3 replies to this topic

[mzenas]

We have had a glove use policy implemented for some time within our SQF certified packaging facility.

 

Individuals with our company have visited other certified food safety 'packaging' companies and have seen that the use of gloves had not been implemented. 

 

What has been other members' experience been with the use of gloves in food contact packaging manufacturing?  Has a strong hand washing program sufficed to not require the use of gloves?  Has anyone performed a risk assessment on this subject?

 

What are thoughts on hand sanitizer replacing washing with appropriate soaps? 

 

Our glove program is solid and well institutionalized.  But we are also seeing a significant cost to this program. 

 

Let me know your thoughts - thanks!! 

Edited by mzenas, 15 July 2018 - 04:12 PM.

[SQFconsultant]

I have not as of yet been in a GFSI certified (regardless of scheme) packaging company that did not have a glove policy in place and active.

 

Sanitizer does not replace the need for handwashing, sanitizer placed on a dirty hand kills the sanitizer not what is on their hands and this is from a background in food safety chemicals - sanitizer is used after handwashing procedure, not as a replacement. 

 

Has your personnel that have visited other "certified" companies asked them why they don't use gloves?

 

Be the vanguard company that sets the example for others and not "one of those" that does not.

[Scampi]

Sanitizer IS NOT A REPLACEMENT FOR HANDWASHING. PERIOD. 

 

Also, improper use of hand sanitizer has contributed to the development of super bugs  https://www.newscien...and-sanitisers/

https://www.wired.co...news-superbugs/

www.asm.org/index.php/general-science-blog/item/5921-antibiotic-resistance-soap-and-false-advertising

 

Antibiotic soap does not do a better job than hand soap without it.

I will tell you in my experience the opposite is true. I had a much tougher time regulating the proper use of gloves, including hand washing prior and if one needed replaced.

 

 

http://www.ssfpa.net...ing Program.doc

 

According to a 2007 study in the Journal of Food Protection, “Hand washing and glove use were also related to each other — hand washing was less likely to occur with activities in which gloves were worn.” A 2010 study in the same journal concludes, “Glove use can create a false sense of security, resulting in more high-risk behaviours that can lead to cross-contamination when employees are not adequately trained.” Also in the report: “Occlusion of the skin during long-term glove use in food operations creates the warm, moist conditions necessary for microbial proliferation and can increase pathogen transfer onto foods through leaks or exposed skin or during glove removal.” In other words, just wearing gloves can create dangerous conditions.

[Jim E.]

I would like to push this topic up the ladder due to COVID-19.  We are a manufacturer of NRTE products. We have had glove policy in place forever. Used by final inspection staff, sanitation, maintenance and raw inspection for various reasons.  Now there may be a shortage of nitrile gloves from suppliers due to demand.  What measure are you taking to review this potential issue. Reduce the number of people required to wear the gloves? If the supply dries up what other measures will you take?  Can you get away from areas like final inspection that do not have to wear a glove?

 

 Your thoughts will be appreciated.