Exam vs. Industrial Nitrile: Writing the Right Spec Sheet

Why Writing a Clear Spec Sheet Matters

In procurement, a glove’s price tells only part of the story. True value depends on fit-for-purpose performance — not just compliance certificates.
A clear, detailed specification sheet (spec sheet) helps ensure consistent quality, fewer disputes, and easier supplier comparisons.

Professional buyers who source from audited Nitrile Glove Manufacturers know that a good spec sheet prevents costly misunderstandings between production and application teams.

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Medical (Exam) vs. Industrial Nitrile Gloves — Key Differences

Each specification detail affects comfort, performance, and total cost of ownership.
Hospitals prioritize tactile sensitivity and sterility, while factories emphasize durability and chemical protection.

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Step-by-Step: How to Draft a Reliable Glove Spec Sheet

1️⃣ Define the End Application

Be specific. “Medical use” is too broad — specify “non-sterile exam glove for patient care” or “industrial glove for mechanical assembly.”
The clearer the purpose, the easier it is for the manufacturer to match the formulation.

2️⃣ Specify Physical Parameters

Include measurable data:

• Length: 240mm (standard) or 300mm (extended cuff)

• Thickness: 0.08–0.12mm (palm), 0.10–0.15mm (finger)

• Tensile Strength: ≥14 MPa (medical), ≥18 MPa (industrial)

• Elongation at Break: ≥500%

• Color: Blue / Black / Custom Pantone

• Powder Content: ≤2 mg/glove

Reliable Medical Nitrile Glove Manufacturers and Industrial Nitrile Gloves Manufacturers can provide full test reports to verify these parameters.

3️⃣ Define Material Composition

Confirm that the glove is made from synthetic nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) and free from natural latex proteins to avoid allergic reactions.
If applicable, specify accelerator-free formulations for sensitive users.

4️⃣ Add Regulatory References

Cite relevant standards and certification requirements:

• ASTM D6319 (medical)

• EN455 parts 1–4 (freedom from holes, strength, biological safety)

• EN374 (chemical protection for industrial)

• ISO 13485 (medical QMS) or ISO 9001 (industrial)

5️⃣ Include Performance Attributes

Outline expected performance criteria:

• Grip type (smooth, micro-textured, or diamond grip)

• Chemical resistance (list chemicals if known)

• Food contact safety (for mixed-use environments)

• Color-coded sizing (S–XL)

• Packaging requirements (retail box, bulk, or sterile pouch)

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Testing Methods to Include

Suppliers should submit lot-based test reports to confirm every shipment meets these standards.

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The Hidden Cost of Vague Specifications

Poorly written specs cause:
🚫 Rejected shipments due to missing data
🚫 Mismatched glove performance (too thin or too stiff)
🚫 Regulatory non-compliance
🚫 Customer complaints and brand damage

A detailed spec sheet prevents these by aligning factory QA and client expectations before production begins.

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Common Procurement Pitfalls to Avoid

❌ Copying specs from unrelated glove types
❌ Ignoring tensile data and elongation properties
❌ Failing to define thickness by section (finger/palm)
❌ Over-specifying beyond real-world needs (increasing cost)
❌ Missing AQL or certification clauses

Industrial buyers should note that chemical resistance ≠ medical safety, and vice versa. Always match glove type to actual usage.

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Example: Spec Summary for Dual-Use Buyers

This layout ensures any buyer or factory inspector can immediately confirm compliance.

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Key Takeaways

✅ Clearly define glove usage and performance requirements.
✅ Reference relevant ASTM/EN/ISO standards.
✅ Specify measurable data for thickness, strength, and AQL.
✅ Match medical vs. industrial grade to application risk.
✅ Collaborate with certified glove manufacturers for full QA documentation.

A strong spec sheet bridges the gap between purchasing, production, and compliance — ensuring every glove delivered performs exactly as promised.