H1N1 Flu Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

1. Does Ansell Healthcare have adequate stockpiles of supplies to meet our needs?

Ansell maintains stocks in warehouses across North America. We generally target to have approximately 2 month supply on-hand of high demand product, in addition to the stock in the warehouses of our distributor partners.

We are prepared to discuss special situations and requests with you, and encourage you to contact your Ansell account manager.

2. We are concerned about our suppliers' commitment and their resources. Is Ansell committed to us?

Ansell has a long history and track record in the medical disposable business. Ansell has been in existence for over 100 years and is dedicated to developing innovative products designed to meet the needs of its customers. People in over 100 countries around the world put their trust in Ansell's innovative, high-quality solutions to offer superior protection, combined with high levels of comfort and performance.

Unlike some of our competitors, we operate multiple manufacturing facilities. We manufacture both latex as well as synthetic products in our own plants. World wide we employ 11,000 people in 33 countries.

3. My current supplier does not manufacture their own gloves. In the event of a pandemic, how can I be assured of supply continuity and priority?

Ansell is a manufacturing company with a 100 year history. Ansell Limited currently operates 29 Ansell-owned facilities in 16 countries.

Ansell does source some products from a select group of vendor partners who produce products to Ansell's standards and specifications. Through our many decades of experience we have developed strong partner relationships.

We firmly believe that our manufacturing footprint and vendor partnerships give Ansell potential flexibility in the event of a pandemic.

4. What level of inventory should we maintain?

VHA, the national health alliance, surveyed 267 hospital leaders and found that among the supplies thought to be needed most during an outbreak, nearly 90 percent (86 percent) of respondents said their inventory would last 16 days or less, with 59 percent saying they had a 7-day supply of these products on hand.

We encourage our customers to take prudent steps to ensure an adequate level of products to react quickly. Your account manager can discuss this with you and help to design and implement a reasonable program.

5. We are concerned that an outbreak in an Asian country could potentially cause a disruption in our supply?

Unlike some of our competitors, Ansell produces products in multiple countries and locations. This greatly reduces our vulnerability and dependency.

6. In the event of a pandemic, will Ansell be able to meet my needs?

We attempt to satisfy all the demands placed on us and will use all of our available resources. In the event of a pandemic and a large increase in demand, first priority will be given to our existing customers.

7. How can I get more information?

We encourage you to contact your account manager and visit our website, www.ansellhealthcare.com.