional comfort to improve support, breathability and range of movement.
We provided these gloves to our own employees for a trial four week period. The feedback revealed that instead of wearing three pairs of single-use nitrile per day, our workers were able to wear the same pair of Hyflex gloves for five days, without having to compromise on comfort and performance. What’s more, we experienced a 12% cost saving in comparison to purchasing the number of single-use gloves we previously needed.
There is also a huge environmental benefit. On average each employee would generate 15 boxes of single-use glove waste per year. This has meant a huge reduction in the volume of waste disposal and costs incurred in doing so.
Chris McKay, Group Parts Manager, said of the change: “We were surprised to find out the results of the trials and how much savings could be made. Our technicians were quick to share positive feedback, asking us to take them into stock immediately. We are also realistic to know that Hyflex® gloves would not be for every application and nitrile gloves would never be 100% replaced on site. However, we now have less demand for single-use nitrile than before and this is also important when supply chains are impacted”.
If your business would like to find out more about how Hyflex® gloves might work for you, contact us today! Call our team on 0800 587 9697 or enquire online.
