Choosing the Right Disposable Gloves for Your Job

Choosing the Right Disposable Gloves for Your Job

Key Takeaways:

Selecting the right disposable glove involves considering not only the material but also factors such as thickness, rigidity, and finish.

When you hear "work gloves," you might picture tough leather ones used in heavy labor. While those are ideal for some tasks, disposable gloves have become commonplace in many workplaces.

Disposable gloves provide impermeable protection against chemical absorption and burns while allowing for dexterity and grip.

In this guide, we explore different materials and features to consider when choosing disposable gloves for your workplace.

How to Choose Disposable Gloves:

OSHA doesn't distinguish disposable gloves from other safety gloves. When selecting gloves, ensure they offer appropriate protection against hazards identified in your task's hazard assessment.

According to 29 CFR 1910.132 (d)(1)(i), employers must select PPE that protects employees from identified hazards.

Additionally, article 1910.138(b) states that hand protection should match task requirements, conditions, duration of use, and identified hazards.

To select the right glove, perform a hazard assessment and consider substances your hands may encounter. Chemical safety data sheets recommend glove types suitable for handling specific chemicals.

Consider tasks requiring grip and dexterity, and situations involving multiple chemical hazards.

When to Use Disposable Gloves:

Disposable gloves are cost-effective for handling chemicals or biological agents to avoid complex decontamination processes.

They are suitable for low-intensity tasks and environments with minimal cutting or puncture risks.

Common uses include:

•  Changing toner cartridges
•  Handling adhesives
•  Washing engine parts
•  Cleaning and maintenance
•  Performing oil changes
•  Transferring substances between containers
•  Painting

Common Disposable Glove Materials and Uses:

• Latex:Provides reliable barrier protection and a snug fit. Common in laboratories, food handling, and pharmaceuticals.
• Advantages: Reliable barrier, snug fit.
• Disadvantage:Potential for allergic reactions.
• Vinyl:Economical option suitable for tasks not requiring high tactile sensitivity, like food handling and cleaning.
• Advantages:Cost-effective, non-allergenic.
• Disadvantage:Loose fit.
• Nitrile:Popular for their strength and resistance to chemicals and abrasions. Ideal for mechanical work, laboratories, and maintenance.
• Advantages:High puncture resistance, chemical and abrasion resistance.
• Disadvantage:Less flexible than latex.
• Polyethylene:Economical choice for short-term tasks requiring frequent glove changes, such as in food services.
• Advantages: Economical.
• Disadvantage:Limited durability, loose fit.

Other Considerations:

Nature of Contact: Choose gloves based on whether contact is incidental (brief exposure) or extended (prolonged exposure).

Thickness: Thicker gloves offer better durability and chemical resistance but may reduce dexterity.

Color: Consider visibility of handled items; contrasting colors can aid in task efficiency.

Modulus/Rigidity: Balance between flexibility and durability based on task requirements.

Finish Type: Smooth gloves offer better dexterity; textured gloves provide improved grip.

Size: Ensure proper fit for comfort and effectiveness.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right disposable gloves is crucial for workplace safety. Assess your workplace conditions, consult safety data sheets, and if unsure, seek guidance from manufacturers or local representatives.

This revision aims to maintain clarity and conciseness while highlighting essential information about selecting disposable gloves for various workplace tasks.