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Kimberly-Clark Professional (KCP) provides leading-edge health and hygiene products. These include products for use in away-from-home washrooms, clean and industrial manufacturing environments, and Do It Yourself. K-C Professional’s global brands include Kleenex, Scott, Kimcare, WypAll, KleenGuard, and Kimtech.
In 2006, 85 percent of safety professionals we surveyed had seen people in their organization failing to wear the protective equipment provided. The main reasons cited were poor fit and discomfort. In response, in 2007 we introduced a new KleenGuard range of personal protective equipment designed for comfort and fit, making people more likely to keep their equipment on and stay safe. The range includes coveralls, gloves, respirators and eye protection. We also expanded our professional product offering in 2007, with a range of face masks to protect against airborne particulates. Again, the masks are designed for comfort, increasing the likelihood that they are worn.
As well as product performance, the survey also explored the extent to which environmental considerations influence purchases of personal safety products. Ninety-four percent of respondents said reducing impact on the environment was important to them. The top consideration is for products made with recycled materials, followed by the ability to reuse or recycle products after use. Products and packaging with reduced materials and a manufacturer's overall commitment to the environment were nearly tied for third place.
K-C Health Care has also introduced new products to make medical procedures safer. The Microcuff pediatric endotracheal tube is designed specifically for use in children. This removes the need to use over-sized tubes which can damage the trachea in children who need help breathing.
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Preventing infection
Cold and flu viruses cause millions of lost school and work days each year, while healthcare-acquired infections can delay patient recovery. Our businesses offer products designed to help prevent infection.
Hand washing is one of the most effective means of preventing the spread of infection. K-C Professional has introduced the first Hand Hygiene Voice Module, which every two minutes repeats a gentle audio reminder to wash your hands after using the restroom. The wall-mounted module automatically shuts off when the lights are out to save energy.
K-C Professional has also launched the first electronic bathroom tissue dispenser, which gives out five sheets of tissue when users place their hand underneath. We estimate that controlled dispensing will cut tissue use by 20 percent, creating environmental as well as hygiene benefits.
K-C Health Care launched the new 24-hour KimVent Oral Care Kit designed for patients breathing through a ventilator, as good oral care is important to reduce the risk factors for ventilator-associated pneumonia.
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