In this blog, James Clarke (Head of R&D, Science & Technology) explores the principles of skin safety for surface wipes, and how Safety Data Sheets can be navigated to give insight to healthcare professionals.

The Royal College of Nursing’s ‘Gloves Off’ campaign has become a pivotal movement in healthcare, urging professionals to reduce unnecessary glove use. This initiative emphasises the importance of infection prevention protocols like hand hygiene in delivering safe healthcare while reducing glove consumption.

Environmental decontamination presents an opportunity to Go Gloves Off, where appropriate. However, it is critical to ensure that the product we design and you choose is suitable for use without gloves.

Understanding SDSs: the sheet of safety

An SDS, or Safety Data Sheet, is a crucial document for biocide and medical device products. It serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the potential hazards associated with a product and the precautions necessary for safe handling.

Taking a look at the back of the pack

Depending on the product’s classification, the packaging should clearly include the relevant signal word, hazard statements, precautionary statements and hazard pictograms.

Below is an example of a ‘irritation’ symbol, which will be shown on products with more severe hazard statements such as ‘H315: causes skin irritation’.

Choosing safety for your staff

In the journey towards ‘Gloves Off,’ selecting products that prioritise staff safety is paramount. By understanding and scrutinising SDS sheets, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions that promote both sustainability and safety. By adopting glove-free practices where feasible and selecting products with skin safety credentials, we can stride confidently towards a safer and more sustainable future.

Clinell Universal Wipes are formulated and engineered to make healthcare workers’ lives easier by simplifying decontamination. We’re pleased to align with the ‘Gloves Off’ ethos championed in our NHS and support the RCN’s campaign. 

Learn more about Clinell Universal’s commitment to ‘Gloves Off’ here.