Latex gloves are manufactured from natural rubber latex derived from the sap of the rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis. Because of the inherent elasticity of latex, the fit is more conforming and comfortable. However, natural rubber latex also contains proteins to which some users may be sensitive. While most allergies or sensitivities are generally slight, a very small percentage of users may experience severe reactions.
Vinyl gloves are manufactured from polyvinyl chloride, a petroleum-based compound. While not quite as form-fitting as latex gloves, they contain no proteins to irritate the skin. They also possess increased resistance to certain cleaning compounds and chemicals. Vinyl gloves are the preferred choice for users sensitive to latex.
While latex and vinyl both provide excellent barrier protection, latex is recognized as having superior barrier qualities. Some people still prefer the fit and form of latex, especially in applications where comfort and tactile sensitivity are paramount.
Latex allergies can cause a non-allergic reaction, which is an irritation or allergic reactions, including Type IV and in severe cases Type I allergies. These reactions can range from itching, burning, peeling, extreme dry and cracked skin to hives, asthma, low blood pressure and difficulty breathing. Extreme cases can even be potentially life threatening causing anaphylactic shock.
You should not wear any latex exam gloves and make are that your co-workers do not wear powdered latex gloves; the powder can make the latex proteins go airborne which could trigger your latex allergy. You should wear non-latex gloves, such as our synthetic exam gloves, vinyl exam gloves and our nitrile exam gloves.
Powdered gloves are used by the majority of users, accounting for nearly 70% of total glove usage. The corn starch powder makes the gloves easier to wear, and they are generally less expensive than powder-free gloves. However, the popularity of powder-free gloves has grown every year due to the increased awareness of latex allergies and the preference for a latex glove with a low-protein count. AfyaCare gloves are washed in a chlorine solution, which lowers their latex protein levels and reduces the likelihood of latex sensitivity. Powder-free gloves, whether they are latex or vinyl, are also preferred for use in specific environments that cannot be contaminated with powder (e.g., electronic assembly plants, laboratories, crime labs, etc.).
Exaam or medical-grade gloves must meet a series of FDA regulations in order to be marketed as exam grade. General purpose gloves are, in fact, exam grade gloves that did not pass FDA mandated quality control tests. While no one intentionally manufactures a general purpose glove, AfyaCarel gloves are manufactured as medical grade gloves, yet do undergo the final steps of the FDA testing process. This gives AfyaCare gloves a near-exam level of quality.
All of our glove products are manufactured of USDA accepted materials. It is important to note, however, that the USDA does not officially “approve” or “certify” disposables for entry into the United States. Instead, the USDA has established guidelines that govern the materials, manufacturing, and distribution of goods used in foodservice. All of our products meet or exceed these guidelines.
All our goods are imported from various parts of Asia especially Malaysia which is the world’s leading latex glove manufacturing country. Very few glove manufacturers maintain production facilities in the United States. Our disposable gloves are imported from Indonesia, Malaysia, China, and Thailand. We also import products from other countries such as South Korea.
Your AfyaCare gloves should be stored in the initial box. The storage area should be dry, cool and ventilated area. Your exam gloves should not be stored near direct sunlight, moisture, X-rays or extreme heat.