Understanding Glove Certification: HACCP, TGA, AS/NZS

In Australia, the importance of certification versus compliance is often misunderstood, especially when it comes to protective  gloves. This misconception can lead to increased risks of workplace injuries. It’s crucial to understand the distinctions between certified and compliant products to ensure the highest level of safety and performance.

This article will delve into the specifics of glove certification, including HACCP, TGA, and AS/NZS standards, as well as provide a comprehensive overview of the most common glove standards and their significance.

Certification vs. Compliance

One of the most common misconceptions is equating compliance with certification. Gloves may display markings such as the ‘CE’ mark, a mechanical symbol like ‘EN 388:2016 4542F’, or ‘AS/NZS 2161.3:2020’ and claim to be “compliant to European Standards” or “meets European Standards.” 

However, this does not mean they are certified.

What is a Certification?

A certified product to the relevant Australian Standards is independently verified, and its mechanical scores are validated by an independent notifying body, such as BSI Benchmark or SAI Global. 

Certification involves an ongoing process where the manufacturing process, facilities, certificates, and the product itself are audited to ensure all product performance claims are consistently accurate. 

To certify a product, it must be tested and examined by an independent third-party notifying body. This certification provides complete peace of mind to distributors, employers, and wearers that the product will perform as expected.

The Importance of Certification

Once a product is certified, the notifying body allows the manufacturer to use its unique certification logo, such as the BSI Benchmark logo. This indicates that rigorous audits of the manufacture and production have been completed, and the product meets the relevant Australian/New Zealand Standard. 

Gloves that are merely compliant do not require any independent reviews, leaving room for inaccuracies in performance claims.

In Australia, gloves are often sold as compliant with Australian or European Standards, displaying the ‘CE’ mark, a mechanical score, or a symbol like ‘EN 388:2016 4542F’. 

While these gloves may claim to meet certain standards, this is not the same as being certified. Certification is the only way to guarantee that a glove will perform as expected.

Specific Certifications

HACCP Certification HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) is a systematic approach to food safety that identifies and manages risks in food production. It ensures food safety from start to finish. HACCP Certified Product Example: HD Wipes on a Roll for contamination control, convenient tear off roll, Safe for short term food contact. HACCP Certified. Shop for Heavy Duty Wipes On A Roll - 90 Sheets Per Roll - Micah

TGA Certification The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) ensures that medical devices and medicines sold in Australia are safe, effective, and of high quality. TGA Certified Product Example: Gloves Nitrile, Powder Free Examination Grade Extra Strong Blue – Micah. Regular cuff, powder free, comfortable fit with excellent stretch. Suitable for food handling and healthcare. Shop for Gloves Nitrile, Powder Free Examination Grade Extra Strong Blue – Micah

AS/NZS Certification AS/NZS standards are joint Australian/New Zealand standards ensuring products meet high safety and performance criteria. These standards cover various aspects of glove protection, from mechanical risks to thermal hazards. AS/NZS Certified Product Example: Dextra gloves: Multi-grip Nitrile coating technology, oil-resistant, water-repellent, machine washable,, no strikethrough, 13-gauge Lycra/Nylon shell. Shop for Glove - Black Foam Coated Nitrile Grip Glove - Micah Dextra

Why Certification Matters

Choosing certified safety products helps avoid issues and ensures compliance with industry standards. Certified gloves are independently tested and verified, providing peace of mind that they will perform as expected. This guarantees the safety of the wearers and the reliability of the products.

Work with us today and see why Executive Distributors is the trusted choice for safety  supplies in Brisbane, Toowoomba, and Queensland. 

To learn more about Executive Distributors’ packaging supplies and solutions for Brisbane, Toowoomba, and South East Queensland, call and speak to one of our team members at (07) 4613 4455 or email us at sales@exd.net.au.

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