Delta Plus News Single-use PPE: 5 common misconceptions

Single-use PPE: 5 common misconceptions

Single-use PPE is still subject to persistent preconceptions, despite significant technological advances. Julien Sittaro, EMEA Product Specialist at Delta Plus Body Protection, presents the latest developments to help us separate fact from fiction.

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Single-use PPE: 5 common misconceptions

Single-use PPE is still subject to persistent preconceptions, despite significant technological advances. Julien Sittaro, EMEA Product Specialist at Delta Plus Body Protection, presents the latest developments to help us separate fact from fiction.

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Expertise, Products

Disposable PPE is evolving: performance, comfort, environment - our expert debunks some common misconceptions!

Update 14.04.26

Misconception #1: "Disposable PPE is only relevant in a few sectors" - FALSE!

The range of applications for single-use PPE has expanded considerably. Today, it covers:

 

This diversification is accompanied by increasing specialisation with the development of new disposable PPE. 

 

Delta Plus is working, for example, on the design of a high-visibility disposable coverall.

 

The diversity of risks and sectors covered also explains the wide range of disposable PPE available on the market: coveralls, aprons, overshoes, masks, gloves, hairnets, etc.

Misconception #2: "Any single-use PPE can be used for any risk" - FALSE!

Choosing PPE, including disposable PPE, requires a detailed analysis of the working environment. 


"There is a different type of disposable PPE for each risk. To make the right choice, you first need to identify the state of the particles you want to protect yourself from: liquid, gaseous or solid. Then you need to identify the risks you face in your work: fire, electrical hazards, chemical or radioactive agents," insists Julien Sittaro.

 

Misconception #3: "Disposable PPE provides less protection than durable equipment" - FALSE!

 

"They are no less effective as long as the recommended usage time is respected," explains Julien Sittaro. 

 

For short periods of use, single-use products offer the same level of protection as durable products. 
 

At Delta Plus, our coveralls use sophisticated multi-layer technologies: SMS (Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond) structure in polyethylene/polypropylene, or even SMMS (four layers) for the most demanding applications. These compositions provide effective levels of protection for every risk: chemical, radioactive, liquid splashes or harmful solid particles.

Misconception #4: "Disposable PPE is uncomfortable" - PARTIALLY FALSE

Single-use PPE is unisex and comes in a range of sizes. It is often made from non-woven fibres and is less prone to fraying and tearing: this manufacturing process is faster and less expensive than weaving. 

 

Manufacturers now incorporate breathability in certain areas, such as the back. At Delta Plus, we are currently working on reducing the weight of our products, which would improve breathability and comfort.

 

Misconception #5: "Single-use PPE has an impact on the environment" - LESS AND LESS TRUE

 

While the environmental impact of single-use PPE remains a challenge, solutions are emerging:

 

"Today, Delta Plus's R&D departments are looking at ways to incorporate biodegradable fibres into the compositions," explains Julien Sittaro. 

 

Delta Plus is committed to CSR by developing more environmentally friendly compositions. Solutions are still limited and costly on the market, but the trend is accelerating in response to growing expectations from businesses.

 

In addition, disposable PPE is often worn when handling highly toxic products: in a sustainable version, this PPE would require demanding cleaning, consuming water and energy, with the risk of toxic products being released into the environment.

 

Finally, single-use gloves and disposable hairnets guarantee optimal hygiene, which is essential in high-risk health sectors. They limit the spread of infectious agents throughout the environment.

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What is the expiry date of PPE? 
Depending on the country, PPE subject to ageing must have an indelibly marked date of manufacture or, failing that, an expiry date. 

 

What is the lifespan of PPE? 
The lifespan of PPE depends on how well it is used, stored and maintained: this is the whole point of the assessment carried out during the annual PPE review.

 

 

The range of disposable PPE is not the only one to have undergone recent developments: protective clothing is also changing the landscape of workplace safety! Discover how women's PPE is responding to the feminisation of certain activities, for better protection and comfort at work.

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