Appendix G - Glove Compatibility

Choose the appropriate glove based on the hazards of the activity.
A. Incidental contact (little or no direct contact with the hazardous material) includes these situations:

• Accidental spills or splashes
• Accidental overspray from a dispensing device
• Handling infectious agents that require barrier protection
• To prevent contamination of materials during handling

1. 1. 1. 1. Type of glove: Disposable, surgical-type gloves are generally appropriate for incidental contact.

1. 1. 1. 1. Nitrile gloves are preferred over latex because of their chemical resistance, their tendency to visibly rip when punctured, and to prevent possible latex allergies.

1. 1. 1. 1. Disposable glove usage:

• Check for rips or punctures before use.
• Remove and replace gloves immediately with new ones when a chemical spills or splashes on them.
• Never wash or reuse disposable gloves.
• Always remove glove before touching common objects such as doorknobs, phones, or elevator buttons.

B. Extended contact includes these situations:

• Handling highly contaminated materials
• Submerging hands in a chemical or other hazardous substance
• Need for physical protection from temperature extremes or sharp/piercing objects

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. Type of glove: More substantial gloves are required for extended use.

• Norfoil gloves are recommended for highly toxic materials and materials that are absorbed through the skin.
• See the Glove Selection Chart below for advantages and disadvantages of commonly used gloves for extended contact.

1. Reusable glove usage: Many gloves intended for extended contact are reusable.

Check the gloves for:

• • Rips or punctures before and after each use
  • Prior contamination
  • Signs of degradation (change in color or texture)
  • Replace gloves as soon as signs of degradation appear.
  • Wash after removal and air dry in the laboratory.
  • Consider wearing inner surgical gloves for extra protection.