What are the Different Levels Of Disposable Gowns?

Why Disposable Gowns Are Important

Disposable gowns are an essential part of personal protective equipment (PPE) for many professionals. They are used to protect workers from hazardous materials, chemicals, and infectious diseases. They are commonly used in healthcare settings, laboratories, and industrial environments. Disposable gowns are made from different materials and come in different levels of protection. The level of protection offered by a disposable gown depends on the level of risk associated with the job. In this article, we will explore the different levels of disposable gowns and what each level means.

Levels of Protection for Disposable Gowns

Disposable gowns are classified into four levels of protection, depending on the level of risk involved in the job. The levels of protection are defined by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The levels of protection are:

Level 1: Minimal risk

Level 2: Low risk

Level 3: Moderate risk

Level 4: High risk

Each level of protection corresponds to a specific set of tests that the gown must pass to be classified at that level.

Level 1 Disposable Gowns

Level 1 disposable gowns provide minimal protection and are used in situations where there is a low risk of exposure to fluids. These gowns are made from lightweight materials, such as polypropylene, and are typically used in non-surgical settings, such as food processing or janitorial work. Level 1 gowns are not recommended for use in healthcare settings.

Level 1 gowns are not required to pass any specific tests to be classified at this level. However, they must meet certain criteria, such as having long sleeves and being able to cover the torso.

Level 2 Disposable Gowns

Level 2 disposable gowns provide a low level of protection and are used in situations where there is a low risk of exposure to fluids. These gowns are made from a heavier material than level 1 gowns, such as SMS (spunbond-meltblown-spunbond), and are typically used in non-surgical settings, such as blood drawing or suturing.

Level 2 gowns must pass the same tests as level 1 gowns, as well as additional tests, such as resistance to blood penetration. Level 2 gowns must also meet certain criteria, such as a higher level of fluid resistance and a tighter fit around the neck and wrists.

Level 3 Disposable Gowns

Level 3 disposable gowns provide a moderate level of protection and are used in situations where there is a moderate risk of exposure to fluids. These gowns are made from a heavier material than level 2 gowns, such as polypropylene-coated polyethylene, and are typically used in surgical settings, such as during invasive procedures.

Level 3 gowns must pass the same tests as level 1 and level 2 gowns, as well as additional tests, such as resistance to viral penetration. Level 3 gowns must also meet certain criteria, such as a high level of fluid resistance and a tighter fit around the neck and wrists.

Level 4 Disposable Gowns

Level 4 disposable gowns provide the highest level of protection and are used in situations where there is a high risk of exposure to fluids. These gowns are made from a heavy material, such as reinforced polyethylene, and are typically used in situations where there is a risk of exposure to highly infectious diseases or hazardous materials.

Level 4 gowns must pass the same tests as level 1, level 2, and level 3 gowns, as well as additional tests, such as resistance to chemical permeation. Level 4 gowns must also meet certain criteria, such as a very high level of fluid resistance and a very tight fit around the neck and wrists.

Differences Between Each Level of Disposable Gowns

The main differences between each level of disposable gowns are the level of protection provided and the materials used to make the gown. Level 1 gowns provide minimal protection and are made from lightweight materials, while level 4 gowns provide the highest level of protection and are made from heavy materials.

In addition to the level of protection and materials used, each level of disposable gown must pass specific tests to be classified at that level. These tests include resistance to blood penetration, viral penetration, and chemical permeation.

Choosing the Right Disposable Gown

Choosing the right disposable gown is crucial to ensure the safety of both the wearer and those around them. When selecting a disposable gown, it is important to consider the level of risk involved in the job and to choose a gown that provides the appropriate level of protection.

In healthcare settings, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using a level 3 or level 4 gown for procedures that involve exposure to blood or other bodily fluids. For non-surgical procedures, a level 2 gown may be sufficient.

In industrial settings, the type of disposable gown required will depend on the specific hazards associated with the job. Employers should conduct a hazard assessment to determine the appropriate level of protection required.

Conclusion

Disposable gowns are an essential part of personal protective equipment for many professionals. Understanding the different levels of disposable gowns is crucial to ensure the safety of both the wearer and those around them. Each level of disposable gown provides a different level of protection, and it is important to choose the appropriate level of protection based on the level of risk involved in the job. By choosing the right disposable gown, workers can stay safe on the job and prevent the spread of infectious diseases and other hazards.