In the forensic laboratory, when we need to protect our hands, we often reach for whatever is closest, put it on, and think we are good to go. We are protected from…anything, everything. Whoever put that box of gloves on the shelf must have known the hazards faced and selected the proper type. Right? Why else would they be there? Not so fast.

Given the myriad glove types and materials, it is imperative that both employees and supervisors know which gloves are suitable for the task at hand (no pun intended). We must stress that you match the individual glove by manufacturer and style to the required task and exposure particulars. No single glove will protect against all harmful substances. Nor will one glove suit all applications. No matter which glove is used, they can all potentially leak or become punctured or torn. No glove can offer 100% protection either as permeation and degradation take their toll during use. To ensure the highest level of protection train employees to know the hazards of the substances they handle and the estimated breakthrough times for the gloves selected. Always handle toxic and hazardous chemicals with utmost care.

From: Handle With Care by Vince McLeod, CIH in The Safety Guys