By introducing the products into its Kimtech range Kimberly-Clark believes it will be better equipped to meet the needs of clients working in ISO (International Organization for Standardization) class 5 or higher cleanrooms.
Damon Larkin, scientific apparel and mask category manager at Kimberly-Clark Professional, explained that the products were made “to provide the reliable protection required in cleanroom environments” and “reduce the chance of contamination and provide for peace of mind”.
To achieve these goals the non-sterile variant is made from Kimberly-Clark’s SMS (spunbond-meltblown-spunbond) material that it claims has cloth-like comfort and is 25 per cent more breathable than Tyvek.
Furthermore, Kimberly-Clark claims its patented Reflex design means the non-sterile coverall is 7.5 times more rip-resistant than ANSI (American National Standards Institute) minimums. This is achieved by providing 12 per cent more chest room and six per cent longer body length.
By having an elasticated waist and back the design reduces loose-fitting material that could contact work surfaces. This feature also reduces the likelihood of the material billowing out, which could force air to exit the suit at its extremities.
The garment also has built in thumb loops to prevent the sleeves from rolling back and exposing the user’s arms and a mandarin collar that provides additional protection by coming higher up the neck.
Larkin believes that "these comfort and design advantages may lead to greater satisfaction among wearers as well as better productivity, since workers are more comfortable".
Kimberly-Clark offers the Kimtech Pure A5 cleanroom coveralls in sizes from small through to XXXXL. The company also offers a hood and boot covers.