With more than 60 million registered chemicals, selecting chemical resistant gloves is often a challenge. Many different chemicals and chemical mixes are used in a typical production process or production facility. And every unique set of chemicals requires specific chemical protection.
How do you select the best chemical resistant glove for the task at hand? Use these tips to guide you in the process.
Background
Chemical resistant gloves come in a wide variety of barrier materials, thicknesses, and designs — the right choice for you depends on what chemicals you may come into contact with throughout the workday.
Glove material and design aren’t the only factors to consider when selecting a chemical resistant glove. Comfort and/or mechanical needs are also important. For example, workers may need a tactile glove, a glove with enhanced grip features, or protection from heat, based on the job.
Evaluate the Work Environment and Potential Hazards
The chemicals your workers contact in the workplace will tell you what type of glove you need for the job. Conduct a hazard assessment, read chemical labels, and consider all substances gloves may come into contact with.
It’s also important to recognize every glove style delivers a different level of protection from specific chemicals and hazards based on the materials it is constructed from, added features, and the thickness of its design.
Once you’ve considered these guidelines, select what gloves styles are best based on the specific hazards present, as well as potential exposure time to those hazards.
Ask yourself whether the task at hand requires:
Chemical Splash or Chemical Immersion Protection.
If so, what chemicals are the wearer working with, and for how long might they be exposed? Impermeable gloves may be necessary if immersion is part of the job.
Narrow Down Options Based on Wearer Needs
Once you've thought about the requirements of the work, think about the needs of the wearer based on the work environment. Many needs can impact the worker and prevent them from being productive while doing their job.
These needs may include ergonomic factors, type of grip, being sterile or clean, anti-static properties, heat or cold protection, or other factors.
Ergonomics
Consider what glove features might help workers be more comfortable or productive. For example, some gloves feature textured fingertips or palms for improved grip, thin designs for increased tactility, or ergonomic design to support musculoskeletal health.
Are Sterile or Clean Gloves Needed?
If so, what are the specific requirements of the environment?
Do Wearers Need Gripped Gloves?
Do wearers handle materials coated in chemicals? Slippery materials can increase risk of injury or muscle fatigue.
Is Heat or Cold Protection Required?
If so, what temperature will the gloves be subjected to?
Shop Gloves by Wearer Needs
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Ensure Compliance with Safety Guidelines
One of the biggest mistakes when selecting chemical hand protection is ensuring proper use in the workplace.
Personal protective equipment, like these gloves, won’t keep workers protected if they aren’t worn and cared for properly.
It’s important to follow a set of do’s and don’ts to make sure workers get the most of out their gloves.
- Do change gloves regularly, especially when they show signs of damage.
- Do check chemical permeation times, and change gloves when exposed to harmful substances.
- Don’t wear damaged gloves or gloves that have been exposed to harmful substances.
- Don’t share gloves or put on a pair of gloves designated for another worker.
- Don’t ignore stings or skin irritation.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.